tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3588322180087852202024-03-05T21:32:11.603-08:00make a run for it(turning the impossible into the inevitable)Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.comBlogger305125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-64391075259170142522012-08-17T21:01:00.000-07:002012-08-17T21:01:38.745-07:00WhirlwindAlternately titled: "What the hell I've been up to<i>". </i>I know it's been a while since I've updated this thing, and I owe you guys a post! These last couple weeks have been a whirlwind of activity, mainly involving my big move to San Francisco. Well, I'm finally here and loving it so far, but before I get to that, let me back up.<br />
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After (reluctantly) returning from a wonderful vacation in Santa Cruz, I headed to the city to check out a potential apartment. I'll admit I was getting a little nervous about finding a place since I had less than a month til school starts, and after sending out dozens of emails I'd only heard back from a few people. The place turned out to be amazing with two great people living there, so I crossed my fingers and headed back to Sac.<br />
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Meanwhile I was trying to get in some running, but with the crazy heat wave we were hit with it just wasn't appealing. I did partake in my local <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-color-run-race-report.html">Color Run</a>, but even that wasn't enough to light a spark. I took the opportunity to switch things up a bit and went for my first ride post-Ironman, had a little reunion sesh with Jillian, and got my namaste on at bikram yoga (I know hot yoga seems unappealing in the heat but it actually felt amazing!). I also managed to spend multiple hours watching the Olympics. While there were certainly specific highlights for me (hello women's triathlon finish and gymnastics gold!) anything Olympic was good for me. I couldn't get enough! While in Santa Cruz I got in a 12 mile long run, so I was hoping to keep building my long run from there and just run what I can/feel like during the week. My pace is still slower than usual and I fatigue much sooner than I'd like, but I'm still trying!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIh0c0qyKffGBbFX19kX1K5w5tk-yXmVt_4Vz5V2ugRT5LMrqLxIXDNFoUK8x-P81kaEBscvefoHtVrp-9VWybzcJ331n8eS4plhninZ1yk68VQr7Cva4gL05-IJDV4WFQUX2QkDrrVypI/s1600/instagram75.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIh0c0qyKffGBbFX19kX1K5w5tk-yXmVt_4Vz5V2ugRT5LMrqLxIXDNFoUK8x-P81kaEBscvefoHtVrp-9VWybzcJ331n8eS4plhninZ1yk68VQr7Cva4gL05-IJDV4WFQUX2QkDrrVypI/s320/instagram75.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTm0pCAw8fT3W0LKkodHJc_kkOW6nzJ10vGCV8i3_TBrooANU3SzhqNTbjG09fS0xpyU0o1WVVaVxrCgOHsuIDE6gNuADJyb-_G8crQL3Mi_QCCqRwr7T8E7siYEQPaTizP6XHN_94Pc3c/s1600/instagram77.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTm0pCAw8fT3W0LKkodHJc_kkOW6nzJ10vGCV8i3_TBrooANU3SzhqNTbjG09fS0xpyU0o1WVVaVxrCgOHsuIDE6gNuADJyb-_G8crQL3Mi_QCCqRwr7T8E7siYEQPaTizP6XHN_94Pc3c/s320/instagram77.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>back in the saddle!</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Knjq1Y0Af6UoJlXlRvyfPgUfwBAqqA7bEaomAUKbzxf9z7iHnmXfglcf4AqpvgKj160C7qjJbrCAxV88AIkl8JncVptSrmfqN3aSsOIkORR31eLv83K1MINHmGtXmgGd1e8bdWFxSgMT/s1600/instagram76.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Knjq1Y0Af6UoJlXlRvyfPgUfwBAqqA7bEaomAUKbzxf9z7iHnmXfglcf4AqpvgKj160C7qjJbrCAxV88AIkl8JncVptSrmfqN3aSsOIkORR31eLv83K1MINHmGtXmgGd1e8bdWFxSgMT/s320/instagram76.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><i>Olympics on both screens</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYAWm9Ro-qZU8NfReLq0v4P1Z_NmGUK7Nhs9HQdiBtrE6uCt3F59LrzE5ATFWoWCGRC35E4fuQt11v_oo9Jlcss6Y4MAPlGCWceuCcKHQ2eSD5xBmNUjS18mppkga0j62DgaHy0-S2LepK/s1600/instagram63.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYAWm9Ro-qZU8NfReLq0v4P1Z_NmGUK7Nhs9HQdiBtrE6uCt3F59LrzE5ATFWoWCGRC35E4fuQt11v_oo9Jlcss6Y4MAPlGCWceuCcKHQ2eSD5xBmNUjS18mppkga0j62DgaHy0-S2LepK/s320/instagram63.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>12 miles on the Santa Cruz coast</i><br />
<i> </i></div>With that said, I've come to some decisions regarding the Portland Marathon this October. Originally my plan was to make it a PR attempt, specifically aiming to finally go sub-4 hours. I figured post-Ironman I'd have a great fitness base and be ready for a hard, mileage-heavy training cycle to get me ready, but alas, that has not been the case. My body has taken much longer to recover than I expected, and honestly, my heart just isn't in it. Don't get me wrong, I still desperately want that 3:xx (my <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/01/houston-marathon-race-report.html">4:01 PR</a> haunts me!!), but I know it's not wise to push yourself when your whole heart isn't into it. I'm a little disappointed and frustrated, but I've mostly come to terms with my decision. I'm ok with this year being "the year of the Ironman", because that's pretty freaking huge! I have time; there will be (many more) marathons in the future. I'm still planning on running Portland, but without the pressure of a big time goal. I'm looking forward to the exploring the city, visiting some friends, and just enjoying the experience stress-free.<br />
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This decision has actually taken a lot of weight off my shoulders. I know once school starts (next week!) I'll be pretty busy, and trying to fit in a strict training plan would be challenging. Instead I'll be sort of "winging" my training. I plan on gradually increasing my long runs up to 20 miles, and then do whatever I can/want during the week, hopefully running at least a 3-4 times on weekdays. I also love that this gives me the freedom to do other workouts, too. I always feel guilty doing something else - like yoga or strength training - when I'm training for a race since I could be using that time to run, but I'm enjoying switching things up lately. I do hope to also start spending some time on the trails since I'm signed up for the North Face 50k in December; and that's also not conducive to training for a fast marathon. I'm especially looking forward to exploring the trails with <a href="http://www.runnersrambles.com/">this</a> local trail enthusiast!<br />
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So getting back on track, I found out a few days after applying that I got the place in SF (!!!) and thus the whirlwind began. I wouldn't be moving in until the 15th, but I had tickets to the Outside Lands Music Festival in Golden Gate Park that weekend so I headed back to the city for that. My bff came with me and I met up with a couple other friends and had an amazing time. Incredible music (including the one and only Stevie Wonder!), great food, and an awesome atmosphere made for a very memorable weekend.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNNROqO-N7PkTqGn0lBeCNYdBMPVkV7Rfnq9h32pzGnJeYry63Ts5txkxDJngXUyNZPc6jqn8-Y2xmxDZho_Vt7Dva70AZlzOpDkAWC5ftjSEodGSzeNGlKfmwygM4Uz2YAKgxhLKyY-g4/s1600/IMG_20120812_161002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNNROqO-N7PkTqGn0lBeCNYdBMPVkV7Rfnq9h32pzGnJeYry63Ts5txkxDJngXUyNZPc6jqn8-Y2xmxDZho_Vt7Dva70AZlzOpDkAWC5ftjSEodGSzeNGlKfmwygM4Uz2YAKgxhLKyY-g4/s320/IMG_20120812_161002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjfCqyUzy4qCKBk6jpSEGiB6KIYlJbr5gYVxR1WhB24DMhchmE9vw-Df6g0NO9UIiUeYVia2siAoNMhudlV67ROfGMtvxke98MeAZKR7nCqYFcDvenbak2SDb9yKQUkjxEYvU5ubtiRfUN/s1600/IMG_20120810_225446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjfCqyUzy4qCKBk6jpSEGiB6KIYlJbr5gYVxR1WhB24DMhchmE9vw-Df6g0NO9UIiUeYVia2siAoNMhudlV67ROfGMtvxke98MeAZKR7nCqYFcDvenbak2SDb9yKQUkjxEYvU5ubtiRfUN/s320/IMG_20120810_225446.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9pujssiCqevqV-hdrUcccV7cU0KY7L7f-gY_EX6bPLto2CId5z2MILQxrgglGnfXyH-yF9jKmbu0kLniuV9Y62-0hFYTRSAqXS1fQo4P4VOJQVO447rmWbZ2ellht8pvU0V5M_XOsky7/s1600/338143_10151160842498428_1305165635_o_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9pujssiCqevqV-hdrUcccV7cU0KY7L7f-gY_EX6bPLto2CId5z2MILQxrgglGnfXyH-yF9jKmbu0kLniuV9Y62-0hFYTRSAqXS1fQo4P4VOJQVO447rmWbZ2ellht8pvU0V5M_XOsky7/s320/338143_10151160842498428_1305165635_o_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7FmM1vXsqo455wTj7Y9K_NPbTSKhMnWuTMIpj-F3b7iBJ_7fl5hsdj4XQbjEIshBZNehAgdx_QJXt0qbebSx-zn4LOdHDFHZ7LWvM9BZPrdmm8TO5XLcgrSPQp7z8_hMKacEF3eOLjXBl/s1600/IMAG1866_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7FmM1vXsqo455wTj7Y9K_NPbTSKhMnWuTMIpj-F3b7iBJ_7fl5hsdj4XQbjEIshBZNehAgdx_QJXt0qbebSx-zn4LOdHDFHZ7LWvM9BZPrdmm8TO5XLcgrSPQp7z8_hMKacEF3eOLjXBl/s320/IMAG1866_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-S7dm9IGlpu1B2m5pseYYVfZwyMp0fjnqf-Ty3JUOB8L1KHLBlWXGLRu4EhFc6ZkZkuCG196jkK02MsqsdSpCUetzJIqVEDgykPyklfmrcG7A_UEoXyuj082XuE60U2ngjWUmalPC8t7n/s1600/IMG_20120810_230618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-S7dm9IGlpu1B2m5pseYYVfZwyMp0fjnqf-Ty3JUOB8L1KHLBlWXGLRu4EhFc6ZkZkuCG196jkK02MsqsdSpCUetzJIqVEDgykPyklfmrcG7A_UEoXyuj082XuE60U2ngjWUmalPC8t7n/s320/IMG_20120810_230618.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <i>gourmet tots!</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB51yX0uaKfw6Q6_QwJGKJth1vBILazX8F7bcy3L2oPMGI_4-f00Oh5V88ltIwkVpTc6hiB7rgYfSaUD4ETq5CiEkfS6hqRcfewU1-THHsShLv1vv7AvfYIaKZEbPeIijo09VTjr03b0PP/s1600/IMG_20120811_221651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB51yX0uaKfw6Q6_QwJGKJth1vBILazX8F7bcy3L2oPMGI_4-f00Oh5V88ltIwkVpTc6hiB7rgYfSaUD4ETq5CiEkfS6hqRcfewU1-THHsShLv1vv7AvfYIaKZEbPeIijo09VTjr03b0PP/s320/IMG_20120811_221651.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><i>festival food</i> : )<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY5YioKV53iOROxj-pAC4MIF4YwecpJlMmzNMzCa75HZ5EwhwU9WcV5u_9tJZra9obfKp_9KMpkEuq8paLEwVv76DOB9dAFFuNWg6lzA2xR9AA0BfXSPu6ADPRhrNSxJqcy_SYbscSlx-2/s1600/IMG_20120812_231510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY5YioKV53iOROxj-pAC4MIF4YwecpJlMmzNMzCa75HZ5EwhwU9WcV5u_9tJZra9obfKp_9KMpkEuq8paLEwVv76DOB9dAFFuNWg6lzA2xR9AA0BfXSPu6ADPRhrNSxJqcy_SYbscSlx-2/s320/IMG_20120812_231510.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><i>Santigold</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePbGvsmN4ssZCI1324rWFLjkKR8rIxiDdfvPJ8UQIuU8VY-65ZOGkCu9omeyNwH-XW1tiVNux0inMerW7R98xm9f3QhPJFL6uWSZLqbxr47Yw3lFw6xVzM1lCB8KxwCazqcuhR96UrHla/s1600/IMG_20120812_235550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePbGvsmN4ssZCI1324rWFLjkKR8rIxiDdfvPJ8UQIuU8VY-65ZOGkCu9omeyNwH-XW1tiVNux0inMerW7R98xm9f3QhPJFL6uWSZLqbxr47Yw3lFw6xVzM1lCB8KxwCazqcuhR96UrHla/s320/IMG_20120812_235550.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span id="goog_45068666"></span><span id="goog_45068667"></span><span id="goog_1421956199"></span><span id="goog_1421956200"></span><i>Stevie Wonder!!!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>While there I attempted another long run, but without knowing a route I ended up all over the place - on trails in Lands End, running up hills in the Presidio, and eventually found my way to the Golden Gate Bridge. The run took for-e-ver because I had to stop so many times to check the map (and take pics) and I only ended up with 11 miles, but it was a great run nonetheless. It was a lovely, cool morning with plenty of fog, and I discovered some really great places to come back to. And holy hills - my quads and buns were burning by the end!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqfm4GDXagv_CRaDxsYcJnJ0wUncE84AvvL4ZRAXW5-JU8ewNaC88x6jj8NQdE29w6mlOBmgSF8pK3GXs7CS_9HaZd0tmYMz8aWNOqhZkt1JKrMZs3yGkv1dQYr_wecv3FI_S6jQUM0I0S/s1600/IMG_20120812_134218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqfm4GDXagv_CRaDxsYcJnJ0wUncE84AvvL4ZRAXW5-JU8ewNaC88x6jj8NQdE29w6mlOBmgSF8pK3GXs7CS_9HaZd0tmYMz8aWNOqhZkt1JKrMZs3yGkv1dQYr_wecv3FI_S6jQUM0I0S/s320/IMG_20120812_134218.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIdqhIFpxx5lEYcpnU1zZYakpHQQOiPW2rhh8sZ3suA7BvOUNpj56khPNdD-irCRAvm2GKM7KdI6N9o2vDah-qTeSDfWnoVJsPRWt3RUPt9Nvb3poevQ5XcfxlKt2MlbE4E7-HmY2Sjkt/s1600/IMAG1840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIdqhIFpxx5lEYcpnU1zZYakpHQQOiPW2rhh8sZ3suA7BvOUNpj56khPNdD-irCRAvm2GKM7KdI6N9o2vDah-qTeSDfWnoVJsPRWt3RUPt9Nvb3poevQ5XcfxlKt2MlbE4E7-HmY2Sjkt/s320/IMAG1840.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc2yqOJD8r1QGofXcXj0rMDhWhJu1HlrPEQc-Xr8CPS9KUUVPYsT6_Y0YMhL7pILKCj1RBc6vh9jBoljLnUn-uTSIkrDpQJeDFup8B6EZwUiJaGq7yVilr-XwzbiY_YZle4W2o6aLIkrjI/s1600/IMAG1841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc2yqOJD8r1QGofXcXj0rMDhWhJu1HlrPEQc-Xr8CPS9KUUVPYsT6_Y0YMhL7pILKCj1RBc6vh9jBoljLnUn-uTSIkrDpQJeDFup8B6EZwUiJaGq7yVilr-XwzbiY_YZle4W2o6aLIkrjI/s320/IMAG1841.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0DAnDCTZCOB1RLFJ6vPze2mriPLIS55aAMWmCcSiC0j1mEQr2UpHguohfg-SVwfbskhvYKdTlT0W2X1s7Kzt-ILCvwbP6KlTkgWObBygD1328hMFf4oxKmoy4Vl30dwLbej9CjbhTTl9a/s1600/hdr_00022_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0DAnDCTZCOB1RLFJ6vPze2mriPLIS55aAMWmCcSiC0j1mEQr2UpHguohfg-SVwfbskhvYKdTlT0W2X1s7Kzt-ILCvwbP6KlTkgWObBygD1328hMFf4oxKmoy4Vl30dwLbej9CjbhTTl9a/s320/hdr_00022_0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I spy the Golden Gate!</i></div><br />
With Outside Lands over I headed back to Sac and had two days to pack up all my shit. We somehow managed to get it done and after a super loooong day Wednesday I was all moved in! So far my impressions are: shit it's cold here! and parking really sucks! Seriously though, I'm loving it so far. It's different, and I know there will be a lot to get used to, but I know with time I'll fall into a routine and things will be familiar. I'm still exploring my 'hood, and yesterday evening went out for my first run as an SF resident. I'd heard about a nice running route around a nearby lake, so I ran the mile and a half to Lake Merced. I wasn't planning on going all the way around it (a 4.5 mile loop), but as I went I was feeling pretty good and like the idea of seeing the whole thing. It was a nice little route, although the fog was super dense, and I know I'll definitely be back. I finished up with 7.5 miles and just a wee bit proud of myself since I only intended to do about 5.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8PHkbbyIE4tn4FXqkSvHSGKwugtYJ88rmF6IpCULys-paUjpaCp3CCs-Ed02cYgertMXsgxpRQhVxLBoSKUf6qvk56g2IbmNwbD3W6oiL0xpYH93ULc3az7Yx8CO3SO0cdcc78LeFgYMm/s1600/IMG_20120813_103707.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8PHkbbyIE4tn4FXqkSvHSGKwugtYJ88rmF6IpCULys-paUjpaCp3CCs-Ed02cYgertMXsgxpRQhVxLBoSKUf6qvk56g2IbmNwbD3W6oiL0xpYH93ULc3az7Yx8CO3SO0cdcc78LeFgYMm/s320/IMG_20120813_103707.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>keys to my new place!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_xTnUR9dhFEptaSHgDTOfby5h69wSllor6dtCo2MQg1W54U7oNIlzpGb2Nu0-T4qNAXL1eTaqn9FBNDGzukCp9FwRwRpFPN8nal-53QHHlTJ54nIrCNbAFr_d8ELYX_7d21oh_AJKli56/s1600/instagram95.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_xTnUR9dhFEptaSHgDTOfby5h69wSllor6dtCo2MQg1W54U7oNIlzpGb2Nu0-T4qNAXL1eTaqn9FBNDGzukCp9FwRwRpFPN8nal-53QHHlTJ54nIrCNbAFr_d8ELYX_7d21oh_AJKli56/s320/instagram95.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2v41byS4hf0_24oShOomcqHz1vIpfQrdX1Z3wOSrxNC1u_0zsZwBP8S_mf9xMsom5FDn5pOKKL8re7BM9z9xKncV-QmPfSgLKl6cbkeq7PgNg71bHVJJt0mMWaQ735RcK0MbdRWso7VaX/s1600/instagram96.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2v41byS4hf0_24oShOomcqHz1vIpfQrdX1Z3wOSrxNC1u_0zsZwBP8S_mf9xMsom5FDn5pOKKL8re7BM9z9xKncV-QmPfSgLKl6cbkeq7PgNg71bHVJJt0mMWaQ735RcK0MbdRWso7VaX/s320/instagram96.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>little jaunt around Lake Merced</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Now that I'm here and fairly settled I hope to get back to more regular posting. I wouldn't expect any weekly training recaps for right now, but I do hope to write more as I explore my new city on foot and navigate the many adventures I'm sure I'll encounter in the coming months. Also, I know many of you are bay area residents yourselves, so if you're ever up for a run (or coffee or lunch or whatever) let me know! I'd love to meet you - even though I feel like I already know so many of you : )Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-77698227736239999102012-08-06T16:03:00.000-07:002012-08-06T16:03:43.254-07:00The Color Run (Race Report)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipwPw_cUpUm2k0NlnVQkZ1nXlYGVTKgnBNSJ4Y_qbPaEd6hmBrO5dqchVOXgf1Amvg5JXs6TEbgfMV5czoilMZXYzXSIksrYQJWl5JoYhvntaeXLf4ayuoa3Jfs7wTBKvqXqZ7TSzyu-yw/s1600/color1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="66" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipwPw_cUpUm2k0NlnVQkZ1nXlYGVTKgnBNSJ4Y_qbPaEd6hmBrO5dqchVOXgf1Amvg5JXs6TEbgfMV5czoilMZXYzXSIksrYQJWl5JoYhvntaeXLf4ayuoa3Jfs7wTBKvqXqZ7TSzyu-yw/s400/color1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Many of you have probably heard of these "color runs" that seem to be all the rage lately. When my friend learned that the series was coming to Sacramento a few months ago, she insisted we sign up. I figured it looked pretty cool, and being in the midst of hardcore Ironman training, it was nice to consider a race that was not only short but also whose focus was on fun. That friend then up and moved to Colorado (boo, Erin!), but fortunately a couple other friends from work had signed up, too.<br />
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As I've mentioned a few times, lately running has not been going so smoothly. My body hasn't bounced back as quickly as I'd hoped post-Ironman, and my motivation has been M.I.A. Even though this was a 5k, and it wasn't even timed (in fact I'd say the majority of people walked a good chunk of it), I still had some apprehension going into it, like I have with all my runs lately. Basically wondering, "Is this finally going to be the run where it clicks again?" When something that usually feels fairly easy and natural becomes challenging, it becomes hard to enjoy. I only mention this because it most likely influenced my opinion of this experience.<br />
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Anyway, I met up with Courtney and Bethany in midtown and we decided to drive halfway and park so as not to worry about parking downtown. We made it with plenty of time to spare and immediately were surrounded by thousands of people dressed in (temporary) white. We wanted to start close to the front to avoid the crowds and not have to wait around all morning, and we lucked out when we spotted a coworker at the Girl's on the Run booth. They were gathering the GotR group to start in the very front to kick off the race, so we hopped in with them and found ourselves in front of the start line!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTC7keaKgqUlc5XuCUSpBMojFPmztpwYHW7LU45ZpdnhuR4fL-w5uE7dDVKhXqOFVVK0UCvlnt2cZBoXj6rrLmrWFaTNMykvy0TP-YBdcYAiqcA9Mc48KeuLYt9HocUjGTn-RJc779cfCL/s1600/IMAG1706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTC7keaKgqUlc5XuCUSpBMojFPmztpwYHW7LU45ZpdnhuR4fL-w5uE7dDVKhXqOFVVK0UCvlnt2cZBoXj6rrLmrWFaTNMykvy0TP-YBdcYAiqcA9Mc48KeuLYt9HocUjGTn-RJc779cfCL/s320/IMAG1706.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb2Vxm661FT71UHL4bChyzJjB3YC_F-soXKYBoMV4a4kgtzcDHvw7BtOrEv62ld4kBL4efyGKey32mqTz28S5GEmokc94BCQoe7ghdzMABRNHolpdm30L-JpVvtiPOVbo5odr8gWlVL_pi/s1600/IMAG1694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb2Vxm661FT71UHL4bChyzJjB3YC_F-soXKYBoMV4a4kgtzcDHvw7BtOrEv62ld4kBL4efyGKey32mqTz28S5GEmokc94BCQoe7ghdzMABRNHolpdm30L-JpVvtiPOVbo5odr8gWlVL_pi/s320/IMAG1694.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizFGucDbP2OIJcj9BadLvpleIFZ-m3wo3ZtrWD7kFPuaVU0YFnFMj1c4_XLroco14pGoW_MOZHO1hIewsAmnHUzwS50QkRpPBFpDBeEVv8UKINWiFQuunc9L6UY4zpjS2vRsvEc2xSEaq-/s1600/IMAG1695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizFGucDbP2OIJcj9BadLvpleIFZ-m3wo3ZtrWD7kFPuaVU0YFnFMj1c4_XLroco14pGoW_MOZHO1hIewsAmnHUzwS50QkRpPBFpDBeEVv8UKINWiFQuunc9L6UY4zpjS2vRsvEc2xSEaq-/s320/IMAG1695.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>the before shot</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimFSzH-GG5JM3GHJPlh9Me8FlHd_cifhBxAVHAVWBLNf5EkTxXh-kjigtSNs3OVwQP5hEJj3aUz3gphllSMCgCBBNtO0rL2W_tU-bUGaiVyrYj2sZQ9jNNGXb1A4cNVYWEerZ0R2iixXtv/s1600/IMAG1697.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimFSzH-GG5JM3GHJPlh9Me8FlHd_cifhBxAVHAVWBLNf5EkTxXh-kjigtSNs3OVwQP5hEJj3aUz3gphllSMCgCBBNtO0rL2W_tU-bUGaiVyrYj2sZQ9jNNGXb1A4cNVYWEerZ0R2iixXtv/s320/IMAG1697.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
For those of you who may not be familiar with the Color Run, it's a 5k where volunteers at every kilometer squirt you with a different colored powder, leaving you very colorful by the finish line. It's a very casual run, certainly not a race, and it attracted nearly 15,000 people of all kinds. As I mentioned before, these kinds of races have been getting a lot of hype, but for a few reasons, I wasn't very impressed.<br />
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The race started out fine, and was surprisingly not crowded at all. I know this was mainly because we started at the front, but also because we ran the whole thing whereas a lot of the other participants walked some or all of the course. While I thought this would actually be a good thing, it actually made it feel kind of lonely, especially considering the type of run this was (the more the merrier!). A few times we found ourselves running down the middle of the street with virtually no one else around us! The first color came up pretty quickly: yellow! You could see the cloud dust of color up ahead and as we approached we just closed our mouths, squinted our eyes, and made our way through. It only lasted maybe 20 yards, and when we emerged on the other side we had a nice dusting of yellow powder.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtNDx5jWjt800Rft_-tGPGAbmjs08d-pcfnQhTYgSn1yShKQifmIrbVikb_bOvCmFgSwBjm6OjsGeue0Z8uXHaviTx0iSNSni8vNYCtDnUHqRVDOGXL0B9kALLPgvVXyvDgPsWBreggxfR/s1600/IMAG1699.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtNDx5jWjt800Rft_-tGPGAbmjs08d-pcfnQhTYgSn1yShKQifmIrbVikb_bOvCmFgSwBjm6OjsGeue0Z8uXHaviTx0iSNSni8vNYCtDnUHqRVDOGXL0B9kALLPgvVXyvDgPsWBreggxfR/s320/IMAG1699.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCI27skR6Irc6ycjSsS2HX82dIPSnradS3duqzzkqPNDuWR72AZNy57l1gWHMEDGwl3ubjd9YVk1EkcoUBfRefe9AiPWSYkg7GZsYKx_kB1POFXpppvtqRvphmCt0sylEtj92HSIGp-GyP/s1600/IMAG1700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCI27skR6Irc6ycjSsS2HX82dIPSnradS3duqzzkqPNDuWR72AZNy57l1gWHMEDGwl3ubjd9YVk1EkcoUBfRefe9AiPWSYkg7GZsYKx_kB1POFXpppvtqRvphmCt0sylEtj92HSIGp-GyP/s320/IMAG1700.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>yellow!</i></div><br />
The rest of the race went by pretty quickly. I didn't wear my Garmin and there were no markings on the course, so I had no idea where we were, other than by kilometers based on the colors. One thing I noticed after the second color (pink!) was that these powders have a not-so-cool reaction to sweat. They turn into something resembling food coloring, bleed together, and leave you looking more dirty than colorful. The pink on my face turned into a red, giving me a lovely zombie look to sport. The powder also had a knack for getting into unwanted places, like the mouth, ears, nose, and cleavage.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5n7lWpSkwngf8I_r-WydYs7_-5NviHBxZix23RzdaHBVG3aIYv_63_vrJ6D-m8_ihyphenhyphenfhpfuWpRZIygwdoYWVsHdSu_RJ12Eq3r09bDhbnqcaz62J-yHG79LeymJuxCMZTYeBj8gi_XGpn/s1600/IMAG1701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5n7lWpSkwngf8I_r-WydYs7_-5NviHBxZix23RzdaHBVG3aIYv_63_vrJ6D-m8_ihyphenhyphenfhpfuWpRZIygwdoYWVsHdSu_RJ12Eq3r09bDhbnqcaz62J-yHG79LeymJuxCMZTYeBj8gi_XGpn/s320/IMAG1701.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>pink!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYMJVA_4cK-qH0UH4ErIrxWq-x7986DpdgVLKV18yWjO9n4DzPxgR0iPyIl_XSgF70D2lepsXRKAqqWFy2t7rV9qJhMgsk8efkfeoNQT6G3xCzNzc6f6LYOotJ6-s9EIuzd85iKYYb_7ln/s1600/IMAG1702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYMJVA_4cK-qH0UH4ErIrxWq-x7986DpdgVLKV18yWjO9n4DzPxgR0iPyIl_XSgF70D2lepsXRKAqqWFy2t7rV9qJhMgsk8efkfeoNQT6G3xCzNzc6f6LYOotJ6-s9EIuzd85iKYYb_7ln/s320/IMAG1702.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>mid-race</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>We finished around a half hour and came down the finish chute all alone, meanwhile thousands of people were still waiting in waves just to start! Apparently one of the best parts of these events is the finish festival, but since so few people were done, there wasn't much to see or do. We were about to leave when we saw a crowd growing by the stage, opening individual packets of color and releasing them into the air! It was actually a pretty cool sight to see, so we decided to stay for a bit and enjoy the music and dancing. Honestly I felt pretty gross at that point as my colors had dried into a brown mess, so I was happy when we called it quits and walked home.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxNcclljXY80jO9wSAEgjhrN9hVTWr57seNvo8Boacyw3x9NCfeO4oZrADxkvUeDBVJ-MJGjeIE1eGUeMo6FF9GMVssRkfGNa1bGIAtred0O4ozxHDRFAqnni6_PIkQHHW0QkQZrFpebO-/s1600/IMAG1705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxNcclljXY80jO9wSAEgjhrN9hVTWr57seNvo8Boacyw3x9NCfeO4oZrADxkvUeDBVJ-MJGjeIE1eGUeMo6FF9GMVssRkfGNa1bGIAtred0O4ozxHDRFAqnni6_PIkQHHW0QkQZrFpebO-/s320/IMAG1705.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>the aftermath</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiFgtkT9kzh-shqmoIO6muZ49agGNS7v9XngHQ6GEzYQfo0DbxyLa7w5wwDvVYsr7JS2MwcWiSyHCCYMZdRTcF37uqe3o7Q8LTXYtvF9JWDf81Fe-N-vc-ave-4CK1_fJ9S0LbBwB7qAvn/s1600/instagram75_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; 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<i><b>Anyone else done one of these events? What are your thoughts?</b></i></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-74565186079051600672012-08-03T13:40:00.000-07:002012-08-03T13:40:07.884-07:00Snapshots<div style="text-align: left;">So what was supposed to be a 5 day vacation somehow turned into twice that. I just didn't want to leave! I'm finally home though, and in an effort to squeeze out a little more vacation goodness I'll share some snapshots from my days in Santa Cruz. It included pretty much everything that makes a vacation perfect: sunshine, beaches, relaxing, fresh air, sleeping in, good food, running, family and friends.<br />
<br />
Highlights included running the Wharf to Wharf, hiking in the Forest of Nisene Marks, an ocean kayaking adventure, lots of beachtime, playing in the waves with my pup, spending evenings glued to the Olympics, eating dessert every night, riding the rollercoaster at the Boardwalk, shopping, watching numerous sunsets, hitting up the local Farmer's market, taking a day trip to the Gilroy Garlic Festival, and running along the coast of Santa Cruz and Capitola. Like I said, I just didn't want to come home! It's days like these that make summer one of the best times of the year. Enjoy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY9KR5fiaXnjh64gPjO0uAapyh8SymXw4I16_19dmObXnsmRSjSdX5NEWtQrIEJc9-NsSem_7EIUUYZJraA9E55nu0PdOAg5pQU6bpu75yZJJMSdGKi4o5dkxjD6vuxScru22uBlQaznb7/s1600/sc2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY9KR5fiaXnjh64gPjO0uAapyh8SymXw4I16_19dmObXnsmRSjSdX5NEWtQrIEJc9-NsSem_7EIUUYZJraA9E55nu0PdOAg5pQU6bpu75yZJJMSdGKi4o5dkxjD6vuxScru22uBlQaznb7/s320/sc2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic5bfASlaNlkDS8vke80__BiUVjy8LPcr-OHBSwb453_n4YiAEng1u_QG622ng8lN0HZTKVbba3z5Rv1515_nnRP4Iw5fi64xn57S6Hfu29jNlKm_Y0_jcwMRCBqS23ofiUEEgrpXG7oJJ/s1600/sc10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic5bfASlaNlkDS8vke80__BiUVjy8LPcr-OHBSwb453_n4YiAEng1u_QG622ng8lN0HZTKVbba3z5Rv1515_nnRP4Iw5fi64xn57S6Hfu29jNlKm_Y0_jcwMRCBqS23ofiUEEgrpXG7oJJ/s320/sc10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMs9tnifaKxeGVXtUXkufuoQo5SDd1GinbXF1iovZPs3rnHIK0o62zotbHR2RcgXt0qDem8btWBhGmjTFn8G8ipDgQpF-C6SKGA0HZIeFRH3XATD3wLfZTAYFYHuB7zFMq3Va6y4OfXxJ/s1600/IMAG1485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMs9tnifaKxeGVXtUXkufuoQo5SDd1GinbXF1iovZPs3rnHIK0o62zotbHR2RcgXt0qDem8btWBhGmjTFn8G8ipDgQpF-C6SKGA0HZIeFRH3XATD3wLfZTAYFYHuB7zFMq3Va6y4OfXxJ/s320/IMAG1485.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDlkVumP6s9FdFTOgkmPhVNjOWhMUWINCOHbitf39XvdnOv4d0vAImLEnuf6QWchj43-xAJfGx4j-uNNRYOpAcvpdv1MPJKE7vcbFwauItH1u7DV1qDMVByrmwRENQKrlsbbYwH6P8SQqi/s1600/IMAG1532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDlkVumP6s9FdFTOgkmPhVNjOWhMUWINCOHbitf39XvdnOv4d0vAImLEnuf6QWchj43-xAJfGx4j-uNNRYOpAcvpdv1MPJKE7vcbFwauItH1u7DV1qDMVByrmwRENQKrlsbbYwH6P8SQqi/s320/IMAG1532.jpg" width="201" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Forest of Nisene Marks</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge51pxqfA-yX2TSUIHpIfLCa5d1wmnoi12uLwELGIE73IPmLdYOTsZUFOKEahwVOaBxffuXkiof0hpDuclUqM551sgPEIcgD88D8SuY1yC646vaDjFSvPWL8Mu0USYx4AA4eDwr-Lp5D6L/s1600/IMG953614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge51pxqfA-yX2TSUIHpIfLCa5d1wmnoi12uLwELGIE73IPmLdYOTsZUFOKEahwVOaBxffuXkiof0hpDuclUqM551sgPEIcgD88D8SuY1yC646vaDjFSvPWL8Mu0USYx4AA4eDwr-Lp5D6L/s320/IMG953614.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLC-Ham-wtt0ehALNEll3kZjeAfEYI5i0H-oRpiq1GY0FlCG6azx5JmDcL1ouySn_NToKDms2lGXS7fQSGrao-SslsE9X232PBAtONPGr5PelWJ723OH3ylkGqma7P2qf3szp60hmAPGu7/s1600/IMAG1511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLC-Ham-wtt0ehALNEll3kZjeAfEYI5i0H-oRpiq1GY0FlCG6azx5JmDcL1ouySn_NToKDms2lGXS7fQSGrao-SslsE9X232PBAtONPGr5PelWJ723OH3ylkGqma7P2qf3szp60hmAPGu7/s320/IMAG1511.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsHNyS9oEwnmp0b1swWOLXNGY4RryVKchf1TgwbxqrpIPrmPO4Xw7GkkBviwHvbMhBgG9_RPbNHVLbqqwk9hGnWPSe5qJ4ryd7WVrEovP0ccmWcdU9ZBvxcf9-6sCUaFLNvweC5f-qoKn/s1600/IMAG1514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBsHNyS9oEwnmp0b1swWOLXNGY4RryVKchf1TgwbxqrpIPrmPO4Xw7GkkBviwHvbMhBgG9_RPbNHVLbqqwk9hGnWPSe5qJ4ryd7WVrEovP0ccmWcdU9ZBvxcf9-6sCUaFLNvweC5f-qoKn/s320/IMAG1514.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_sgnWJo8VpF24qauADtj1kWSnjGVyMRB9zHbQsJibj6sw2ILSLvx5eZPZsAp5V6l647CdeNVrT3bTMNTuKUIROJIYgBjV8Kl1gl86Q6qMzgdzUgrrMFNGHUbuNS4IJsRoj_TqvLSPKGGE/s1600/IMAG1520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_sgnWJo8VpF24qauADtj1kWSnjGVyMRB9zHbQsJibj6sw2ILSLvx5eZPZsAp5V6l647CdeNVrT3bTMNTuKUIROJIYgBjV8Kl1gl86Q6qMzgdzUgrrMFNGHUbuNS4IJsRoj_TqvLSPKGGE/s320/IMAG1520.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2bjWfMpU9Wafcl73JNsAE86YFCpgJEzmv9BifSuErHBTP7_e0bRiCKqJihg7bjzHlZOHjvj6SPncucyt3n4TYksxxMyhdK3T658MXXWdmX6RA8p-4SSz586FiCR4hwu-d1gzDM-5q_KUy/s1600/IMAG1522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2bjWfMpU9Wafcl73JNsAE86YFCpgJEzmv9BifSuErHBTP7_e0bRiCKqJihg7bjzHlZOHjvj6SPncucyt3n4TYksxxMyhdK3T658MXXWdmX6RA8p-4SSz586FiCR4hwu-d1gzDM-5q_KUy/s320/IMAG1522.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKQPw_GHnF7ygXy7Pg_YWpE9m7IY1kkkERWM-lBTpnxzp6HtZgd7tFsC4vBGdMDObfgQDuNkfQHAC5c0beSB2URF4VFMzDGXmFJWnZFzJaucwMOICZp8sGi4RLGtO0Nb5wil0xFDAI2evn/s1600/IMAG1523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKQPw_GHnF7ygXy7Pg_YWpE9m7IY1kkkERWM-lBTpnxzp6HtZgd7tFsC4vBGdMDObfgQDuNkfQHAC5c0beSB2URF4VFMzDGXmFJWnZFzJaucwMOICZp8sGi4RLGtO0Nb5wil0xFDAI2evn/s320/IMAG1523.jpg" width="202" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwLLmcapASIVSZidZjOjEfW8NdIIAgKi9s_Sxdx9Cx5FyJjLzdFO4VyMOdN2DjzASwRvvCVQkzdtdCd7C8FydEhVoekxlYdXvYxkRt7HnyGXhk7iiZHlzFicFr2ZLsOw5bY9a0cRkcBRRw/s1600/IMG_20120723_141816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwLLmcapASIVSZidZjOjEfW8NdIIAgKi9s_Sxdx9Cx5FyJjLzdFO4VyMOdN2DjzASwRvvCVQkzdtdCd7C8FydEhVoekxlYdXvYxkRt7HnyGXhk7iiZHlzFicFr2ZLsOw5bY9a0cRkcBRRw/s320/IMG_20120723_141816.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqcK4mH166mek7B-3dmbxCsFORyDHu6Rqbx9G5IJNUYcUU6zlv8wsK-jYPCFo_BTxQWgdOEo-1yhNYAPpkLcFloJSku1KBJaFl7gjggbnDdd4QAikJHajXug0vZ4Ppkn_zae6wEOp74kBy/s1600/IMG952872.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqcK4mH166mek7B-3dmbxCsFORyDHu6Rqbx9G5IJNUYcUU6zlv8wsK-jYPCFo_BTxQWgdOEo-1yhNYAPpkLcFloJSku1KBJaFl7gjggbnDdd4QAikJHajXug0vZ4Ppkn_zae6wEOp74kBy/s320/IMG952872.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>can you spot the pups?</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihfzl-aTcPqjOwV76eJxcsLMh2vggBjO5TS8Mit2ymYU9XXBQNBFRMSTKibs0dVQIPRgw5HzIfB-NTTfWFX6d8bsJETZ4nctUGGdkQOMXQwgM8V1pDG2Y1-iDTxht9FINmqy3Aj19k00dS/s1600/IMG954867.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihfzl-aTcPqjOwV76eJxcsLMh2vggBjO5TS8Mit2ymYU9XXBQNBFRMSTKibs0dVQIPRgw5HzIfB-NTTfWFX6d8bsJETZ4nctUGGdkQOMXQwgM8V1pDG2Y1-iDTxht9FINmqy3Aj19k00dS/s320/IMG954867.jpg" width="224" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7f8Tma_OIwB_eK30E0HYJ9zV-MaB7fIn4Q51jSud7n1zVgMDr_NCQ5MjKZ9-aJVeHeuVI9ULHQvClb0GioM6zInTJFR-KhOxuGmJe8C3Rew44PzFk3jgwEQZApZZE1IYgaXcNU7H5SmkS/s1600/IMG_20120723_141404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7f8Tma_OIwB_eK30E0HYJ9zV-MaB7fIn4Q51jSud7n1zVgMDr_NCQ5MjKZ9-aJVeHeuVI9ULHQvClb0GioM6zInTJFR-KhOxuGmJe8C3Rew44PzFk3jgwEQZApZZE1IYgaXcNU7H5SmkS/s320/IMG_20120723_141404.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZmn4ZdD8An9DnG8cfZpFAAA5MqIwhkYbkWfz2NwEUGYuzp6lFUcruCgENmN6za8yYHUNnRmDUpP9q9abqFGTHlfVblCizuhZ54StzcxeO_I1oggUohPIj13NjJuZ764HSEK0weZ_SaJb/s1600/IMG_20120723_172805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZmn4ZdD8An9DnG8cfZpFAAA5MqIwhkYbkWfz2NwEUGYuzp6lFUcruCgENmN6za8yYHUNnRmDUpP9q9abqFGTHlfVblCizuhZ54StzcxeO_I1oggUohPIj13NjJuZ764HSEK0weZ_SaJb/s320/IMG_20120723_172805.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Capitola</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEbx12UQdqrXvoswXtuuUpOANNXgf86p-CyuQ3NS2MFWuiKRrObxlbE8P04x9ENuzQ-ePdjPMt_8AMY-iA2EQ5URgvlM0GPrZnnf6eruW5Ihdm34-hYTqhxlaYB8XYNtODrydm4oEufmni/s1600/IMAG1534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEbx12UQdqrXvoswXtuuUpOANNXgf86p-CyuQ3NS2MFWuiKRrObxlbE8P04x9ENuzQ-ePdjPMt_8AMY-iA2EQ5URgvlM0GPrZnnf6eruW5Ihdm34-hYTqhxlaYB8XYNtODrydm4oEufmni/s320/IMAG1534.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIm-705KyiX3Uw_jvybHOf17NmEEHDhxoCINqJuWkKos0O1oEsi5qXoDgEh0M1oN0u7pl40eTZGdd4j4aezvFZniP6Q60NWd7sULQOL91xivwBa4WTQA7D-YlSuNnr_FKFLMzv7iP6oKCN/s1600/IMG_20120723_172026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIm-705KyiX3Uw_jvybHOf17NmEEHDhxoCINqJuWkKos0O1oEsi5qXoDgEh0M1oN0u7pl40eTZGdd4j4aezvFZniP6Q60NWd7sULQOL91xivwBa4WTQA7D-YlSuNnr_FKFLMzv7iP6oKCN/s320/IMG_20120723_172026.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxCaqu9bjNUfAApvpf2Rf8Ic4h-XtxbDe9oX8aEmkrKWAJ_l5OTXMUTx0Fpf6xayXshhxfcY9OUPqHG_JABJU3_BTxhAJVNFDH3c5GekrJypq213Rht4zXjBIN6_aKvq4IELFLC7VIdzG/s1600/instaImage_7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxCaqu9bjNUfAApvpf2Rf8Ic4h-XtxbDe9oX8aEmkrKWAJ_l5OTXMUTx0Fpf6xayXshhxfcY9OUPqHG_JABJU3_BTxhAJVNFDH3c5GekrJypq213Rht4zXjBIN6_aKvq4IELFLC7VIdzG/s320/instaImage_7.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyeWOLn9wCM1DdJX_GcwLI0zNN0JqjAwOH-6ZjVtOKKNCbHdbdxZu6M4qgSD3Id5DUitvwx8DUzKggFRdQyYO658YvORw-M0lXPYJuiu9VWE_hq3qqKyuy-GWofRruLR8ntOAzWYfotXQK/s1600/IMG_20120723_192023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyeWOLn9wCM1DdJX_GcwLI0zNN0JqjAwOH-6ZjVtOKKNCbHdbdxZu6M4qgSD3Id5DUitvwx8DUzKggFRdQyYO658YvORw-M0lXPYJuiu9VWE_hq3qqKyuy-GWofRruLR8ntOAzWYfotXQK/s320/IMG_20120723_192023.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix29caT818sb5WH9x-9YLjkIouGWVfQqCCkALZid-eF6mpe17aQcOfPwtcWnddEXqxRloucW4Vb5A44FUcQfneZtZ3IZziYJsRJNWbrlcB9AT6iZ7l3KGuE2_EZ1n7ynItfgp75LA_vD_r/s1600/IMG_20120723_224224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix29caT818sb5WH9x-9YLjkIouGWVfQqCCkALZid-eF6mpe17aQcOfPwtcWnddEXqxRloucW4Vb5A44FUcQfneZtZ3IZziYJsRJNWbrlcB9AT6iZ7l3KGuE2_EZ1n7ynItfgp75LA_vD_r/s320/IMG_20120723_224224.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>The Boardwalk!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhufQYjIUMTTpgefI59WLloqw4ol6u2MXVnKu0yL1PNjx1fAxlbEipIo-sbrCHFMxEsf7-VPYVhnlIXmmLRnN5TAMmUlc_Qc-TlPHW-SNHbIX1sd60qIBdtzH4K0o2zExJwmmcazOiz-Kt3/s1600/IMAG1545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhufQYjIUMTTpgefI59WLloqw4ol6u2MXVnKu0yL1PNjx1fAxlbEipIo-sbrCHFMxEsf7-VPYVhnlIXmmLRnN5TAMmUlc_Qc-TlPHW-SNHbIX1sd60qIBdtzH4K0o2zExJwmmcazOiz-Kt3/s320/IMAG1545.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihIBQxLJDxMl-XYHpy-ZpEqDQmobsFz9IFSOiPjsD3pderW5h5sdlwMVDJ_J5y_mOgupmeY9ZL1LssAS6E4IQU2UhWNG2f10YjsWLdJS_xDe4wgnFGWs9yXw_g2T97TOddUQ3YkpbV244g/s1600/IMG954207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihIBQxLJDxMl-XYHpy-ZpEqDQmobsFz9IFSOiPjsD3pderW5h5sdlwMVDJ_J5y_mOgupmeY9ZL1LssAS6E4IQU2UhWNG2f10YjsWLdJS_xDe4wgnFGWs9yXw_g2T97TOddUQ3YkpbV244g/s320/IMG954207.jpg" width="230" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>dad won me a honey badger!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4m_7-NwTVu19WPYqbIVq_0v7W8FdvIEAX2dfHqV7bzhP5RPd2p070Z20IddcCeO_rus9wfXN4sTljU8flxgDBFCt22sJdDxrTv_tGpBjlzqJK8Y3UuK-45IaGFs_zcFx6DYyQPK4ES-cl/s1600/IMAG1589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4m_7-NwTVu19WPYqbIVq_0v7W8FdvIEAX2dfHqV7bzhP5RPd2p070Z20IddcCeO_rus9wfXN4sTljU8flxgDBFCt22sJdDxrTv_tGpBjlzqJK8Y3UuK-45IaGFs_zcFx6DYyQPK4ES-cl/s320/IMAG1589.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmAQyHHj0WP8sU7RyJusunD1eSggkxTMtB9ygz4531InssreEw5yThw1eV3yPTQEHIFzTQuDsZ3CkV1_gkgeD6ggH3ejkmoRPG5zNMl6cnzP1Q1jRUab794MvrvV6Qm5yq8xxKT2G3Ttg_/s1600/IMAG1590.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmAQyHHj0WP8sU7RyJusunD1eSggkxTMtB9ygz4531InssreEw5yThw1eV3yPTQEHIFzTQuDsZ3CkV1_gkgeD6ggH3ejkmoRPG5zNMl6cnzP1Q1jRUab794MvrvV6Qm5yq8xxKT2G3Ttg_/s320/IMAG1590.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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<i>Santa Cruz Farmer's Market</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6A823ov3LumzAw0H6K-ap3SluN47QlD72NiVcmLPfktxhDWdoQDJwJKtTssjyOqJ2g5RfeLd_tKnyqrQjnPuQpXpCDw-aC_-hVOl40euH2W4Wz2ToStYgpcZzXExvGvL8-UjuS205z5G6/s1600/IMAG1583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6A823ov3LumzAw0H6K-ap3SluN47QlD72NiVcmLPfktxhDWdoQDJwJKtTssjyOqJ2g5RfeLd_tKnyqrQjnPuQpXpCDw-aC_-hVOl40euH2W4Wz2ToStYgpcZzXExvGvL8-UjuS205z5G6/s320/IMAG1583.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMyLnKv0SiYEbbjhMq7y18F33orgxJt-a4gb-bT3PLMD4fdt8C6jGONKssJp5y-_kxVnHPLhfUT7QDN6JNFOlvtfA2K8TRp46CFGl_72X7PQ0JZ7nMDyGRYvwnXxb_kM_QbyqKdBSacvN/s1600/IMAG1569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; 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text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_S_rJyeLlAZvSEtadrWsPaz-fBjohzDEH26YhWHwlfjNJZUFlELwDHu0CsiEqcLdLpIm5pDVj5IOJBFuqFnLSy4wAmXTx894YTXCS00bdci0v-VJ14YOCsD1WiiR5-Vo-JruQAxfjXB3O/s1600/IMAG1584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_S_rJyeLlAZvSEtadrWsPaz-fBjohzDEH26YhWHwlfjNJZUFlELwDHu0CsiEqcLdLpIm5pDVj5IOJBFuqFnLSy4wAmXTx894YTXCS00bdci0v-VJ14YOCsD1WiiR5-Vo-JruQAxfjXB3O/s320/IMAG1584.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZtiSbrb5CBPrqRp6adhsyvsnHqZODF_k534RkqGAYfYOirhT0zlGWDUvE8EhCIimILKOy31vgb8hGQxNbAWhnWPx4QCUFMUuw5xC6MbJi39-qe5o1hQzDx-qDxbV_wV0YFt9bDkhMmEe/s1600/instagram63.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZtiSbrb5CBPrqRp6adhsyvsnHqZODF_k534RkqGAYfYOirhT0zlGWDUvE8EhCIimILKOy31vgb8hGQxNbAWhnWPx4QCUFMUuw5xC6MbJi39-qe5o1hQzDx-qDxbV_wV0YFt9bDkhMmEe/s320/instagram63.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>long run views</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7awIKqOlbT2KMXPS9shPBj9IkVVmd5-s1et8PqVTj_mTU3MZH-4nTR3IwDa86_dKzoArvVynQjfZaz_sivGYaFMgxgzTyo_EudN6Ixbrp5Ap3dkACuIourqZESxhvuNVJEgvUaHT9gDly/s1600/IMAG1599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7awIKqOlbT2KMXPS9shPBj9IkVVmd5-s1et8PqVTj_mTU3MZH-4nTR3IwDa86_dKzoArvVynQjfZaz_sivGYaFMgxgzTyo_EudN6Ixbrp5Ap3dkACuIourqZESxhvuNVJEgvUaHT9gDly/s320/IMAG1599.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijOWpHOpITNppF2aQr3aS1cE5gzvMPMSHiliUm62NCh-3aGjJM09p7hXJvOdMPZzAhQbu1EELzoNrJ49gGtA_zZA1ynwCgEzxRrXgy3zaP7fgStIbIjD6bj5bmURA0zEMjgCaLThphPKkP/s1600/instagram67.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijOWpHOpITNppF2aQr3aS1cE5gzvMPMSHiliUm62NCh-3aGjJM09p7hXJvOdMPZzAhQbu1EELzoNrJ49gGtA_zZA1ynwCgEzxRrXgy3zaP7fgStIbIjD6bj5bmURA0zEMjgCaLThphPKkP/s320/instagram67.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>lemon cider</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit_Jn_VWkc12pwRPZSG794r6HHACwZapO-8ttoFw5igWTBYDdfOhBjrZxlLc3xM46SN9eS3AvW-R4onaWZLH9LbFmJ3ASBkCArD0PZLVL_mMZ7NWOLFaefkXIMpXNAtK9sUAiBoiLRLtFY/s1600/instagram65.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit_Jn_VWkc12pwRPZSG794r6HHACwZapO-8ttoFw5igWTBYDdfOhBjrZxlLc3xM46SN9eS3AvW-R4onaWZLH9LbFmJ3ASBkCArD0PZLVL_mMZ7NWOLFaefkXIMpXNAtK9sUAiBoiLRLtFY/s320/instagram65.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj89jMuYfF6fJ64qDIotiipzpw2bIbEHeL97EnVTtfH2zpRDMKd5noLEqgncCzerq2crZH8SGPfMzeZA3hcW_UgvW4EpRQxna9_Hb0NxvxkSQyDp6517PhAgv1OUiqJTfYgn1o-m7PiJ2dS/s1600/IMAG1629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj89jMuYfF6fJ64qDIotiipzpw2bIbEHeL97EnVTtfH2zpRDMKd5noLEqgncCzerq2crZH8SGPfMzeZA3hcW_UgvW4EpRQxna9_Hb0NxvxkSQyDp6517PhAgv1OUiqJTfYgn1o-m7PiJ2dS/s320/IMAG1629.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>flaming garlic!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzPoOTKTZFs0B-B2-90Z5lesqooXHETIXuzE0q6Bem3UkTuRDdUIVr6p2WR5kF0ntCxW_Lb82-ksy_Hqb4y-oyGEn2jwdFe9M1cEIMQ-xi4mqpBQlt-IoIaGiJRexo7aDQ8uRFeO8nw_LR/s1600/IMAG1633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzPoOTKTZFs0B-B2-90Z5lesqooXHETIXuzE0q6Bem3UkTuRDdUIVr6p2WR5kF0ntCxW_Lb82-ksy_Hqb4y-oyGEn2jwdFe9M1cEIMQ-xi4mqpBQlt-IoIaGiJRexo7aDQ8uRFeO8nw_LR/s320/IMAG1633.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_sYQjtxWJNTYILeVYkXSMgImKrSuJ_jvFe9DXujKEmEwmEbO8X1sRp7_SUf0W2LksyhxuFXya3yuAjGT4GbYB65C5vvI4aVWXe_f3qM8SGtUKvz19v5VFMT3nxLe6vI8eonJMZnM1rZxr/s1600/instagram66.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_sYQjtxWJNTYILeVYkXSMgImKrSuJ_jvFe9DXujKEmEwmEbO8X1sRp7_SUf0W2LksyhxuFXya3yuAjGT4GbYB65C5vvI4aVWXe_f3qM8SGtUKvz19v5VFMT3nxLe6vI8eonJMZnM1rZxr/s320/instagram66.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyGFBe0rIb1HEXpkc1TN9zfybRrx6ELC8Crxj3yLb6Gl3Bf_koowuvN2_glM0VOBXLF3Mp5S_ukHB7h8lu-NgsWGFWMBrvbRDlruNCv_nByHlC6Y6fhTWV1Pa-8AgnLG2ptJ0eIoEn2zDL/s1600/IMAG1666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyGFBe0rIb1HEXpkc1TN9zfybRrx6ELC8Crxj3yLb6Gl3Bf_koowuvN2_glM0VOBXLF3Mp5S_ukHB7h8lu-NgsWGFWMBrvbRDlruNCv_nByHlC6Y6fhTWV1Pa-8AgnLG2ptJ0eIoEn2zDL/s320/IMAG1666.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4kDSn_90wlX9cTtAFtBr9LbmYlwtD40ZEYEJ1mpj02AbzVNdK0Gfl3yBIicnhRfoYo5juZEupdPTH24URQIDWrcumzwAWCdDTB9gerO63jcAKtX0H0SR14jvomxTGKqexoKwXotMWuWn/s1600/IMAG1678.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4kDSn_90wlX9cTtAFtBr9LbmYlwtD40ZEYEJ1mpj02AbzVNdK0Gfl3yBIicnhRfoYo5juZEupdPTH24URQIDWrcumzwAWCdDTB9gerO63jcAKtX0H0SR14jvomxTGKqexoKwXotMWuWn/s320/IMAG1678.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>fresh mint ice cream</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0rJISq6htEI75mcjMHff_KfsZD0TL124ksujHyAgbFMNlh12k5lYtJrf30Gg3X5fqs-K0tnyjL6nh7zqMcZzoBRW_MiLes5Vk4TAY_V8OxKym8FJDfLMTyDUA3culjOHBtCimSF_33RDU/s1600/IMG_20120801_210904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0rJISq6htEI75mcjMHff_KfsZD0TL124ksujHyAgbFMNlh12k5lYtJrf30Gg3X5fqs-K0tnyjL6nh7zqMcZzoBRW_MiLes5Vk4TAY_V8OxKym8FJDfLMTyDUA3culjOHBtCimSF_33RDU/s320/IMG_20120801_210904.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>street art</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqpxEZP27AtRmK7aVxwMc8KSXbGO_tE9qywOKZMXOsW_Y87HOU8ORO9dRK9AQcXSLhIz5e6DDJDxc6-S1hVTfqTAHsn6hl1tH3xcDUP_gCOBDXEGFWmXn-UkL3ANSjHnFcISIAch512qxY/s1600/IMAG1681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqpxEZP27AtRmK7aVxwMc8KSXbGO_tE9qywOKZMXOsW_Y87HOU8ORO9dRK9AQcXSLhIz5e6DDJDxc6-S1hVTfqTAHsn6hl1tH3xcDUP_gCOBDXEGFWmXn-UkL3ANSjHnFcISIAch512qxY/s320/IMAG1681.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6JkrVmcyBGjEt2IXXHdZp5CgpMpBO9DafzJdNFQUfmQIS8jxUV1UsckyGAaJTI-qw0rerlH_8hMVJoPH_K7R78qu-ycd6bGLDP5CJZIqhy60F6bH_1XtwPVN6R2VpNLwQF8Yh_py75f-E/s1600/IMG_20120801_134341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6JkrVmcyBGjEt2IXXHdZp5CgpMpBO9DafzJdNFQUfmQIS8jxUV1UsckyGAaJTI-qw0rerlH_8hMVJoPH_K7R78qu-ycd6bGLDP5CJZIqhy60F6bH_1XtwPVN6R2VpNLwQF8Yh_py75f-E/s320/IMG_20120801_134341.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>run to Capitola</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNVXS-fUW6WjMUmJm-OlEsc2Y6w0naff8fyvsw7_7E_0FrbIwTjsdcKiYdTH5dG9SHWpl5WelX01jGSUh_ERSqXnpn3_mjLb7Dkfgv_1bU3HUUeS8BlCwQK9aYcH1kbft8c9298hzjmCQE/s1600/IMG_20120801_133127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNVXS-fUW6WjMUmJm-OlEsc2Y6w0naff8fyvsw7_7E_0FrbIwTjsdcKiYdTH5dG9SHWpl5WelX01jGSUh_ERSqXnpn3_mjLb7Dkfgv_1bU3HUUeS8BlCwQK9aYcH1kbft8c9298hzjmCQE/s320/IMG_20120801_133127.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_48A6np9977LD9VDk6y_dt-2RkEnEYh1iB_HpbPVSA6AjDk7o8ZeooSAz_cSaj32D7N0kXm4UOAGVGLbnhbtv62XTgfZiE_oQVjEA0O0NqID4hbPvGa2wI-CE_2RmLuPHb38DYQarvw6v/s1600/IMAG1682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_48A6np9977LD9VDk6y_dt-2RkEnEYh1iB_HpbPVSA6AjDk7o8ZeooSAz_cSaj32D7N0kXm4UOAGVGLbnhbtv62XTgfZiE_oQVjEA0O0NqID4hbPvGa2wI-CE_2RmLuPHb38DYQarvw6v/s320/IMAG1682.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjYPgob4RpkIQLYjOXP47gZoBdPYQoOB0KNrCZkNZo4hbGOv2aSS8AurFYmd1jLwj9SIs27LBvsMLiNegufr45uJjzjVCYmxywR5iCX9iNA6WvZexX4jtVhg6EMeiryq3tic35eZslbgw/s1600/IMAG1684.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjYPgob4RpkIQLYjOXP47gZoBdPYQoOB0KNrCZkNZo4hbGOv2aSS8AurFYmd1jLwj9SIs27LBvsMLiNegufr45uJjzjVCYmxywR5iCX9iNA6WvZexX4jtVhg6EMeiryq3tic35eZslbgw/s320/IMAG1684.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSjxYNiysmX2FFP52wvEu7EA6MnDd4rLaXPvoc8vvIJ_T3xMusXKMPjz7wNpHvH34ZYivEDrwFC6Q35X5gJEeoxeaVn1229DVMSHkW-UDX24JxUxMPTE_nvHoKppIu6gcuxheJoV8nW56y/s1600/instagram48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSjxYNiysmX2FFP52wvEu7EA6MnDd4rLaXPvoc8vvIJ_T3xMusXKMPjz7wNpHvH34ZYivEDrwFC6Q35X5gJEeoxeaVn1229DVMSHkW-UDX24JxUxMPTE_nvHoKppIu6gcuxheJoV8nW56y/s320/instagram48.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-83415534211418420422012-07-25T23:10:00.000-07:002012-07-25T23:10:49.053-07:00Wharf to Wharf (Race Report)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhALGXY8Q6ON-YfhIIKo8hhzkgGt-FCePFVtqYbUV_bniSRBQPvH6dr2SLobTObikhsM41K5F8SCDTbVFawfac-RPwpwZ5D_lNAMUKr4okpYttaku2fZRuuUw8p3-KOJehsZcsmmnaV8l20/s1600/wharf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhALGXY8Q6ON-YfhIIKo8hhzkgGt-FCePFVtqYbUV_bniSRBQPvH6dr2SLobTObikhsM41K5F8SCDTbVFawfac-RPwpwZ5D_lNAMUKr4okpYttaku2fZRuuUw8p3-KOJehsZcsmmnaV8l20/s1600/wharf.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">This was definitely more of a run than a race, but I had a great time and would definitely do it again. As I've mentioned before, this has been a race my dad and I have been wanting to do or a while. We vacation in Santa Cruz every summer but have never been here for race weekend. This year we made sure to book our house for the third weekend in July and signed up before it sold out. My friend Courtney decided to come with us to Santa Cruz for a few days and joined us for the race as well.<br />
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Our house is actually a block away from the course around mile 3 so we just had a short drive to the start down by the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. We got there with plenty of time to spare and just hung out and people watched, Courtney and I playing a game of "name that shoe" (this is what happens when you work in a running store!). There were a ton of people, from seasoned runners warming up and stretching to those out to have fun, wearing tutus and questionable shoes. It was perfect running weather with the typical Santa Cruz fog and cool, fresh air.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ryFSQi-8usY0gEshKOI7YubbkhF9mp7QQKfznnWw4rcQMdu5KIdMBK35n6vPvZKGZi_u9wHcuEuWCr1xAZJjkhgiqTc6qgyUhaGzehU3r-8okcYL2TwQQkeHejkUNcQe3MT1aGlzfyhg/s1600/IMAG1459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ryFSQi-8usY0gEshKOI7YubbkhF9mp7QQKfznnWw4rcQMdu5KIdMBK35n6vPvZKGZi_u9wHcuEuWCr1xAZJjkhgiqTc6qgyUhaGzehU3r-8okcYL2TwQQkeHejkUNcQe3MT1aGlzfyhg/s320/IMAG1459.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Boardwalk!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXwWIQvmcJpe9Jkqassnq0TZ36TOr68AP6Y0xBTl5jYrM2QYgnr7-7Kye3d_3da5KfGaAPpBbBEaYRq9OvJ88bqY7OoD1gWzA1AM6RkBhL3_0TgMlspXNp-8wjE2lp9hZlMnEaKrRZP3b1/s1600/IMAG1460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXwWIQvmcJpe9Jkqassnq0TZ36TOr68AP6Y0xBTl5jYrM2QYgnr7-7Kye3d_3da5KfGaAPpBbBEaYRq9OvJ88bqY7OoD1gWzA1AM6RkBhL3_0TgMlspXNp-8wjE2lp9hZlMnEaKrRZP3b1/s320/IMAG1460.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuFF4ldIaznPd4V9lEQrFm9cUlRy1DutVH1Kum2Mj89CFMjMdvm4zYcDpOhJvgXM0IkxCXJcT98-mm_A5_TPg7541gCxX7ZBMpI3xgRjBSrad9YT07Qx6K4UiW6WvH4_8syoZys5aXITX/s1600/instagram45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuFF4ldIaznPd4V9lEQrFm9cUlRy1DutVH1Kum2Mj89CFMjMdvm4zYcDpOhJvgXM0IkxCXJcT98-mm_A5_TPg7541gCxX7ZBMpI3xgRjBSrad9YT07Qx6K4UiW6WvH4_8syoZys5aXITX/s320/instagram45.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
As it got closer to the start we lined up around the 9 minute mile pace sign. When the gun went off, it took us nearly 10 minutes just to reach the start line. That's what happens when 15,000 people are funneled up a two lane street! The first couple miles were slow, as to be expected, and we did a lot of dodging. What irritated me, however, is how many walkers we had to run around! Now I more than welcome walkers out there, and it is definitely a walker-friendly race. <i>But</i>, it was clearly said to start in the back if you planned to walk the race, and there was even a pace sign specifically for walkers. It was also clearly announced (not to mention simple race etiquette) to stay to the side if you stop to walk. Not only was it difficult to dodge these people, but it can also be dangerous in such a crowded environment. Ok, end rant : ) Despite the crowding, it was a great race. In fact, it was probably a good thing there were so many people because it forced me to keep my pace nice and easy. As a result I actually felt pretty good for the whole race!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgECHcGxbqsqQncNc1LAwA5dW5hsEh3U3YADiCFthTC_xNZacx3m-1SzsN3anmWvL697b7Z78Tmokb8nEtwssJl4_Q4SipnimciRxSvWT6nqqvlke1-SBmr6llfjcyDpYJf34TVA8fEoRt9/s1600/IMAG1466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgECHcGxbqsqQncNc1LAwA5dW5hsEh3U3YADiCFthTC_xNZacx3m-1SzsN3anmWvL697b7Z78Tmokb8nEtwssJl4_Q4SipnimciRxSvWT6nqqvlke1-SBmr6llfjcyDpYJf34TVA8fEoRt9/s320/IMAG1466.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA9CX262qdGaV0lbcR6A8mJrW8BBm1TdpElvfvitalIicagpVxFTn4yJ8zZjyjWgOBVdtvuRr8N9xqLEwujWhVH8PLRpnluWkKiqz13ugQTcSJDHV7pk2ldypP8fG-eLaBPvP8wdbhrCch/s1600/IMAG1468.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA9CX262qdGaV0lbcR6A8mJrW8BBm1TdpElvfvitalIicagpVxFTn4yJ8zZjyjWgOBVdtvuRr8N9xqLEwujWhVH8PLRpnluWkKiqz13ugQTcSJDHV7pk2ldypP8fG-eLaBPvP8wdbhrCch/s320/IMAG1468.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>The course was also fantastic with enough hills to keep things interesting without being too challenging, and killer views along the beachfront. Locals were out in full force to cheer us on and bands were interspersed along the way to provide entertainment. The miles ticked by pretty quickly and before we knew it we were halfway, running by our house and waving to my mom and pup who'd come out to cheer! Around mile 4 we hit a bike path that winds above some beachfront cliffs overlooking the ocean. Talk about an awesome view!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjzpPKFv8DWn2KpKjMbVMyB4uo0dcJBANFJeI5r_B2ORpAAQnCALfVlhc3E3aJhk9xvctB6kbO-Tb5DacixaubYyvGlDTBz9Jzf1HeD0JtHRdRo_cqpmRiY8gnY4Fina3KxnyDkca3lwHX/s1600/IMAG1472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjzpPKFv8DWn2KpKjMbVMyB4uo0dcJBANFJeI5r_B2ORpAAQnCALfVlhc3E3aJhk9xvctB6kbO-Tb5DacixaubYyvGlDTBz9Jzf1HeD0JtHRdRo_cqpmRiY8gnY4Fina3KxnyDkca3lwHX/s320/IMAG1472.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>nearly came to a standstill on most hills</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0SfLK7PAsh1mS8zzl6wHCzE47yWmLh8vvATu2ogxKrfgXg3e_HZcycW4_rsCQNJc5rhUNoCcktjcHFhwVTi563uELIq4LqSlKdK3LvfitsO5L1Axyo7VgLLDXxQ-nMSompu9a6oH13l3M/s1600/IMAG1471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0SfLK7PAsh1mS8zzl6wHCzE47yWmLh8vvATu2ogxKrfgXg3e_HZcycW4_rsCQNJc5rhUNoCcktjcHFhwVTi563uELIq4LqSlKdK3LvfitsO5L1Axyo7VgLLDXxQ-nMSompu9a6oH13l3M/s320/IMAG1471.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwYdW8NPwbEbydVqpU701Q30Jcv9YxxTta_YheM2YJbRVvD8aoDAatdcL270juk1-3A7Tsfy051a5XN5p29w1e7DihEZ5JeUwfvxjFPzFd_8UyNMQsmrE8AyMq9pdzM_EOXf3jncxtnXaq/s1600/IMAG1475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwYdW8NPwbEbydVqpU701Q30Jcv9YxxTta_YheM2YJbRVvD8aoDAatdcL270juk1-3A7Tsfy051a5XN5p29w1e7DihEZ5JeUwfvxjFPzFd_8UyNMQsmrE8AyMq9pdzM_EOXf3jncxtnXaq/s320/IMAG1475.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>hahaha</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDKURCyBdvpy-Roe-dyH9P3yfhF4Pf6edyHAmNE_YegFwVMsv7HMkLyr2MdCpxlpCcxbVc1yRT6NWWvm3Xub7YWDOnqhILwrnKe1tcCUjYXbpr3hMnvziUb8Dw1nUen4doc2qVRtN09iDy/s1600/IMAG1476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDKURCyBdvpy-Roe-dyH9P3yfhF4Pf6edyHAmNE_YegFwVMsv7HMkLyr2MdCpxlpCcxbVc1yRT6NWWvm3Xub7YWDOnqhILwrnKe1tcCUjYXbpr3hMnvziUb8Dw1nUen4doc2qVRtN09iDy/s320/IMAG1476.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibFf-2Vw5OjpfHY8VxQJ02npV1HkV9OMD2M7hoqHdzhVNVqJkZW1SrMqlfCgs_OWWiIfVucHnX1zWKEH4WJyKXCHgO6cGR7AcNcbGzMspJUXeauejvpfe0BiCYNaM3SF6B0n1pnfnLTiE3/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-07-23+at+11.30.03+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibFf-2Vw5OjpfHY8VxQJ02npV1HkV9OMD2M7hoqHdzhVNVqJkZW1SrMqlfCgs_OWWiIfVucHnX1zWKEH4WJyKXCHgO6cGR7AcNcbGzMspJUXeauejvpfe0BiCYNaM3SF6B0n1pnfnLTiE3/s320/Screen+shot+2012-07-23+at+11.30.03+PM.png" width="255" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UDdOYe2Jy7kJkgEdQc_ZHPpC7eirVyKJ4qvkGU8pr0SLNIziIt9N1Ga8M7T1-ouTTk_5wmKaIkWJmbjuNMmkhBi5KFii0DgEpKlSAU_2fkTj6Nx7xHVz-zF2ohwh-l79_o3Djx8fR1ee/s1600/IMAG1479.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UDdOYe2Jy7kJkgEdQc_ZHPpC7eirVyKJ4qvkGU8pr0SLNIziIt9N1Ga8M7T1-ouTTk_5wmKaIkWJmbjuNMmkhBi5KFii0DgEpKlSAU_2fkTj6Nx7xHVz-zF2ohwh-l79_o3Djx8fR1ee/s320/IMAG1479.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the best section of the race</i> <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcFscks5pwfCWx2Ty6tzIxL_teGmRfDJGkdQpl9iiw8-_6DQkMC8BIusOqtQgHAe3ApOjG-2xgmGxccdN1q4NiOFO1yJQW_Q1JyV7XxR3KDZUXBJXA8ckhHwlJOpLYSdf1sc88vuEB2U9/s1600/IMAG1478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcFscks5pwfCWx2Ty6tzIxL_teGmRfDJGkdQpl9iiw8-_6DQkMC8BIusOqtQgHAe3ApOjG-2xgmGxccdN1q4NiOFO1yJQW_Q1JyV7XxR3KDZUXBJXA8ckhHwlJOpLYSdf1sc88vuEB2U9/s320/IMAG1478.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The last half mile was a nice downhill to the finish in Capitola. I wasn't expecting it so soon, but was glad to see the balloon arch and be done. The course is just under 10k, and we came in around <b style="color: red;">1:02</b>, which I'm happy with considering how crowded the course was. We were herded along with the rest of the runners toward the beach to pick up our race shirts, which were unfortunately cotton : / Still, this is a race you run for the experience, not for the swag.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgus-i-yY0_omOvy02pjpBuiUeAyw041uJlN4J2cYxX-lVVmiZM1daThWu7slDEdg704Mgyt7msYXd-WlqMJY6xDyPXJX-BM5_pRIHREoElh18EkD3uVhe2by-nUOdWKV2AXaiVkAsJ3Hh7/s1600/IMAG1480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgus-i-yY0_omOvy02pjpBuiUeAyw041uJlN4J2cYxX-lVVmiZM1daThWu7slDEdg704Mgyt7msYXd-WlqMJY6xDyPXJX-BM5_pRIHREoElh18EkD3uVhe2by-nUOdWKV2AXaiVkAsJ3Hh7/s320/IMAG1480.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>the final "wharf" in Capitola!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGQhy1Yn6sezptMkgfH6DC2k4SUQRJmIdcTQIdMU5KzpS094QM79JRDmKWDbdxjshhnivZpXDnwK2fzj2jVFzmYi72S1EcW7DuEYtnjB9PCJOH9Lm1rdaO0SHHxNzvSe0be7xVAxU32uaV/s1600/instagram47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGQhy1Yn6sezptMkgfH6DC2k4SUQRJmIdcTQIdMU5KzpS094QM79JRDmKWDbdxjshhnivZpXDnwK2fzj2jVFzmYi72S1EcW7DuEYtnjB9PCJOH9Lm1rdaO0SHHxNzvSe0be7xVAxU32uaV/s320/instagram47.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWD07Pj15FM6d7hupDHVGTDpRPVONngfq42m0AFCHBCC-CC0d7Hj1VHUr7aZvqQYYW6eXFxa1Z5rtOghlKLgqxdp4yE8NRTF37T_amhT0IKavq5Qlx5Uro5EJfvWvU6caPSZANbCEkraKK/s1600/IMAG1485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWD07Pj15FM6d7hupDHVGTDpRPVONngfq42m0AFCHBCC-CC0d7Hj1VHUr7aZvqQYYW6eXFxa1Z5rtOghlKLgqxdp4yE8NRTF37T_amhT0IKavq5Qlx5Uro5EJfvWvU6caPSZANbCEkraKK/s320/IMAG1485.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_AeL56yHYT6C914TyQquit55oW9Pou2wunnt8C1oy6gnTbACn5lFongx88IJMVZ1YiZ5vT445eni_AaMsvhw_e7l1pBhRawzMo-vYfTR0AMyUauXqID6qi09N_sx7AXc3EQrIMS-jvKj/s1600/IMAG1484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_AeL56yHYT6C914TyQquit55oW9Pou2wunnt8C1oy6gnTbACn5lFongx88IJMVZ1YiZ5vT445eni_AaMsvhw_e7l1pBhRawzMo-vYfTR0AMyUauXqID6qi09N_sx7AXc3EQrIMS-jvKj/s320/IMAG1484.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Courtney and I both planned on adding on some more miles after the race. She has a marathon in September and had 16 on deck; I was hoping to run a few more and see how I felt. We headed out of Capitola through some back streets and then plotted a route back to the house that avoided the race course. I actually felt pretty good except for some tightness in my hip, which got better as I warmed back up. We made it back to the house with 9 miles, and while I thought about calling it a day, I liked the idea of double digits, so I did one more easy mile to cool-down. I was definitely tired when I finished, but I was also happy to get in my first "long" run since Ironman.<br />
<br />
All in all it was a fun way to get in some miles and enjoy some of the amazing views Santa Cruz has to offer. It was also great to share the experience with my dad and Courtney. I don't usually run an entire race with others, but I really enjoyed having the company. I'm sure I'll be back for this one in the future!</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-56843973638754748062012-07-21T23:23:00.000-07:002012-07-21T23:23:00.638-07:00Santa Cruzin'Hello from Santa Cruz! I'm getting my summer vacation on for the next few days : ) Courtney and I drove down today (traffic made for a loooong drive!) and met my folks at our vacation house just a few blocks from the beach. After unloading our stuff we didn't wait long to go check out the waves with our matching pups. Today was an absolutely gorgeous day, and the cool ocean breeze was a wonderful respite from the triple digits we left in Sac. Our pups loved the water and tired out quickly playing in the waves. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Q7vSQ7NwIyoY1OTFJplCx0MYwr7FmKgobjw5qWstPcG9dPRC2k_4ZWUSy8RMKAVjDXxXAZreiRcq6QXzCkpb6I41bDAJ4cD-ejwnWHpsmTngrNIgJ1sFRpScCn6ZxPYXBmSFiJotmTAA/s1600/sc2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Q7vSQ7NwIyoY1OTFJplCx0MYwr7FmKgobjw5qWstPcG9dPRC2k_4ZWUSy8RMKAVjDXxXAZreiRcq6QXzCkpb6I41bDAJ4cD-ejwnWHpsmTngrNIgJ1sFRpScCn6ZxPYXBmSFiJotmTAA/s320/sc2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfDfDUgj14mvDzSj_tyeBi9O0BB3EEkcqukN6mO14gOpP-ae0lgJ-3A8hNubPoFf2vJwUvAk4JUzahWzfAIxssdX8-PQa6NkheRUDuKVKrzMTI62vGalZiQ2aRQHRB0wSsWpv2Xpraan_Z/s1600/instagram40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfDfDUgj14mvDzSj_tyeBi9O0BB3EEkcqukN6mO14gOpP-ae0lgJ-3A8hNubPoFf2vJwUvAk4JUzahWzfAIxssdX8-PQa6NkheRUDuKVKrzMTI62vGalZiQ2aRQHRB0wSsWpv2Xpraan_Z/s320/instagram40.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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<div style="text-align: left;">Tomorrow morning Courtney, my dad, and I will be running Wharf to Wharf, a 10k along the beachfront between Santa Cruz and Capitola with 15,000 other people! We aren't planning on racing it, especially with the crowds, just hoping to enjoy the experience and have fun.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div>This week I started "training" for the Portland Marathon. The quotes are necessary as I'm still finding it difficult to get back into a running routine. I got up to 5 miles a couple days ago, but it was tough. The weird thing is that it's not my legs that are giving me trouble, but rather my breathing. I'm struggling just to hold a pace 30 seconds slower than my usual pace, and I can't help but get frustrated. I feel out of shape, which doesn't make sense since I just did an Ironman! Cue the frustration : /<br />
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I know recovery takes a while, and I'm trying to be patient. But I don't know if I just need to keep resting and keep my runs short, or if I need to run more to "get back in shape". I've decided to give myself til the end of July before putting any extra pressure on myself to follow a strict training schedule. I think I might have been overly ambitious and just need some more time.<br />
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In the meantime, I plan to soak up every moment of my time here and enjoy this little getaway!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-23469478206400114112012-07-13T18:15:00.000-07:002012-07-13T18:15:53.676-07:00Pride is Forever (and so is a Tattoo)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSWfUgd7eyA5atSA57rMtqHDz2cLfojyTMigkLbuZFZbVRFX7EQ9c0cLA_oEuLvhWKm7txKn5gd1BF00MSU3HwrZZK95kfuQ0s6HfQeb3vuIz-vRxhrN3_5lNY0lK8x0ktKYuWUB-_hbXI/s1600/m-dot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSWfUgd7eyA5atSA57rMtqHDz2cLfojyTMigkLbuZFZbVRFX7EQ9c0cLA_oEuLvhWKm7txKn5gd1BF00MSU3HwrZZK95kfuQ0s6HfQeb3vuIz-vRxhrN3_5lNY0lK8x0ktKYuWUB-_hbXI/s320/m-dot.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_8dQ7V8QwDhGe9XUghB7lI8Dy_RuDD6wIlazneSGlmNesXzylzaVsYDi70Yx1KFbv1-D8soARHW0eT1971imd9nzYscC_EvYNDR7UpGMbuI7EroPwZ95JQbgrZBbQvlBFK8XXZ3KrK_I8/s1600/instagram33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_8dQ7V8QwDhGe9XUghB7lI8Dy_RuDD6wIlazneSGlmNesXzylzaVsYDi70Yx1KFbv1-D8soARHW0eT1971imd9nzYscC_EvYNDR7UpGMbuI7EroPwZ95JQbgrZBbQvlBFK8XXZ3KrK_I8/s320/instagram33.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFnQDkaOxsrX6_K7nerw_drD44YzhdP4p2KNSVC6s2ntHoEn0QQ-HRBLddSWviN_VODSkOZUFcF881CiIaCl7dXUC48VaJ_JCSGKjYTUG20sK52ZnePqHInaVYq-a2ReDyB8zaEQMCbKtw/s1600/instagram34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFnQDkaOxsrX6_K7nerw_drD44YzhdP4p2KNSVC6s2ntHoEn0QQ-HRBLddSWviN_VODSkOZUFcF881CiIaCl7dXUC48VaJ_JCSGKjYTUG20sK52ZnePqHInaVYq-a2ReDyB8zaEQMCbKtw/s320/instagram34.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-21980997008285049002012-07-09T21:34:00.000-07:002012-07-09T21:34:38.369-07:00Post-IM: Recovery, Reflection, & What's NextIt's hard to believe that two weeks have already passed since one of the biggest days in my life. I've been sort of M.I.A. on here mainly because I haven't been doing much. I've taken nearly the entire two weeks off from working out and have instead have been sleeping in and keeping busy with work, starting the hunt for a place in San Francisco, and devouring as many books as I can before summer is up! It's been nice, but I've also found myself getting antsy to get back to some sort of workout routine.<br />
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I'm trying to remember the importance of recovery, however, and also allowing myself to just take a break. It seems like in the past few years I've always been training for <i>something</i>, and while that certainly was fun and kept me motivated, it didn't give me much down time physically or mentally. And while I do have some exciting races on the horizon, I'm trying not to be in a huge rush to get there. These last couple weeks have been focused on letting my body heal, reflecting on <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/07/ironman-coeur-dalene-race-report.html">my Ironman experience</a>, and starting to get excited about what's next. Here are some highlights!<br />
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<u><b>Recovery</b></u><br />
My plan for post-IM recovery was to take at least one full week off from all physical activity. This was not a problem! I was incredibly sore the few days following the race, so working out was the last thing on my mind. I hung out in Coeur d'Alene a few extra days and even had our house all to myself on the last day, and took advantage of the time to just relax. I spent a lot of time on the couch, read, hung out on the porch, napped, ate whatever I wanted. It was a great way to unwind and also soak up some more IM glory before having to get back to the usual routine at home.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVkBKp1CF938JWwItGj50xwy_Hp4uipFYuW9eeRHs_O6IMR7KSuxv3jII-AzRl6I6haz9GWP3s1_zmAyzKZN3AXr33KhtikjhqrmWnJ_Xm4Bllmv3cfResZeOcvA0qlsS5zYpCDWoEc3j7/s1600/IMAG1386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVkBKp1CF938JWwItGj50xwy_Hp4uipFYuW9eeRHs_O6IMR7KSuxv3jII-AzRl6I6haz9GWP3s1_zmAyzKZN3AXr33KhtikjhqrmWnJ_Xm4Bllmv3cfResZeOcvA0qlsS5zYpCDWoEc3j7/s320/IMAG1386.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>my homecoming surprise!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></div>By the next weekend my body was feeling much better; most of the soreness had gone away, except a couple toes were still fairly tender. I was adamant about sticking to one whole week off though, so I tried not to get jealous as I heard about all the awesome workouts and races my friends and training buddies were doing that weekend. On my day off Tuesday I wanted to take advantage of the free time and get in a workout. For some reason I thought a workout dvd was the way to go - after doing so much cardio/endurance, I want to incorporate more strength training into my routine. It started out with basic squats and some lunges, and that was as far as I made it. I couldn't believe the lack of power I felt in my legs! It was a little frustrating, but I also know recovery is about more than just not being sore, and I'm glad I had the sense to stop and not try and push through it.<br />
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I'd like to say my next workout was more successful than the first, but I like to be honest with you guys : ) It sucked, big time. I was perhaps feeling a bit ambitious/hopeful when I agreed to join my coworker, Courtney, for an early morning trail run on the <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/07/fourth.html">4th of July</a>. I've missed trail running, and I was getting antsy to be active again, so I figured I'd give it a shot and just take it easy. Well, I was unprepared for just how hard it would be! Now I'll admit it wasn't perhaps the best conditions for my inaugural post-IM run. The route we chose had some hills which I found challenging even to walk up, plus it was warm, despite the early morning hours. We did four miles, and I was literally <i>spent</i> by the end. Literally one of the hardest runs I've done in a while, including the marathon of my IM! And to add salt in the wound, I was seriously sore from the handful of squats and lunges I'd attempted the day before : /<br />
<br />
So it was clear that I needed more time. And perhaps a less stressful, low-impact workout like an easy swim or yoga. Lesson learned. I'm hoping to do a few easy runs (on flat ground) this week, and maybe get in the pool to shake things out or go for a leisurely bike ride. My next training cycle (Portland Marathon) doesn't kick off until next week, so I'm in no rush. I think part of what makes me so antsy is that being active has become a big part of my identity, and so it feels weird when I don't have a routine. And after having such a full training schedule for the last 6 months it's just strange to suddenly not. But I'm learning that this is ok, and I'm trying to be ok with it.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Reflection</b></u><br />
In the first few days following the race, a lot of my reflection was on the race itself: my strategies, goals, and lessons learned. In general, I'm pretty happy with my preparation, the execution of my race strategy, and my nutrition plan. I think these things, combined with a lot of luck, are responsible for why I had such a great day. I'm happy that, for the most part, I stayed in the moment. Both during the race and after I was keenly aware of how quickly it went by, and I really wanted to savor the experience. In many ways, my first Ironman was everything that I expected and also totally unpredictable. Physically, I expected it to be much harder, and maybe on a different day, it would have been. I'm grateful that I felt so good throughout, and I think that enabled me to maintain a positive attitude and mood during the race. I expected to be emotional, and many times during the day I was. There were many moments that just seemed surreal and I had to shake myself and remind myself that <i>this is the real deal!</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqB6AsHka4TtxamFalIxkuNws9KOdVioHc4VUI84vMpog6EbYLDuvLs9hqaLv3-b9_Bz8wV7IGVUoqjfQ9_6N0E9ae_damUHOYMhrjDkdA69ACP7mIb_n1bB57g0XU9nBDb_HRv0hpm-cc/s1600/0191_06444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqB6AsHka4TtxamFalIxkuNws9KOdVioHc4VUI84vMpog6EbYLDuvLs9hqaLv3-b9_Bz8wV7IGVUoqjfQ9_6N0E9ae_damUHOYMhrjDkdA69ACP7mIb_n1bB57g0XU9nBDb_HRv0hpm-cc/s320/0191_06444.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> one of many smiles that day</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8JwMBG6SmzSOhSBcdrYkPWSNVFMYpWgsWXCsAP_gw9pm7O87ptNnnOd7zFCwuDKQrGCUd-byL509b6GfrHUB_oBFnzWaIOF7JkH9Jks2MsZC6gVl6cHBylKvBK9diqhwPiEHmgelb6Jy/s1600/0191_43391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8JwMBG6SmzSOhSBcdrYkPWSNVFMYpWgsWXCsAP_gw9pm7O87ptNnnOd7zFCwuDKQrGCUd-byL509b6GfrHUB_oBFnzWaIOF7JkH9Jks2MsZC6gVl6cHBylKvBK9diqhwPiEHmgelb6Jy/s320/0191_43391.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>In the days leading up to and following the race I was also overwhelmed with the support and encouragement of my friends, family, coworkers, and teammates. I thought of these people countless times during the race, and there is no doubt they were part of this journey. I am also incredibly grateful to a handful of people without whom I could not have done this. My amazing coach, <a href="http://www.one10.biz/Multisport.html">Jen</a>, who guided me over the last 6 months and made an Ironman seem possible. My parents, who encouraged me from the beginning, and put up with my moods and crazy schedules and constant hunger. My training buddies and teammates, especially those who joined me on the course that day and shared the journey with me. I've learned that Ironman is a very selfish endeavor, and yet it cannot be done alone. Once again, thank you!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAd-BlUwvdh-CFamJQjDmDKRUjet33Ru2rc1FY429pqRXmplyeVDd8AaET-BR9-5El-4s8vJqq8bD3a_z8Ro_pyzQVGCovjWx7xaQHdrB6AkFO-VqCSvzaNDApDZEilAfHsiqbSnmG6cBB/s1600/DSCF7746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAd-BlUwvdh-CFamJQjDmDKRUjet33Ru2rc1FY429pqRXmplyeVDd8AaET-BR9-5El-4s8vJqq8bD3a_z8Ro_pyzQVGCovjWx7xaQHdrB6AkFO-VqCSvzaNDApDZEilAfHsiqbSnmG6cBB/s320/DSCF7746.JPG" width="236" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>the best support crew</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLg_ollg_5KKGCXK8_Ga7OXQ5LvfAI00RPPDM3r1jT3zmFhrQUsVASPFIcHNolIsigod_FOdi-sbfHwnFz_EkVRjLw8wniCrYzxC4H3FTRPC7CrFNindzCn-mTlUokl_GmQOnBOx53vFjb/s1600/197813_4156115026060_32168422_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLg_ollg_5KKGCXK8_Ga7OXQ5LvfAI00RPPDM3r1jT3zmFhrQUsVASPFIcHNolIsigod_FOdi-sbfHwnFz_EkVRjLw8wniCrYzxC4H3FTRPC7CrFNindzCn-mTlUokl_GmQOnBOx53vFjb/s320/197813_4156115026060_32168422_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>my fellow finishers</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></div>Perhaps it was just the great day I had, but I immediately wanted to sign up for another one. I even found myself trolling the websites of other Ironman races and daydreaming about what I might do next. But alas, there is no way I an afford another one right now, nor will I have the time once school starts, so my second one will have wait awhile. Let's just say though that if IM Tahoe wasn't already sold out, someone would've had to physically restrain me : )<br />
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<u><b>What's Next</b></u><br />
Even though I'm still in recovery mode, I've started to <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/04/making-plans.html">look ahead</a> to the races I've got on the calendar for the rest of the year. The big one is the <a href="http://www.portlandmarathon.org/">Portland Marathon</a> on October 7th, at which I hope to finally break the 4 hour barrier. Over the next month, however, I've got a couple fun races to look forward to including <a href="http://wharftowharf.com/">Wharf to Wharf</a> in Santa Cruz that I'll be running with my dad, and then the <a href="http://thecolorrun.com/">Color Run 5k</a> that Courtney and I will be doing together as team "Flying Pigments". Neither of these will be raced, but both are sure to be fun : ) After Portland (literally the weekend after) I'm doing the <a href="http://inside.nike.com/blogs/nikerunning_events-en_US/?tags=nike_womens_marathon_2011">Nike Women's Half</a> in San Francisco, which will be my first race in my new city. It will obviously be a leisurely run as I'm sure I'll still be recovering from Portland, but I've wanted to do this one for a while so I'm excited to finally experience it!<br />
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And the newest addition to my schedule alludes to what I hope to focus on again in the next year: trail running and ultras. In fact, before I registered for Coeur d'Alene I debated between an Ironman or a 100 miler, but since I'd done <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2011/04/ar-50-race-report.html">AR50</a> that year I decided to switch gears and focus on triathlon. Well, now I'm ready to tackle that other goal! Before you guys think I'm crazy, let me just say that, <i>no</i>, I'm not doing a 100 miler any time in the near future. But I do plan on moving in that direction, and so I'll be doing the <a href="http://www.thenorthface.com/en_US/endurance-challenge/san-francisco-championship/?stop_mobi=yes">North Face Endurance Challenge 50k</a> in San Francisco on December 1st. This will be my third ultra, and I'm so excited to start training for it! Since it takes place in the Marin Headlands I'll be able to train on the course since I'll be living in the city, and I'll definitely need to as it's a very challenging course. This will also serve as a stepping stone for my next big goal: the <a href="http://www.run100s.com/miwok/">Miwok 100k</a> next May. It's a lottery entry so there's no guarantee, but I'm thinking positive : )<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGazJF6ruUJ2YFQqbMzwEKla8RD86WSwP1xpBPkHp_Te_mnF7wk_6uW_0LEUCKdgxURd62M6ZfpXOVOuIjw2VvgPvqaJAtGbQFD4WVQppVSCbuDpQv_bqKBrx-dnLL_YRtFYYH8SIpkYv3/s1600/nfe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGazJF6ruUJ2YFQqbMzwEKla8RD86WSwP1xpBPkHp_Te_mnF7wk_6uW_0LEUCKdgxURd62M6ZfpXOVOuIjw2VvgPvqaJAtGbQFD4WVQppVSCbuDpQv_bqKBrx-dnLL_YRtFYYH8SIpkYv3/s200/nfe.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I'm under no illusions that I won't be busy once I start grad school, but I've also realized that I need to make time for running. It's a part of me, and it makes me a much better version of me. It's an outlet, a therapy, and I'm just not willing to sacrifice it. I also know it will help keep me sane during the next chapter of my life. With a lot of changes coming my way, I know running will be one of my only constants.Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-29292005136588324452012-07-04T23:13:00.000-07:002012-07-04T23:13:53.079-07:00Fourth<div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Happy 4th of July!</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Hope yours was a good one : ) Mine was full of fun activities with friends and family. I'll let the pics do the talking:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLTpYM22-Wby9rJmsnRXTLBTOCW1BCh34nuMGcEmPf5S2StmCu1PbMX8dAuhogT6bEHF6LUPDkD_uWisiyRc8g_XdBszcThfh_ZGHLPR3_DXvuILFT5ujQ1yh5x30Sonm_DBogvc0i5hPP/s1600/instagram25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLTpYM22-Wby9rJmsnRXTLBTOCW1BCh34nuMGcEmPf5S2StmCu1PbMX8dAuhogT6bEHF6LUPDkD_uWisiyRc8g_XdBszcThfh_ZGHLPR3_DXvuILFT5ujQ1yh5x30Sonm_DBogvc0i5hPP/s320/instagram25.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>early am trail run</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj76qErXB46bmaLs-WXcojZGrgSwi5xnAsZCtHS3wrRj6ejeSJOLHKcb66RASQKouABXmN5vvXe0eXNiBJYzX5tJyfDyqI-51LQwhlwoLdgGxYpjbULaJyHMpRnXebLB6zwEFjXLOpiTfEn/s1600/instagram27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj76qErXB46bmaLs-WXcojZGrgSwi5xnAsZCtHS3wrRj6ejeSJOLHKcb66RASQKouABXmN5vvXe0eXNiBJYzX5tJyfDyqI-51LQwhlwoLdgGxYpjbULaJyHMpRnXebLB6zwEFjXLOpiTfEn/s320/instagram27.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>east sac parade</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi39AFqv1SYHPg68kFxfWAur1dDI223AMHn5MTeTjHcIzFY2CNR8wyOmUnwzaqjDViA0ZxsQIrSGKmGnz3n4fU53ssbshesUnVU1JdCXetARB2PfgBVa-Q6z6V0b2Ntg1ZEZiEqD8MD5nn9/s1600/instagram26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi39AFqv1SYHPg68kFxfWAur1dDI223AMHn5MTeTjHcIzFY2CNR8wyOmUnwzaqjDViA0ZxsQIrSGKmGnz3n4fU53ssbshesUnVU1JdCXetARB2PfgBVa-Q6z6V0b2Ntg1ZEZiEqD8MD5nn9/s320/instagram26.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Courtney & I </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZ5UAN6pRojVoSNTaaeic9sO1pKgYqklHxepOlWMuNyXOZID9egTAIFJfmx1MzRtOULfDgpgv3L6S40SLiBt_QjNoM8Ip3XOoaCNRlMsczDq8wLg57mqzABHrJs_YIytDyH0To5RPJ4wq/s1600/instagram28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZ5UAN6pRojVoSNTaaeic9sO1pKgYqklHxepOlWMuNyXOZID9egTAIFJfmx1MzRtOULfDgpgv3L6S40SLiBt_QjNoM8Ip3XOoaCNRlMsczDq8wLg57mqzABHrJs_YIytDyH0To5RPJ4wq/s320/instagram28.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>trip to the river with our matching pups!</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUswM5-XFMGcg6vHp2HUjNn169OMNIhxGWxFgRpGxS6xr7oKMuZlSloOgWm3rHZAXV6Ma73oNATEnfybnpZsjNxhUfD4advlRlmx4BDFw20L77veEiUM2YZgi6Pb1K23cL3boHoH2EiA0J/s1600/instagram29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUswM5-XFMGcg6vHp2HUjNn169OMNIhxGWxFgRpGxS6xr7oKMuZlSloOgWm3rHZAXV6Ma73oNATEnfybnpZsjNxhUfD4advlRlmx4BDFw20L77veEiUM2YZgi6Pb1K23cL3boHoH2EiA0J/s320/instagram29.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>lounging post-bbq</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja0RyDvaL0VgyNIgP0sHEBzAv4V7apl_Ov55K6blmHypV20oLWbkqBWIqdQcYsEjnTWN2ge0ZMGIh60VdtLzkRnQ31NMkfWv8iowXmWTpYZJnqfYCFBbl7EsiXStOmnlIn8vb51mgoqrFD/s1600/4th.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja0RyDvaL0VgyNIgP0sHEBzAv4V7apl_Ov55K6blmHypV20oLWbkqBWIqdQcYsEjnTWN2ge0ZMGIh60VdtLzkRnQ31NMkfWv8iowXmWTpYZJnqfYCFBbl7EsiXStOmnlIn8vb51mgoqrFD/s320/4th.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><i>*sparklers*</i></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-46293843027062820152012-07-01T23:48:00.000-07:002012-07-01T23:48:24.504-07:00Ironman Coeur d'Alene (Race Report)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjroGb4Gh7lUFZ791eCu8su6KgBcZtuUn79qWS2-ixgPq-FwPKPZ3hvT0tVYFdY7CuIDh-1RY6VGAaTxpKt4hKDGg5OTUpiHvfgBvr6SWhb6FV_zPLoyIli1TN4fKpQY3MPcxTgBbQ-oxvQ/s1600/cda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjroGb4Gh7lUFZ791eCu8su6KgBcZtuUn79qWS2-ixgPq-FwPKPZ3hvT0tVYFdY7CuIDh-1RY6VGAaTxpKt4hKDGg5OTUpiHvfgBvr6SWhb6FV_zPLoyIli1TN4fKpQY3MPcxTgBbQ-oxvQ/s1600/cda.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ok folks, settle in! This is gonna be a long one : ) My journey to my first Ironman began nearly a year ago when I finally let myself consider that it was possible; that what felt like just a dream could become a reality. And so I made the commitment and registered, telling myself I'd figure out the rest later. A few months later I realized I'd need some help along the way so I hired an awesome coach, and when January rolled around, I got to work. It's strange to think how much preparation goes into an Ironman. My training plan was on the low end at "only" 6 months; plenty of people spend 9 months to a year or more getting themselves ready. And then, in one day, seemingly in the blink of an eye, it happens, and it's over.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">For me, however, that day was perfect. I couldn't have asked for a better experience at my first Ironman, or a better reward for all the hard work and sacrifices over the last several months. It was at once everything I'd hoped for and not what I'd expected at all. And while I can certainly give you a play-by-play of my day, it will be much harder, perhaps impossible, to convey the many emotions that pass over you throughout the course of the day. This was undoubtedly one of the most memorable days of my life and one of my proudest achievements.<br />
<br />
When I first heard about the Ironman a few years ago, it seemed impossible, and yet a seed was planted. From that day, a part of me began working toward that goal, cultivating that seed, until I finally realized that the impossible was instead inevitable. I shared with you my time goals before the event, but my main goal was to stay in the moment. I was told that although it's a very long race, it will go by incredibly quickly. I wanted to savor each moment, the good and the bad, and I think that's partly why I had such an awesome day.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><b>Pre-Race</b></u></div><div style="text-align: left;">Per Ironman rules, we'd dropped off most of our stuff - gear bags and bikes - the day before, which actually made race morning a lot less hectic. It had taken me a while to fall asleep but once I did, I slept fairly well and woke up easily at 5am on race day. I got dressed, made a bagel for breakfast, made sure I had all my stuff in my morning gear bag, and then we hopped in the car for the short drive to the start. The sky was dark and overcast, but so far was holding off on the forecasted rain, so we just crossed our fingers that it would stay that way. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZOYYtR7WNClZtOKmw1-Kp5ERMN2_Q_CWNhOFy7XYsrWiVUtBuaHj9sKs50pzWDd-xZbIQA7qqi2BmR-kvo0rwzKNP8M8sMlRItcgkEM401xqZ07RdvygbHy2aSgUM4AY8rxEii0II1_N8/s1600/IMG_0196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZOYYtR7WNClZtOKmw1-Kp5ERMN2_Q_CWNhOFy7XYsrWiVUtBuaHj9sKs50pzWDd-xZbIQA7qqi2BmR-kvo0rwzKNP8M8sMlRItcgkEM401xqZ07RdvygbHy2aSgUM4AY8rxEii0II1_N8/s320/IMG_0196.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><i>all ready to go!</i><br />
<i> </i></div><div style="text-align: left;">We headed to transition first to check our bikes and load them up with fuel. There was a definite energy and excitement in the air, but you could also see a wave of nerves and anxiety in the faces of many athletes. as we were getting our stuff ready, we heard a gun go off, signaling the pro start, but also letting us know it was almost game time! After getting our bikes ready met up near transition to get our wetsuits on. Soon enough we joined the throngs of other athletes near the exit, trying to get out and down to the beach. The crowd wasn't budging, so we knew we wouldn't have time to meet up with our friends and family, and instead just waited and tried to be patient. This was when my nerves suddenly got the best of me. I started shaking and felt a little panicky at what was about to happen. It was so helpful to have my friends with me to reassure me and keep me calm. It turns out they were just waiting for the pros to start their second lap before unleashing us onto the beach. And so, with just a few minutes to spare, we were funneled down onto the beach to begin our Ironman.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0rh4mrS_bwg3SVoV-qKx2M8qc9JsiIWFq2VH6wTdm_1k1X22ku5Z8axBFFZIS0rRO5pKdlO9NYhAT25NmjLmlEXxsG9RwUDqrzahQ39CrqzfDcMu1yN7IDBlKlUFG4LkzG1Ce2llYqve/s1600/IMG_0200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0rh4mrS_bwg3SVoV-qKx2M8qc9JsiIWFq2VH6wTdm_1k1X22ku5Z8axBFFZIS0rRO5pKdlO9NYhAT25NmjLmlEXxsG9RwUDqrzahQ39CrqzfDcMu1yN7IDBlKlUFG4LkzG1Ce2llYqve/s320/IMG_0200.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><i>body-marked</i><br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><b>Swim</b></u></div><div style="text-align: left;">The swim start is from a small beach on the lake, so it was pretty crowded with over 2,500 athletes. We tried to move to the right and away from the buoy line as much as possible, and were maybe halfway back from the front. We were still getting situated when, all of a sudden, the gun went off! I didn't have time to think or freak out, I was just swept forward in the crowd and into the water.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfrfw6sgNxCPqPnQTHNICQMzvrL5BWX8Upb6ljRwVFLJWz3eNl42pDAdCQWds3KcZ4dgjey_J4IlpwRlg6Z4xxk5HtCva63gLits8EPg8PW-A0wmkzPNbPxziipkxP-SKiMQnWInFeaDue/s1600/IMG_0213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfrfw6sgNxCPqPnQTHNICQMzvrL5BWX8Upb6ljRwVFLJWz3eNl42pDAdCQWds3KcZ4dgjey_J4IlpwRlg6Z4xxk5HtCva63gLits8EPg8PW-A0wmkzPNbPxziipkxP-SKiMQnWInFeaDue/s320/IMG_0213.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMXybgxNbFN4XzsGN-F-gGkaM38SmYA1x4_2_5W0NIM_5xBNltYRQh3E7OYCk8UnV9fjsQhI6Gg46SuDIgPh7tmEMbqi6brXfd5P-ufrhuMgHtHnZTtdIyMjr6qs478qualNMN2YXcvgJr/s1600/0191_21937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMXybgxNbFN4XzsGN-F-gGkaM38SmYA1x4_2_5W0NIM_5xBNltYRQh3E7OYCk8UnV9fjsQhI6Gg46SuDIgPh7tmEMbqi6brXfd5P-ufrhuMgHtHnZTtdIyMjr6qs478qualNMN2YXcvgJr/s320/0191_21937.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>2,600+</i></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67rlX2ijOyYv-mYuyv4QmlEcN1DMexBtOIlAmXD_BWbfHnNsA2I4Wd5VRfK7c5P9uXcykENZvGnJdlLRF13Prt2ieRAoa4IiPqL3HZld-FzI0tCppogJ39FYlxVugQHKHN4bPQqh7M_6H/s1600/swim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67rlX2ijOyYv-mYuyv4QmlEcN1DMexBtOIlAmXD_BWbfHnNsA2I4Wd5VRfK7c5P9uXcykENZvGnJdlLRF13Prt2ieRAoa4IiPqL3HZld-FzI0tCppogJ39FYlxVugQHKHN4bPQqh7M_6H/s320/swim.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><i>madness!</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirtq7HRNN-7RlkfylwRhb5nQxZc9BmNe9If0UGvO-iZxr2EY_P0G2LLVMz6zFi5qgO8MsunYGk8HhcDUe5FVATEarh08ExgrZI3q7vq2poI9IWe6F07wt2gTsHjJytUlWLmY6YmFFXxBRV/s1600/IMG_0217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirtq7HRNN-7RlkfylwRhb5nQxZc9BmNe9If0UGvO-iZxr2EY_P0G2LLVMz6zFi5qgO8MsunYGk8HhcDUe5FVATEarh08ExgrZI3q7vq2poI9IWe6F07wt2gTsHjJytUlWLmY6YmFFXxBRV/s320/IMG_0217.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The next 10 minutes are almost indescribable. I'd been told by experienced Ironman athletes that a mass start is like being in a giant, human washing machine. That there was an almost guaranteed chance of getting kicked, hit in the face, and/or swam over. This is all definitely true; and yet, it's something I think you just have to experience to understand the utter chaos. All around me bodies were flailing. It was nearly impossible to swim any kind of real stroke. Your instinct is to keep your head up - both to see where you're going, but mostly to protect yourself - but that causes your legs to drop and allows those behind you to literally just try and swim <i>over</i> you. I immediately got panicky, and thoughts entered my mind wondering how I was going to do this.</div><div style="color: red; text-align: left;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/5Lllv4gVSyI?rel=0" width="410"></iframe></div><div style="color: red; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I kept telling myself to keep fighting and moving forward whatever way I could, and that eventually, things would space out and I'd be able to swim. Being so freaked made it hard to catch my breath so I resorted to breathing just on one side and every stroke. This calmed me down a bit, and soon enough I was able to find some space and try to swim with my usual rhythm. I still found myself occasionally being hassled by another swimmer, and often found myself getting "boxed out" (swimming between two people who slowly move closer together and force you to drop back). I also couldn't help but notice, both before the start and during the swim, how many green caps there were (men) and how few pink caps there were (women). The event program reported that only 27% of athletes this year were female. I can't help but wonder if that was why the swim was so crazy!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The swim course itself was pretty straight forward. Two laps of a long rectangle, with a short run between laps. Although there were only two turns, they were incredibly chaotic as everyone funneled together to get as close as possible to the turn buoys. The first turn came sooner than I expected, I think partly from being caught up in the chaos for the first 10 minutes, but also because the one upside of a mass start is the insane drafting it causes. You literally get swept up with all the other swimmers for a while til you find your own space. I was able to get into my usual rhythm on a few stretches, but still found myself breathing more often to stay calm. On the way back for the first loop I couldn't help but think of how nice it would be to get out of the water and be done, rather than have to get back in for another loop. The only thing that kept me positive was knowing that at least the second loop wouldn't be so crazy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheDYpdr8vRiwTSWVhXMv0awW9MP5QbuiMB5XtQNY3KxqsuN8h_nq1iX3S2s44sUOBjfY08piRWvYAz88pCsvy8S9c7lG25rO-Fc7ZEk6WC2AhrVOL9BW4l_xY6TyywCJrM6DxKfSNHFazq/s1600/IMG_0202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheDYpdr8vRiwTSWVhXMv0awW9MP5QbuiMB5XtQNY3KxqsuN8h_nq1iX3S2s44sUOBjfY08piRWvYAz88pCsvy8S9c7lG25rO-Fc7ZEk6WC2AhrVOL9BW4l_xY6TyywCJrM6DxKfSNHFazq/s320/IMG_0202.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>swim course</i></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG_s9x2Jfpnq1DXf9pbi9tGZOMLzeVTVxwYYZyloiEt4Y8mTS4chvt5OOgH8F1p2FxDUOpY2kBZIn3ZTyXKPWCzgh1r1qlao_KlIQS9rezY3E6PgGZ0uCZJZn_QLTKpH1Eb4fnCQ7GVjSE/s1600/IMG_0205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG_s9x2Jfpnq1DXf9pbi9tGZOMLzeVTVxwYYZyloiEt4Y8mTS4chvt5OOgH8F1p2FxDUOpY2kBZIn3ZTyXKPWCzgh1r1qlao_KlIQS9rezY3E6PgGZ0uCZJZn_QLTKpH1Eb4fnCQ7GVjSE/s320/IMG_0205.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">As I approached the beach we were helped out of the water by volunteers and steered to our left to make a short run over the timing mat before hopping back in the water. My friend and coworker, Anandi, finished the first lap just when I did and when I saw her all I could say was, "That was f*cking nuts!" When I got out of the water I checked my watch, but I think it got kicked or hit because it wasn't recording my time right. I knew I was around 38 minutes, though, and I was quite pleased with that.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I (somewhat reluctantly) got in the water again for my second lap, and as I predicted, I had much more space this time around. As if to make up for the lack of mass start chaos, Mother Nature decided to kick up the wind and create some nasty chop. Almost immediately I was asking myself if it had been this choppy during the first lap, but there was no way. It felt like I was in a completely different body of water! Breathing became difficult again, but for a very different reason. I'd turn my head to take a breath, and instead just get a mouthful of water. I was able to keep my cool and was so thankful that I'd swam in some chop at Lake Natoma and practiced dealing with it. It also made sighting difficult because the waves often obscured the buoys. As far as sighting goes, however, I was pretty proud of how well I did. I tend to swim off course very easily, but I made sure to use the other swimmers and buoys to regularly check my position, and as a result stayed pretty close to the buoy line.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The chop continued to get worse, and the I found the second loop to feel much longer than the first. When I finally found myself around the turn buoys and on the home stretch, I couldn't help but think how badly I just wanted the swim behind me and to be on my bike! Finally I could see the bottom of the lake and hear the music and announcer, and then my hands were scraping the sand and I stood up, never so happy to be done with a swim in my life. My second lap was 44 minutes - nearly 6 minutes slower than my first - which gives you an idea of just how bad the waves were! The chute up to transition was lined with cheering spectators as I walked up, and I heard my name called and saw my parents and smiled. I was so happy and proud to have survived such a crazy swim, and ready to get on with the rest of the day!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="color: red;"><b>swim time (2.4 mi): 1:22:46</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><b><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">T1</span></span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;">At the end of the chute they had wetsuit strippers, so I found </span></span></span><i style="color: red;"><b></b></i>a free one, plopped onto my butt, and had it off in seconds! I grabbed my gear bag from the long rows of bags and headed for the transition tent. I really needed to pee, but for some reason the port-o-pottys that were right there were zip-tied closed. I didn't want to waste time so I sat down on the grass and just started getting my gear on. Now, this might be TMI, but while I was sitting there, I just did it. Peed. I figured it wasn't much different from peeing in your wetsuit, and I did not want to stand in line at a bathroom. At the last moment I decided to wear my arm sleeves as it was still overcast and chilly, and I was glad I did. I got up and threw my gear bag into the pile and headed out to find my bike!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbm02aaofDjscQDNZFAxITe6ivi6TCbYjKndMk6tb7bOmHums_gzpcW_0ALyc3Dt8XB7H5WSPhnyiMyyKdAfFCnu11bwQtSR7JoYOsiJksmlEK5XvdAYmJ0paKU7SQuw6ndPn_OaAxmK2r/s1600/IMG_0220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbm02aaofDjscQDNZFAxITe6ivi6TCbYjKndMk6tb7bOmHums_gzpcW_0ALyc3Dt8XB7H5WSPhnyiMyyKdAfFCnu11bwQtSR7JoYOsiJksmlEK5XvdAYmJ0paKU7SQuw6ndPn_OaAxmK2r/s320/IMG_0220.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Fortunately I knew exactly where it was, right next to a tree in the the front, and very close to the bike out. I heard my dad yell and smiled, but then it was all focus as I grabbed my bike and ran toward the exit. At one point, a thought flashed through my mind that I was in the middle of my first f*cking Ironman. I smiled again : ) Just past the bike mount line I hopped on, clipped in, and was off!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTjjy5I53Hi8CcVtawR0ZDI0wxfIEbAYVpyNkx8tkkNbh4ynyumxuMgyDq_jD1zOSMlOg75G9AYNBmwqAO4wgtbrGKQAwNdPzWcWkO7E9d7fWiTlGTajbVzBIOMOAWIShZgKLMfuklq9ZP/s1600/IMG_0221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTjjy5I53Hi8CcVtawR0ZDI0wxfIEbAYVpyNkx8tkkNbh4ynyumxuMgyDq_jD1zOSMlOg75G9AYNBmwqAO4wgtbrGKQAwNdPzWcWkO7E9d7fWiTlGTajbVzBIOMOAWIShZgKLMfuklq9ZP/s320/IMG_0221.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb6ONum-iZi_8q4ksdzvkn0DBl-o5cz2VYr4oZ9ZMRwpK8UpC5zFoLG5cnV9EP2iKmpf5HMpzzs3nCbO2W-HUaYs3cqQDsAUrJb04FJJbYAsBHzYdv9K7gvG5n-TXQ6K87kf0Z7gX8zKWN/s1600/0191_45049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb6ONum-iZi_8q4ksdzvkn0DBl-o5cz2VYr4oZ9ZMRwpK8UpC5zFoLG5cnV9EP2iKmpf5HMpzzs3nCbO2W-HUaYs3cqQDsAUrJb04FJJbYAsBHzYdv9K7gvG5n-TXQ6K87kf0Z7gX8zKWN/s320/0191_45049.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><i><b>T1 time: 7:59</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><b>Bike</b></u></div>The bike course consisted of two laps, with two out-and-backs on each one. We started off in town, and then out on what would later be part of the run course. This was also the section that we'd rode on Friday as a preview of the run course. There was one big hill that we rode up, then down before turning around and heading back up. I kept telling myself to just keep it easy, spinning up the hill and keeping it comfortable on the flats. My legs felt pretty good from the start, and for some reason I just felt like it was going to be a good day : ) We headed back toward town along the lake, and as we got closer the crowds got bigger and louder. I heard my dad yell my name again, but it was impossible to find him in the crowds as I was zooming by. But once again, I smiled.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDJzUAiLIEhF09XGIK5xZ0cxNx9ok9lnBkZuG_qezARKttsF-Ro06YF5uMld4C8id_CVQz3q3WIYYf1O1rQCecZycUV_oPgb1r_3LY0wz3WEMJNRPlzyZfbRaImsbxcS4XhZQqk9JVJp7Y/s1600/0191_11439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDJzUAiLIEhF09XGIK5xZ0cxNx9ok9lnBkZuG_qezARKttsF-Ro06YF5uMld4C8id_CVQz3q3WIYYf1O1rQCecZycUV_oPgb1r_3LY0wz3WEMJNRPlzyZfbRaImsbxcS4XhZQqk9JVJp7Y/s320/0191_11439.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
Then we were out on the longer out-and-back, about 21 miles on highway 95 that took us out into gorgeous rural Idaho. My friends and I had drove this section the day before, and it definitely lived up to it's reputation of "rolling hills". There were a couple big climbs - which also became screaming descents on the way back - and the rest were gentle rollers. Even the big hills, however, weren't very steep and the longest was 2 miles. The scenery, however, was amazing and a perfect distraction (pics below taken the day before). Everything was so green and lush, at many points taking your breath away (sometimes an issue on those climbs!).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj07GKuxzBXidpNHd9YaDUNIowg6CqB3EDDT1VCLIGCc7IsWdV_v2KObnrB121mVSVQmYueinpm4lGLDia5YdqVwq3ijkLFti_WC1zXKeOxhw_I9ljq5BEGYzkU8xGuGwdHg4l53sfLZ5sM/s1600/IMG951813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj07GKuxzBXidpNHd9YaDUNIowg6CqB3EDDT1VCLIGCc7IsWdV_v2KObnrB121mVSVQmYueinpm4lGLDia5YdqVwq3ijkLFti_WC1zXKeOxhw_I9ljq5BEGYzkU8xGuGwdHg4l53sfLZ5sM/s320/IMG951813.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>so green!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyHHHObrBF42CvyalZ7luLCRNyp4nXz0JASyJqjcWUKexoOKNx-uUuMPzpGTJOGSgAHKBTEl5Egw0x2qpN4UGhsaG0deeujJRQFX_NvEm7zRdBtyEhJLBCbEa1DVTorCiD3E2NOiDjYgmg/s1600/IMG950345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyHHHObrBF42CvyalZ7luLCRNyp4nXz0JASyJqjcWUKexoOKNx-uUuMPzpGTJOGSgAHKBTEl5Egw0x2qpN4UGhsaG0deeujJRQFX_NvEm7zRdBtyEhJLBCbEa1DVTorCiD3E2NOiDjYgmg/s320/IMG950345.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61ux6SPWEPapGtWqpZ8UrWOEGODn5SyiVMIOpfbV05p2Rwp5jHYgHBgvOlmDVM7RJ91RznVS0_JdgCZ3Y-PrBMgKyTC6TLtq36ZhhyVK-gpO6inVHnYNZO0Qp_OMAQUp5ZW5lR2DTS0o_/s1600/IMG954863.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj61ux6SPWEPapGtWqpZ8UrWOEGODn5SyiVMIOpfbV05p2Rwp5jHYgHBgvOlmDVM7RJ91RznVS0_JdgCZ3Y-PrBMgKyTC6TLtq36ZhhyVK-gpO6inVHnYNZO0Qp_OMAQUp5ZW5lR2DTS0o_/s320/IMG954863.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtGli7mcu2JikuFpgn08xMxIgpGXBtYJsxg-xtbPmRHBuwib-ChBzEc-IBvYs8jNyQzFltJN6wx9bgauIBduTk31VnPDAD0qQ-uF-n1X0qukTFtO9mgBpjUh383GQscAChzrx5Luvp6ZEb/s1600/IMG953084.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtGli7mcu2JikuFpgn08xMxIgpGXBtYJsxg-xtbPmRHBuwib-ChBzEc-IBvYs8jNyQzFltJN6wx9bgauIBduTk31VnPDAD0qQ-uF-n1X0qukTFtO9mgBpjUh383GQscAChzrx5Luvp6ZEb/s320/IMG953084.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>the resort across the lake</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGi_o784MVsN9K1IH65N5OBIpTi7Iu4uvaGL4WfPs4JmG1ahCX-Lj3rSzSU7fGKRB9XYPK1c3kp4XlKPIY3E3Hd6MRE2R6Vftwtgp1eylFbw2cW5HhXUqHNkfMWKBhlJvKLBjsDs_WoVb/s1600/IMG953700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGi_o784MVsN9K1IH65N5OBIpTi7Iu4uvaGL4WfPs4JmG1ahCX-Lj3rSzSU7fGKRB9XYPK1c3kp4XlKPIY3E3Hd6MRE2R6Vftwtgp1eylFbw2cW5HhXUqHNkfMWKBhlJvKLBjsDs_WoVb/s320/IMG953700.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3rePHz9YolRKZ3yjjXzJTU5pOkkY5JFgrg_VhavrSp_OiFcZ4kDCfi4snCnTRwvkbx54alOrTZYbAZBwTn4AGrrNXQvJ02VZnfcJFN-Kh2-3_4fKFhv8HsaxjzoS5UoP3_zK4EHAzdtZG/s1600/IMG956732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3rePHz9YolRKZ3yjjXzJTU5pOkkY5JFgrg_VhavrSp_OiFcZ4kDCfi4snCnTRwvkbx54alOrTZYbAZBwTn4AGrrNXQvJ02VZnfcJFN-Kh2-3_4fKFhv8HsaxjzoS5UoP3_zK4EHAzdtZG/s320/IMG956732.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
As I approached the first climb, I just threw my bike in an easy gear and focused on staying nice and steady. I knew I would get passed by a lot of people on the bike, especially on the hills, but I just wanted to focus on <i>my race</i> and not get caught up. Just a ways up the hill a familiar face called from behind me and it turned out to be Nicole! We chatted for a while and ended up leapfrogging a few more times the rest of the ride. She ended up having an awesome race - congrats girl! This was the longest hill, and after about 2 miles I was happy to reach the top. A few miles after that first climb we had our first long descent, and boy was it <i>fast</i>. The roads were in great condition, so I opted to stay in aero, and ended up clocking my fastest mile <i>ever </i>- 33 mph! As I was passing people like crazy and picking up more and more speed I just tried to keep a steady line and focus on what was ahead of me. While it was certainly thrilling, I was also happy to reach the bottom in one piece.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3FEBl8ilERS-kYVg00FTThoYF54TiMMAFHRedoz8w3H-reOHbByEx39Cdc49Ctw8lb0akf3Trk0XJzspZeAKuHA2Eo8MYJmIaUPMmPZomCO3WoElQjUsL8tKsi9Ny9wtFdXvInPLAOdAx/s1600/0191_06442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3FEBl8ilERS-kYVg00FTThoYF54TiMMAFHRedoz8w3H-reOHbByEx39Cdc49Ctw8lb0akf3Trk0XJzspZeAKuHA2Eo8MYJmIaUPMmPZomCO3WoElQjUsL8tKsi9Ny9wtFdXvInPLAOdAx/s320/0191_06442.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>At this point I was feeling pretty good. Even my butt was cooperating so far! But - I had to pee again. I really didn't want to have to stop, and I figured I'd just let it get to the point where I peed on the bike. I know plenty of athletes do this, especially guys, and I honestly tried, but I just couldn't let go (haha). So I hoped it would just happen. I didn't know exactly where the turnaround was, but around mile 35 I realized I was going to have to stop. I was so uncomfortable, and, hard as I tried, I just couldn't pee on the bike. I passed an aid station but decided to continue on to the turnaround and stop on the way back. I finally made the turn, inwardly fist pumping that another section was done, and eagerly headed back to the aid station. I quickly unclipped, racked my bike, and hopped into a port-o-potty. I was probably only stopped for a minute, but it made such a huge difference! I was much happier over the next several miles : )<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuqhC8InblIgWO5EUZQ6fdVBi5-Yk217RJ7zFgCs8dcPIzca6Y7pDtxpE7lerYddfVmv01PtY5Tlzrck4Ka8HHSTCbEoX7fjGCybbvNTCXpg7xYUhQGsYBi2fpuG4k_x1YdJtHVsvNPip9/s1600/0191_06443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuqhC8InblIgWO5EUZQ6fdVBi5-Yk217RJ7zFgCs8dcPIzca6Y7pDtxpE7lerYddfVmv01PtY5Tlzrck4Ka8HHSTCbEoX7fjGCybbvNTCXpg7xYUhQGsYBi2fpuG4k_x1YdJtHVsvNPip9/s320/0191_06443.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>climbing...</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrt_8IQhT3oCm6XpAcCTosZtWTCKp4Dy5u2VvKn-QllhRC-LhZqlTtuw88I5RCjlNFm52Sdq1bV0Gi7u3wFjXJ-TFV0xxuN2Qd0lOolbUwMvKMq5H0ttrLtAGOb4SXttrXVFcRLG1ytMY/s1600/0191_06444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrt_8IQhT3oCm6XpAcCTosZtWTCKp4Dy5u2VvKn-QllhRC-LhZqlTtuw88I5RCjlNFm52Sdq1bV0Gi7u3wFjXJ-TFV0xxuN2Qd0lOolbUwMvKMq5H0ttrLtAGOb4SXttrXVFcRLG1ytMY/s320/0191_06444.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>happy that I no longer had to pee?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></div>The way back on the highway, while not without climbs, had much more descents and thus was faster and more enjoyable. There was one big climb around mile 50, but it was shorter than that first one and my legs were still feeling strong. The nice thing about this course, at least for me, was that the out-and-backs really broke up the ride mentally. Instead of thinking about riding 112 miles, which was incredibly daunting, I just focused on getting to the next turnaround point. It also allowed you to see other athletes along the way and I saw my friends a few different times which was great. Eventually I found myself back in town and done with the first lap in 3:31, which was even better than I'd hoped. I knew if I could keep that up I'd finish the ride 30 minutes faster than my goal! I heard my dad again, and this time I managed to catch a quick glimpse of him. Then it was back along the lake for a 14 mile roundtrip. The hills were a little harder this time around, but this section was mostly flat so I focused on making up some speed while also trying to save my legs for the hills to come in the last section.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAuFIqw6IYcovvqcCBhGKcz_kgbmsLxek8dDpterCgbspSELSAPjPIKASUI_nvLANc89FmzhNhpUC8pYYReKp8VgzErtg1QaI5FMi_IB4n7II48fXUkww4GRnwh_ZqHQT2FYnVDEDsKPFO/s1600/IMG950779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAuFIqw6IYcovvqcCBhGKcz_kgbmsLxek8dDpterCgbspSELSAPjPIKASUI_nvLANc89FmzhNhpUC8pYYReKp8VgzErtg1QaI5FMi_IB4n7II48fXUkww4GRnwh_ZqHQT2FYnVDEDsKPFO/s320/IMG950779.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<i>one of the big climbs going back toward town</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhytGCvaoKM-g1ltNDy1TL9pbxtYiaXT1B8q-bso_onvP5-y7XzZHGjosgwb3RhDaUb0YdcChDztUL7RAzYB8U1tA8fB_N6oJTjHhG3AHw19gmjYyysGv21mvtbHYVkV8t_v9gzBkphnOKV/s1600/IMG_0227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhytGCvaoKM-g1ltNDy1TL9pbxtYiaXT1B8q-bso_onvP5-y7XzZHGjosgwb3RhDaUb0YdcChDztUL7RAzYB8U1tA8fB_N6oJTjHhG3AHw19gmjYyysGv21mvtbHYVkV8t_v9gzBkphnOKV/s320/IMG_0227.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>As I headed back through town and back out onto the highway, things were still looking up for the most part. My legs still felt pretty good, the sky had cleared and the sun had come out, and I was still in good spirits. Even though I knew I still had almost 4 hours to go, it felt like it was all going by so fast. I was sticking to my nutrition plan, eating half a waffle every half hour and sipping my Gu Roctance regularly, and I think this helped pass the time but also kept me feeling strong. I did have to stop a second time at an aid station around mile 80 to refill my bottles, but it was quick and more than worth it. I ended up consuming 7 waffles and 3.5 servings of Gu Roctane over the ride (~1900 cals). I stuck to my plan religiously, and thankfully my stomach handled it like a champ.<br />
<br />
About 60 miles in, as I'd expected, I started to get uncomfortable on the saddle. I was actually surprised to make it that far with little discomfort, but I knew it would eventually happen. It got worse as I went on, making it hard to ride on the flats as I constantly needed to stop pedaling and sit up off the saddle to relieve the pressure. I also found myself wishing I'd carried some chamois cream on me to reapply. My legs were starting to get fatigued, but for the most part it was just my bum that was holding me back which was frustrating. I just kept telling myself to focus on reaching the turnaround because then I had several descents in which I could just coast. It seemed to take forever to get there, much longer than it felt during the first lap (duh!), but eventually I got there.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbm_VbgfaQ04Au2NbrNo_s8QaprFh_H_yJxRyyp8-IN0W_8Wkmlx0WS8yRbM_9VkzeAoxqnmNBU4iH7UPPZOceYNhqUV0hnuaSUIgXpxQKdUvIrj7XbMNXI03783MZjjsMmt9b1XfnWMg5/s1600/0191_26398.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbm_VbgfaQ04Au2NbrNo_s8QaprFh_H_yJxRyyp8-IN0W_8Wkmlx0WS8yRbM_9VkzeAoxqnmNBU4iH7UPPZOceYNhqUV0hnuaSUIgXpxQKdUvIrj7XbMNXI03783MZjjsMmt9b1XfnWMg5/s320/0191_26398.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I knew I needed to stop again to stretch and relieve the pressure, so around mile 95 I pulled over to the side of the road for a minute. It helped for a while, and I was glad I took the time to do it. Not long after my One10 teammate Kevin pulled up behind me. He'd passed me earlier in the first lap and is a much stronger cyclist than I, so I knew something must have happened. He told me that he'd gotten dehydrated and wasn't able to keep any food or fluids down. I felt so bad for him, but I also knew that despite this challenge he would still finish. And he <i>still</i> managed to forge on ahead of me as we reached our last big climb around mile 110!<br />
<br />
Although I'd mostly enjoyed the bike, I was very much ready to be done at this point. Those last 10 miles seemed to stretch on forever, but eventually the crowds grew bigger and I was making the final turn toward transition. With a mile left I'd slipped my Garmin off my handlebars so that when I crossed the dismount line I was able to just hand over my bike to a volunteer. I was simultaneously excited to be done with the bike, happy with how well it went, and surprised that it already behind me.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LqR550qVSrsl0OOgDxX2G5x1mUE6zsSR9Sbz4KBCETPHTtNg2jVtpqqIVkdIe9OlM79ZeV-iWmh21LvSS_1UokxL_Z7OzgXWD8CX0iNL7jnpiquZS_tu50DqpQh7Cw226LvOCe1IwDd5/s1600/0191_39546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LqR550qVSrsl0OOgDxX2G5x1mUE6zsSR9Sbz4KBCETPHTtNg2jVtpqqIVkdIe9OlM79ZeV-iWmh21LvSS_1UokxL_Z7OzgXWD8CX0iNL7jnpiquZS_tu50DqpQh7Cw226LvOCe1IwDd5/s320/0191_39546.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN1nOtlTiVkucOdF7Ce1SfWasIB636GPhdl-JoAoyL4UKEzCHzwP0V1-zoGmUGtl6QweLjULP2FL6dhwPxvJwanPrZxtAJfSjSmBmf4MCpEWRFmULjeQLT2I5DtT8s94YKVfLOLUKF3FNK/s1600/IMG_0231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN1nOtlTiVkucOdF7Ce1SfWasIB636GPhdl-JoAoyL4UKEzCHzwP0V1-zoGmUGtl6QweLjULP2FL6dhwPxvJwanPrZxtAJfSjSmBmf4MCpEWRFmULjeQLT2I5DtT8s94YKVfLOLUKF3FNK/s320/IMG_0231.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><i><b>bike time (112 mi): 7:18:09</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><u><b>T2</b></u><br />
With my bike handed off I ran as best as I could into transition, grabbed my gear bag, and headed to the tent. Another volunteer was immediately by my side, asking me what I needed and what she could do. I took of my helmet and sunglasses, peeled off my arm warmers, and began changing shoes. I stuffed all my Gu into my pockets, grabbed a couple ibuprofen to take, threw on my visor, sucked down a gel, and was ready to go. As I headed out of transition, something didn't feel quite right. I ran through the run out, and within a few meters I realized what was missing - my sunglasses. I stopped in my tracks, turned to a volunteer and asked if I could go back in. Looking back, I don't know what I was thinking. It was the middle of the day and it was bright out, but they weren't going to make or break my race. Without thinking much more I was running back in, sidestepping the run out and hoping I wasn't messing up my timing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji3TE9d7akxY5Pq3dHcrroreYjjOeKQU6ZySt8quMj5n02lVptZuwbIHB6_7kEr95axaWMXnTX6XuSnJ6nDAsF7ZRMeehLvBvHKgCNmGL9JyhceZ3i7onGY5aEefKH-PysaAWdT9Zx8tIz/s1600/IMG_0235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji3TE9d7akxY5Pq3dHcrroreYjjOeKQU6ZySt8quMj5n02lVptZuwbIHB6_7kEr95axaWMXnTX6XuSnJ6nDAsF7ZRMeehLvBvHKgCNmGL9JyhceZ3i7onGY5aEefKH-PysaAWdT9Zx8tIz/s320/IMG_0235.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>grab 'n go!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I ran back over to the tent and tried to find my volunteer, but she was no where to be found. I explained to a couple other ones that I left something in my bag, and they directed me to a pile of bags outside the tent waiting to be transported. I probably spent a full minute searching for mine - again, what the hell was I thinking!?! - but it was in vain. Finally, I decided it wasn't worth it and headed back out, feeling like a fool, and still wishing I had my sunglasses. I wasted at least a couple minutes, and for nothing!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><i><b>T2 time: 5:14</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><b><span style="color: black;">Run</span></b></u><br />
<span style="color: black;">As I left transition, I knew I was already a little behind on the run since my time started when I first exited transition. I also couldn't stop worrying that I had somehow messed up my timing by running back in. I tried to push these thoughts aside as I ran through the cheering crowds of spectators and began my marathon. </span>From the first few miles, I was surprised at how good I felt. I focused on keeping the effort easy, which pretty much meant a slow jog, but I knew I had a long way to go. The course took us through town and then into some great little neighborhoods with throngs of people out cheering. It was a great boost to see so many people cheering us on, and I tried to make eye contact with as many people as I could and smiled and thanked them. About this time it also hit me - I was on the marathon portion of my Ironman! The great thing was that at this point, I knew I was going to do it. Even if I had to walk the whole thing, I would finish, and by the end of the day I would be an Ironman. I smiled.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6S-J7p71bHr6SXn5MGzjsl0Wbi0CM6mwefGhZ4F9hJV_pzhM_lKpxW3GntPqi4KYn88QhBWB-6NdQRoNdDw8lFtt-8miBIotd37PhWTnyXozT_T1YWgtKGU_NaHUowRv9aFfAxwBxLB6f/s1600/DSCF7742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6S-J7p71bHr6SXn5MGzjsl0Wbi0CM6mwefGhZ4F9hJV_pzhM_lKpxW3GntPqi4KYn88QhBWB-6NdQRoNdDw8lFtt-8miBIotd37PhWTnyXozT_T1YWgtKGU_NaHUowRv9aFfAxwBxLB6f/s320/DSCF7742.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>sans sunglasses </i>: /</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Around mile 2 I ducked into a port-o-potty and grabbed some water at the first aid station. Around mile 3 the course emerged from the neighborhoods and took us along the lake. This was the section we'd biked earlier in the day, and quite beautiful with the water right next to us. Around mile 4 I spotted my teammate, Kevin, up ahead and soon caught up to him. He was still feeling pretty bad and knew his run would be slow going, but he was fighting and doing great considering. After a couple minutes I went on ahead, knowing that I'd at least see him again on the way back.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA7ttI5eYCxBzXVoIVVNvTfeinp7snacavVu-_R5PINOpirRLQuyx4me_PLU6x-x9Bx0k_dodjIf5PfoZkY5vSVk7H1k6kM9eWkemexWEXDsxV4aoPLUWHacEdAQAgaOAmxTWTdzgaaNEJ/s1600/0191_17751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA7ttI5eYCxBzXVoIVVNvTfeinp7snacavVu-_R5PINOpirRLQuyx4me_PLU6x-x9Bx0k_dodjIf5PfoZkY5vSVk7H1k6kM9eWkemexWEXDsxV4aoPLUWHacEdAQAgaOAmxTWTdzgaaNEJ/s320/0191_17751.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>The run course consists of two out-and-backs, mostly flat with one big hill to go up and over twice. The great thing about this was that, like the bike course, it broke up the marathon mentally, and it also meant I got to see a lot of other athletes, including a few familiar faces. I took my first Gu about 45 minutes in, and continued to do so the rest of the run. When I reached mile 5 and started the climb, I was still feeling surprisingly good but I made myself walk the whole hill to save my legs. It was only a half mile long, and then we got a nice descent on the opposite side heading down to the turnaround at mile 6.6 or so.<br />
<br />
As I crossed over the timing mat I thought of all my friends and family tracking me and following along, and I was hit with another wave of emotions. I kept thinking I was going to jinx myself; after having such a great day so far, I felt like it had to take a turn for the worst somehow. Didn't an Ironman include suffering and pain? Looking back, I still don't know if my perfect day was due to luck, good training, or something else (or perhaps a little of each), but I am so grateful. As I made my way back up the hill I slowed to a walk again, and thought about how crazy it was that I was already a quarter of the way through!<br />
<br />
At some point on the way back to town I saw a couple I know from back home, ran into Kevin again, saw Nicole ahead of me still having a kickass race, and eventually saw Anandi and Cris, both looking good. It was great to see the familiar faces and gave me a great boost of energy. Plus, I was happy to know they were all still out there and looking strong. By this point I was stopping at every aid station, taking two cups of water, one to drink and one to dump on my head. It had warmed to the mid 70s and I wanted to stay as cool as possible.<br />
<br />
I made my way back through the cheering neighborhoods and eventually was back downtown, although the turnaround seemed like it would never appear! I saw my folks across the street and smiled, made the turnaround just ahead, and stopped briefly to chat with them on my way back out. I was still worried about my time and tracking, so I made sure they were still getting my updates. They were, so I tried to just let it go once again. I knew that the next time I saw them, I would be an Ironman!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG6-JPyeT5WoQ_dWP-6BF8Pjix8YJWE93XkbSO5FgJaD2TWMfGhvTt8Znm2C8i7si27mgMB-l4v5GjiPxj3DHZddR5WV7LSl6eo0c_JxZCpjrwF43uG4tZK_AjdgUD_Ds7nmZZY3tNgfJc/s1600/DSCF7743.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG6-JPyeT5WoQ_dWP-6BF8Pjix8YJWE93XkbSO5FgJaD2TWMfGhvTt8Znm2C8i7si27mgMB-l4v5GjiPxj3DHZddR5WV7LSl6eo0c_JxZCpjrwF43uG4tZK_AjdgUD_Ds7nmZZY3tNgfJc/s320/DSCF7743.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggdwecNMBGKDUYlDLoXN6BYznXdOm9c3smHzPtHf2zXNUrrROInzwR8cPanJqAAhMb6OuDZsgJ9Fm9MhdRzv8qNXfbTrPyOF7Rp6jAFg_5JzH30nMClLdILt9xSqOmMsZbDXR5UTJC1Zla/s1600/IMG_0238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggdwecNMBGKDUYlDLoXN6BYznXdOm9c3smHzPtHf2zXNUrrROInzwR8cPanJqAAhMb6OuDZsgJ9Fm9MhdRzv8qNXfbTrPyOF7Rp6jAFg_5JzH30nMClLdILt9xSqOmMsZbDXR5UTJC1Zla/s320/IMG_0238.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS-w-XxLA-jcQUG-pBvoB2qAtsQPtUIXF5BaUYjvgmyI1sgKsebuzu71uenEXBzqqKlNDZCiH876HIIoFuBy4rd9_VGbBEERp3LB_ugi9Ev3cwG6qIuzFMCIlbpowhyphenhyphen6LN168ZjeqleZpb/s1600/IMG_0244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS-w-XxLA-jcQUG-pBvoB2qAtsQPtUIXF5BaUYjvgmyI1sgKsebuzu71uenEXBzqqKlNDZCiH876HIIoFuBy4rd9_VGbBEERp3LB_ugi9Ev3cwG6qIuzFMCIlbpowhyphenhyphen6LN168ZjeqleZpb/s320/IMG_0244.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoaBOxMOuVJbnzwLZkKaw1MRLXLA0qqpGz2Z5yN187dwAi3nWiIffVxvJd3kzaxxJRogPZs9NuPzmPwGQwiFAyQmbYlD5WrTv8uCM6JmsSWgYsrT9stOegfcKqIDJI49-gkud3XiqmRoai/s1600/0191_50193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoaBOxMOuVJbnzwLZkKaw1MRLXLA0qqpGz2Z5yN187dwAi3nWiIffVxvJd3kzaxxJRogPZs9NuPzmPwGQwiFAyQmbYlD5WrTv8uCM6JmsSWgYsrT9stOegfcKqIDJI49-gkud3XiqmRoai/s320/0191_50193.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>turnaround</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7kYMiRhPjvEIpre9PtKqFwS4ADMoAYId3ZjUgWaF-Z5NK-vHssQZO2gzPONTqFdZV1T2bGcA4NfqttStvUq7ny-CtZ91m_u1XjTlJGOKJ9fH5NTPD6r7E-RVSTnMQKUkgGpw7ky7_JXz/s1600/DSCF7744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7kYMiRhPjvEIpre9PtKqFwS4ADMoAYId3ZjUgWaF-Z5NK-vHssQZO2gzPONTqFdZV1T2bGcA4NfqttStvUq7ny-CtZ91m_u1XjTlJGOKJ9fH5NTPD6r7E-RVSTnMQKUkgGpw7ky7_JXz/s320/DSCF7744.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>stopping to talk to my dad</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></div>The last half of the race went by so fast. There was a lot more two-way traffic as nearly everyone was out on the run course. I continued to stop at the aid stations, and started grabbing a cup of cola and an orange slice in addition to my usual water. I'm not even a soda drinker, but that cola was wonderful! I also must add that the volunteers - throughout the race - were incredible. So positive, helpful, kind, and encouraging. It inspired me to volunteer at an Ironman in the near future! Anyway, the miles kept ticking by, and soon enough I was climbing that big hill again. I think I mentioned to an athlete near me that it didn't seem this long the first time! But for the most part, I was able to keep putting one foot in front of the other.<br />
<br />
I continued to be surprised at how good I still felt. Going into the race, I fully expected to walk portions of the marathon, and I was more than ok with that. I saw tons of people, including some really fit looking ones, forced to walk, and I couldn't help but wonder why I was feeling so good. I certainly was feeling tired at this point, but I never felt like I <i>needed</i> to walk. My legs felt great, too, which I attribute to the brand new pair of shoes I'd saved just for the day. And not to be overlooked, my excitement at being so close to an accomplishment I'd been working towards for nearly a year buoyed me forward.<br />
<br />
I kept reminding myself to stay in the moment, because my thoughts kept jumping forward to <i>that</i> moment. With just a few miles to go I made an effort to make eye contact with the athletes heading in the opposite direction and smiled. I was just so happy I wanted to share it with everyone! I also had a lot of respect for everyone out there, both ahead of me and behind me. Going back through the neighborhoods for the last time I tried to savor it. I thanked as many people as I could and started counting down the miles. I'd been doing some math during the marathon and knew if I could run sub-5 hours, I'd also finish sub-14 hours, which I of course wanted to do. There's just something about finishing sub-<i>whatever</i> that is appealing, right?<br />
<br />
With one mile to go, I started getting emotional. I was hoping to finish before dark, and the sun was just setting. The finish of this race is like no other; you round the corner onto the main street downtown, Sherman Ave, and it is just lined with people cheering. I saw the finish chute up ahead and the first tears filled my eyes. I couldn't believe I'd made it! I smiled and looked around, trying to breathe through awkward gasps as my emotions overwhelmed me. There were a few other athletes around me, so I slowed to let them go ahead and have my own finish line moment. I heard and saw my parents cheering, threw up my arms, and crossed the line. I was an <i>IRONMAN</i>!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPlNpKSqV3H0ez1t06r4dBAIg0M6z8WdYJW35CfvsBGmaSvEdoOo5tlKBJr7pH5sG9EdOXkH9eCjV0X5nSuPZlWUTLH35W6EEZbhNsFtYLUDHqNXTc22Mg1cTIzJCWAVwpY4IhYNK_cDVH/s1600/IMG_0253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPlNpKSqV3H0ez1t06r4dBAIg0M6z8WdYJW35CfvsBGmaSvEdoOo5tlKBJr7pH5sG9EdOXkH9eCjV0X5nSuPZlWUTLH35W6EEZbhNsFtYLUDHqNXTc22Mg1cTIzJCWAVwpY4IhYNK_cDVH/s320/IMG_0253.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>emotions flying high!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6lvy6SaAESzV8CdI52aNMevXZ53i2zaCmRc1vF-FbF_Fhr7xfL6Q8oqsMTm1l2vH0fJn_N1YgclaBNVKG3AZZjAjjCsIVt9H6AAJDdDULF9srjnVWyk8jgmDZ5HEYwUbHwZh6NTGiz53/s1600/0191_41096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6lvy6SaAESzV8CdI52aNMevXZ53i2zaCmRc1vF-FbF_Fhr7xfL6Q8oqsMTm1l2vH0fJn_N1YgclaBNVKG3AZZjAjjCsIVt9H6AAJDdDULF9srjnVWyk8jgmDZ5HEYwUbHwZh6NTGiz53/s320/0191_41096.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Y3elLViB7ShvjO-vBPrCo1XxAkMAOPWHd-VlUte9YPxlYD92FdrfTPNdg5ky2jrsk21C3jTg6BP1TPNlvKLrIrbJ_1b7feFbsds_AP1u1d_fzLGNGLBwPObz8Y1ifinMCojimGbpagpf/s1600/0191_43391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Y3elLViB7ShvjO-vBPrCo1XxAkMAOPWHd-VlUte9YPxlYD92FdrfTPNdg5ky2jrsk21C3jTg6BP1TPNlvKLrIrbJ_1b7feFbsds_AP1u1d_fzLGNGLBwPObz8Y1ifinMCojimGbpagpf/s320/0191_43391.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelJxedL3s9mLgnc4iRo7J0Yfw2v7bO_Cx8-Y8-XBaRg4w458eigpSLI_XUJODfFbrcsHt8XQ7yNdEeLHf-1iU6TjkrEnxuDSXzSaFxxFfBAz0U3yI-kN7gydZKHaqlUXJUWIspEwLR4CM/s1600/0191_47859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelJxedL3s9mLgnc4iRo7J0Yfw2v7bO_Cx8-Y8-XBaRg4w458eigpSLI_XUJODfFbrcsHt8XQ7yNdEeLHf-1iU6TjkrEnxuDSXzSaFxxFfBAz0U3yI-kN7gydZKHaqlUXJUWIspEwLR4CM/s320/0191_47859.jpg" width="204" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>OH YEAH!!!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjajuiH6AMp2EsUokmLTFKPzPtIoSNN4TvaFWW1ZDE_ub7XRlDu-0waP5VZL4hOUNBhu1rprtAHEmxvXDfyxe6MJc8U76iJlvcVxySZSoJ5JTkRGQnQ8xUisNdamhyphenhyphen3vzzqrD4-wBQS7qLB/s1600/0191_33094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjajuiH6AMp2EsUokmLTFKPzPtIoSNN4TvaFWW1ZDE_ub7XRlDu-0waP5VZL4hOUNBhu1rprtAHEmxvXDfyxe6MJc8U76iJlvcVxySZSoJ5JTkRGQnQ8xUisNdamhyphenhyphen3vzzqrD4-wBQS7qLB/s320/0191_33094.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><i><b>run time (26.2 mi): 4:53:18</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">A volunteer grabbed me immediately and steered me through the finish line, getting me a medal, hat & t-shirt, space blanket, water, and getting a finish picture taken.</span> I was crying and just so, so happy. I found my folks on the sideline and made my way out to them. I looked at my phone for the first time since before the race and was overwhelmed with a fresh wave of emotions as I saw all the messages wishing me luck throughout the day and then congratulating me on my finish. It was wonderful.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3DKRT2lmJb5QTm3RLWQ2WxopBsPa0Y25FZJON5s-fggqsZcZnucV8sFOOvwyaoY4-GWpm4GVO38jRMpAg82tJFrU3ZaLy1xCXtNQSVDTHHatlGP6UVFyUlJJbW-IDFURAm03H3_Hn9ij/s1600/0191_35632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK3DKRT2lmJb5QTm3RLWQ2WxopBsPa0Y25FZJON5s-fggqsZcZnucV8sFOOvwyaoY4-GWpm4GVO38jRMpAg82tJFrU3ZaLy1xCXtNQSVDTHHatlGP6UVFyUlJJbW-IDFURAm03H3_Hn9ij/s320/0191_35632.jpg" width="208" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="color: red;"><b>total time: 13:47:26</b></i><br />
</div><u><b>Post-Race </b></u><br />
I wanted to keep moving, so we headed over to the lake to take some pictures of our own before the sun set. I've always been blessed to have wonderfully supportive parents, and it meant so much to me to have them there. They've put up with a lot these past 6 months of training, and I am so thankful for their support. After taking pictures my dad headed to transition to pick up my bike while my mom and I went to grab my gear bags. I still wanted to hang around for my friends to finish, so my dad took my bike and gear back to the house and my mom and I hung out.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuSEuLNRBgGAh7BtC5OudQYKprueX7hgueCil6UmLEnnxvO1fILq4pyMOMBY8DyMVlxnHyMlrLZxUC-rQ4PPlgDAwNKYHlVdDN-Pkfk2-bHcxKtyWwObUlGZFzsBbkYgjKo74edxFviduO/s1600/DSCF7754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuSEuLNRBgGAh7BtC5OudQYKprueX7hgueCil6UmLEnnxvO1fILq4pyMOMBY8DyMVlxnHyMlrLZxUC-rQ4PPlgDAwNKYHlVdDN-Pkfk2-bHcxKtyWwObUlGZFzsBbkYgjKo74edxFviduO/s320/DSCF7754.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTzTJo7o5yZldtqtJjKqJ9tMl_s-6PfJN2elTTNJHAmu5cAAmZVVwP7qaNhXAVtMVl-L_uM11FHGTSxJ4JqAHEyltf6XXQD51FKtD32cujgaBCOv_Sg8Kfkqt2xCG3YTeQx2CSB51qDSLo/s1600/DSCF7760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTzTJo7o5yZldtqtJjKqJ9tMl_s-6PfJN2elTTNJHAmu5cAAmZVVwP7qaNhXAVtMVl-L_uM11FHGTSxJ4JqAHEyltf6XXQD51FKtD32cujgaBCOv_Sg8Kfkqt2xCG3YTeQx2CSB51qDSLo/s320/DSCF7760.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>couldn't have done it without them </i><span class="st">♥</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I felt pretty good, if not a little hungry and cold, so I bundled up and headed into the finish area to grab some pizza. As we waited, I got more and more tired, and my body started to ache. Still, nothing could diminish the feeling of finishing. Sitting there on the sidewalk, I felt like a total badass : ) Eventually Kevin, Anandi, and Cris finished. They all had their own individual struggles, but they made it all 140.6 miles, and I couldn't have been more proud, nor asked for a better group of people to share this experience with.<br />
<br />
The rest of the night was a blur. We got a ride back to the house, I took a glorious shower, then collapsed onto the couch. We shared brief stories from the day, commiserating about the tough parts but sharing the great feeling that comes with an accomplishment of this magnitude. Eventually my exhaustion caught up with me, but I went to bed that night on cloud 9 : )</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-36767218522819526262012-06-25T01:08:00.000-07:002012-06-25T01:08:08.539-07:00"YOU ARE AN IRONMAN!"I couldn't have asked for a more perfect day. I can't wait to write the race report and share this amazing experience with you all. For the time being, you can find me on cloud nine : )<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8sR_MjJ5gUrlOgA5QNVTGEUOdKGm2uxf2lgM2VFnxzJuwoiY7KaeXCldNsPUQzOwkZnE5doBlr0HNPivZcoGQ6h6aHFR3v7JZlua0sDLe2m-AIK0h9Ezpsj1T8SUA-tKe60MFX-NRzePu/s1600/IMG_20120624_214700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8sR_MjJ5gUrlOgA5QNVTGEUOdKGm2uxf2lgM2VFnxzJuwoiY7KaeXCldNsPUQzOwkZnE5doBlr0HNPivZcoGQ6h6aHFR3v7JZlua0sDLe2m-AIK0h9Ezpsj1T8SUA-tKe60MFX-NRzePu/s320/IMG_20120624_214700.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCLQ_in2CEa0BY33vwv2EQKQ936qGrO04dd3TktlzJ-r6daG7GbblYVGcMBUb4EywxSRUZx2wqQ4FvlP-1G1xZVJTLhx3-0oYLaze60wMl5Xl6NP01nRevGusX7w4ZLqyG0VKV3M0jLRwQ/s1600/282945_836238968503_2032987434_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCLQ_in2CEa0BY33vwv2EQKQ936qGrO04dd3TktlzJ-r6daG7GbblYVGcMBUb4EywxSRUZx2wqQ4FvlP-1G1xZVJTLhx3-0oYLaze60wMl5Xl6NP01nRevGusX7w4ZLqyG0VKV3M0jLRwQ/s400/282945_836238968503_2032987434_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>official time 13:47:26</i></div></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-30436912365751852032012-06-23T20:41:00.000-07:002012-06-23T20:41:08.035-07:00No LimitsIt all comes down to this. Years of dreaming, months of training, and tomorrow I will finally take on the biggest race of my life. I remember several years ago, while training for <a href="http://rachelintraining.blogspot.com/">my first marathon</a>, I first learned what an Ironman entailed. At that time just the thought of running a marathon alone was daunting. But add on a nearly 2.5 mile swim and 100+ mile bike before that marathon, all in one day, and it seemed <i>impossible</i>. Of course that's exactly what landed me here. In fact, a small part of me still wonders if I can do this; fortunately a bigger part of me believes I can, but tomorrow there will be no more doubt as to whether this can be done. It <i>will </i>be done.<br />
<br />
In less than 12 hours, my first Ironman will be underway. I feel confident in my training, and have come to peace with whatever race day may throw at me. I know I can handle it. A lot can happen in a race this long, and I know that a lot of it won't be in my control. No matter what happens, I plan to have a smile on my face as much as possible. As so many often say, the training is the journey, and the race is simply the victory lap. Since we've arrived in Coeur d'Alene, I've found myself reflecting on my journey here. The countless hours spent in the pool, on my bike, on the trail. The endless sweat, bottomless calories, early wake up calls. The many sacrifices required. Tomorrow, it will all be worth it.<br />
<br />
Over the past couple days we've checked out all three courses. Each one has it's own unique challenges, but also promise beautiful scenery and great support. I'm ready and excited to conquer each one. It's been quite the journey here, and I find myself changed in many ways, both physical and psychological. The only thing left to do is trust my training and believe in myself.<br />
<br />
As far as goals, I do have them. Ultimately, I just hope to have fun and smile as much as possible. If all goes well, I hope to finish the swim between 1:20-1:30, the bike around 7:30, and I'd love to finish the marathon under 5 hours. That would put me around 14 hours, and finishing before dark. A lot can happen over the course of 140.6 miles though, so whatever happens I will deal and keep moving forward. This is it folks!<br />
<br />
If you'd like to follow along, you can track me <a href="http://ironman.com/events/ironman/coeurdalene?show=tracker#axzz1ydTSq8w6">here</a>. Bib no. 144! The swim starts at 7am PST. Later in the day they should also have a live video of the finish line. For those of you who may be out on the course, I'll be in my Team One10 kit:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXm3WkjNwY31wxm8hlFe1361FU0v6Ghacs5CGAit0SMuVwblXpO15r2khu4Dv3qdILLOPdkEdQBbuS_3-828q36Q1xJlw4Y-U6E9G8alqtQ2UZ1tgyMCx-GbDjmV8pmVbtw6a8SgDjXvAO/s1600/one10_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXm3WkjNwY31wxm8hlFe1361FU0v6Ghacs5CGAit0SMuVwblXpO15r2khu4Dv3qdILLOPdkEdQBbuS_3-828q36Q1xJlw4Y-U6E9G8alqtQ2UZ1tgyMCx-GbDjmV8pmVbtw6a8SgDjXvAO/s320/one10_1.jpg" width="190" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Thank to my friends, family, training buddies, blog friends, and coach for your support, encouragement, and good lucks! Keep the good vibes coming my way : ) I'll be thinking of you all tomorrow when the going gets tough. Here goes nothing - see you on the other side!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span>"This is about limits. Reaching them, exploring them, exceeding what you thought yours were. Coming to the conclusion that there aren't any limits."</span></span></i></b></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-57700975024607171652012-06-23T16:14:00.000-07:002012-06-23T16:14:26.061-07:00Kicking it in Cd'AHello there! I thought I'd check in and give a little update on Ironman weekend activities thus far. We flew into Spokane Thursday with a layover in super green Portland, then rented a car and drove into Coeur d'Alene. It was an absolutely beautiful day, warm with clear blue skies. A few friends and I rented a house for the week, so we all met up there. My friend Cris made the drive up with her family and was nice enough to transport my bike. It was nice to see it after a few days apart! After unloading all of our stuff we decided to walk down to the race area to check things out. It ended up only being about a quarter mile, so the location is awesome!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkLk4z53vynwZaNHy9HnDrU2glCyHlT1S_aOqwGWTIf8Dp-RROfvJtHCXZg2wFIHlcPsejnJ5NzvsggsgU63njMbno6k0U05j0Jo3m4i-z1y5nqr_HDTCXpBh_hvxT6Z9LU9MZef9DGuXl/s1600/IMG_20120621_110941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkLk4z53vynwZaNHy9HnDrU2glCyHlT1S_aOqwGWTIf8Dp-RROfvJtHCXZg2wFIHlcPsejnJ5NzvsggsgU63njMbno6k0U05j0Jo3m4i-z1y5nqr_HDTCXpBh_hvxT6Z9LU9MZef9DGuXl/s320/IMG_20120621_110941.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>PDX</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdUvyI1vSWJUr1TScXt-7auoHcEXMgKXfPOngvgZpCog_azSoJLWO6zMwC3LhDc7-m1qCYeETSJLhxwsBuxm7ggGtweKyZcqsUj8HFmRvOp7e7E3heViqOt85USFxX3UjcibPFO2w-vXSA/s1600/IMG_20120621_154408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdUvyI1vSWJUr1TScXt-7auoHcEXMgKXfPOngvgZpCog_azSoJLWO6zMwC3LhDc7-m1qCYeETSJLhxwsBuxm7ggGtweKyZcqsUj8HFmRvOp7e7E3heViqOt85USFxX3UjcibPFO2w-vXSA/s320/IMG_20120621_154408.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>up in the air, on the way to Spokane</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJu-B3Cnk17y5aAJSYBYwBT0ff5d_kJmm7HiyiwxtZL63HBN5TCk3DOVHPefZ9GzNDcAYgC72nj5iOxukFUc2ytWHExRWYaLYMwbPFQ_Z5WGIRHTbs9NJTDn-SGJ6PEPY6b6qLrZ_LlQEj/s1600/IMAG1339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJu-B3Cnk17y5aAJSYBYwBT0ff5d_kJmm7HiyiwxtZL63HBN5TCk3DOVHPefZ9GzNDcAYgC72nj5iOxukFUc2ytWHExRWYaLYMwbPFQ_Z5WGIRHTbs9NJTDn-SGJ6PEPY6b6qLrZ_LlQEj/s320/IMAG1339.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>our cute little rental</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcayHU1v46FFJdH9k8qkAP2vUrpCCyUnU7yaiG2CHT7ppwajMew7OSsjy3TJfzkDH5-78i6tXd5Y1rc7tjgZjt7tCwJUosQtbAXpz7Y2H2nWddlHcs9bRF-jRmwfu3dgsmPssvvwBTxYx/s1600/IMAG1374.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcayHU1v46FFJdH9k8qkAP2vUrpCCyUnU7yaiG2CHT7ppwajMew7OSsjy3TJfzkDH5-78i6tXd5Y1rc7tjgZjt7tCwJUosQtbAXpz7Y2H2nWddlHcs9bRF-jRmwfu3dgsmPssvvwBTxYx/s320/IMAG1374.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>best part - the porch!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></div>We got down to the lake and race village and since check-in was already closed for the day, we hit up the merch tent instead. I managed to restrain myself (gotta save some money for finisher gear!), but did pick up plenty of awesome gear : ) We hung out for a while longer while Cris's kids did the kids fun run, and while waiting I ran into <a href="http://fitnessfatale.com/">Nicole</a>, also doing her first Ironman on Sunday. It always amazes me how despite the huge number of people at these events, I always manage to run into people I know! When the kids finished we all headed to grab dinner at a local hotspot, Capone's. The place was packed and we ended up having a long wait, but the food and vast selection of beers on tap made it worthwhile.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9yxz858b7Sf7EiV3nYPYILeED1Ke03SMBrCxPWRzwIfFoqtZBYaLOxNPFQVmSuhxbdeQ9bIAb_EOUqwdTgNaQnu7NODK_nUvT1uZxLMBrjD4TSN6MGRSxfZmzISxlC4wdNUQqE9jU1xA-/s1600/IMG_20120621_182711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9yxz858b7Sf7EiV3nYPYILeED1Ke03SMBrCxPWRzwIfFoqtZBYaLOxNPFQVmSuhxbdeQ9bIAb_EOUqwdTgNaQnu7NODK_nUvT1uZxLMBrjD4TSN6MGRSxfZmzISxlC4wdNUQqE9jU1xA-/s320/IMG_20120621_182711.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK4hOSeQ64Wk0IJXeqWGxop_v6lowpGz9w0QGaSLqExZsV2lwPCiPvGkOX-2JzKayvJ2TIy39I861rpruVrfiEEwmnyTId1ZN-zAaG7UPFvwlhNZaXPsWHD8RA0HaCTAWRgUfkg0dC4i27/s1600/IMAG1373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK4hOSeQ64Wk0IJXeqWGxop_v6lowpGz9w0QGaSLqExZsV2lwPCiPvGkOX-2JzKayvJ2TIy39I861rpruVrfiEEwmnyTId1ZN-zAaG7UPFvwlhNZaXPsWHD8RA0HaCTAWRgUfkg0dC4i27/s320/IMAG1373.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>the fancy resort</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAqdP_Mzgu1oBDeiENAHXEF6JH0FSQHW5tXRsnNM8CDY1XXUXIFlr6A-gG48ktV-R3BzVue8BSD2VGL_P-nU1YsP2iqmG7bidj5kxtM0-qNugc44KoZc9shmx-vMukslWl32zXa_FBBYuM/s1600/IMAG1334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAqdP_Mzgu1oBDeiENAHXEF6JH0FSQHW5tXRsnNM8CDY1XXUXIFlr6A-gG48ktV-R3BzVue8BSD2VGL_P-nU1YsP2iqmG7bidj5kxtM0-qNugc44KoZc9shmx-vMukslWl32zXa_FBBYuM/s320/IMAG1334.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>beautiful day at the lake!</i> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOsgPQl8MjNgtvQBG5tmbZdpG88997aNsyl-pzfyCRXiWkVsgkvNg2MNYP4CEmXQcqgjkZRZkV2iUCQczCOmxwBWCGVBWP0buAU0jMnJZ3yKAItG2VOgEZhtXOIOOsXVYM3PLlg9Qs1Lot/s1600/IMAG1372.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOsgPQl8MjNgtvQBG5tmbZdpG88997aNsyl-pzfyCRXiWkVsgkvNg2MNYP4CEmXQcqgjkZRZkV2iUCQczCOmxwBWCGVBWP0buAU0jMnJZ3yKAItG2VOgEZhtXOIOOsXVYM3PLlg9Qs1Lot/s320/IMAG1372.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>race village</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNeXufDiE9QRUxS9lfwmmpE-6F3UHuhflq2F-9Ktexhs6ejLvyIZ5o_tKvV7MpeinCDgqYSKZgqZ3Tvr0TnHN8UzyFaN46xUfJtrRuFWfZXV0TRiP_dQcwVE5S0Pg2SvQdX78-m6Sh-3ri/s1600/205317_3965479949657_124569525_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNeXufDiE9QRUxS9lfwmmpE-6F3UHuhflq2F-9Ktexhs6ejLvyIZ5o_tKvV7MpeinCDgqYSKZgqZ3Tvr0TnHN8UzyFaN46xUfJtrRuFWfZXV0TRiP_dQcwVE5S0Pg2SvQdX78-m6Sh-3ri/s320/205317_3965479949657_124569525_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Anandi & I </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMBoTefkTqS-HwOG9HAIF6EKnbialC1gPTTtPM0hStXOSx877MFqFkOtrZpyQeEhzOtxGtiBQiZQS-m9dlk0B9gAi8h7i0N4kMA_qGzDihMb_KGNxcoi4N3x4y2ugVEzCF1ZWjp5W0kX6/s1600/IMAG1337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMBoTefkTqS-HwOG9HAIF6EKnbialC1gPTTtPM0hStXOSx877MFqFkOtrZpyQeEhzOtxGtiBQiZQS-m9dlk0B9gAi8h7i0N4kMA_qGzDihMb_KGNxcoi4N3x4y2ugVEzCF1ZWjp5W0kX6/s320/IMAG1337.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Capone's</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></div>The next morning we slept in a bit and had breakfast on our cute little wrap-around porch. Our plans for the day included checking in, doing a short swim in the lake to get a feel for the water, and riding the run course loop. It was a little chilly and overcast when we headed out, but it quickly warmed up, and ended up reaching 86 degrees later that afternoon. I kept joking that we left Sacramento just as it was cooling down to the 70s, only to come up here, expecting cool temps, and getting even hotter weather! Check-in was smooth and organized, but the best part was getting our AWESOME swag bags! I'd heard of them before, and had spotted them Thursday, and I couldn't wait to get my hands on one.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQWYYENsPZW6lZ6yYgkVl5JOjIGsqZg5gqzYwAKjx6Sc3XnIp_CDS4ZH2Ib0dGQNbawcH6HSlF837ezfyBuhMIypTT5S9mrJrs5PnKzLcZ-Z5tyaHb0kbHZ-iQZotzqk8xsiYhgfFGm9Kz/s1600/IMG_20120623_115446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQWYYENsPZW6lZ6yYgkVl5JOjIGsqZg5gqzYwAKjx6Sc3XnIp_CDS4ZH2Ib0dGQNbawcH6HSlF837ezfyBuhMIypTT5S9mrJrs5PnKzLcZ-Z5tyaHb0kbHZ-iQZotzqk8xsiYhgfFGm9Kz/s320/IMG_20120623_115446.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>no. 144!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTVSUo1csFN0w0mGteD2kzaV_cRBeNczcTm2hWKJXxGnrEbdTFfDxDUhOeVyYMNWv2kwMpmmrZGNWJqwYLIaWx_yNrJTCRX1VTueqLw9aSHd0aZaL-RqlviPDVf3OHrehcK7j37Pj0uQjc/s1600/IMAG1340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTVSUo1csFN0w0mGteD2kzaV_cRBeNczcTm2hWKJXxGnrEbdTFfDxDUhOeVyYMNWv2kwMpmmrZGNWJqwYLIaWx_yNrJTCRX1VTueqLw9aSHd0aZaL-RqlviPDVf3OHrehcK7j37Pj0uQjc/s320/IMAG1340.jpg" width="228" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>!!!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>After hitting up the merch tent again (this time I restrained myself), we headed down to the lake for a practice swim. There were tons of athletes swimming and lots of locals hanging out, and it was absolutely gorgeous out. Since the water has been hovering in the high 50s (website says 55) I decided to bring my fullsleeve, and I'm glad I did! We swam about 500 yards, and while the water was chilly initially, after a couple minutes I was pretty comfortable. The water was also fairly clear and shallower than I expected, but there was a little chop and current. I felt good in my wetsuit and goggles, but I'm glad I tested them out before race day. I'm feeling fairly good about the swim, if only I could skip the mass swim start!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkAapOyDkJB9Fxe2bTkqKkGEugcyhwMpUybu7eWbdhBKE8CzZJjJH4UCRiM3JSzlCVitk3uDbn7Mdg3C852of81oIlYY1sd3cU0UleSbc5mmJw732llL7AHfDis-zErswhTeJ4JYas0ORW/s1600/IMAG1341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkAapOyDkJB9Fxe2bTkqKkGEugcyhwMpUybu7eWbdhBKE8CzZJjJH4UCRiM3JSzlCVitk3uDbn7Mdg3C852of81oIlYY1sd3cU0UleSbc5mmJw732llL7AHfDis-zErswhTeJ4JYas0ORW/s320/IMAG1341.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>the soon-to-be swim start</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEildFJgAH_YwU5N_cDH5-xGnR1eajIJs8r8xoVLzRq42Um0sJf1uaKVUtNiKQRbg2vrBbhb9Nwhs6dORc9xez7TwnkSP8KbeHVtYqq3ZKUSo6-tM_f0e70t7YyFXfJFx9tRYZOq1h-UJK6G/s1600/IMG_20120622_130508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEildFJgAH_YwU5N_cDH5-xGnR1eajIJs8r8xoVLzRq42Um0sJf1uaKVUtNiKQRbg2vrBbhb9Nwhs6dORc9xez7TwnkSP8KbeHVtYqq3ZKUSo6-tM_f0e70t7YyFXfJFx9tRYZOq1h-UJK6G/s320/IMG_20120622_130508.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>contemplating</i> : )</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>After swimming we heading down the main street of town looking for some lunch. We grabbed sandwiches and then a few of us decided to explore a little more. My friend Anandi and I both work at Fleet Feet in Sacramento, so we hit up the local FF to see what it's like. It was super tiny! By this point we'd been on our feet quite a bit and were ready to head back to the house. After relaxing for a bit we got our bikes ready to go and headed out on the run course. It's a two loop course, so we decided to ride to the turnaround and back. I had my bike tuned up right before I left so it was nice and smooth just out of town we found ourselves on Coeur d'Alene Lake Drive on an awesome little bike trail right along the lake. There was one big climb up to the turnaround, but other than that it's mostly flat with a couple false flats. Not too worried about the hill as I will definitely be walking up!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBdoHb6aGZv0jBBap19xj7z5bZR7oq0B6HCdFRM9v3ns9iYt-BVZQKHWQHBh751Uhq0jt0pAkeyHBBib8FXciCxme5A7z1kd8Ec2O6EcctRrs44VYcAUTZ1zzOjfpQfdhrHHwavFNjUEsW/s1600/IMAG1348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBdoHb6aGZv0jBBap19xj7z5bZR7oq0B6HCdFRM9v3ns9iYt-BVZQKHWQHBh751Uhq0jt0pAkeyHBBib8FXciCxme5A7z1kd8Ec2O6EcctRrs44VYcAUTZ1zzOjfpQfdhrHHwavFNjUEsW/s320/IMAG1348.jpg" width="203" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>checking out the local FF!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpTZopZRvKwR9hgLB8Iwf3Fj4HqddiW1aSVf25Bs-IdcxYdd1BSi9QVYL26NVTAIb3ILJWOaTYAqN_3kaWdOM0_8CXa-EuP-f4uWtwYB3sJI1peKAww2eNNf4Gkx_McXDpAYnIf6cw6_Bo/s1600/IMAG1349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpTZopZRvKwR9hgLB8Iwf3Fj4HqddiW1aSVf25Bs-IdcxYdd1BSi9QVYL26NVTAIb3ILJWOaTYAqN_3kaWdOM0_8CXa-EuP-f4uWtwYB3sJI1peKAww2eNNf4Gkx_McXDpAYnIf6cw6_Bo/s320/IMAG1349.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ESMq4n5V3YtICNYWdtrgEVzlNkZpVtdJraimvz2rp2yFAeEMv3J1OS2iuFTazdDvU9V1sGiQwaYgLUm96uuNC3PsRn14U2R6aLknMRDfG8LoGFlSDLAqNpr6NEPg3hNjTZHC1696SYUC/s1600/598640_3965473309491_1875736468_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ESMq4n5V3YtICNYWdtrgEVzlNkZpVtdJraimvz2rp2yFAeEMv3J1OS2iuFTazdDvU9V1sGiQwaYgLUm96uuNC3PsRn14U2R6aLknMRDfG8LoGFlSDLAqNpr6NEPg3hNjTZHC1696SYUC/s320/598640_3965473309491_1875736468_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>the gals riding the run course</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW6fVASsfqk5zc4o2B9MWtL5U9vP4hblyZs-mw2HiwSiH95RgiXboPP2Ae9jSQqEBEsjvNdwXaRtvN4G04uFQh4xiCfmf2wX0_rovOs9XVjTUXjdQPJT8fTV1z6FYfiFZhTpkBZDkCiQ1R/s1600/IMAG1351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW6fVASsfqk5zc4o2B9MWtL5U9vP4hblyZs-mw2HiwSiH95RgiXboPP2Ae9jSQqEBEsjvNdwXaRtvN4G04uFQh4xiCfmf2wX0_rovOs9XVjTUXjdQPJT8fTV1z6FYfiFZhTpkBZDkCiQ1R/s320/IMAG1351.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpMAHXib7KryN6dKgRP5vt8oQNivv356Npn7E3btgKPadJBaSrdHLfMNUGDz-TM6C98lbDfzd97RObKJA8_yC2HYPYcDRQSNU3-x3-HUpV1Qpc5yd3cLyRYt-t1fops_C8j8Kc236A_JN/s1600/IMAG1352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpMAHXib7KryN6dKgRP5vt8oQNivv356Npn7E3btgKPadJBaSrdHLfMNUGDz-TM6C98lbDfzd97RObKJA8_yC2HYPYcDRQSNU3-x3-HUpV1Qpc5yd3cLyRYt-t1fops_C8j8Kc236A_JN/s320/IMAG1352.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>By the time we were on our way back the clouds had moved in and the sky had got pretty dark. Back at the house we got to making dinner, and then we rushed back down to the lake for the pre-race athlete meeting. Right as we got to the tent, the sky opened up and started <i>dumping</i>. Not long after we heard our first thunder. The tent was packed, making it hard to hear or see anything, and the rain added even more noise. It didn't last long; just as we were deciding to leave early they released everyone. Fortunately it was only sprinkling for the walk back to the house. Late that night, however, we experienced an intense storm with pouring rain, wind, and big bolts of thunder and lightning. We all crowded on the deck to watch the show, simultaneously entranced and worried that this could be an ominous sign for race day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisfI23iaVu7esDcLeVa1FHkdmtYm3BGLQaPKVdNUBFf0clNGoQ6lPCY2B4PfXIA9Dxhc91Ujn6PuF5chV15PCtbQJXmRguHcyLgtGnKPWr99j5ekc8qMNY4qsQWZv-o3BkLEgDchDaHcZI/s1600/599372_4144788062893_1421481479_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisfI23iaVu7esDcLeVa1FHkdmtYm3BGLQaPKVdNUBFf0clNGoQ6lPCY2B4PfXIA9Dxhc91Ujn6PuF5chV15PCtbQJXmRguHcyLgtGnKPWr99j5ekc8qMNY4qsQWZv-o3BkLEgDchDaHcZI/s320/599372_4144788062893_1421481479_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>pre-race meeting</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK_KbtRx6goD2EBY8bmw290pxZuMItnffVPP_N9jmdjWmTriXdeLu6k1d4QeWTkTpqQLhpBFWoZgtXLNti5bVOV2cwZ0g8IerYwoKWwsdTORz_ENo6KK9DHYm2q1qCn0iUVhVWPbKi0Lxo/s1600/IMAG1357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK_KbtRx6goD2EBY8bmw290pxZuMItnffVPP_N9jmdjWmTriXdeLu6k1d4QeWTkTpqQLhpBFWoZgtXLNti5bVOV2cwZ0g8IerYwoKWwsdTORz_ENo6KK9DHYm2q1qCn0iUVhVWPbKi0Lxo/s320/IMAG1357.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>and then it was pouring</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>The forecast has thus been a constant source of conversation the last couple days. As of right now, we are looking at possible rain in the morning and potentially more rain and some thunder storms later in the afternoon. Of course, anything could happen! So far, the weather has been following a similar patter that I'm hoping continues on race day. It's overcast and cool in the morning, but by the afternoon it's cleared and warmed up significantly. Then in the late afternoon it starts to get cloudy again. Storms seem to be more of an evening occurrence here, so I hope it stays that way!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF451123EDlGiWZsA16oVlxiWMlF6c9XnFn7WMbAhw5WOIAkujvJviRIFrJUXqG7ek4b6BTKtDWuIyRfArYdBYtb4uIxGEXP8qqyijQNnMTIDoQlV3PJmaaTr4e-Mdy3DjLlAojqwOQPBz/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-06-23+at+4.08.30+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF451123EDlGiWZsA16oVlxiWMlF6c9XnFn7WMbAhw5WOIAkujvJviRIFrJUXqG7ek4b6BTKtDWuIyRfArYdBYtb4uIxGEXP8qqyijQNnMTIDoQlV3PJmaaTr4e-Mdy3DjLlAojqwOQPBz/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-06-23+at+4.08.30+PM.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>This morning was spent sleeping in and leisurely hanging out before tackling our gear bags. Ironman races give you 5 different colored bags: morning gear, bike gear, run gear, bike special needs, and run special needs. Since we had to drop off our bike & run bags with our bikes today, we had to lay everything out and make sure our gear was sorted into the right bags. It's definitely a little anxiety-inducing since you can't really do anything if you forget something!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPtMnE59Zv2vLWwopA5SBZwJjSaA0MoL6VN6fvnXw09mMGYM_GWkEEYaUSGDeQpuBOcneqU-1QE5yzlglgXKk2apMhnJFrkS1_3IrMmP_G0PiTaliTwaj8r_aMM_2lmnAlVrq9iPTKWPV/s1600/IMAG1358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPtMnE59Zv2vLWwopA5SBZwJjSaA0MoL6VN6fvnXw09mMGYM_GWkEEYaUSGDeQpuBOcneqU-1QE5yzlglgXKk2apMhnJFrkS1_3IrMmP_G0PiTaliTwaj8r_aMM_2lmnAlVrq9iPTKWPV/s320/IMAG1358.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>ready to go!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>We just got back from checking in our bikes and gear bags. The buoys are set up in the water and the finish chute is being assembled. At this point there's nothing left to do but countdown. Be back tonight with my race goals!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVmE7eWd4s7VmrFFIkNRjnaSKJYw1WEWKWBdEty9483H2UqHOe2xAsrHlm8U9dpBs5qHEhTrF7Y8peuLPrZFAxSaQkzxuCwh3ZOl_N3cTK76j5heP4yxXTaSNQzM7xefodmBm0PliddfQ8/s1600/599162_3966657659099_768316675_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVmE7eWd4s7VmrFFIkNRjnaSKJYw1WEWKWBdEty9483H2UqHOe2xAsrHlm8U9dpBs5qHEhTrF7Y8peuLPrZFAxSaQkzxuCwh3ZOl_N3cTK76j5heP4yxXTaSNQzM7xefodmBm0PliddfQ8/s320/599162_3966657659099_768316675_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQqp7GcWdLnLRYhtmhRNKqBAIa0M7HgR_wpr0Hm5zJn1I6be8zIfKe3cmpsDG0elKnxlFdluk6_AfubJaWgv_1JlqMt2H-1UGGFULFNqRVFw34R0_35F3IOCpvK3nTx9w9KV1KhvjxZgBh/s1600/IMAG1365.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQqp7GcWdLnLRYhtmhRNKqBAIa0M7HgR_wpr0Hm5zJn1I6be8zIfKe3cmpsDG0elKnxlFdluk6_AfubJaWgv_1JlqMt2H-1UGGFULFNqRVFw34R0_35F3IOCpvK3nTx9w9KV1KhvjxZgBh/s320/IMAG1365.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>that's a lot of $$$</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuJUgQvtmQpjTdoMHcDhrxmPnmZcav2lGvE79hFLsZNumuARSX5wZvMyMQx4Q-lP7kIrB91FFu51n-vnHewH5jJsmtGihMk7bvDEaNbvD_uGOzW_j9rf4WmYMHuUvOIMu4sfBawsduD2eA/s1600/IMAG1362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuJUgQvtmQpjTdoMHcDhrxmPnmZcav2lGvE79hFLsZNumuARSX5wZvMyMQx4Q-lP7kIrB91FFu51n-vnHewH5jJsmtGihMk7bvDEaNbvD_uGOzW_j9rf4WmYMHuUvOIMu4sfBawsduD2eA/s320/IMAG1362.jpg" width="197" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>see you in the morning!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju5aS764yylbfwP5kyVb9cuI8mxn4zYtyihcZniDozddzmg6G7SzQseczBj40TblYVldDpY6SSSvELsbmtAKS9MwulVB8RkrGgMjiOhtBiHzUfRxcz7Uo-Tx-bXqZzRp0diB7vs88dd8Wh/s1600/IMAG1366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju5aS764yylbfwP5kyVb9cuI8mxn4zYtyihcZniDozddzmg6G7SzQseczBj40TblYVldDpY6SSSvELsbmtAKS9MwulVB8RkrGgMjiOhtBiHzUfRxcz7Uo-Tx-bXqZzRp0diB7vs88dd8Wh/s320/IMAG1366.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>run gear bags</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpfkCqtHmi0v6L4t0iyrUSZExNsTc6C5KaaG2tHnTPq0ceA7JQU4LvaF8hfOvczg1edAgeHiX2fAa0CrXhlUqravshJpuhlRR2TYWmxraohqocg04efEHZCa5_Kbdg1mxByP_Q4Ef4hHx9/s1600/IMAG1368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpfkCqtHmi0v6L4t0iyrUSZExNsTc6C5KaaG2tHnTPq0ceA7JQU4LvaF8hfOvczg1edAgeHiX2fAa0CrXhlUqravshJpuhlRR2TYWmxraohqocg04efEHZCa5_Kbdg1mxByP_Q4Ef4hHx9/s320/IMAG1368.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>bike gear bags</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWUGIwsypvRoh4jYFs-39XKwBBDLu9EfJJmwhtg2cfdfHR6R4ALtKYcGUb9gX2uLw1zCHpjwmDCwTbgcrUEZ4bWHGj6VO9MUmVDi42je0FHtXs_l9-zdfc3U9-GW6Iq2txlzgk2IHy3o1u/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-06-23+at+4.10.18+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWUGIwsypvRoh4jYFs-39XKwBBDLu9EfJJmwhtg2cfdfHR6R4ALtKYcGUb9gX2uLw1zCHpjwmDCwTbgcrUEZ4bWHGj6VO9MUmVDi42je0FHtXs_l9-zdfc3U9-GW6Iq2txlzgk2IHy3o1u/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-06-23+at+4.10.18+PM.png" /></a></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-31673995300923295512012-06-21T23:16:00.000-07:002012-06-21T23:16:48.817-07:00Ironman Week 24<i>6/11-6/17</i><br />
<br />
Greetings from Coeur d'Alene! I have so much to say, from my race plan and goals to reflecting on everything that got me to this point. But that will have to wait for a later post. I'm going to keep this brief because it's overdue, and it's race week - I've got bigger things on my mind than a training recap! This was basically my final week of real training. The taper was in full effect, leaving me surprisingly tired, but more than anything, anxious that the race was so close. A fellow <a href="http://www.lazymarathoner.com/">blogger</a> and multiple IM finisher wisely told me that so many people try to fight the taper, but it's so important for both your body and mind. In hindsight, I see that she was absolutely right. I managed to complete the majority of the workouts, and once again I was able to fit in a few fun things with my extra time. Even with a big cutback on volume, I still had over 7 hours of training. I guess it's all about perspective, right?<br />
<br />
<u><b>Monday</b></u><br />
<i>rest</i><br />
<br />
<u><b>Tuesday</b></u><br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 2,820 yds / 1:00</span></i><br />
The pump at the pool I usually swim at broke over the weekend, so I had to find another way to get my swim workout in. Fortunately one of the city pools offers lap swim over the summer, and their hours fit with my schedule. I headed over there in the late afternoon and had no problem snagging a lane. I started my workout, but as I got to the timed sets, I realized I was going much faster than prescribed. I figured maybe I was just having a good day and continued on. But after 10 minutes I got to thinking, and I decided to ask the lifeguard how long the pool was. Turns out it's short - 23.5 yards to be exact! I couldn't help but laugh at myself : ) I still estimated that I was hitting my paces, but I had to adjust the distance, so what should have been a 3,000 yard workout was a mere 2,820!<br />
<ul><li>warm-up:</li>
<li>4x [200 easy, RI = 20"; 4x25 drill, RI = 5"]</li>
<li>main:</li>
<ul><li>4x200 pull @1:40 on 3:40</li>
<li>6x100 @1:40 on 1:50</li>
<li>4x25 sprint on 1:00</li>
</ul><li>cool-down:</li>
<ul><li>300</li>
</ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicu6xWMVfyHEB_15FtaHbxixTlUliRuH1feDRt4_Z8D6BW0kDiwpsBOjrdgzRMhxpUtiiLNiZMme4NMouQFZLmmIazViBbVl1CXz6C-P8xXCYfHGpO587upa0UKrrSXKe-U9MvNxegaWoJ/s1600/IMG_20120612_221323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicu6xWMVfyHEB_15FtaHbxixTlUliRuH1feDRt4_Z8D6BW0kDiwpsBOjrdgzRMhxpUtiiLNiZMme4NMouQFZLmmIazViBbVl1CXz6C-P8xXCYfHGpO587upa0UKrrSXKe-U9MvNxegaWoJ/s320/IMG_20120612_221323.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>home of the 23.5 yard pool!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9hkCfcqZ89gud1OY-aMnPYoG2-pbVWoj6XPeUxpMD9h9ZKamqPxx-LdypqPdCdURwSHkm_kgpyPLp-IH9EDVFuUvk06vd8dzZ02eDpWNiF3jCHzIfKymPffkS7Q13LpamRCHIrHRnWHNi/s1600/jun12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9hkCfcqZ89gud1OY-aMnPYoG2-pbVWoj6XPeUxpMD9h9ZKamqPxx-LdypqPdCdURwSHkm_kgpyPLp-IH9EDVFuUvk06vd8dzZ02eDpWNiF3jCHzIfKymPffkS7Q13LpamRCHIrHRnWHNi/s320/jun12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> </div><i>pm: <span style="color: red;">run / 4.2 mi / 0:31 / avg 7:28</span></i><br />
I went straight to track from the pool where we had a killer workout waiting for us. I thought it might be an easier workout with our race coming up, but it was pretty tough: 2x800 (3:38, 3:40), 1x1600 (7:21), and 5x400 (1:52, 1:49, 1:49, 1:47, 1:47) at 5k pace. I don't really know what that pace is for me, as I'm not in 5k-PR shape, but I aimed for about 7:30. I was under on all of them, and was really pleased with how I did, especially on another warm day!<br />
<br />
<u><b>Wednesday</b></u><br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: #38761d;">bike / 26.5 mi / 1:30 / avg 17.6 mph</span></i><br />
For some reason I didn't start this workout til late afternoon when it was way too warm. I was supposed to do a 10 minute transition run after, but I was meeting a friend for a swim and just didn't have time.<br />
<br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 2,500 yds / 0:45</span></i><br />
Since the pump at the pool was still not fixed our usual Thursday evening MTC swim was canceled, so I made plans with a friend to meet for an open water swim instead. Since it was so hot the water actually felt amazing, and overall we had a really good swim. We hung out for a while after and just talked about the upcoming race (it will be the first Ironman for both of us)<i>, </i>and it was refreshing to know that someone else was just as nervous/excited/anxious/terrified as I was.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWzNOmDvL-6-xZO00l_aR3opTC5SAiQ18ypXPydUSjvT8PThKhfDPolsbg578zljZ7ZzIkwjEYUo6-MHLNKbkczaI8IE00Mh785BKgjVpgedhyphenhyphenRgxAqD9FeYReDct5Br6ygZotcUAS_AY9/s1600/jun13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWzNOmDvL-6-xZO00l_aR3opTC5SAiQ18ypXPydUSjvT8PThKhfDPolsbg578zljZ7ZzIkwjEYUo6-MHLNKbkczaI8IE00Mh785BKgjVpgedhyphenhyphenRgxAqD9FeYReDct5Br6ygZotcUAS_AY9/s320/jun13.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>gorgeous day at the lake!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><u><b>Thursday</b></u><br />
<i>rest</i><br />
I actually had an hour ride on deck, but just couldn't get myself to do it. It had been a long and stressful week, and I just felt like I needed an extra rest day. When I got to work that morning I discovered that my coworker had made a little something in honor of my upcoming race:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinu6QOx0QymocEHW7X2PR81X4XsKlv2WnsG2dRDKnC8wFCQTFYBwX3q0NYJwOO4UidJ5JaVgA7YWJivCPnsPTM4uLrMR_yTVFqiRU4SKIWPkNudouJmliRju5jB0x4xT9zD5MUvIfCrIBQ/s1600/IMG_20120617_164620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinu6QOx0QymocEHW7X2PR81X4XsKlv2WnsG2dRDKnC8wFCQTFYBwX3q0NYJwOO4UidJ5JaVgA7YWJivCPnsPTM4uLrMR_yTVFqiRU4SKIWPkNudouJmliRju5jB0x4xT9zD5MUvIfCrIBQ/s320/IMG_20120617_164620.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>hahaha</i>, <i>made my day!</i></div><br />
<u><b>Friday</b></u><br />
<i>rest</i><br />
<br />
<u><b>Saturday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: red;">run / 6.4 mi / 1:00 / avg 9:22</span></i><br />
It was so weird for my "long" run to be just an hour, but I appreciated the extra sleep it gave me : ) Nothing too exciting, except that when I started at 8am it was already in the 70s. The day went on to reach a humid 106 degrees, the hottest day in Sacramento so far this year. Since I had the evening free we hit up Pops in the Park again, although the heat was absolutely sweltering so we escaped to the movie theaters to catch the new Wes Anderson movie, <i>Moonrise Kingdom</i>. Totally quirky, but a really great film.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6m-j5Y-7KSteXiBANFqzEHDj7uXfPC9SQfFq2ZQKCxzeYyAmEa841HafMlgTOSHYjyvM4U0-2g6k0-QVl-eD5QadD2c40SUY5bGf8F2EtFKpZoRm8OxmoQCkI5mij6lk1PrfGNsNi__AN/s1600/jun16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6m-j5Y-7KSteXiBANFqzEHDj7uXfPC9SQfFq2ZQKCxzeYyAmEa841HafMlgTOSHYjyvM4U0-2g6k0-QVl-eD5QadD2c40SUY5bGf8F2EtFKpZoRm8OxmoQCkI5mij6lk1PrfGNsNi__AN/s320/jun16.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/_eOI3AamSm8?rel=0" width="410"></iframe><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><u><b>Sunday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: #38761d;">bike / 36 mi / 2:00 / avg 18 mph</span></i><br />
My last long ride of training called for 2.5 hours, but I decided to cut it back to 2. The plan said to ride at a reasonable race pace effort, but since I was riding on a flat bike trail and CdA is a pretty hilly course, this was a little difficult to execute. I tried to go more on effort, and since I ended up feeling pretty good I let myself push a little more and ended up with an average speed that was much faster than usual.<br />
<br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 1,600 yds / 0:30</span></i><br />
After work I headed back to Lake Natoma for my second open water swim of the week. This one was kept nice and short since I had dinner plans to celebrate Father's Day.<i> </i>I probably don't say it enough, but I'm extremely lucky to have a dad who not only loves me, but also has always been supportive of these crazy things I get myself into. I know he's my biggest fan, and I'm forever grateful.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><u><b>Totals</b></u></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;">swim:</span> 5,320 yards</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">bike:</span> 62.5 miles</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">run:</span> 10.6 miles</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">other:</span> 0 hours</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>total time: 7.2 hours</i></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-54374489918235243362012-06-19T23:08:00.000-07:002012-06-19T23:08:11.043-07:00An Open LetterWell folks, after 6 months of training, of living and breathing the life of triathlon, it is finally race week! To try and explain the tangle of emotions playing in my mind, I thought I'd share this great letter I stumbled upon today. I obviously did not write this; the original post can be found <a href="http://intotransition.blogspot.com/2012/04/summary-of-ironman-for-my-first-time-im.html">here</a>. But reading through it this morning, I found myself visualizing my own upcoming Ironman, experiencing one changing emotion after the next, until the final paragraph. My eyes welled up as I imagined myself crossing the finish line of finish lines, of actually completing this goal that, at one time, seemed impossible, but instead has become inevitable. This week, as I prepare for the biggest race of my life, I can't help but reflect as well, and I'm reminded of a quote by Oliver Wendell Holmes: <i>"Man’s mind, once stretched by a new idea, never regains its original dimensions."</i> Not all that long ago, an Ironman was unfathomable, and yet...here I am.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDs0PntCKjmwAUx1FiT7Vwzs3BP1-yNfjIFUVHpXJUhs5WyVwdSkWmyCjaJyB7AVSvGTYGKn4RgxOR65suMiNFlbCSW_Sfmf0zgBTJY5obd4tj0tdkSoO688Q-CbqtQb5Cvs6YV8K67TeN/s1600/doit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDs0PntCKjmwAUx1FiT7Vwzs3BP1-yNfjIFUVHpXJUhs5WyVwdSkWmyCjaJyB7AVSvGTYGKn4RgxOR65suMiNFlbCSW_Sfmf0zgBTJY5obd4tj0tdkSoO688Q-CbqtQb5Cvs6YV8K67TeN/s200/doit.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>So without further adieu, to those of you heading to Ironman - to the IM-Virgins, the veterans, and everyone in-between... Right now you've entered the taper. Perhaps you've been at this a few months, perhaps you've been at this a few years. For some of you this is your first IM, for others, a long-overdue welcome back to a race that few can match. You've been following your schedule to the letter. You've been piling on the mileage, piling up the laundry, and getting a set of tan lines that will take months or more to erase. Long rides were followed by long runs, which both were preceded by long swims, all of which were followed by recovery naps that may have been longer than you slept for any given night during college. </i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>You swam in the cold. You rode in the rain. You ran in the heat. You went out when others stayed home. You rode the trainer when others pulled the covers over their heads. You have survived the Darwinian progression that is Ironman training, and now the hardest days are behind you. Like a climber in the Tour de France coming over the summit of the penultimate climb on an alpine stage, you've already covered so much ground...there's just one more climb to go. You shift up, you take a drink, you zip up the jersey; the descent lays before you...and it will be a fast one. </i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>Time that used to be filled with never-ending training will now be filling with silent muscles, taking their final, well-earned rest. While this taper is something your body desperately needs, your mind, cast off to the background for so very long, will start to speak to you. It won't be pretty. It will bring up thoughts of doubt, pain, hunger, thirst, failure, and loss. It will give you reasons why you aren't ready. It will try and make one last stand to stop you, because your brain doesn't know what the body already does. Your body knows the truth: you are ready. Your brain won't believe it. It will use the taper to convince you that this is foolish - that there is too much that can go wrong. You are ready. </i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>Finishing an Ironman is never an accident. It's the result of dedication, focus, hard work, and belief that all the long runs in January, long rides in April, and long swims every $#%& week will be worth it. It comes from getting on the bike, day in, day out. It comes from long, solo runs. From that first long run where you wondered, "How will I ever be ready?" to the last long run where you smiled to yourself with one mile to go...knowing that you'd found the answer. It is worth it. Now that you're at the taper, you know it will be worth it. The workload becomes less. The body winds up and prepares, and you just need to quiet your worried mind. It is not easy, but you can do it. You are ready. </i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>You will walk into the water with 2000 other wide-open sets of eyes. You will look upon the sea of humanity, and know that you belong. You'll feel the chill of the water crawl against your skin, and shiver like everyone else, but smile because the day you have waited for, for so VERY long, is finally here. You will tear up in your goggles. The helicopter will roar overhead. The splashing will surround you. You'll stop thinking about Ironman, because you're now racing one. The swim will be long - it's long for everyone, but you'll make it. You'll watch as the final shoreline grows and grows, and soon you'll hear the end. You'll come up to the edge and head for the ladder. You may have to wait for someone to get off that sucker before you, but you will get your turn. You’ll find your transition bag—don’t worry about the sea of bags the same color, someone is there to help you--and run off to prepare for the bike (don’t forget the sunscreen, pick a volunteer near the end!). You may not always realize just what is happening but you won't wipe the smile off your face for anything and you'll settle down to your race. </i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>The crowds will spread out on the road. You'll be on the bike, eating your food on your schedule, controlling your Ironman. The site of a seemingly unlimited line of bikes before you and behind you is a site to behold. You'll start to feel that morning sun turn to afternoon sun. It's warmer now. Maybe it's hot—there’s shade in the tree cover at times. Maybe you're not feeling so good now. You'll keep riding. You'll keep drinking. You'll keep moving. After all, this is just a long training day with valet parking and catering, right? Your training got you this far—TRUST IT NOW! You'll put on your game face, fighting the urge to slow down as you ride for what seems like hours, well it is for hours but you’ve practiced this many times in training. </i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>You reach Special Needs, maybe you’ll stop a bit to fuel up, and head out again. By now it'll be hot and you'll be tired. Doubts will fight for your focus. Everyone struggles here. You've been on that bike for a few hours, and stopping would be nice, but you won't - not here, not today. You'll grind the false flats to the climbs. You'll know you're almost there. You'll fight for every inch of road. The occasional cheer will come back to you to help you here and there. Let their energy push you. Let them see your eyes. Smile when they cheer for you - your body will get just that little bit lighter. </i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>Grind. Fight. Suffer. Persevere. You'll plunge down the road, swooping from corner to corner, chaining together the turns, tucking on the straights, letting your legs recover for the run to come - soon! You'll roll back - you'll see people running. You'll think to yourself, "Wasn't I just here?" The noise will grow. The chalk dust will hang in the air - you're almost back, with only the 26.2 mile run to go. You'll relax a little bit, knowing that even if you get a flat tire or something breaks here, you can run the damn bike into T2. You'll roll into transition and volunteers will fight for your bike. You'll give it up and not look back. You'll have your transition bag handed to you, and into the tent you'll go. You'll change and load up your pockets, and open the door to the last long run of your Ironman season – this is the one that counts. </i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>You'll take that first step of a thousand...and you'll smile. You'll know that the bike won't let you down now - the race is down to your own two feet. The same crowd that cheered for you in the shadows of the morning will cheer for you in the brilliant sunshine of a hot Saturday. High-five people on the way out. Smile. Enjoy it. This is what you've worked for all year long. That first mile will feel great. So will the second. By mile 3, you probably won't feel so good. That's okay. You knew it couldn't all be that easy. You'll settle down just like you did on the bike, and get down to your pace. You may see leaders passing you on their own way through. Some will look great - some won't. You might feel great, you might not. No matter how you feel, don't panic - this is the part of the day where whatever you're feeling, you can be sure it won't last. </i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>You'll keep moving. You'll keep drinking. You'll keep eating. Maybe you'll be right on plan - maybe you won't. If you're ahead of schedule, don't worry - believe. If you're behind, don't panic - roll with it. Everyone comes up with a brilliant race plan for Ironman, and then everyone has to deal with the reality that planning for something like Ironman is like trying to land a man on the moon….by remote control….blindfolded. Expect things to go wrong and then just deal with it. How you react to the changes in your plan will dictate your day. Don't waste energy worrying about things - just do what you have to when you have to, and keep moving. Keep eating. Keep drinking. Just don't stop and don't EVER sit down. </i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>You'll make it through the first loop. You'll load up on special needs if you need. Some of what you packed will look good, some won't. Eat what looks good, toss the rest, you’ll be back here again anyway. Keep moving and start looking for people you know and cheer for people you don't. You're headed forward, some of them won’t be. They want to be where you are, just like you wanted to be when you saw all those fast people heading out faster than you earlier. Share some energy - you'll get it right back. Run if you can. Walk if you have to. Just keep moving. </i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>The miles will drag on. The brilliant sunshine will yawn. You'll be coming up to those aid stations fully alive with people, music, and chicken soup. Keep moving. You'll soon only have a mere lap to go. You'll start to believe that you're going to make it. You'll start to imagine how good it's going to feel when you get there. Let those feelings drive you on. When your legs just don't want to move anymore, think about what it's going to be like when someone catches you...puts a medal over your head......all you have to do is get there. You'll start to hear the call of the Waterway. People you can't see in the twilight will cheer for you. They'll call out your name. Smile and thank them, or just wave a bit—they’ll understand what you mean. They were there when you left on the bike, and when you came back, when you left on the run, and now when you've come back. </i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: left;"><i>You'll be running along the water for a while for the last time. You'll start to realize that the day is almost over. You'll be exhausted, wiped out, barely able to run a “decent”pace (if you're lucky), but you'll ask yourself, "Where did the whole day go?" You'll be standing on the edge of two feelings - the desire to finally stop, and the desire to take these last moments and make them last as long as possible. You'll hit mile 25. Your Ironman will have 1.2 miles - just 2KM left in it. You'll run. You'll find your legs. You won't know how, but you will run. You will feel like you’re flying at the end. The lights will grow brighter, brighter, and brighter. Soon you'll be able to hear the music again. This time, it'll be for keeps. </i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: left;"><i>Soon they'll see you. Soon, everyone will see you. You'll run towards the lights, between the fences, and into the night sun made just for you. Remember to take a moment to make this the finishing memory of a lifetime. They'll call your name. You'll keep running. You won’t feel the pain. The moment will be yours - for one moment, the entire world will be looking at you and only you. You'll cross the mat. The flash will go off, well actually many flashes were already going off. You'll stop. You'll finally stop. Your legs will wobble their last, and suddenly be capable of nothing more. Someone will catch you. You'll lean into them. It will suddenly hit you…<br />
<br />
<b>You are an Ironman. </b></i> </div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-88750674142705328892012-06-12T23:52:00.000-07:002012-06-12T23:52:06.750-07:00Ironman Week 23<i>6/4-6/10</i><br />
<br />
Aka <i>Weekly Recap, Instagram Edition. </i>Since I think a blog post is much more enjoyable with pictures, I thought I'd share some shots from my week, both from training and just life. Anyway, this week marked the first official taper week before Ironman, now just two short weeks away (!!!). Taper still meant 10+ hours of training though, and still included a long swim, bike, and run. With a little more free time, however, I was able to fit in some fun non-training stuff, too : ) The big highlight of the week was receiving this in an email:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-IXyPicV7U3egcTrar0A1u4PdkUyBRjVJaNTojQ1V93uZ3WNSPnvQ_dMZIpDM31hzrU6sHLHUmbRXOIiF5dXghP7uxzwbxxBvBXJN5PRxxODRFTM6VxnOM9xToR8z6jztQL4ama3HGVEL/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-06-06+at+11.46.15+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-IXyPicV7U3egcTrar0A1u4PdkUyBRjVJaNTojQ1V93uZ3WNSPnvQ_dMZIpDM31hzrU6sHLHUmbRXOIiF5dXghP7uxzwbxxBvBXJN5PRxxODRFTM6VxnOM9xToR8z6jztQL4ama3HGVEL/s320/Screen+shot+2012-06-06+at+11.46.15+PM.png" width="246" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>it's really happening!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div style="text-align: left;">And then seeing that bib numbers were posted!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpc6NKQz3t6P_IwE5MKhC5lInMSnBLlqwOKAmjtEuesEsUC4wZplU_CNJq_ooX19gKeff9-CyoVnNiRgKLO_Lae2Rbjkdi66KbdK5JzCd9CcRLW4uGQNR5DozEp9dLDRXkkoe68jNZvDF/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-06-06+at+11.51.20+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="88" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpc6NKQz3t6P_IwE5MKhC5lInMSnBLlqwOKAmjtEuesEsUC4wZplU_CNJq_ooX19gKeff9-CyoVnNiRgKLO_Lae2Rbjkdi66KbdK5JzCd9CcRLW4uGQNR5DozEp9dLDRXkkoe68jNZvDF/s400/Screen+shot+2012-06-06+at+11.51.20+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="color: black;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i> start sending good vibes for #144!</i></div></div><br />
<u><b>Monday</b></u><br />
<i>rest</i><br />
<br />
<u><b>Tuesday</b></u><br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: #38761d;">bike / 17.8 mi / 1:00 / avg 17.8 mph</span></i><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: black;">Being a day off, I had both a swim, bike, and run scheduled to take advantage of the free day. I slept in a bit, ate a good breakfast, and made a homemade carrot-apple-orange-ginger juice. I had track that night, so my plan was to ride in the early afternoon, head to the pool, then straight to the track. Triathlon Tuesday was a looong day!</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJDGs7A4E07B7EJOTtYzHo1BQHNejXSi-08PzdlfI3ft_QTRk7sE1_soniCEYcBAkBAqcBBgte2T0pn03IrHKA9fDMrbpQ844yxJYUCVm08TzoT7EjCHv70EbS4dODc5qtopBZx8uH8z4/s1600/instagram6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJDGs7A4E07B7EJOTtYzHo1BQHNejXSi-08PzdlfI3ft_QTRk7sE1_soniCEYcBAkBAqcBBgte2T0pn03IrHKA9fDMrbpQ844yxJYUCVm08TzoT7EjCHv70EbS4dODc5qtopBZx8uH8z4/s320/instagram6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span><i>started off Triathlon Tuesday with a delicious juice!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: black;">Not sure why, but this was a great ride! I kept my HR in a steady zone 2 but was able to push the pace. Side note: I'd thought my HR monitor was on the fritz after it wasn't being detected during the Motherlode Century, so I just haven't been using it since. I decided to throw it on for the ride just to double check, and sure enough it seems to be working!</span></span><i><span style="color: #38761d;"> </span></i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"></div><br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 3,700 yds / 1:25</span></i><br />
<ul><li>warm-up:</li>
<ul><li>5x200, RI=20"</li>
</ul><li>main:</li>
<ul><li>4 x [100 drill / 100 @1:50 / 100 @1:40-1:45], RI=15"</li>
<li>12x75 as 25 kick / 25 technique / 25 fast, RI=15"</li>
</ul><li>cool-down:</li>
<ul><li>4x50 swim golf</li>
<li>400 easy</li>
</ul></ul>This was my longest swim to date, and will be my longest before Ironman. I felt like I was in the pool <i>forever</i>, but fortunately the actual workout was broken up so it wasn't too boring. The faster 100s were a challenge, and I was definitely on the higher end of the pace range, but I stuck it out. By the end, though, I just wanted to get out of the water! I also got a late start and had to rush to track, my skin still pruny and my eyes ringed from my goggles : / <br />
<br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: red;">run / 3.8 mi / 0:32 / avg 8:25</span></i><br />
This week's track workout was a little different than usual: a continuous 3 miles, increasing the pace each lap so that the final lap of each mile was at a hard effort. I felt ok for the first mile, but started to feel very nauseous in the last two. I managed to stay pretty consistent with my paces, but I didn't feel so great by the end. It was a hot day, I was tired from riding and swimming before, and I may not have eaten enough that afternoon. As we finished we joined the rest of the group for a few 100m all-out sprints (16.4, 15.9, 16.7). I haven't ran this fast in a <i>looong</i> time, and it was almost kind of fun! But thank God it was such a short distance : )<br />
<br />
<u><b>Wednesday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: #38761d;">bike / 76.8 mi / 4:30 / avg 17.1 mph</span></i><br />
<div style="color: black;">Since my long rides have been during the week due to my work schedule, I usually end up doing them alone. This week, however, my friend Cris (who's also doing Cd'A) had a 2 hour ride on deck so I decided to split my ride and join her.<br />
<br />
We met at her place in Natomas and set out on the levy before hopping on the bike trail. Our pace on the bike trail was pretty good, but riding on the roads before and after slowed us down a bit. It was a beautiful morning and so great to have the company. The 2 hours went by pretty fast and I said goodbye and headed back home. About an hour later I set out solo for the second half of my ride. I just went up and down the bike trail, and actually had a much faster ride, going from a 16.3 mph average by the end of the first 2 hours to a 17.1 mph average at the end of 4.5 hours. My legs felt pretty good and my bum wasn't <i>too</i> uncomfortable. The highlight of the ride, however, was seeing this guy:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBNOC5AtGHtbjg-qZElRW-e2RmJwxu00qVQX7BlBzco-EfybDQwr_TsKj2XwwZ9k9XOzlgNv5WhfnKw3xhhyphenhypheneC_LvLjy_noJ8jEa5uSxmtiArjz05zS5LEXpkFgBabyr8AAb85fOGvsxTr/s1600/instagram7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBNOC5AtGHtbjg-qZElRW-e2RmJwxu00qVQX7BlBzco-EfybDQwr_TsKj2XwwZ9k9XOzlgNv5WhfnKw3xhhyphenhypheneC_LvLjy_noJ8jEa5uSxmtiArjz05zS5LEXpkFgBabyr8AAb85fOGvsxTr/s320/instagram7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
This is the second turtle I've spotted on the bike trail, and this time I happened to have my camera on me! Once again, he was crossing the bike trail, so I moved him back to the bushes on the river side : )<br />
<br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: red;">run / 3.3 mi / 0:30 / avg 9:15</span></i><br />
I almost thought of skipping this, but then I remembered it was National Running Day. So even though it was only a 30 minute transition run, I was glad I got in a few miles!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwCveEN9-A8gEnMUZUuWex8f9CHHzJ7WfHXsdqzrrH5SpfT3mxgC4JKubNqIk95ZILzcZvB_S8XBJnOncDtDZ8ZQNGNDLm4MyAm-3QpRWzOHNYShaPTqiMTV6QSvLTtxtoRt0oWuj1DE9/s1600/runday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwCveEN9-A8gEnMUZUuWex8f9CHHzJ7WfHXsdqzrrH5SpfT3mxgC4JKubNqIk95ZILzcZvB_S8XBJnOncDtDZ8ZQNGNDLm4MyAm-3QpRWzOHNYShaPTqiMTV6QSvLTtxtoRt0oWuj1DE9/s320/runday.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I was absolutely starved after training for 5 hours, so my mom and I went out for dinner at one of my favorite local restaurants, the hip Tower Cafe. I will say that one thing I will miss about Ironman training is being able to eat whatever I want!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBEUOV31JyIRCGfSVOx6sxS5ys3lVoTsEAoPBkBm6VgKtb-uRFI674g019yBZYFYjY_XcHMk493GE6hRgE072aOir5trUbRK1nx8YFmBZ2wE5JSMFx0bUEgFBijq3bX7fG586w93BuFrmb/s1600/instagram9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBEUOV31JyIRCGfSVOx6sxS5ys3lVoTsEAoPBkBm6VgKtb-uRFI674g019yBZYFYjY_XcHMk493GE6hRgE072aOir5trUbRK1nx8YFmBZ2wE5JSMFx0bUEgFBijq3bX7fG586w93BuFrmb/s320/instagram9.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><br />
<u><b>Thursday</b></u><br />
Thursday nights I usually go to the MTC group swim, but toward the end of my shift at work I was feeling pretty gross. I think I was more rundown than anything, but I was tired and felt a little feverish. I got halfway to the pool before deciding that calling it an early evening and getting some extra rest was a better choice. I had a scheduled rest day the next day and figured 2 days in a row would hopefully leave me rested and refreshed.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Friday</b></u><br />
<i>rest</i><br />
<br />
<u><b>Saturday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: #38761d;">bike / 19.6 mi / 1:10 / avg 16.8 mph</span></i><br />
Holy wind! I was sleeping with my window open and woke up to loud noises outside. It sounded like wind, but I thought there was no way it could be <i>that</i> windy. Oh, but it sure was! I almost considered throwing my bike on the trainer but was short on time so I just figured I'd get it done. Thankfully it wasn't a direct headwind for most of the ride, but it was still pretty brutal. In some sections it was so strong I could barely manage 14 mph, and others I had the wind on my back and was cruising at 20 mph. In some spots the crosswinds were so strong I thought I was going to be blown off my bike. I had intervals as part of the workout, too, but with the conditions I just focused on moving forward and getting the ride done.<br />
<br />
I was supposed to do a 30 minute transition run, but didn't allot enough time for it, so I skipped it. Normally I'd feel a little guilty, but honestly I was glad I didn't have to go back out in that wind!<br />
<br />
The wind continued the rest of the day, filling the roads with branches, leaves, and other debris, and being a pain in the ass for allergy sufferers. Here's a video I took to try and capture how crazy the gusts were:<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/XM4ogQ1RM5g?rel=0" width="420"></iframe> <br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">I didn't have any training to do that evening so I took advantage of the chance to wear normal clothes and have a bit of a social life. My coworker and I went to Pops in the Park again, and then headed back to midtown for Second Saturday to grab dinner before heading to a concert. Mickey Avalon was performing at a local club and we were able to get in free through some connections. I was totally out of my element (wearing a maxi dress when most of the females there were practically naked), but it was still quite fun. Mickey is absolutely insane, and I mostly just stared at him in awe during his performance. It ended up being a late night, and I hoped it wouldn't come back to bite me Sunday morning during my long run!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBzFK8n1X6q60pjh5HBm2BRqGstfxq4FyLIQjNeGUE9qI6c24dP0fiNcZOfcga3xOZK30AZSYRv28QWzjDalgOoNdETWi6yJ4tBq318iygCpqqx9R9OwJBaiKQ4fHST-fuqZR4JnCrsIYb/s1600/instagram10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBzFK8n1X6q60pjh5HBm2BRqGstfxq4FyLIQjNeGUE9qI6c24dP0fiNcZOfcga3xOZK30AZSYRv28QWzjDalgOoNdETWi6yJ4tBq318iygCpqqx9R9OwJBaiKQ4fHST-fuqZR4JnCrsIYb/s320/instagram10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><i>Mickey Avalon</i><br />
<i> </i></div><u><b>Sunday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: red;">run / 12.9 mi / 2:00 / avg 9:18</span></i><br />
<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">After staying out a tad too late and having a couple drinks the night before, I didn't</span></span><i><span style="color: red;"> </span></i><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">know how this run would go, but I figured it was <i>only</i> two hours so one way or another I'd get through it. I didn't have to work til noon so I got to sleep in for a bit, and that probably was my saving grace. I was still tired and a little dehydrated when I set out, but I managed to have a pretty decent run. It was a warm but clear morning, with tons of people, especially cyclists, out on the bike trail. This was also my last long run before Ironman...yikes!</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBjLwKvXOqirVH7lyroA_GpJ4Bpps_Xn_3a8oZiPEmkeLXejqWhPnYWKebrqU5l32EC72q4KWrqhOXHsew9bv_Tb5k3hni4Bx0etCKY5wKiCyAP5qsZUAU4vMduyS2pq8UHiojLhuTjhQq/s1600/instagram11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBjLwKvXOqirVH7lyroA_GpJ4Bpps_Xn_3a8oZiPEmkeLXejqWhPnYWKebrqU5l32EC72q4KWrqhOXHsew9bv_Tb5k3hni4Bx0etCKY5wKiCyAP5qsZUAU4vMduyS2pq8UHiojLhuTjhQq/s320/instagram11.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>spotted this guy along the way...king of the squirrels!</i><br />
<i> </i></div><i>pm: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 1,600 yds* / 0:30</span></i><br />
After work I headed to Lake Natoma for my weekly open water swim. It was a hot day, so the water actually felt amazing. I was bummed to find that they'd removed most of the buoy lines, but fortunately there was still one line left. I had a shorter swim this week so I swam the length of the buoy line and back, then went back out for a few minutes to get to 30 minutes. While I swam I tried to do some visualization of my Ironman swim, focusing on keeping myself relaxed and maintaining good form. Hard to believe that if all goes well I'll be an Ironman in two weeks!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg50d0mRI8RfNuRACXlh4C2gbUbZplDit0Lw2P5e_BKZHE6T2KIyiODkIZHOMF0pirrbgP5lkWPZM1IQ4AbdiEfOXziFXGQzz98EIgVJtm5CpqY073ltHKX2SX0_rWYz19G_wa_7xfOx5dB/s1600/instagram8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg50d0mRI8RfNuRACXlh4C2gbUbZplDit0Lw2P5e_BKZHE6T2KIyiODkIZHOMF0pirrbgP5lkWPZM1IQ4AbdiEfOXziFXGQzz98EIgVJtm5CpqY073ltHKX2SX0_rWYz19G_wa_7xfOx5dB/s320/instagram8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i>nothing to do with training, just a gratuitous pup pic </i>: )</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><u><b>Totals</b></u></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;">swim: <span style="color: black;">5,300 yards</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">bike: <span style="color: black;">114.2 miles</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">run: <span style="color: black;">20 miles</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #444444;">other: <span style="color: black;">0 hours</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>total time: 11.6 hours</i></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-46631564015040684122012-06-11T17:07:00.000-07:002012-06-11T17:07:10.818-07:00Review: Speedfil Hydration SystemFueling and hydration are sort of the unofficial fourth sport of triathlon, and for long course, can be especially tricky. Just as the bike legs is disproportionately longer than the swim or the run, it also requires the majority of calories. Figuring out not only <i>what</i> to eat and drink, but also <i>how</i> to do so has been an ongoing challenge, but I think I've finally found a great system that works for me.<br />
<br />
A big part of figuring this whole thing out was simply how to just carry enough. I've been a notorious under-fueler in the past, and so it was imperative to carry enough fluids and calories to get me through a long ride or race. A big part of this was my discovery of <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/03/review-gu-roctane-ultra-endurance-drink.html">Gu Roctance</a>, which allows me to get a big percentage of my calories (and also electrolytes) through fluids. It's much easier for me to drink such a high amount of calories rather than try to consume them through solid food, which would also require carrying a lot more stuff!<br />
<br />
And so I started training with Roctance, supplementing with Honey Stinger waffles, and that seemed to be doing the trick for me. However, I needed a better way to carry my fluids, and also a way to carry more as my training rides got longer and longer. When I bought my bike, my frame could only fit one bottle cage, so I had a two-bottle wing system installed on the back of my seat post. This allowed me to ride with approximately 60 oz of fluids at a time. Not bad, but there was a problem: I was not comfortable grabbing the bottles on the back. In fact, to this day, I never have while riding, only when stopped. This clearly created a problem, as I would need those fluids during my rides (and my races) and I couldn't stop every time I needed more to drink. I also found that I didn't drink as frequently from the bottle on my frame because I hated having to come out of aero and slow down to do so.<br />
<br />
Enter, the<a href="http://www.invisciddesign.com/index.html"> Speedfil Hydration System</a>. I'd heard of hydration systems that were hands-free, making them ideal for triathletes, but I had yet to do any research. I first spotted one on my coach's bike, and it happened to be the <a href="http://www.invisciddesign.com/standard.htm">Speedfil Standard</a> system. It looked like a giant bottle mounted to the frame with a straw that came up through the handlebars. She had great things to say about it, so when I got home later I looked it up and read a bunch of reviews. Most were quite positive, but there were a few recurring complaints that I read, although all were fairly minor. With <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/05/wildflower-long-course-race-report.html">Wildflower</a> coming up I decided to go for it and drove out to Davis to pick one up.<br />
<br />
It definitely is not a cheap product - nearly $100 for the system - but in hindsight I think it's well worth it. A little overview of what the system entails:<br />
<ul><li>a 40 oz frame-mountable bottle w/ an aerodynamic design (aka it's narrow)</li>
<li>a plastic tube that serves as a straw w/ bite valve + a wired sleeve to allow for bending)</li>
<li>an opening on the top to allow for on-the-go refilling </li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip4R9e2TmgelLRhLhHhccHFi1BSowHIvzmZN3Yhwg6Gr2EMbpxry-havaTfkWBwLkCMZPLOtg7FXOkzIIIVVs5pUpHe6L9H_p9p1TwA_Gim-LtJt_4smJ5OdloBbd3q8u4_P9Qtk_fyMjs/s1600/speedfil1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip4R9e2TmgelLRhLhHhccHFi1BSowHIvzmZN3Yhwg6Gr2EMbpxry-havaTfkWBwLkCMZPLOtg7FXOkzIIIVVs5pUpHe6L9H_p9p1TwA_Gim-LtJt_4smJ5OdloBbd3q8u4_P9Qtk_fyMjs/s320/speedfil1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Installation ended up being a tad tricky. It didn't come with the clearest instructions, nor with pictures or diagrams, but a quick Google search turned up a video that was fairly helpful (although with no verbal instructions, it still left me a tad confused). I managed to figure it out, however, and gave myself a little pat on the back : ) <b><u><i>Tip</i></u></b><i>:</i> When installing the straw, get on your bike and play around with the positioning before you cut the tubing! You want it to reach the bottom of the bottle, but also need to figure out what the best height is between your handlebars for you to reach.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaVGqLCBC5UArahiisjS3O_tYCv7pDDJQgMyGSjSnWbVwn3aruxFmcuUOH_eW44wv57M8JJwr-HsYgkg89sWsxx7w56IIZRn1IirxyW0ZLynya7MvNYhfpT17Af8ZpiR-ZgqkOnRAKFg2C/s1600/speedfil2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaVGqLCBC5UArahiisjS3O_tYCv7pDDJQgMyGSjSnWbVwn3aruxFmcuUOH_eW44wv57M8JJwr-HsYgkg89sWsxx7w56IIZRn1IirxyW0ZLynya7MvNYhfpT17Af8ZpiR-ZgqkOnRAKFg2C/s320/speedfil2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>successfully installed!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2vySzxr834fkIN37x_CNVlNljSM6wR8LLO1M0nEGSWn2sjvyQtcG83MnK39drpqu1w830fyhDSJ73WGOlpKoTnMJ36iQcWjtP55P_guroSW0xsY7N2y9MhTEBebFOsfwM7IPq04s7poF/s1600/speedfil3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2vySzxr834fkIN37x_CNVlNljSM6wR8LLO1M0nEGSWn2sjvyQtcG83MnK39drpqu1w830fyhDSJ73WGOlpKoTnMJ36iQcWjtP55P_guroSW0xsY7N2y9MhTEBebFOsfwM7IPq04s7poF/s320/speedfil3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>the full set-up</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEIKpMfHZ1YY4nQ2hUn9II3jJE6ze7XJlQKaCKYhJHZrJy8ZWNgPsTRI3GcRoV0YYW6yEZrBxJVdgGeVxo22_r9lrgywmUE5jDPjtR87uarb9wkY-wnV-rFQNY57bP5lFUsGDMXxDVDtRc/s1600/speedfil4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEIKpMfHZ1YY4nQ2hUn9II3jJE6ze7XJlQKaCKYhJHZrJy8ZWNgPsTRI3GcRoV0YYW6yEZrBxJVdgGeVxo22_r9lrgywmUE5jDPjtR87uarb9wkY-wnV-rFQNY57bP5lFUsGDMXxDVDtRc/s320/speedfil4.jpg" width="203" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>The first time I used it was actually at Wildflower...and fortunately, it worked great! I filled the bottle with 2 servings of Gu Roctane (so 480 calories) and then carried water in the bottles on the back. The straw was fairly easy to get to in aero, and I ended up hydrating and fueling much better with such easy access. <u><b><i>Tip</i></b></u><i>:</i> When filling, mix your drink in a regular water bottle, then pour into the Speedfil bottle through the refill opening.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx7zW884uAlP2ufCaHq5YeegcegXxT9RSdNfLzxwixHKnki831PQ-m2jtm9WGmir-0k2_vi509sIvWaUZg4j-5tGSPjLVYdW3v_0bakUepTtMshMhj8BrsiYP0n9ObJp-51I-HedKmyoZc/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-06-11+at+4.53.56+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx7zW884uAlP2ufCaHq5YeegcegXxT9RSdNfLzxwixHKnki831PQ-m2jtm9WGmir-0k2_vi509sIvWaUZg4j-5tGSPjLVYdW3v_0bakUepTtMshMhj8BrsiYP0n9ObJp-51I-HedKmyoZc/s320/Screen+shot+2012-06-11+at+4.53.56+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>not my bike, but shows another angle</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(<a href="http://www.invisciddesign.com/standard.htm">source</a>)</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZA2KALEfLCp7FmTC0XdADDbfJHkaylpA4qmpWJLGPgRa8n8-BEb2Q1coC6o4yzJuNW9cOA3ABmvF3ekUIvH0EfksQDUVvOzKKagzhXpYufhdyrw3SUtACzwLDTp8qDz6x6fVhlLhhzbU/s1600/IMAG1312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZA2KALEfLCp7FmTC0XdADDbfJHkaylpA4qmpWJLGPgRa8n8-BEb2Q1coC6o4yzJuNW9cOA3ABmvF3ekUIvH0EfksQDUVvOzKKagzhXpYufhdyrw3SUtACzwLDTp8qDz6x6fVhlLhhzbU/s320/IMAG1312.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> </i></span><i>you just squeeze more fluids through this opening to refill</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Since then, I've used it numerous times on rides up to 5.5 hours and I'm still loving it. On the longer rides I've also been carrying water and another serving of Roctane in the back bottles, and refill my Speedfil bottle at stops. I have yet to do so while riding (mainly because I still don't feel comfortable reaching back), but I have no problem stopping for a minute to refill. I've also found that the complaints I read about in the reviews haven't really been an issue for me. For instance many complained that it's a pain in the ass to get the bottle in/out of the cage, and while it is a little trickier than a regular bottle cage, it's not that difficult. Cleaning has also been a breeze, although I do make sure I take it out and rinse it the same day I use it so it doesn't get sticky and gross. <b><u><i>Tip</i></u></b><i>:</i> When cleaning, use hot water and suck it up the straw then blow it out to rinse it out.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Pros</u>:</b><br />
<ul><li>can carry <i>a lot</i> of fluids (40 oz)</li>
<li>makes for easy hands-free hydration</li>
<li>easy on-the-go refilling</li>
<li>bite valve holds fluids at the ready (aka no sucking air) </li>
</ul><b><u>Cons</u>:</b><br />
<ul><li>expensive</li>
<li>can be tricky to install</li>
</ul>Overall, I think this is a great system. I know a lot of others use bottles mounted to the aero bars, but I really like keeping that area less cluttered. Plus, you can carry so much more fluid with this system. This would probably be overkill for shorter races, but for long course training and racing it's a great system. Easy to use, great design, and well made. So far, I love it : )<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>What kind of hydration or fueling system do you use?</b></i></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-10957825353732861092012-06-08T00:28:00.000-07:002012-06-08T00:28:26.606-07:00For RealsThis came in an email yesterday:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5B5aj6VTs28tAd4VDC0fwdNjiBo_A71MUy09pWEm9jTUT1ScFk35kZGxHjNsH2qcRbciA1UQdMs71v7DMp9Dxblcqoe1r7s4Vv3_knV4MEuJTklhfyfiVg1Sw8YTyWLMyttW5O4mHVXmh/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-06-06+at+11.46.15+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5B5aj6VTs28tAd4VDC0fwdNjiBo_A71MUy09pWEm9jTUT1ScFk35kZGxHjNsH2qcRbciA1UQdMs71v7DMp9Dxblcqoe1r7s4Vv3_knV4MEuJTklhfyfiVg1Sw8YTyWLMyttW5O4mHVXmh/s320/Screen+shot+2012-06-06+at+11.46.15+PM.png" width="246" /></a></div><br />
And bib numbers were posted:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvpzKrfsDMBz2upreNeqwhFHECy957Xa8paNecodtIXOh0oZJ5hy91ryC85XHTIOclxoz3wU5LAEv-bLotFY0DAc1RK-YHWCddStcSuCZmbTQvRxiK5ik1FTFJ-kBe2V-_Cuzd3bJLgS8z/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-06-06+at+11.51.20+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="88" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvpzKrfsDMBz2upreNeqwhFHECy957Xa8paNecodtIXOh0oZJ5hy91ryC85XHTIOclxoz3wU5LAEv-bLotFY0DAc1RK-YHWCddStcSuCZmbTQvRxiK5ik1FTFJ-kBe2V-_Cuzd3bJLgS8z/s400/Screen+shot+2012-06-06+at+11.51.20+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>16 DAYS... SHIT JUST GOT REAL!!!</b></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-62392389010913400882012-06-08T00:15:00.000-07:002012-06-08T00:15:21.421-07:00Ironman Week 22<i>5/28-6/3</i><br />
<br />
This recap is overdue, and I'm overly tired, so I'll make it quick. It was a bit of a weird week training-wise in that I did my peak ride (94 miles) and run (19 miles) and had a long swim (1:15), but all the other workouts were pretty short and low intensity. I had two scheduled rest days and ended up taking a third, and I think it helped my muscles recover a bit faster. I also realized that part of the reason I might be so exhausted lately is iron deficiency, so I've upped my intake (lots of spinach!) and will hopefully get some more energy soon.<br />
<br />
Other highlights include taking my first fall on my bike, but fortunately both my bike and I were ok : ) I also finally got a <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/06/all-dialed-in.html">professional fit</a> on my bike which so far seems to help with some of my nagging issues. The big excitement this week, however, is that with just three weeks left (!!!), it's officially time to taper!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR_bHcjLqLBaTkapobeAD0dXg9jW_aLBJIshWQyrRl5YYKnK5zdhh0f3H7B-KLj8Xi62yiPcgZUjOF8bEDfD-b3UUvqKhi7nPs9IHP2RdW53181V29zL6OirMb0HhDKla_HUAaN5VSUHo0/s1600/stem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR_bHcjLqLBaTkapobeAD0dXg9jW_aLBJIshWQyrRl5YYKnK5zdhh0f3H7B-KLj8Xi62yiPcgZUjOF8bEDfD-b3UUvqKhi7nPs9IHP2RdW53181V29zL6OirMb0HhDKla_HUAaN5VSUHo0/s320/stem.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>one of the big changes - a longer stem!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><u><b>Monday</b></u><br />
<i>rest</i><br />
<br />
<u><b>Tuesday</b></u><br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 3,400 yds / 1:15</span></i><br />
<ul><li>warm-up:</li>
<ul><li>200 easy</li>
<li>200 drill</li>
<li>200 kick</li>
<li>200 easy</li>
</ul><li>main:</li>
<ul><li>6x150 as 50 easy free/50 non-free/50 fast</li>
<li>4x300 pull @ 1:50 on 6:00</li>
</ul><li>cool-down: </li>
<ul><li>5x100, RI = 15"</li>
</ul></ul>Once again, my longest swim to date! It was a pretty steady workout, but I was definitely tired (and pruny) by the end. And those pull sets were killer!<br />
<br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: red;">run / 5.5 mi / 0:46 / avg 8:26</span></i><br />
I had to rush straight from my swim to the track, and after such a long swim my body was tired and not ready to run hard. On deck was 6x800 with 400 recovery (3:48, 3:52, 3:48, 3:53, 3:56, 3:55). I tried to focus on effort and keep things at a "hard" effort, and while they weren't quite as fast as <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/05/ironman-week-21.html">last week's</a> 800s, I was happy considering the swim beforehand. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEZnkbbLv68ZMprE4NE1vinx7YoIF2oqqNQE3Ka7rRjXyhRGhJHgacqzsNfJoSmwKlX-zriplyV8NlrDDedkOXEScVXJiCPmDL9u-oolL8GG0-hDXewiOBCcDsn7q899h63if0M1iVxeWt/s1600/may29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEZnkbbLv68ZMprE4NE1vinx7YoIF2oqqNQE3Ka7rRjXyhRGhJHgacqzsNfJoSmwKlX-zriplyV8NlrDDedkOXEScVXJiCPmDL9u-oolL8GG0-hDXewiOBCcDsn7q899h63if0M1iVxeWt/s320/may29.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div><u><b>Wednesday</b></u><br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: #38761d;">bike / 94.5 mi / 5:30 / avg 17.2 mph</span></i><br />
I knew this was going to be my longest ride before Ironman, and I was both nervous and excited for it. It was also my first ride after my bike fit and I was eager to see how things felt. The initial challenge was simply figuring out where to go! Since I was doing it alone I didn't want to try any fancy new route, but trying to plan for 90+ miles is tough when you usually stick to a bike path! I decided to head out to Davis since the directions were pretty straightforward and I had a general idea of the route.<br />
<br />
I headed up the bike trail to Discovery Park, hopped onto the levy of the Sacramento River, and then crossed Tower Bridge into West Sac. This part was a little sketchy and I wasn't sure I was going the right way. In one particular section there was no bike lane, so I decided to stop and pull onto the sidewalk to double check my directions. As I went to turn onto the sidewalk, however, I didn't realize the lip of the curb was so high and my wheel turned parallel with it and threw me off my bike onto the sidewalk! Fortunately I was ok, and more importantly, so was my bike! Honestly, I'm kind of glad to have this out of the way. I've been waiting for it to happen, and it wasn't that bad!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUElUBiAzJpLL3S-z0YNEy4tAduwP0YKpjVGxb3nAInmRLCyGwFRea62CzhfgLQP4e4puhshkOFP7znY7YaZWxBU6S9kstSkkA36wqtstWW0bfO8nTCkiwY_KADpJGNWppB1jdi-F1ZW9o/s1600/may30_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUElUBiAzJpLL3S-z0YNEy4tAduwP0YKpjVGxb3nAInmRLCyGwFRea62CzhfgLQP4e4puhshkOFP7znY7YaZWxBU6S9kstSkkA36wqtstWW0bfO8nTCkiwY_KADpJGNWppB1jdi-F1ZW9o/s320/may30_7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Sacramento River</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dbkQw5W44_8XaFRxaPM5LLLqsl8ymHzPC_zmEo81vcoJ68RCTzK_ucWGf1-zRl-8KqR6kqytmKjVu8M20jH0vKRIrmtWhm_sOZTirExySumQekm95WjWdhi4mVlU9TthADiYGIj2rAZQ/s1600/may30_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9dbkQw5W44_8XaFRxaPM5LLLqsl8ymHzPC_zmEo81vcoJ68RCTzK_ucWGf1-zRl-8KqR6kqytmKjVu8M20jH0vKRIrmtWhm_sOZTirExySumQekm95WjWdhi4mVlU9TthADiYGIj2rAZQ/s320/may30_6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Tower Bridge</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>It turned out I was going the right way, and eventually I came to the end of the street and saw signs for the bike route to Davis. From there I hopped on the Causeway, a 2ish mile stretch of highway intersecting empty fields between Sacramento and Davis. From the Causeway I followed the signs onto some country roads and eventually made it to Davis! From there I decided to improvise a bit. I knew the longer I rode out here the less I'd have to do back on the bike trail. So I headed out on one of the main streets, which alternately took me through rural fields, Davis neighborhoods, and then back onto wide open country roads heading toward Winters. The roads here got a little rough and didn't feel quite as safe, so after an hour and 45 minutes I turned back.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKplHV2TsCuGUhqVYrv1ukmpdaYfFPgH8peZvZ9HGtz1wqAb5tbmjbKRmj2gHrIHWuRCj9dEGw0VsVfFPKW_OrhmSeueilY0j6vAWwY1MLbOriyx4nfyGG-u58jXP0rnKn6A-nnlPm2E9K/s1600/may30_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKplHV2TsCuGUhqVYrv1ukmpdaYfFPgH8peZvZ9HGtz1wqAb5tbmjbKRmj2gHrIHWuRCj9dEGw0VsVfFPKW_OrhmSeueilY0j6vAWwY1MLbOriyx4nfyGG-u58jXP0rnKn6A-nnlPm2E9K/s320/may30_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwoFG8xiDp8NP372GRqrTT_vkebKZ55vH7CB8OwWytmhrYFDS0amMVAmB-hedmM4teNxrxow2xD7p8C02Kqz6dACf0FmCfJIlAr6TMIWPid2LkzJTe7fUysdaD_b9qX22g1CR_pXJuA5-p/s1600/may30_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwoFG8xiDp8NP372GRqrTT_vkebKZ55vH7CB8OwWytmhrYFDS0amMVAmB-hedmM4teNxrxow2xD7p8C02Kqz6dACf0FmCfJIlAr6TMIWPid2LkzJTe7fUysdaD_b9qX22g1CR_pXJuA5-p/s320/may30_4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Causeway</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZiZTvWrmweR3iXAni2c4e4dR6RRwcZBufAM3-tbBtNT3syrMxaNI3CkVKY8IXM3_3ElQXrsAtCtTjm6wrW9C7aJTeFXGu636q0LLGPwZ7arSHK0rMeBIl_CQus9AoLrM72vzPXLyX8y7/s1600/may30_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRZiZTvWrmweR3iXAni2c4e4dR6RRwcZBufAM3-tbBtNT3syrMxaNI3CkVKY8IXM3_3ElQXrsAtCtTjm6wrW9C7aJTeFXGu636q0LLGPwZ7arSHK0rMeBIl_CQus9AoLrM72vzPXLyX8y7/s320/may30_3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>The way back was fairly uneventful, and this time I at least knew where I was going! When I got back on the bike trail I still had a couple hours to go so I headed up toward Lake Natoma and did an out-and-back. Surprisingly, I seemed to end up riding a bit faster in the latter half of the ride, and my legs felt pretty good. But I was definitely happy to be done when, nearly 94 miles, I finally arrived back home after spending what felt like the entire day on my bike. I was exhausted, starving, and a little sore, but I do think I could have rode another 17 miles. And more than that, it was the first time I thought, "You know what, maybe I <i>can</i> do this Ironman!"<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>As for how my bike felt after getting fit Tuesday? Well, it was <i>better</i>, but not <i>perfect.</i> My bum/crotch felt much better until the last 1.5 hours, and even then it was a slightly different kind of discomfort than usual. It did feel a lot better to be more stretched out, and my legs seemed to feel better as well. I had a little bit of shoulder pain, but again, not as much as usual. So I do think it was an improvement, but I'm looking forward to my follow-up on the 15th to address some of these things. At this point, I can't help but wonder if it's the actual saddle that just isn't right for me, but even if that is the case, there's not much I can do 3 weeks out : /<br />
<br />
<u><b>Thursday</b></u><br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 2,350 yds / 0:50</span></i><br />
<ul><li>warm-up:</li>
<ul><li>200 easy</li>
<li>5x50 as 25 drill/25 swim</li>
</ul><li>main:</li>
<ul><li>6x100 steady, RI = 10"</li>
<li>3x200 steady, RI = 20"</li>
<li>2x300 steady, RI = 30"</li>
</ul><li>cool-down: 100</li>
</ul>My coach (and the coach for MTC) was in Hawaii to race the 70.3 so our group workout was pretty simple and straightforward. I felt slower than usual, probably due to Wednesday's ride, and I struggled to keep my paces consistent as the sets got longer. My whole right side of my body, especially my arm, were sore, and I eventually realized that it was from my fall the day before. I think I tried to brace myself on impact and also tried to protect my bike, because it felt more like muscle soreness than bruising. Swimming actually felt pretty good and seemed to loosen things up.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Friday</b></u><br />
<i>rest</i><br />
<br />
<u><b>Saturday</b></u><br />
<i>rest</i><br />
I had an easy hour ride to do, but opted to skip it and get a little more rest. I was exhausted after the last few days, both from training and from long days at work (we had a big race happening on Sunday and were crazy busy this week/weekend), so I figured in the big picture it was the right choice.<br />
<br />
After work I joined some coworkers and my family at a local summer tradition called Pops in the Park. Each week during summer the city hosts concerts in various local parks and people bring blankets and food and hang out picnic-style. It's a great, casual, relaxed atmosphere, and something I've been looking forward to. Since starting Ironman training back in January I've lost what little social life I did have, so it was nice to dress up and hang out with friends. Honestly, it made me look forward to post-IM life even more!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQUGvxSRH1sdYpo76Hf3WkkzCnzPkbNFswRki-FagLvkekpQ4RyvuJXJdjsnb3Mhk3ztadhjzrzthaLaage7yUtAI9rIwqt_IGQoLuIXPhMWO3rK2D4H0ylRpattTMRlROScCtxtOvbgAL/s1600/pops1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQUGvxSRH1sdYpo76Hf3WkkzCnzPkbNFswRki-FagLvkekpQ4RyvuJXJdjsnb3Mhk3ztadhjzrzthaLaage7yUtAI9rIwqt_IGQoLuIXPhMWO3rK2D4H0ylRpattTMRlROScCtxtOvbgAL/s320/pops1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Pops in the Park </i>: )</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcBFD6hYRjxLGps_5Bfl7O1Q7kCAcJFuJHEAc0d5vYJr_uHzoxYnXPPIBznhKNRqixXuW6U25Un5gEzt5Q2yM5TSjxhhwBQ931K-UAvVoCt-C0Q5YHi0Yqh-SwPwyfLORoZCgazyhIZLbh/s1600/pops2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcBFD6hYRjxLGps_5Bfl7O1Q7kCAcJFuJHEAc0d5vYJr_uHzoxYnXPPIBznhKNRqixXuW6U25Un5gEzt5Q2yM5TSjxhhwBQ931K-UAvVoCt-C0Q5YHi0Yqh-SwPwyfLORoZCgazyhIZLbh/s320/pops2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Courtney & I</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><u><b>Sunday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: red;">run / 19.3 mi / 3:00 / avg 9:20</span></i><br />
I was anxious about this run for some reason, maybe because my last few long runs have been a little challenging. I was eager to get it under my belt, too, because I knew it was my last big long run before taper. I didn't settle on a route until I set out, and decided to just do an out-and-back instead of running to work. It was a beautiful morning with near perfect running weather, finally getting a reprieve from the heat.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR8MptsUUi8TNs0vPLbk9n7MoL3KTb-wohF2jBO3lqDeGe4AJp9NuXIgvALeGuPAjyG9ZHzOjCV1P2uXk43e-krhye59wVQZ6L_bWybachJxJS55Zfhk7a9bdhjd5awL0TzvD9MAv8N5zI/s1600/jun3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR8MptsUUi8TNs0vPLbk9n7MoL3KTb-wohF2jBO3lqDeGe4AJp9NuXIgvALeGuPAjyG9ZHzOjCV1P2uXk43e-krhye59wVQZ6L_bWybachJxJS55Zfhk7a9bdhjd5awL0TzvD9MAv8N5zI/s320/jun3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I wouldn't say I felt <i>great</i>, but I felt much better than the last few long runs. My pace was fairly consistent, and I ended up negative splitting by a few minutes. I was secretly hoping for 20 miles, and I would have just added on but I was already cutting it short on time. This was definitely the type of long run I needed to gain some confidence for running a marathon (on tired legs) in a few weeks.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b><u>Totals</u></b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;">swim:</span> 5,750 yards</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">bike:</span> 94.5 miles</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">run:</span> 24.8 miles</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">other:</span> 0 hours</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>total time: 11.2 hours</i></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-68047408872441304412012-06-04T23:56:00.000-07:002012-06-04T23:56:45.687-07:00All Dialed InI know I've mentioned previously some issues with my bike and how I suspected they were at least partly due to fit. The biggest issue has been the saddle, which becomes incredibly uncomfortable for me on anything over 2 hours, and sometimes even sooner. On most of my longer rides I've also been getting a pinching pain and soreness in my left shoulder, to the point that I could barely stay still on the bike. Lately I've noticed some tightness and reduced dorsiflexion in my left foot after long rides, which seems to be worse after hillier rides. And finally, I felt like I just wasn't in the most efficient position and wasn't getting as much power for the effort I was putting out. When I bought my bike back in February it included a basic fit. The shop I got it from was great, and made it very clear that they were setting me up in a position to <i>start</i> with, but that as I got used to it/got stronger/more flexible, I would probably need to adjust the fit. They also sold me an <a href="http://www.ismseat.com/saddles/adamo-racing-ii">Adamo saddle</a>, which seemed to be great initially.<br />
<br />
I realized that after several months of riding it was probably time to get refit, and so I asked around and got an overwhelming number of recommendations for a physical therapist named Mike Berretta at <a href="http://www.revolutionscycling.com/index.html">Revolutions Cycling</a>. I called to make an appointment back in early May, but was a little disappointed to find he was booked until the end of the month. I made an appointment anyway, and in the meantime just tried to deal with my discomfort on the bike.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFz1fxRI5lQe1SJgoHGjK1u6Vbxj6UED7zPDSY0l2aknQPB5MoeBhEQuLL-gI4dFfKbSkkHekwL4ym4gVommX0vuhJ2bWBlKdGgmCFj4S22X8gt7rE3ck2nnxVEDEEWIIdZA1-0B4ttwR3/s1600/fit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFz1fxRI5lQe1SJgoHGjK1u6Vbxj6UED7zPDSY0l2aknQPB5MoeBhEQuLL-gI4dFfKbSkkHekwL4ym4gVommX0vuhJ2bWBlKdGgmCFj4S22X8gt7rE3ck2nnxVEDEEWIIdZA1-0B4ttwR3/s320/fit.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
This past Tuesday was the day, so I headed up to El Dorado Hills, hoping for some positive adjustments and some answers for what I was dealing with. My first impression of Mike was not necessarily what I expected. He was super friendly and personable right off the bat, and as our session progressed it was clear that he knows what he's talking about. He started off by telling me that on a bike, there are 5 points of contact: saddle, hands, and feet (7 on a tri bike with aero bars). If there is discomfort or pain in any one of those areas, something about the fit is off. So clearly, my fit needed some work : / We set my bike up on the trainer, he asked me my background and about the issues I was having, and then I hopped on. He watched me spin for a bit, made some notes, and set up some lasers on my legs to check position and tracking. After a few minutes I stopped and he took some measurements of my knee angle and hip angle (I obviously don't know the technical terms).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWL6ZmhBLcD1-xByM0ybrKICStC4KOas50goSqta-N_wZ8COIcK2C8WAdzS858rnAnpooy7OGB-xplHSApBna7DbDb_IluNq7nxJwYgtlWo8YE88p5_vt5_vWFA8IvEoSloPFuGhtlVMq7/s1600/fit1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWL6ZmhBLcD1-xByM0ybrKICStC4KOas50goSqta-N_wZ8COIcK2C8WAdzS858rnAnpooy7OGB-xplHSApBna7DbDb_IluNq7nxJwYgtlWo8YE88p5_vt5_vWFA8IvEoSloPFuGhtlVMq7/s320/fit1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>His initial observations:<br />
<ul><li>My hip angle was way too closed off, so I wasn't getting the full power out of my pedal stroke, and I was overworking the quads and hip flexors.</li>
<li>My left arm was in a slightly different position than my right, possibly causing my shoulder issue.</li>
<li>I was sitting on my saddle wrong. Adamo seats are unique in that they don't have a nose and have a cutout for soft tissue. They are designed to be sat on with the sit bones, which requires a more forward position on the saddle, leaving the back portion of it exposed. My bum hung off the back.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYCxr2Jjmb-EIf0wIqWl7C4sy-k67ESZ4N7hVyFt73kEU5QyeBoyZBsMYxqMLKkmRBAxmSQp8HqmEL7VHlg2ROYCSjMlJ2zPYvjNYUSGC6uT8LfHdPqmMhpxk2DfauH_AysT2sxAUZBDZS/s1600/adamo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYCxr2Jjmb-EIf0wIqWl7C4sy-k67ESZ4N7hVyFt73kEU5QyeBoyZBsMYxqMLKkmRBAxmSQp8HqmEL7VHlg2ROYCSjMlJ2zPYvjNYUSGC6uT8LfHdPqmMhpxk2DfauH_AysT2sxAUZBDZS/s320/adamo.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div><ul><li>My back was more rounded than necessary, meaning I could be stretched out more. After a flexibility test Mike determined that I had great hamstring flexibility so we could go more aggressive with my fit.</li>
<li>My right knee didn't track perfectly. As I came to the top of the pedal stroke it came in a bit and made a little S-shape. Mike looked at my cleats and determined that the right one wasn't in quite the right position.</li>
</ul>With all that identified, he began to make some adjustments. He raised the height of my seat a bit which helped open up my hip angle a bit. He repositioned my right cleat which resulted in better tracking on that knee. And then he showed me the proper way to sit on my saddle, not by making any adjustments to the bike, but rather to <i>my</i> position. Essentially, he told me to <i>stick my bum out</i>. This took most of the pressure off the soft tissue and put it on the sit bones, where it should be. It was immediately more comfortable. The next priority, then, was making adjustments to the handlebars. From the beginning the plan was to take advantage of my flexibility and stretch me out a bit more, both to put me in a more efficient position and to make things more comfortable, especially on the saddle.<br />
<br />
He hooked up a device that allows you to easily adjust the stem length, and we played around for a bit to narrow it down to a few lengths that felt comfortable but also made it easy and natural to stick my bum out. My original stem was 70mm, and we ended up going back and forth between 100 and 110mm. Both felt great, and honestly it was hard to tell much of a difference! We also tried my handlebars at both a -6 position (original) and a +6 position and the latter ended up feeling much better (I'll be honest here - I don't actually know what this means! I just remember the numbers - if you know, please chime in!). He also removed one of the spacers from the stem to lower it a tiny bit. We kept switching things back and forth, all the while he continued to watch and take measurements. We successfully opened my hips up to a 110 degree angle (originally about 100 degrees) and my got my knee angle to 30 degrees.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0tHgUcvXrV4fSikwgSLV-JBVTdzOoN306Mqz1tmk4dcSqoEqt6myNVF8OehBUA3fEJiXgUiRTVDrgVKY9yHJTj2UO_XQMBz192NuslBA9JL5Bzbih4W6f2SqKQfewtU3br5P3yIil4G8/s1600/stem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0tHgUcvXrV4fSikwgSLV-JBVTdzOoN306Mqz1tmk4dcSqoEqt6myNVF8OehBUA3fEJiXgUiRTVDrgVKY9yHJTj2UO_XQMBz192NuslBA9JL5Bzbih4W6f2SqKQfewtU3br5P3yIil4G8/s320/stem.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>old and new stem</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></div>After some debate I decided that 110 degrees felt better. It was easy to maintain my position on the saddle, my arm position felt more natural, and my back was a lot flatter, putting my whole body closer to 90 degrees and making me more aero (it's all about aero! haha). He switched out my stem with the newer, longer one, and I spun for a bit more to make sure it was the right one. When I came in I was in more of a road bike position, which was partly why I wasn't as efficient and had so many comfort issues. In the end, we both wished we'd taken before and after pictures because the adjustments made for a dramatically different fit and much better position.<br />
<br />
The whole experience was great. Mike spent a good 1.5 hours with me, and was great about explaining everything he was doing and answered all my silly questions. It's clear he enjoys what he does and is very knowledgeable about it. I will admit that it was not cheap - in full disclosure, it cost $250, not including parts you may need (like my new stem) - but it was well worth it. When you spend thousands (yes, that <i>s</i> means multiple) of dollars on a bike, another couple hundred is nothing if it means you get the most out of said bike. A poor fit on a fancy bike is just sad : (<br />
<br />
So obviously, I was eager to take my bike out post-fit, and fortunately I had a long one on my schedule for the next day! I'll get into it more in my weekly recap, but let's just say it was <i>mostly</i> good. Stay tuned!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-24996858625509044342012-05-29T23:56:00.000-07:002012-05-29T23:56:40.732-07:00Ironman Week 21<i>5/21-5/27</i><br />
<br />
Oh man, this was the week where I felt like I was just <i>living</i> Ironman training. It was my biggest volume week thus far, and while training took up all of my free time, the rest of the time I was exhausted and starving. The latter was no joke, I was eating everything in sight. Overall it was a great week with one really long, big day (see Friday) and by Sunday's long run my body was feeling the accumulation of the week's training. I'm happy with how it all went, but it also got me looking forward to post-IM when I once again have some free time and am no longer a slave to triathlon.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Monday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 3,300 yds / 1:20</span></i><br />
Another swim distance PR! The highlight actually had nothing to do with the workout - it was the showdown I had with the swim team coach. I think I've mentioned it before, but the swim team at my gym is notorious for using more than their allotted lanes for their practices. They happen to practice in the evenings when I often do my workouts...I think you can see where this is going. I got there around 6:30 and hopped into lane 2 (designated as lap swim during this time slot) and started my warm-up.<br />
<br />
When swim practice started around 6:45, I was interrupted in the middle of a lap by a swim team kid. When I reached the wall the coach was standing their and informed me that they needed to use my lane. I told him that according to the chart, this one (as well as lane 1) were designated for lap swimming. His response was that he didn't care what the charts say, and I shot back that I was a paying member of the club. He then asked me if I was going to move, and I said <i>no. </i>He didn't bother me the rest of the evening and I eventually shared my lane with another lap swimmer. The whole time I could feel all the parents' eyes on me. Sorry, but your kids' swim team is not the most important thing, and it does not require the entire pool!<br />
<br />
Anyway, this swim felt super long, and my arms were pretty tired by the end. My whole body was tired from the <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/05/motherlode-century-race-report.html">Motherlode</a> ride the day before, and I found it hard to hit faster paces.The first set of 50s I averaged about 47", the 300s I did at a 1:55 pace (not quite sure what IM race pace is yet), and the second set of 50s averaged 49" as I was pretty tired by that point.<br />
<ul><li>warm-up: 500 easy</li>
<li>main:</li>
<ul><li>8x50 fast on 1:20</li>
<li>6x300 @ IM race pace effort (~1:55)</li>
<li>8x50 fast on 1:20</li>
</ul><li>cool-down: 200 easy</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivvC1N_U0z8KBr2FhfUBqGUn7AItOcDFffXV7_pGh070QtzJ_sIsmGmff4yUhw4U3HGOa36sh_jcgGjMUh4MAPwrUU4RRbkkEcPvALZX_7r8AfOPC_NWomh00oQvIxUgv43mWa4xc2JLP6/s1600/IMAG1271.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivvC1N_U0z8KBr2FhfUBqGUn7AItOcDFffXV7_pGh070QtzJ_sIsmGmff4yUhw4U3HGOa36sh_jcgGjMUh4MAPwrUU4RRbkkEcPvALZX_7r8AfOPC_NWomh00oQvIxUgv43mWa4xc2JLP6/s320/IMAG1271.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>amazing sunset post-swim</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_w71gQsfr3FaU_6oRDXXW6cyZx2EzLy1gRCqvWwsIUEGJGip9xe0uJLYg42EaFK2o5XD18X7MQ2icF5rm6EUhwYiWC18Ts5jrR5CQ_Usu0bDrin1Yyy7dj9Uadgk0osnkbxfIyqzl8_d/s1600/IMAG1272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL_w71gQsfr3FaU_6oRDXXW6cyZx2EzLy1gRCqvWwsIUEGJGip9xe0uJLYg42EaFK2o5XD18X7MQ2icF5rm6EUhwYiWC18Ts5jrR5CQ_Usu0bDrin1Yyy7dj9Uadgk0osnkbxfIyqzl8_d/s320/IMAG1272.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><ul></ul><br />
<u><b>Tuesday</b></u><i> </i><br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: red;">run / 3.6 mi / 0:26 / avg 7:23</span></i><br />
This track workout just about killed me. After a 0.5 mile warm-up and drills, we were given the workout: 6x800 at 2 minutes faster than half marathon pace. Seeing that my most current half marathon pace was about 8:30 (at <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/03/shamrockn-half-marathon-race-report.html">Shamrock'n</a> in March), that meant 800s at 6:30 pace....ummm yeeaaa riiiight. After the first two, I knew there was no way I could run that pace for that many intervals, and instead settled for an all-out effort, whatever pace that ended up being (3:25, 3:27, 3:33, 3:37, 3:38, 3:38). I felt like puking several times, but thankfully never did. I didn't have time for a cool-down as I had a work gathering to rush off to.<br />
<br />
I was also supposed to do an easy hour ride this morning, but gave into temptation and slept in. And for once, I didn't regret it a bit : ) <br />
<br />
<u><b>Wednesday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: #38761d;">bike / 26.5 mi / 1:30 / avg 17.7 mph</span></i><br />
I had the option to do this workout on a trainer or on hilly terrain outside. There aren't a lot of hills that don't require a drive, and since I was doing this before work I wanted to start from my house to save time. So to simulate hills I did 2x [5x2:00] in the hard gears. I felt pretty strong throughout, and the intervals made the time go by faster than usual. It ended up being a really good workout and a great way to start my day.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Thursday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: red;">run / 6 mi / 0:56 / avg 9:20</span></i><br />
Easy morning run with my pup along the river. Afterword I attended the memorial service for a friend who passed away last weekend. I've known him and his family for a very long time and it simply broke my heart to hear the news. After the service I spent the afternoon amongst old friends, reminiscing about good times, but knowing someone was missing and would always be missed.<br />
<br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 2,500 yds / 1:00</span></i><br />
<ul><li>warm-up:</li>
<ul><li>200 easy</li>
<li>100 kick</li>
</ul><li>main:</li>
<ul><li>5x50 as 25 fist drill/25 swim, RI = 10-15"</li>
<li>10x100 on 1:50</li>
<li>5x50 as 25 fist drill/25 swim, RI = 10-15"</li>
<li>10x50 on 1:00 </li>
</ul><li>cool-down: 200 easy</li>
</ul>By the time I left the memorial I was mentally exhausted, but I still had to go into work for a couple hours. I almost skipped this swim after, but somehow made it to the pool. The usual MTC swim was switched to an open water swim earlier in the day, so I was on my own for this one. Those 100s absolutely killed me! I wasn't sure how fast I could swim them, and I was afraid I'd be too slow and have practically no rest. To my surprise the first one clocked in at 1:37, but as I went on they eventually got closer to 1:41. I took a little extra rest halfway through and was again able to get sub-1:40 but slowed again by the last few. Lastly, just a word on fist drills - does anyone else feel like an idiot when you do them?<br />
<br />
<u><b>Friday</b></u><br />
When I saw this workout on my schedule, I initially thought it was a mistake. A 3 hour brick <i>and</i> a 3 hour long ride? No way. But after a quick text to coach, turns out it's the real deal. Let me just say it was a looooong day!<br />
<br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: #38761d;">bike / 35 mi / 2:00 / avg 17.4 mph</span></i><br />
I procrastinated and got a later start than I'd planned, but I was on my bike around 11:30am. The forecast had predicted rain, but so far it had held off. As I started out, however, their were some ominous dark clouds off in the distance. Since I had to run and then ride again, I wanted to use my house as home base, which meant I did my riding and running on the bike trail. I did an out-and-back to Discovery Park and then went out another 20 or so minutes in the opposite direction to finish up the first leg of the day. Felt pretty good, but I knew I still had a lot coming.<br />
<br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: red;">run / 6.5 mi / 1:00 / avg 9:14</span></i><br />
I took my pup along for the company and did a loop around the river. I tried not to push it since I still had another long ride coming up. I took a Gu halfway through since I was starting to get hungry and wasn't even close to being done for the day. I got rained on a bit at the start of the run, but within the first mile it was all sunny skies. This was seriously a bipolar weather day.<br />
<br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: #38761d;">bike / 51 mi / 3:00 / avg 17 mph</span></i><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: black;">I took a short break after my run to eat something and mix some more Gu Roctane</span></span><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: black;">. I also wanted to rest my bum and neck which had started to give me trouble on the first ride. After about 30 minutes I headed back out, this time in the opposite direction toward Folsom. My legs felt surprisingly decent, but my left shoulder and the side of my neck absolutely <i>killed</i> me. I knew it was a fit thing, but it made the ride a little miserable. The clouds were the strangest thing today, and except for a little wind (mostly a crosswind, thankfully) it ended up being a perfect day for a ride. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: black;">I turned around at Beal's Point and headed back down the bike trail, and then added on another 15 minute out-and-back to reach 3 hours. I was pretty pleased with how I did on each leg individually and the workout as a whole. It was my longest yet (and my longest ride - although broken - at 86 miles) and gave me some confidence for IM. I do think I could have ate more since by the end I was starving (I averaged about 250 cals per hour). I spent the rest of the day crashed out on the couch, eating whatever I could get my hands on.</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPRSUPdnGXhatFnppt9Gp-lBjQrvcBnGoNcI1_-Q5M5ZUuZpSbxPaDOYRVNpuooOoFv8-Hl2qPimkUEQ5f8_jseFIGBSibC1rigAKqYTIQ3gOUsm2lLX7vYtq4Zg5XtBvAgotrNhfQY5FM/s1600/IMAG1274.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPRSUPdnGXhatFnppt9Gp-lBjQrvcBnGoNcI1_-Q5M5ZUuZpSbxPaDOYRVNpuooOoFv8-Hl2qPimkUEQ5f8_jseFIGBSibC1rigAKqYTIQ3gOUsm2lLX7vYtq4Zg5XtBvAgotrNhfQY5FM/s320/IMAG1274.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Beal's Point, Folsom Lake</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsixQ18IyYNaHQ-f2sRKeCd7D6eWt0M57Nkut-R0nr-2eDZxpg1HnvfiyNH56iQY5UaxYLjgUUypGGWYW7vZV02tlmJx-ErNlJ8XRtmyQB6dT3TPikX3dSECfaDV44qb1FzQuqVTiHyRC_/s1600/IMAG1275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsixQ18IyYNaHQ-f2sRKeCd7D6eWt0M57Nkut-R0nr-2eDZxpg1HnvfiyNH56iQY5UaxYLjgUUypGGWYW7vZV02tlmJx-ErNlJ8XRtmyQB6dT3TPikX3dSECfaDV44qb1FzQuqVTiHyRC_/s320/IMAG1275.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>clouds!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><u><b>Saturday</b></u><br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 2,600 yds* / 0:50</span></i><br />
This was originally supposed to be a rest day with the swim on Sunday, but I had plans Sunday evening so I switched things around. I headed to Lake Natoma after work, and as I got closer the sky got ominously darker. I was hoping it wouldn't rain on me, and wondered if an open water swim was such a good idea. When I got to the lake, however, despite a cloudy and dark sky there was no rain, so I went for it. It wasn't a great swim like the last few times. I got chilled midway through and just wasn't into it mentally. I went a ways further than in the past since I had 50 minutes to do, and it just felt long. The best part was looking up and seeing a big rainbow in the sky. On a random note, does anyone else feel drunk after a longer open water swim? I always stumble around for a few minutes and feel dizzy...maybe it's being vertical after being horizontal for so long? Or maybe it's just me... ; )<br />
<br />
<u><b>Sunday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: red;">run / 17 mi / 2:41 / avg 9:30</span></i><br />
<span style="color: black;">Similar to last week, this long run was tough. My muscles felt better than they did on the last one</span><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">, but I was slower than I expected to be. I know I need to cut myself some slack; I can't expect to see my usual running paces after a big week like this. And so I focused on effort instead of pace, and actually ended up speeding up a fair amount in the last few miles. It was a beautiful morning and quite peaceful out on the bike trail. I did an out-and-back in one direction and then did my usual on foot commute to work.</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMes33v1580MIt6xzSvI9gs_9zvfJHzi3enfoUbWLwC_AsF8_J6ivOUP4uXpOW89t4xVMVo-JgQQ1BB5jznyvGRJWMbLYbqSv9xoLMW5EoMhPvKHAjiqnJSzwZft_2_-A3o_aF5e_utMso/s1600/IMAG1276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMes33v1580MIt6xzSvI9gs_9zvfJHzi3enfoUbWLwC_AsF8_J6ivOUP4uXpOW89t4xVMVo-JgQQ1BB5jznyvGRJWMbLYbqSv9xoLMW5EoMhPvKHAjiqnJSzwZft_2_-A3o_aF5e_utMso/s320/IMAG1276.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>up on the levy</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv5v5wjaJGpV4QGZWFLNLkqm2oMjJaKP_x1c28ouaIZQhkQrEkZiKrD8cFj0RqlseP8TVjNbWrEKhB6k-9383GALlOtmJhXnvDeALGDNUTgN4shumQxQmUXx-phaVHxnQ3l1dTQv2j4jEw/s1600/IMAG1277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv5v5wjaJGpV4QGZWFLNLkqm2oMjJaKP_x1c28ouaIZQhkQrEkZiKrD8cFj0RqlseP8TVjNbWrEKhB6k-9383GALlOtmJhXnvDeALGDNUTgN4shumQxQmUXx-phaVHxnQ3l1dTQv2j4jEw/s320/IMAG1277.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>from J St. bridge, with</i> <i>Guy West bridge in the distance</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGuH9cjS_K50jcqoJ8k4Rz59D_hlkr3YeL1-OgXN8O_wrpbKziG4RNdMrUyT-58RzRVJnOqs2rGyKgiWCKK4q1v-59-jVB-fzi5LTNm-dD_sKLgl185ZcrSQ9gBD0AhQEaxb7YeGRtz4M/s1600/IMAG1278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGuH9cjS_K50jcqoJ8k4Rz59D_hlkr3YeL1-OgXN8O_wrpbKziG4RNdMrUyT-58RzRVJnOqs2rGyKgiWCKK4q1v-59-jVB-fzi5LTNm-dD_sKLgl185ZcrSQ9gBD0AhQEaxb7YeGRtz4M/s320/IMAG1278.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>pit stop at Glenn Hall</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2t0zJW0GKWPzEfX54Q2YsokHSRFU12hHUaHX4mfKPynGc4o6cMGYXmL-22iqVRxQzvtbLo5DE0HDcnlQqOyI_nVmUd66nvMsxWjG5sWEZTwmvrmpzwaITNMBSncAOhTGwoECVL67LY6Kj/s1600/IMAG1279.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2t0zJW0GKWPzEfX54Q2YsokHSRFU12hHUaHX4mfKPynGc4o6cMGYXmL-22iqVRxQzvtbLo5DE0HDcnlQqOyI_nVmUd66nvMsxWjG5sWEZTwmvrmpzwaITNMBSncAOhTGwoECVL67LY6Kj/s320/IMAG1279.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>McKinley rose garden</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><u><b>Totals</b></u></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;">swim:</span> 8,400 yards</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">bike:</span> 112.5 miles</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">run:</span> 33.1 miles</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">other:</span> 0 hours</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>total time: 14.7 hours</i></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-33069563613119131932012-05-25T22:49:00.000-07:002012-05-25T22:49:33.428-07:00Ironman Week 20<i>5/14-5/20</i><br />
<br />
I am way late in posting this, but Ironman training has officially peaked and taken over my life, leaving little time to write about it since I'm so busy doing it! This week was a big jump in overall training time (usually average 10 hours/wk, this week I hit 14 hrs), and my body responded accordingly with tired legs all week long. I got a massage at the beginning of the week which contributed to the soreness, too, but paid off by the weekend. Some milestones this week included my longest swim to date (although I've already surpassed it this week), a 16 miler that was my longest run since marathon training, and an attempt at my first century ride that turned into a metric century thanks to a brutally hilly course. The best words to describe me this week: sore, tired, and hungry!!<br />
<br />
<u><b>Monday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: #38761d;">bike / 16.8 mi / 1:00 / avg 16.8 mph</span></i><br />
Man I had tiiiired legs for this ride! I think I was still tired and sore from my long ride and trail run over the weekend, but I just couldn't muster any speed. Afterward I headed to the massage appointment I'd been looking forward to since <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/05/wildflower-long-course-race-report.html">Wildflower</a>. <a href="http://www.elitespinalcare.com/index.html?sectionLink=about&subLink=index">Todd</a> absolutely <i>destroyed</i> me this time around! This time he knew my problem areas (hamstrings and hips) and spent the majority of time on them. My hips are still the worst. I have a pretty high pain tolerance, but I could barely handle him digging into my side. I felt bruised and sore for several days after, but by the end of the week I could finally feel the benefits.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Tuesday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 3,000 yds / 1:10</span></i><br />
<ul><li>warm-up:</li>
<ul><li>200 easy</li>
<li>200 kick</li>
<li>200 pull</li>
<li>200 easy</li>
</ul><li>main:</li>
<ul><li>6x100 as 25 fast/75 easy</li>
<li>12x50 fast on 1:30</li>
<li>6x100 as 25 fast/75 easy</li>
</ul><li>cool-down:</li>
<ul><li>100 easy</li>
<li>100 kick</li>
<li>100 pull</li>
<li>100 easy</li>
</ul></ul>This was my longest swim to date, and the first time seeing a 3 in front of my total distance. I swam in the morning, and I almost forgot how much I love it : ) The workout wasn't too difficult, despite it's length. My 50s averaged 48 seconds, which I was fairly happy with, and with a good amount of rest after each one I stayed pretty consistent.<br />
<br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: red;">run / 4.6 mi / 0:35 / avg 7:37</span></i><br />
I've come to the conclusion that I am way more motivated for track workouts when I have others doing them with me, which is why MTC track nights are so great. This one was a doozy and by the end I was running on fumes. That last mile was a long one!<br />
<ul><li>warm-up: 1 mi </li>
<li>main:</li>
<ul><li>4x400 <i>(1:34, 1:31, 1:36, 1:36)</i></li>
<li>2x800 <i>(3:38, 3:33)</i></li>
<li>1x1600 <i>(7:44)</i></li>
</ul><li>cool-down: 0.5 mi</li>
</ul>Afterward I rushed to a goodbye dinner for two of my good friends (and coworkers) who were moving to Colorado. Both are phenomenal runners and wonderful people, and I have no doubt there futures will be incredibly bright. It was certainly bittersweet, but I'm happy for them, and I know I will see them again. And now I have a great excuse to visit Colorado : ) Gonna miss you guys!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjszPklzm0eORePQKkB9St7DjRc_srhXN7OKg1l8wY9re4wehMzOUWUqDPPs0LmHQzbNbbLoAqX2VDp_Nt7HMkJPV5O9z03oVeH0I9F2IcyRFq0XuA6OixOOTNMw81lAoVYzXjtchS2o8TM/s1600/404981_3169187635280_1433130064_32285815_238305770_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjszPklzm0eORePQKkB9St7DjRc_srhXN7OKg1l8wY9re4wehMzOUWUqDPPs0LmHQzbNbbLoAqX2VDp_Nt7HMkJPV5O9z03oVeH0I9F2IcyRFq0XuA6OixOOTNMw81lAoVYzXjtchS2o8TM/s320/404981_3169187635280_1433130064_32285815_238305770_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Chris & Erin, soon-to-be famous runners!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbYKXr2AZMvoSq9IM6RwGDbeIfrHbLyn21HSGr4UILU7wPY77NNLSsJn3oB0UYMLNNU9YETh5jMY8anrMD4xFLszQoQDURf4c2KeYynnQMrpwhh57fhEcvqTiw79rAFs96jMiqsHHEdoA/s1600/girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbYKXr2AZMvoSq9IM6RwGDbeIfrHbLyn21HSGr4UILU7wPY77NNLSsJn3oB0UYMLNNU9YETh5jMY8anrMD4xFLszQoQDURf4c2KeYynnQMrpwhh57fhEcvqTiw79rAFs96jMiqsHHEdoA/s320/girls.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Erin, me, and Courtney, my fave Fleet Feet gals</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><u><b>Wednesday</b></u><br />
<div style="color: #990000;">[brick]</div><i>am: <span style="color: #38761d;">bike / 26 mi / 1:30 / avg 17.3 mph</span></i><br />
Started out the day a bit earlier than usual to fit in a midweek brick workout. Nothing too special about the ride.<br />
<br />
<i>am: <span style="color: red;">run / 3.3 mi / 0:30 / avg 9:05</span></i><br />
Even though it was only a half hour, I struggled through this run. My legs just felt tired and heavy from the start.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Thursday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: red;">run / 16.1 mi / 2:30 / avg 9:19</span></i><br />
I had the day off so my long run ended up being a bit earlier in the week. This was the farthest I've ran in a while, and I'll be honest, it was not easy. I was able to keep up a decent pace, but it never really felt easy. My legs were still really sore and tired, I think from the longer/harder workouts of late and from Monday's killer massage. I stopped several times to try and stretch out, and while it would help for a bit, I'd end up having to do it again a couple miles later. It was also warmer than I expected and my allergies flared up leaving my breathing more labored than usual. Despite all this the second half was better than the first and I was glad to get the miles in.<br />
<br />
The bike trail that I do most of my running and riding on has quite a bit of wildlife, and during nearly every workout I spot squirrels, jack rabbits, quails, turkeys, and sometimes the occasional coyote. During this run, however, I spotted a first: a turtle! It was just sitting there on the side of the trail, a little bigger than my hand. I just stopped and stared, then got closer to look at it in detail, then figured it wasn't a very safe place for him to be so I picked him up and moved him to the river side of the trail. He retreated into his shell while I moved him, but after a few seconds of putting him down, off he went! Definitely the coolest animal I've seen so far!<br />
<br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 2,400 yds / 1:00</span></i><br />
<ul><li>warm-up:</li>
<li>200</li>
<li>100 kick</li>
<li>200 drill</li>
<li>100</li>
<li>main: </li>
<ul><li>50 hard, 100 super easy</li>
<li>100 hard, 100 super easy</li>
<li>150 hard, 100 super easy</li>
<li>200 hard, 100 super easy </li>
<li>4x100 on 2:00</li>
<li>50 hard, 100 super easy</li>
<li>100 hard, 100 super easy </li>
</ul><li>cool-down: 150 non-free</li>
</ul>Another tough workout with MTC! Partly tough because I ran 16 miles earlier in the day, but also because there were a lot of "hard" sets. This was definitely one of those workouts where during you hate it and just want it to be done, but when it's over you feel awesome : )<br />
<br />
<u><b>Friday</b></u><br />
<i>rest</i><br />
Ahhh, glorious rest! I originally had a tempo run to do, and no rest days scheduled this week, but I opted out since my legs had been so tired all week and clearly needed the rest. I also took my bike in to the shop to have my <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/05/bike-things.html">new cassette</a> installed and ended up getting a new chain, too. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCu67sXWI_x6NaKJa9DhvJZy0G1iBNoKbapxveTkRnTOpi717LkdHpnZfDB0AMz5-A20Xq-rKBl6EvCYSYAeTrBMcGf4vWzdQtUCXPY_LgPtek0Rqq_SCrGThvNJ3efDfwDnqgXZpmT74o/s1600/cassette2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCu67sXWI_x6NaKJa9DhvJZy0G1iBNoKbapxveTkRnTOpi717LkdHpnZfDB0AMz5-A20Xq-rKBl6EvCYSYAeTrBMcGf4vWzdQtUCXPY_LgPtek0Rqq_SCrGThvNJ3efDfwDnqgXZpmT74o/s320/cassette2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><u><b>Saturday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 2,100 yds* / 0:40</span></i><br />
Headed to Lake Natoma after work for another awesome open water swim! I seriously love swimming here, mainly because of the crew buoys that give me a line to follow underwater. Without having to sight all the time I can get into a great rhythm and swim forever! And yes, I know it's good to practice sighting, but I figure come race day there will be plenty of other people to keep me swimming in the right direction. The best part of these swims, however, is that my comfort in open water has improved immensely. I went a little further this time, and realized the buoys go on much further than I realized!<br />
<br />
<u><b>Sunday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: #38761d;">bike / 68 mi / 5:06 / avg 13.3 mph</span></i><br />
Ahhhh, the century ride that wasn't. I attempted my first 100+ mile ride at the <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/05/motherlode-century-race-report.html">Motherlode Century</a>, only to come up a tad short and stop at the metric century after an insanely brutal course. There was more climbing over the 68 miles of this course than there is over 112 miles at Coeur d'Alene, so it was great training despite the shorter distance.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYRUVlI2eoNWV_tuLKmDPSMdqhq4Y9O712vNEMXuYoBv1EThzvb7Ackx5SIPcm4qHQ1FyydGnExCzokqM1qD6iZcuiJhEYuP2K3ER764HOoTbH3Up6Ak4c97G9WRkUdsErFqEuxePfBguw/s1600/IMAG1244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYRUVlI2eoNWV_tuLKmDPSMdqhq4Y9O712vNEMXuYoBv1EThzvb7Ackx5SIPcm4qHQ1FyydGnExCzokqM1qD6iZcuiJhEYuP2K3ER764HOoTbH3Up6Ak4c97G9WRkUdsErFqEuxePfBguw/s320/IMAG1244.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>my awesome company for the ride!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm4VaQH4hfGVYSPhzF745Jqm1ti3VBETNezO8bNJYjAoRU2w_HDOkX2KF2Iw59K-68_fR4o4jkMQKSkXgPbq9A-LHjuqTSC27zFTtJUp-zuxGO1eY7qsZZrRIRLPHHBzhUSWCQeFoJ1Ypr/s1600/IMAG1249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm4VaQH4hfGVYSPhzF745Jqm1ti3VBETNezO8bNJYjAoRU2w_HDOkX2KF2Iw59K-68_fR4o4jkMQKSkXgPbq9A-LHjuqTSC27zFTtJUp-zuxGO1eY7qsZZrRIRLPHHBzhUSWCQeFoJ1Ypr/s320/IMAG1249.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHEijuipV9IQt5zQeC3naPL1anRdrzQgIKYGSKjx9J0D9GW3t_AH60edUlgq9IkVMqICKZ1h_Qchbo1cjWqPeNDMAK57Ay535rgBB6KWYu8vsokTP5Aa4gtVhUpWrIkC47Q26zZI4gZiJ/s1600/IMAG1250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHEijuipV9IQt5zQeC3naPL1anRdrzQgIKYGSKjx9J0D9GW3t_AH60edUlgq9IkVMqICKZ1h_Qchbo1cjWqPeNDMAK57Ay535rgBB6KWYu8vsokTP5Aa4gtVhUpWrIkC47Q26zZI4gZiJ/s320/IMAG1250.jpg" width="199" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>at least there were awesome views!</i><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8dMpDW95OVOpz4DzFw4HKUKYSgu1t7Zu46VQm4JPx7NYRBwZE-Svp313N57VIc3bcAc9aHXm1DeZKUO7J8C4HP1UZqGVDavVHo_FhbWZV_JTogEbHWxQ6uRll2GbsIap0f6lJW0Hwyvjx/s1600/IMAG1257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8dMpDW95OVOpz4DzFw4HKUKYSgu1t7Zu46VQm4JPx7NYRBwZE-Svp313N57VIc3bcAc9aHXm1DeZKUO7J8C4HP1UZqGVDavVHo_FhbWZV_JTogEbHWxQ6uRll2GbsIap0f6lJW0Hwyvjx/s320/IMAG1257.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Mosquito Bridge</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh17XCF-1673yxSN_o055PJTBYZHflruDNwa2RTMW1lksRyy0eDb1ctJ_78Z-5wE7bKs3qBXmjYgoBb4y6Fg3DssLORl6FyYLKgeVjWu_7dGF1RHMQ-hM0DPVTZIXAztAQX54b5tT_8aF5V/s1600/IMAG1268.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh17XCF-1673yxSN_o055PJTBYZHflruDNwa2RTMW1lksRyy0eDb1ctJ_78Z-5wE7bKs3qBXmjYgoBb4y6Fg3DssLORl6FyYLKgeVjWu_7dGF1RHMQ-hM0DPVTZIXAztAQX54b5tT_8aF5V/s320/IMAG1268.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>South Fork of the American River</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><u><b>Totals</b></u></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;">swim:</span> 7,500 yards</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">bike:</span> 110.8 miles</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">run:</span> 24 miles</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">other:</span> 0 hours</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>total time: 14.0 hours</i></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-84174653369419009762012-05-21T17:56:00.000-07:002012-05-21T17:56:20.116-07:00Motherlode Century (Race Report)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5HzJDbrQgWVWMpMIWiIN71m-hG31Y6RI69yYsSeYSbRc1UFNbjp8Zs1bEQKMZoZJdSN9rhJ_AWeILjWzO8G4eOgLHaJLcbkKBGl72dAK0yqYXGEd8btww-9_SA6-pU_hjqTiZk2OZuoI6/s1600/century.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5HzJDbrQgWVWMpMIWiIN71m-hG31Y6RI69yYsSeYSbRc1UFNbjp8Zs1bEQKMZoZJdSN9rhJ_AWeILjWzO8G4eOgLHaJLcbkKBGl72dAK0yqYXGEd8btww-9_SA6-pU_hjqTiZk2OZuoI6/s200/century.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Aka, the century that wasn't. Before I get on the the rest of the report, let me just get it out of the way - the full century didn't happen. A lot of different factors played a role, and it was still a fantastic training ride, but I'd be lying if I said a part of me wasn't a little disappointed. I will break that triple digit barrier soon enough, yesterday just wasn't that day. And now on the the recap!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The morning started much earlier that I would've liked, leaving Sacramento around 6:15am for the hourish drive to the little town of Lotus in the Coloma Valley. There was a little group of us triathletes doing the ride (either the 102 or 67 miles) so we all met up at the start, easy to find one another since our tri bikes stood out like sore thumbs : ) We checked in, used the bathroom, studied the map, then were off for the first stretch of the ride!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I wasn't sure how my legs would feel after such a big week of training, but was pleased that they didn't feel like lead. I did feel tired though, so I knew it would still be a long day. I had great company though - my coworker, Anandi, and One10 teammate Kevin, both also doing Cd'A, were attempting the century with me, and One10 teammate Amity and her friend Carrie, who are both training for IM Canada, were going to do the 67 miles course. We were quite the group riding along as 4 of us had Cervelo tri bikes, 3 the exact same P2 model!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUkLCwUde1LCXo-uEBJaYYp0KPEnGltWKxfYtajvMlusYCMsAuGysHA8twBaN_MIT_u9prurLqyC1zXbH-vYd9vH7wgs4PF7uyTtyqAcgARELVU4JTlrcnqcyq_FWHg-ZiFO18Sw81CJlk/s1600/IMAG1244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUkLCwUde1LCXo-uEBJaYYp0KPEnGltWKxfYtajvMlusYCMsAuGysHA8twBaN_MIT_u9prurLqyC1zXbH-vYd9vH7wgs4PF7uyTtyqAcgARELVU4JTlrcnqcyq_FWHg-ZiFO18Sw81CJlk/s320/IMAG1244.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the (unofficial) Team Cervelo! Carrie, Kevin, me, & Amity</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The first 10 miles weren't too bad, but they were full of rollers as we headed for the little town of Cool. Nothing long or steep, but we were constantly going either up or down. I've never rode in a group outside of a race situation, so I tried not to stay within myself and listen to my body rather than try and push it to stay with someone who's faster. We all sort of did our own thing, since some of us excel more at climbing, descending, or flats. We were never too far from one another, and met up at each aid station to regroup. At the first aid station there was an array of breakfast foods, but I wasn't hungry yet so I grabbed an orange slice and nibbled on a Honey Stinger waffle. I also tried to figure out my heart rate, which hadn't been working since we started, but it continued to be on the fritz so I ended up just turning it off. Kind of wish I'd had it since I'm pretty sure I reached an all time high later in the ride!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We continued on with 16 miles til the next aid stop. The rollers continued, and one in particular didn't seem to end. It wasn't steep, but it went on and on. None of us had really studied the elevation profile closely, so we had no idea how long it was, and every corner we'd turn it would just keep going up! My <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/05/bike-things.html">new cassette</a> (I switched to one that's better for climbing) made a huge difference on the hills. I felt like I could actually "spin" up them better. On the steep stuff that came later it didn't make as much of a difference, but on the long, steady climbs it was awesome. This hill in particular ended up being about 4.5 miles, and we were all pretty happy to finally reach the top. From there we had a nice, long, winding descent that lead us to the next aid stop. We hung out for a bit and snacked, used the bathroom, and quizzed the volunteers on what the next section was like. We were told it was "pretty easy" with a long descent through Coloma Valley. After that last climb we were looking forward to it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijce4wr5lIQN-TwyNHf6NxPMjpPWAS3kDbNliM9ti-JwZMOQehi0WtyPyA1wnVP6bPd2J2R6SVL8MiFUK7OtcRegezsK4xCih6DNuP8pEPtI9QzH9seI97FR-9pecOPQYUmAcY_JnGGGRT/s1600/IMAG1241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijce4wr5lIQN-TwyNHf6NxPMjpPWAS3kDbNliM9ti-JwZMOQehi0WtyPyA1wnVP6bPd2J2R6SVL8MiFUK7OtcRegezsK4xCih6DNuP8pEPtI9QzH9seI97FR-9pecOPQYUmAcY_JnGGGRT/s320/IMAG1241.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>aid stop #2</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJx_yMJ-bJt8VMkKqKcEEv42TvT97yRO-7GxJ1bZBndtXWDj09Usae6BN1mL3jhEIBGOdWkHeAsEGS_mZFGGxE2eN-5x-29WRxuzWoRQils5nKzQFTy1mF6v-ruXoXeiR8vBMbh7rB3ni/s1600/IMAG1242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJx_yMJ-bJt8VMkKqKcEEv42TvT97yRO-7GxJ1bZBndtXWDj09Usae6BN1mL3jhEIBGOdWkHeAsEGS_mZFGGxE2eN-5x-29WRxuzWoRQils5nKzQFTy1mF6v-ruXoXeiR8vBMbh7rB3ni/s320/IMAG1242.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The next section began exactly as it had been described - a long, sometimes precarious, winding descent down Garden Valley Road through Coloma Valley with breathtaking views of the green hills and American River below. We stopped a couple times for photo ops and then turned onto the less-than-smooth Rock Creek Road. This section was maddening as it looked like a slight downhill, but <i>felt</i> like we were going uphill...which we were. We eventually did start descending again and eventually found ourselves at the bottom, crossing the river at Rock Creek Bridge. Now what we all failed to think about as we were flying down the road a few miles earlier is that we'd have to climb back out of the valley. And sure enough, after crossing the bridge, we did just that. Another good 4+ mile climb which, again, never seemed to end. That was one of the most maddening things, not knowing how long the hills were and not being able to see the top!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKesJwyJIqCXctSPz3JJTAl4n-Nv5xgdB_GwLJIPcnOLJe3FeK3HqYxSoF3pJK-eQAYOerhEKyRky1vXNUTdM1ofKmW_IUWD0hJWDZJrxfGIR0V-3YBYdTb1e9ab5vgPc5EYM1W3yMt-xQ/s1600/IMAG1245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKesJwyJIqCXctSPz3JJTAl4n-Nv5xgdB_GwLJIPcnOLJe3FeK3HqYxSoF3pJK-eQAYOerhEKyRky1vXNUTdM1ofKmW_IUWD0hJWDZJrxfGIR0V-3YBYdTb1e9ab5vgPc5EYM1W3yMt-xQ/s320/IMAG1245.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>the first of many stunning views of Coloma Valley</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxpvHYzBUt0sYHErFamfDdVihaufRZWHAAUyPh7a6oi9hh-e9rqH3Lo4bmCHryWpYewoxNaaMkCHDRJOQH3kb14P2OKcOu-g79lyaSa0CbxA0kfFikwOLCI0uQboXl-EQaDQtji85g12Q/s1600/IMAG1246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxpvHYzBUt0sYHErFamfDdVihaufRZWHAAUyPh7a6oi9hh-e9rqH3Lo4bmCHryWpYewoxNaaMkCHDRJOQH3kb14P2OKcOu-g79lyaSa0CbxA0kfFikwOLCI0uQboXl-EQaDQtji85g12Q/s320/IMAG1246.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>just hanging out</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg82YhJlHXjcBFiDi9XsUSYv39hguVCeygaWVCfQ1Km4bYDFXBVnD990HpV7zvitDP8uMw5jGh6TuzYrGUMlDvJm-0lKKFKhrm_Zx0jLGDFuWEK_fULh70ILgJDIIKWE53ZUnzs039n-qLp/s1600/IMAG1248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg82YhJlHXjcBFiDi9XsUSYv39hguVCeygaWVCfQ1Km4bYDFXBVnD990HpV7zvitDP8uMw5jGh6TuzYrGUMlDvJm-0lKKFKhrm_Zx0jLGDFuWEK_fULh70ILgJDIIKWE53ZUnzs039n-qLp/s320/IMAG1248.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>American River</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrromwOZ5-W278J-4iDduM7bq6SMVuNS6Z2JB8cweUSt2oeTqXohGDs_V4ywDNtvmIWdeuSm1kVdQKrbkL_k1dCcYIJ9ZXcWmgpXceZ5pFtHGnb2bRjXOcKOFZ-X9JVQEp-k0f4AQ_kx5P/s1600/IMAG1249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrromwOZ5-W278J-4iDduM7bq6SMVuNS6Z2JB8cweUSt2oeTqXohGDs_V4ywDNtvmIWdeuSm1kVdQKrbkL_k1dCcYIJ9ZXcWmgpXceZ5pFtHGnb2bRjXOcKOFZ-X9JVQEp-k0f4AQ_kx5P/s320/IMAG1249.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvEvHoNi50Nkp2dz3ZPPkfBDf4Zcsyu_C9tUgiD2FzCDpecm9Benkc1iyYtqYf2GCHk2kNU2U90Qd3OtOQgiLUZ1XXtEZQWBq5bwgZAW2-3PRhf3U4N_Q6FBj40lBgQwJZH4KRKl-FSFv2/s320/IMAG1250.jpg" width="199" /><i><br />
</i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwS8_DjHgoS0bu9tcjUPvHuGdPNP8iFM1H1Bq18rpb3FfPD_L3o315sfMfacQOCdDeorR9kecRTuf49hy1tct9tKMCKTG5X22_2i14DYIMBG9MOvFA3IxzWoh7TxqB5qn_XHM6KKaFi75_/s1600/IMAG1255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwS8_DjHgoS0bu9tcjUPvHuGdPNP8iFM1H1Bq18rpb3FfPD_L3o315sfMfacQOCdDeorR9kecRTuf49hy1tct9tKMCKTG5X22_2i14DYIMBG9MOvFA3IxzWoh7TxqB5qn_XHM6KKaFi75_/s320/IMAG1255.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Rock Creek Bridge</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFH0pox37Hig6GOjGAi0IJ4WCTLVYid3So21oJHMOuQI2aDF7qUeOWc1SY25e_kVyAwAE__YE6TbEAxoXX2kmA_O91Fbk9xKAZLs0Sxv36aUtF8CdmNPwDEnNnbZiPte69wfABI_JjZDcl/s1600/IMAG1254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFH0pox37Hig6GOjGAi0IJ4WCTLVYid3So21oJHMOuQI2aDF7qUeOWc1SY25e_kVyAwAE__YE6TbEAxoXX2kmA_O91Fbk9xKAZLs0Sxv36aUtF8CdmNPwDEnNnbZiPte69wfABI_JjZDcl/s320/IMAG1254.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We somehow made it out of the valley and to the next aid stop at Finnon Reservoir around mile 44ish. We had planned to stop briefly and continue on to the lunch stop, but our legs were all so tired from that climb that we stayed a bit longer and tried to take in some calories and fluids. I was having a tough time taking in calories while riding since we were constantly going either up or down, and looking back I probably should have consumed more. Similarly to trail races I grazed at the aid stations and munched on what looked good - namely watermelon, licorice, and boiled and salted potatoes. It had also started to really warm up - it would get to 90 degrees by the end of the ride - so fluids were critical, too. Once again we inquired about the next section (note to self: study the course map/profile in advance!). We were told there was a big descent down to Mosquito Bridge, then a climb up to Placerville. The latter was supposed to be short and steep after the bridge, and then fairly gradual. That would turn out to be the understatement of the century.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkkKSDUPuRi_-bZ4U-UaUhCdvbhLFsw-rC8II8qBtj8LZ44g1J0iLMyjWl3zwL1PXQRYRAl827XhdPV1pQchFmoGk6C7uC41FMDq0T-fYUEHV7yMowvm0TfzrCNfBuPx5MZd8rjokF96Nk/s1600/IMAG1256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkkKSDUPuRi_-bZ4U-UaUhCdvbhLFsw-rC8II8qBtj8LZ44g1J0iLMyjWl3zwL1PXQRYRAl827XhdPV1pQchFmoGk6C7uC41FMDq0T-fYUEHV7yMowvm0TfzrCNfBuPx5MZd8rjokF96Nk/s320/IMAG1256.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>aid stop #3</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Unfortunately that climb didn't crest at the aid stop, so we had a little ways to go before we finally reached the top. Then we had the scariest descent I've ever done. It was long, steep, and winding with hairpin turns, and barely wide enough for a bike and a car. It was here that my hands started killing me from holding on so tightly and braking so much. You literally could not let up the brakes without immediately gaining a ton of speed. Both Amity and Carrie had to stop a couple times just to rest their hands and compose themselves, and I kind of wish I had, too. Riding downhill can definitely be fun, but this was nothing like that. I was so thankful when I reached the bottom, but my hands felt raw and my heart was pounding. The video below shows the last section of this descent down to the bridge, but doesn't quite do justice to how it feels in real life.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="275" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/6LbB-ZCHLRw?rel=0" width="450"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFldd7YSlm1KVp6PaQpuj3QgR-cV7j93Mf8tKY-Ja4gT8C72yekDMbaj3H6WZ5sTZimoK-WdttcdrGvelcBXKFmbDQouhupWv1wuHzmYOWrULu5BrD5vtkRX7ItjLHoJ6lcUayrJi6SgzT/s1600/IMAG1257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFldd7YSlm1KVp6PaQpuj3QgR-cV7j93Mf8tKY-Ja4gT8C72yekDMbaj3H6WZ5sTZimoK-WdttcdrGvelcBXKFmbDQouhupWv1wuHzmYOWrULu5BrD5vtkRX7ItjLHoJ6lcUayrJi6SgzT/s320/IMAG1257.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Mosquito Bridge</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8uJp-wWvleXTj2LcJhx4LCo2uaaHnNxWyzfFLoTPerXsdiA_TN2ODlzuu9zvaSaujkvngChQ2rouTedsNSgk6CpKXfG3MrfZzKoIbdOeU9rtWsmrhyP4zB0thsI91VGCmE9096EXhkV1N/s1600/IMAG1258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8uJp-wWvleXTj2LcJhx4LCo2uaaHnNxWyzfFLoTPerXsdiA_TN2ODlzuu9zvaSaujkvngChQ2rouTedsNSgk6CpKXfG3MrfZzKoIbdOeU9rtWsmrhyP4zB0thsI91VGCmE9096EXhkV1N/s320/IMAG1258.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn0R2s2-wLXCxGxKV6ynij0_rd-er2wbbfBMS3T8m5Kt41nrEBJmgjjpWlbgn-5Y9oK25vDKYT-HGDn6NG2Ux1RrH-gLBHpQGG58LKb4NrBqVXtubJzn-CtvPcHT5CyfUyHFJKV1wuRUUx/s1600/IMAG1260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn0R2s2-wLXCxGxKV6ynij0_rd-er2wbbfBMS3T8m5Kt41nrEBJmgjjpWlbgn-5Y9oK25vDKYT-HGDn6NG2Ux1RrH-gLBHpQGG58LKb4NrBqVXtubJzn-CtvPcHT5CyfUyHFJKV1wuRUUx/s320/IMAG1260.jpg" width="195" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>that middle section is tricky!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I reached Mosquito Bridge I noticed the smell of burning rubber. Immediately after the bridge there was a steep climb so I figured I'd keep my momentum going and start up it, but within a few feet my bike was making horrible screeching noises with every pedal stroke, so I stopped and headed back to the bridge to wait for the others and figure out what the hell was going on with my bike. I was just hoping I hadn't burned out my brakes! When Kevin got there we looked at my bike and we realized that my back tire was too close to the frame and was rubbing. We (ok, he) thought that the heat had caused the air in my tire to expand, which closed the gap between my tire and the frame. That had been what the smell was, too; the friction between my tire and bike frame as I was coming down that hill. We released a bit of air and hoped that would help.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What followed is one of the hardest things I've done in my life. Seriously, the climb up from that bridge was so hard I almost simultaneously puked, cried, and had a heart attack. Plenty of people walked up part of it, and everyone was <i>crawling</i> up. The first half mile seemed almost vertical; we found out later it was a good 20+ grade at the steepest point. The only reason I didn't stop was because I knew I wouldn't be able to get going again on something so steep. My bike continued to screech as I climbed, which made everyone look at me in the midst of my hardest climb ever, dripping in sweat and grunting with effort. I'm sure I looked lovely. There was a little plateau after the steepest part and I unclipped and could barely stand on my wobbly legs. I was gasping for air, and my heart rate was surely in the nonexistent zone 6. Most other riders had stopped, too, and we all commiserated on how tough that was, and tried not to talk about the fact that the road continued up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVf9mmgxHRiIFZ8OuRZKAZKPFawVwzVf7mZKVekNIg29FvlkYHWXSj4EMZcWxpftyWL_8A8dhKCcbzE46KN_eTYwyFKjiMV40oY7I-h1J8593WVDvscD5cQelgVD6f5FFIUjhi7DTv0AyZ/s1600/IMAG1263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVf9mmgxHRiIFZ8OuRZKAZKPFawVwzVf7mZKVekNIg29FvlkYHWXSj4EMZcWxpftyWL_8A8dhKCcbzE46KN_eTYwyFKjiMV40oY7I-h1J8593WVDvscD5cQelgVD6f5FFIUjhi7DTv0AyZ/s320/IMAG1263.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>pictures don't quite do this hill justice</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When Kevin got to the top he looked at my wheel again and this time actually moved it back to create more space. This did the trick and I had no more squeaking (note to self: on a warm day, do not inflate tires to capacity). When we'd all regrouped at the little plateau we reluctantly got back on our bikes and continued. While the worst of the climb was behind us, it kept going, not as steep, but much, much longer. I tried to keep my effort steady and not push, but the entire time my easiest gears did not feel easy enough. Several times I considered stopping, but again I was afraid I wouldn't be able to get going again. I was seriously near tears at the top, and could barely catch my breath. Amity had beat me to the top and was similarly ravaged by the climb. While waiting for our friends we got to chatting with some of the other cyclists who'd stopped for a break and were surprised to hear them all say this was one of the hardest rides they'd ever done, which including some pretty infamous rides and courses. That made me feel a little bit better (and a tiny bit proud).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdD6BUi0SjgfoswbFqshgD-Y_h_4MYHLmhY08liGklTAqGUjyPGPbMz4X8x96d-zIZ8ph5MpK5rWEeBlcE8TL8WuT1bxZ58aSTsmOx6EHtf9rqCYzPgyx3H9Ry55YVxSs6T-md88v9vH7K/s1600/IMAG1264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdD6BUi0SjgfoswbFqshgD-Y_h_4MYHLmhY08liGklTAqGUjyPGPbMz4X8x96d-zIZ8ph5MpK5rWEeBlcE8TL8WuT1bxZ58aSTsmOx6EHtf9rqCYzPgyx3H9Ry55YVxSs6T-md88v9vH7K/s320/IMAG1264.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizqmB-G7TfdCmcFDrJLWDQX2-mhzFcBl3JHBcKBPudLZ5lJVBiiB5D_IrJvy2W3BC8rSlVHZjCeAaXKs5R66TtXbYIGCF0UYyW-xcm5FPnV8XhdiExbEOfPJV6sWkM2KSQzbHldVCK390R/s1600/IMAG1265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizqmB-G7TfdCmcFDrJLWDQX2-mhzFcBl3JHBcKBPudLZ5lJVBiiB5D_IrJvy2W3BC8rSlVHZjCeAaXKs5R66TtXbYIGCF0UYyW-xcm5FPnV8XhdiExbEOfPJV6sWkM2KSQzbHldVCK390R/s320/IMAG1265.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>yes, we're tri geeks </i>: )</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After several minutes we still hadn't spotted our friends, and we started to worry. Carrie has been dealing with a lower back issue and Amity was worried all the hills were giving her trouble. Not long after we saw her and Kevin walking their bikes up. Carrie was having a tough time breathing, and so both decided to call it an early day and get SAGed in. This was also when Kevin, Anandi, and I started to voice some reservations about completing the full century. Mercifully the next few miles were a gradual downhill with some flats that lead us into downtown Placerville. We had a couple more little climbs left - because apparently we still needed to earn our lunch - including the one and only hill I walked my bike up. We rounded a corner and the road just went <i>straight up</i>. It was steep, and I knew my legs wouldn't make it all the way up, so rather than risk unclipping halfway and falling, I just said f*ck it and walked up. And let me tell you, just walking that sucker was tough! I met Kevin at the top and we continued the mile or so left to Placer High for the lunch stop.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUFLQ96yiQNdpKQWrAdW4OI5fd3Z90_vAF_FI-2BDRNuXhzFMCBmhe7U1qSWmfPdoLzjqJvuPOAa7glE1I3WP4KJRcttROJhOA3D5WjyiLMpfT1sRM_yxMAu5rIMHcg1fT53Ayp9_n5uB1/s1600/IMAG1266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUFLQ96yiQNdpKQWrAdW4OI5fd3Z90_vAF_FI-2BDRNuXhzFMCBmhe7U1qSWmfPdoLzjqJvuPOAa7glE1I3WP4KJRcttROJhOA3D5WjyiLMpfT1sRM_yxMAu5rIMHcg1fT53Ayp9_n5uB1/s320/IMAG1266.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLiqiBm682Rab4UV1r4LiwoHcGWMB9Db67aPpTFxPAgF2q4pyBLP5np8dU-_UHtUZJIbd4LS6nhi3H_P6mvFWgXL3PrG0LprrfkQVbYwg8cEPBaxg1N7_yQl80j7WDMTaEBBnD-rLR9e2Q/s1600/IMAG1267.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLiqiBm682Rab4UV1r4LiwoHcGWMB9Db67aPpTFxPAgF2q4pyBLP5np8dU-_UHtUZJIbd4LS6nhi3H_P6mvFWgXL3PrG0LprrfkQVbYwg8cEPBaxg1N7_yQl80j7WDMTaEBBnD-rLR9e2Q/s320/IMAG1267.jpg" width="217" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>the one and only hill I did on foot</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We grabbed some food and drinks and found a spot in the shade. All we could talk about was how exhausted we were, how much our legs and hands and bums hurt. We started entertaining ideas of stopping at the metric distance and driving to the bike trail for a flat 35 miles to get to 100 for the day. At this point none of us were really considering doing the full anymore, we just had nothing left. It wasn't that we couldn't handle the mileage - I think we absolutely could have. But those last 35 miles had an additional 1,500 ft. of climbing with a 620 ft. climb up Pilot Hill, and our legs definitely could not have handled <i>that</i>. We took a long break here, resting our legs, eating (I definitely needed more calories at that point), and trying to negotiate a SAG for Amity and Carrie. I checked the website on my phone to see what the course description was for the next section, since up to that point the people we'd talked to hadn't exactly been reliable. Fortunately it described it as a mostly downhill cruise to the finish.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After spending a good hour at the lunch stop we finally found the energy to get back on our bikes and continue on. This was hands down the most mild section of the ride, although it still managed to be slow going on such tired legs. I ended up going ahead of Kevin and Anandi and rode much of this section myself. I encountered a few assholes who felt the need to fly past me at top speed, but tried not to let it get to me. There had been another guy earlier who felt it necessary to flip us off as he passed us. Really? It's unfortunate how little tolerance some people have and how blatantly rude people can be. Not to mention how dangerous their behavior can be, too. Ok, rant over : / Around mile 65 I approached the turn with arrows pointing direction for the 67 milers and the century riders. I was a little bummed to be turning right and cutting it short, but I was also a little happy I wasn't going straight - and right up another nasty hill! There were some nice gradual declines over the last few miles, gentle enough that my hands didn't start cramping from riding the brakes. And then soon enough I recognized my surroundings and found myself back in Lotus where we began our journey nearly 8 hours earlier.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho2VXeMxqDy4S22iWPagoqFLt-uA48hlyV9f2f20lmeWfPyMmiaZK1iCoGGcnGhUtt5AmT1_QHvMrJb13nUDuKehMdrNAlesLndmwCFzAvO-00y7gwWvUwQUgQilKBc0on1RI4V53faXUM/s1600/IMAG1268.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho2VXeMxqDy4S22iWPagoqFLt-uA48hlyV9f2f20lmeWfPyMmiaZK1iCoGGcnGhUtt5AmT1_QHvMrJb13nUDuKehMdrNAlesLndmwCFzAvO-00y7gwWvUwQUgQilKBc0on1RI4V53faXUM/s320/IMAG1268.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>back where we started at the S. Fork of the river</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I waited a few minutes for Anandi and Kevin, and as they rolled up both said they were done for the day. I had still hoped to add on some mileage, but it was already 4pm, still hot out, and I was exhausted. Even though I knew it was a great, challenging training ride, I was disappointed that I hadn't accomplished what I'd set out to do. After a few minutes of really thinking about it I decided to call it a day, too. There is still opportunity to tackle 100 miles before race day, and after 67 on a course like that it will be a breeze. The ride ended up being my longest ever by about an hour (total riding time of 5:06), but still under my longest distance ever (70 miles). Based on that info you can see it was slow going yesterday! In all, we had 5,200 ft. of elevation gain over 67.4 miles (although my Garmin says 6,200 ft. strangely). Either way, it's close to what I will see at Ironman (6,100 ft.), which will be spread out over 112 miles. After this ride, I'm much more mentally prepared and confident for Cd'A.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRuQWS68bfSI7os6vbJzSmpdOnhf5uyBHiAb0Cd2XtLVqKdIrdc7jVM6rk5W3to64Sgli6uChJ1cjQl_mICAc_zrpnxR12abGVpRE9DgkIHnFAVuHhhAIw12egDHTy2l2twr54Ehx2TeEn/s1600/motherlode.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRuQWS68bfSI7os6vbJzSmpdOnhf5uyBHiAb0Cd2XtLVqKdIrdc7jVM6rk5W3to64Sgli6uChJ1cjQl_mICAc_zrpnxR12abGVpRE9DgkIHnFAVuHhhAIw12egDHTy2l2twr54Ehx2TeEn/s320/motherlode.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>elevation profile</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i> </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We hung out for a bit and grabbed some food from the organized dinner, relaxed, and talked about the ride. I even chatted with the race director, and when I told him how our day went, he said he didn't recommend this century as someone's first, that it was way too challenging. He said we should be proud to have finished what we did. And, now that I've had a little time to think about it, I am.</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-88642853041172534042012-05-18T23:14:00.000-07:002012-05-18T23:14:37.443-07:00Bike ThingsI've been a bit of a slacker on the blogging front over the last couple weeks. Training has finally become really intense and work has been crazy, so I honestly just haven't had the time. That's not to say that I haven't had a lot to say - I do! So I'm hoping I can make a little more of an effort to keep this thing up to date.<br />
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This Sunday marks a big milestone for me: my first century (100 mile) ride! From the beginning I planned to do an organized century as one of my super long training rides, and after some Google searching I landed on the <a href="http://www.motherlodecentury.com/">Motherlode Century</a> this weekend. The timing is perfect, it's relatively local, not too expensive, and other training friends are participating as well. I'm excited to get this one under my belt, but just a wee bit nervous about the course. It boasts 6,900' of climbing over 100 miles, so it's a hilly sucker. That's also well over what I will encounter in Coeur d'Alene, so it should be good training!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4osUubvVben2je1SA-n9q2CAVt2uLYbJvhTnYqjE-VDIkmyTANqizkYz3kQCTxGcriAU1YRvHMx7SJ2OvxaJW8A1Ty1gmpDTw3YvY5WZ5Ffmzm25W5RdcFHV_3c4EHPhYLPZnMGaAmAdz/s1600/motherlode.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4osUubvVben2je1SA-n9q2CAVt2uLYbJvhTnYqjE-VDIkmyTANqizkYz3kQCTxGcriAU1YRvHMx7SJ2OvxaJW8A1Ty1gmpDTw3YvY5WZ5Ffmzm25W5RdcFHV_3c4EHPhYLPZnMGaAmAdz/s400/motherlode.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>yikes!</i></div><i> </i> <br />
My longest ride thus far is <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/05/ironman-week-19.html">70 miles</a>, so this is definitely a jump, and on a much more challenging route, too. I plan on keeping it pretty leisurely and focusing on pacing and fueling. The latter is going to be especially important, both in keeping me going on Sunday and figuring out what will work for Ironman. I plan on doing my usual routine, but increasing quantities, and also will probably take advantage of the food and drinks at the aid stations. The course, which winds through Coloma Valley is supposed to be quite beautiful, so hopefully that makes up for the tough terrain.<br />
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In other bike news, a few weeks ago I read a great <a href="http://fitnessfatale.com/2012/05/03/your-cluster-is-really-clean/">post</a> by <a href="http://fitnessfatale.com/">Nicole</a> (also training for Cd'A) on a simple way to make riding hills easier - changing the cassette (aka the gears on the back). Similar to Nicole, I found that while going up certain hills I wasn't able to "spin". In other words, the easy gears weren't easy enough. Nicole seemed to have good results with the change, and since we happen to have the same bike, I figured it was something I should look into. After talking to a few people and doing some research I decided it was a good idea, so I ordered the new cassette and today I had my standard 12-25 Shimano Ultegra cassette switched to the new 11-28 Shimano Ultegra cassette. The numbers, by the way, refer to the number of teeth on the gears, but that's as technical as I'm gonna get! This should make it a tad easier to climb but also allow for more power on flats. I haven't had a chance to test it out yet, but will certainly get to on Sunday! And Nicole, thanks for the tip : )<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyZKcpKsyFcgbSKy-McgSdOMwZf_bJAouuWglQAOpLIIBJ2t2_bbGXuN9fxadp8k1rMPOfqcLIILsEq8csIvATLEN3aboNUVwurTYqiceEcExIdsWLIWUkxMTIZV0ae2G4pnMsARICzyCJ/s1600/cassette1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyZKcpKsyFcgbSKy-McgSdOMwZf_bJAouuWglQAOpLIIBJ2t2_bbGXuN9fxadp8k1rMPOfqcLIILsEq8csIvATLEN3aboNUVwurTYqiceEcExIdsWLIWUkxMTIZV0ae2G4pnMsARICzyCJ/s320/cassette1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>the new chain & cassette!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSiP_zutT2IHZlCN6stn3Zlb8DSIgUVPGtWLixmJfxpnp201NbmoZKrRvuH40i41fkI-yATGzihcTvmMJIElTt1veZm3NeKRzudCMWHl3ejX-DyIsjdXMjW-LXEVcEQwcv4nwowgG0S0zU/s1600/cassette2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSiP_zutT2IHZlCN6stn3Zlb8DSIgUVPGtWLixmJfxpnp201NbmoZKrRvuH40i41fkI-yATGzihcTvmMJIElTt1veZm3NeKRzudCMWHl3ejX-DyIsjdXMjW-LXEVcEQwcv4nwowgG0S0zU/s320/cassette2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>hopefully i can keep it this clean & shiny </i>: )</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>While I was having the cassette installed the mechanic was nice enough to check over everything else, and it turns out my chain was already stretched out and needed replacing. Apparently a chain is only good for a certain number of miles, and it seems I've reached that point! He also mentioned that it could use some lube, and I was embarrassed to admit that I had never personally cleaned or lubed the chain since I bought it. Hmmmm, maybe that's why my chain was in bad shape? Let's just say bike lube was an easy sell today : / While he may have been shaking his head at me internally, he was actually really helpful and showed me how to apply <a href="http://www.rocklube.com/absolute_dry.htm">the lube</a> that will both clean and lube the chain. And in case you didn't know - because I sure didn't - this should be done at least once a week! Lesson learned.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEine6PlR00pEf-CtoB93JSvVcrSPjNoXJGb46rdx2xKlUD9HwSWkw1Icl23zaki6cUet-pSfteRIL_1hrNXUhnOd3yViFxMPzVNbYqR2SVdrS0s03onKKm_JAanyxvxCxizNvIEBlmMTEl9/s1600/lube.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEine6PlR00pEf-CtoB93JSvVcrSPjNoXJGb46rdx2xKlUD9HwSWkw1Icl23zaki6cUet-pSfteRIL_1hrNXUhnOd3yViFxMPzVNbYqR2SVdrS0s03onKKm_JAanyxvxCxizNvIEBlmMTEl9/s1600/lube.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>And lastly, let's talk about my bum! Or more specifically (and probably more appropriate), my saddle. As I've mentioned before, about 30 miles in to a ride, I start experiencing very uncomfortable pressure from my saddle. I mentioned it to my coach, who has the same saddle (Adamo), and she thought I might need to tilt it forward a bit more. When I compared mine to hers, it pretty much looked horizontal, so while I was at the bike shop today I had him tilt it a bit. Not sure if this will help but my bum sure hopes it does. Only Sunday will tell. I'm honestly more worried about this issue than I am about the hills! I do have a professional bike fit scheduled for the end of the month, because I really do think a lot of my discomfort, both on the saddle and elsewhere, is a fit issue. And I may end up looking for a new saddle. Fortunately, the bike shop has several styles they allow you to test out before making a purchase.<br />
<br />
And so that's the latest in cycling news! Anyone else as clueless about bike care as I am? Any good saddles to recommend?Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-18911958154001566072012-05-18T00:57:00.001-07:002012-05-25T22:20:19.487-07:00Ironman Week 19<i>5/7-5/13</i><br />
<br />
Coming off of <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/05/wildflower-long-course-race-report.html">Wildflower</a> I sort of expected this to be a recovery week. And while the first few days were fairly easy by Friday things had ramped up quite a bit! Highlights from the week include a new cycling distance PR, a return to trail running (oh, how I've missed it!), and a kick ass open water swim. All in all another great week of training!<br />
<br />
<u><b>Monday</b></u><br />
<i> pm: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 1,300 yds / 0:30</span></i><br />
<ul><li>warm-up: 200</li>
<li>main:</li>
<ul><li>300 as 25 FTD/25 swim</li>
<li>300 as 25 CU/25 swim</li>
<li>300 focusing on distance per stroke</li>
</ul><li>cool-down: 200</li>
</ul>Most of the day was spent driving back from Wildflower, so I opted to wait until the evening to fit in my swim. I almost skipped it, but was glad I didn't. It was short and easy, and the water actually felt great on my tired and sore legs.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5aEwOAUUQTsBrskL1dm0cyzKt6_6DddDyNMK1GnAgejSsv95lU5JX2HStRPOa0zoEYQKcOEvrtzb70CrjX5bZeaz1EMXIOOM42bUoA7pSV2JxXxJFSjUuc6IckBgp5Y6bCKNfG8B9t_ZD/s1600/may7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5aEwOAUUQTsBrskL1dm0cyzKt6_6DddDyNMK1GnAgejSsv95lU5JX2HStRPOa0zoEYQKcOEvrtzb70CrjX5bZeaz1EMXIOOM42bUoA7pSV2JxXxJFSjUuc6IckBgp5Y6bCKNfG8B9t_ZD/s320/may7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><i> </i><br />
<u><b>Tuesday</b></u><br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: red;">run / 3.1 mi / 0:28 / avg 9:02</span></i><br />
About half of the MTC group had competed at Wildflower so we were given a nice and easy track workout - 3 miles with a short pick-up each lap. Although my legs weren't too happy to be running yet, it was fun to socialize and share stories from the weekend.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Wednesday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: #38761d;">bike / 18 mi / 1:00 / avg 18 mph</span></i><br />
I felt surprisingly good on this ride and was able to push the pace. No idea where it came from, but I'll take it!<br />
<br />
<u><b>Thursday</b></u><br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 2,450 yds / 1:00</span></i><br />
<ul><li>warm-up:</li>
<li>200</li>
<li>4x(25 kick/25 backstroke/25 drill/25 swim)</li>
<li>main:</li>
<ul><li>100 easy</li>
<li>100 easy, 50 fast</li>
<li>100 easy, 100 fast</li>
<li>100 easy, 100 fast, 50 pull</li>
<li>100 easy, 100 fast, 100 pull</li>
<li>100 easy, 100 fast, 100 pull, 50 fast</li>
<li>100 easy, 100 fast, 100 pull, 100 fast</li>
</ul><li>cool-down: 100</li>
</ul>Another MTC swim workout, and this one was quite the doozy. The main set was sort of like a ladder, and it was not only hard to do, but hard to follow, too! It took a good 5 minutes of explaining from our coach before we comprehended it enough to give it a go. I felt really slow and lethargic, but chalked it up to still recovering from Wildflower and tried to cut myself some slack. <br />
<br />
<u><b>Friday</b></u><br />
<i>pm: <span style="color: #38761d;">bike / 70 mi / 4:07 / avg 17 mph</span></i><br />
So much for a rest week! I had a 4 hour ride on deck and I tried to find someone to join me for at least part of it, but no dice. I told myself it would be good mental practice to cover the distance solo, and I think it was. It was supposed to be a hilly ride, so I opted to start from my house and head up the bike trail to Beal's Point, which has some nice little hills leading up to it. From there I headed up Auburn-Folsom. My plan was to stay on that road, but then I spotted signs for the bike course for the triathlon going on the next day and decided to follow them to change things up. I figured it was a fairly safe idea with minimal chance of getting lost since I could just follow the signs back. The course took me on some quaint country roads with rolling hills for about 8 miles. I did miss a turn on the way back and almost got turned around, but I managed to find my way back.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLSoscwwl34OoHeVM45670HoEciIyCC2mAxVmDJK0iUe0W2ZHWeKcUeq4wGodHExLwdhxeKOoJbuXMRhouJB4-iLMod5LH-aree1N6IwXpQbv84mIP_84avJvVn1mjakjUNYl2NJBSOaH_/s1600/may11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLSoscwwl34OoHeVM45670HoEciIyCC2mAxVmDJK0iUe0W2ZHWeKcUeq4wGodHExLwdhxeKOoJbuXMRhouJB4-iLMod5LH-aree1N6IwXpQbv84mIP_84avJvVn1mjakjUNYl2NJBSOaH_/s320/may11.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Beal's Point, Folsom Lake</i><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><br />
The first 10 miles or so of the ride really sucked. My legs just didn't seem to have much power, and hitting my usual speeds took more effort. It did improve as I went, and the second half ended up being much more pleasant than the first. I fueled well (2 servings of Gu Roctane + water and 3 Honey Stinger waffles) and hydrated plenty since it was quite warm. My legs were certainly tired, but what really killed me was my saddle. Again. Just like at Wildflower, by mile 30 it was extremely uncomfortable. After talking to my coach I'm going to try some adjustments with the angle of the saddle, and I have an appointment for a legit bike fit at the end of the month. Gotta get this under control! I stopped a few times to stretch and use the bathroom, both of which were necessary on a ride this long. I ended up with a negative split so I headed out the opposite direction to add on a bit more, and figured I do an extra few minutes to come to a round 70 miles for the day.<br />
<br />
It felt great to finally have a solid long ride under my belt, and I'm pretty happy with how it went (although I don't know about another 42 miles!). Next up is my first century this Sunday - more on that later!<br />
<br />
<u><b>Saturday</b></u><br />
<i>rest</i><br />
Since Sunday was going to be busy with work and working out I took the opportunity to take my mom out for dinner to celebrate Mother's Day. I can't say just how lucky I am to have such an amazing and supportive mom. She's been my biggest fan since I started this crazy lifestyle and has always supported and encouraged me to pursue my dreams. She's truly one of a kind, and I'm proud to call her mom : )<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazmEkwaKX_XOJ6JNMyi5K57ZUPt-OIPSNpaRSZK455mFF3y2jGFM_nyAEI63VlBzGMj3kMVTDdd8USSjVJG6XYF1jYJFdYO20kWt5n4j2FyigMen_MsKhX2lgngB-ifyr94jtnZ78ZCrU/s1600/IMG_2413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazmEkwaKX_XOJ6JNMyi5K57ZUPt-OIPSNpaRSZK455mFF3y2jGFM_nyAEI63VlBzGMj3kMVTDdd8USSjVJG6XYF1jYJFdYO20kWt5n4j2FyigMen_MsKhX2lgngB-ifyr94jtnZ78ZCrU/s320/IMG_2413.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ZaRoUhVBdDZGrGLSCoWNVvuI8A5UNqgCO66MogGAFTPk8S7o6CfNzbopMgaf7MrsjQy9IMzaNc8XTbDuVeQyXIXqNw3zyRjQ57uOdwnWXK8vpwKj2xYapwJpQ_G2TpXdFoiEeXfpuShm/s1600/DSCF1973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ZaRoUhVBdDZGrGLSCoWNVvuI8A5UNqgCO66MogGAFTPk8S7o6CfNzbopMgaf7MrsjQy9IMzaNc8XTbDuVeQyXIXqNw3zyRjQ57uOdwnWXK8vpwKj2xYapwJpQ_G2TpXdFoiEeXfpuShm/s320/DSCF1973.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="st"> ♥</span></div><br />
<u><b>Sunday</b></u><br />
<i>am: <span style="color: red;">run / 8.5 mi / 1:43 / avg 12:07</span></i><br />
<div style="color: black;">My long run this week was supposed to be a trail run, and fortunately my coworker, Courtney, agreed to come along. It's been a while since I've hit the trails and while I was excited, I was also a bit anxious to see how my tired legs would do on some hills. We headed up to Auburn and started from the Overlook. I had 2 hours on deck but after a later-than-planned start we decided to cut it short and run down to No Hands Bridge and back, about 8ish miles. The first half was mostly downhill as we made our way down to the bridge over the American River at the bottom of the canyon. It was a beautiful morning, and I was having a great time enjoying the trails and taking in the wonderful views. Wildflowers were in bloom everywhere, butterflies were in the air, and everything was lush and green. We crossed a few little creeks and one lovely little waterfall : )<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70sc6GSYEe25x0CqKlrbGXfEv13tVN6NP-WnckD1mao1dmYFK66o66PoMhKYv2fV0wus6oqmtMpiBr-30cA-4og8QDGlVamge6TiPxF-mRJIBlf809GqR449BJsAW3niF6tSvvcQf_B1J/s1600/may13_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70sc6GSYEe25x0CqKlrbGXfEv13tVN6NP-WnckD1mao1dmYFK66o66PoMhKYv2fV0wus6oqmtMpiBr-30cA-4og8QDGlVamge6TiPxF-mRJIBlf809GqR449BJsAW3niF6tSvvcQf_B1J/s320/may13_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjogbFIpu6tX8I0-_cypKaVjDTAgStewGV5fOEKZt3ayDrk6A4hYiope5kgC1YmHT0V_bTVqFla5ThlsdSaXEsIYEGBI_PkgNvatpGDKe5UgRIWPVIqCw4bgvZ9toifv_7sQ1PFWpaUNGT3/s1600/may13_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjogbFIpu6tX8I0-_cypKaVjDTAgStewGV5fOEKZt3ayDrk6A4hYiope5kgC1YmHT0V_bTVqFla5ThlsdSaXEsIYEGBI_PkgNvatpGDKe5UgRIWPVIqCw4bgvZ9toifv_7sQ1PFWpaUNGT3/s320/may13_12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>talk about a view!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisBgzeNcfpGRzfzMOGyiVKTwXj4NL1wzsZcVMuUNqnoZnGcaiP38E3UA127iPTHEqd5NezXWlBGbci73oEi81OdjecyfOQPusQNnM0BwHKsOPPZQcDJJUoMuxaIV90iJTw0v89s27TBMoa/s1600/may13_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisBgzeNcfpGRzfzMOGyiVKTwXj4NL1wzsZcVMuUNqnoZnGcaiP38E3UA127iPTHEqd5NezXWlBGbci73oEi81OdjecyfOQPusQNnM0BwHKsOPPZQcDJJUoMuxaIV90iJTw0v89s27TBMoa/s320/may13_4.jpg" width="202" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-KM5URdbRjL-MH7IuhqZC5kW-_z2CIumXv_VgCyIg2xncxkcfeD8EhnHjCMTG9WQ7JqnZb9hEdvV-naiPpS_H7W-6p9nm2ZqEdiKhdfG2cP_R3mBB-bgNYbhYlCoUpMX0qbugr1pk8x9S/s1600/may13_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-KM5URdbRjL-MH7IuhqZC5kW-_z2CIumXv_VgCyIg2xncxkcfeD8EhnHjCMTG9WQ7JqnZb9hEdvV-naiPpS_H7W-6p9nm2ZqEdiKhdfG2cP_R3mBB-bgNYbhYlCoUpMX0qbugr1pk8x9S/s320/may13_6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>American River</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4dunzLt-a6uD-ehSGCAt1fArKm-02zrMve1CpG8EAmF1AJ6hFdx3eFvfF_vGN5A37_68VZCXmEq8935DODBlFR9MEdl4jdEXSDt-VmSKsZb-1EifSTXc-j-LJVdRrFGm-YDvbQfnvkfVT/s1600/may13_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4dunzLt-a6uD-ehSGCAt1fArKm-02zrMve1CpG8EAmF1AJ6hFdx3eFvfF_vGN5A37_68VZCXmEq8935DODBlFR9MEdl4jdEXSDt-VmSKsZb-1EifSTXc-j-LJVdRrFGm-YDvbQfnvkfVT/s320/may13_8.jpg" width="202" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZCsfHj9DbEiSMRJg3q2TC_i2fEDW9C9J1iT-t9zENCrr8sddbXYYWiaG33qwO_fSZ62xm5-6DesQKYgYxcLx2S9G_jUgM2lWInul7GL9xe6Y1lfR3xC1990S0Wr1zQS362gv3JZQ_ajYK/s1600/may13_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZCsfHj9DbEiSMRJg3q2TC_i2fEDW9C9J1iT-t9zENCrr8sddbXYYWiaG33qwO_fSZ62xm5-6DesQKYgYxcLx2S9G_jUgM2lWInul7GL9xe6Y1lfR3xC1990S0Wr1zQS362gv3JZQ_ajYK/s200/may13_1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij6O5Nnv6sB6T2_yyfG4d5mut5BCWbRjFvsb6XZsv9qEQtwKNqB0kUI-_eHmXLOy8zN-CVMwuDR2GTW8fSSiMfz_MGRLfnqt8fu6mxBQigBwDz7H57j1_TYK7qQ_b85p7gPB0TSunhE8vE/s1600/may13_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij6O5Nnv6sB6T2_yyfG4d5mut5BCWbRjFvsb6XZsv9qEQtwKNqB0kUI-_eHmXLOy8zN-CVMwuDR2GTW8fSSiMfz_MGRLfnqt8fu6mxBQigBwDz7H57j1_TYK7qQ_b85p7gPB0TSunhE8vE/s320/may13_7.jpg" width="198" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>waterfall!</i></div><br />
We made pretty good time down to No Hands and continued on a couple minutes before turning around to head back. I was feeling pretty good, but knew that the way back would be much more challenging as we had to make our way up and out of the canyon. Surprisingly it wasn't my legs that were holding me back as much as it was my lungs. I don't know if it was the elevation (really not that high, but I do live at sea level), or more likely, allergies. Courtney was having a rough time on the way back since she's been dealing with a cough lately, so we made sure to take it nice and easy and hiked all the hills. There's one long little winding hill that was especially painful but we trudged our way to the top and continued on. Poor Courtney took a little tumble just before we were done, so she's officially earned her trail running stripes!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOuPHSJmVx6bHKWol9IKXMULV7z_rYq_GryQcsVEmshd4KMygYLXlncOuDzBmSeAJxnnG8Gx9U3-BS1ig1JupkAR4kg5nphFS6JVF5NzoLmj1kXYN_kF14YJ7NsfloOPs3m4woK0OFWtCA/s1600/may13_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOuPHSJmVx6bHKWol9IKXMULV7z_rYq_GryQcsVEmshd4KMygYLXlncOuDzBmSeAJxnnG8Gx9U3-BS1ig1JupkAR4kg5nphFS6JVF5NzoLmj1kXYN_kF14YJ7NsfloOPs3m4woK0OFWtCA/s320/may13_10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>No Hands Bridge</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZkgtRATtXD-FP1xLLkUXTaGIuP0WXuQ_is6v_e0gCcPWk9-1sVIYn3RBVNB2HwNJErldm59RWfZtyGQtPi_bISgTOrs9VdqBZeCbEZ0xmCHXoTmaZmP52rd4Y1_13TFAJCSrH7V2NaxX/s1600/may13_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZkgtRATtXD-FP1xLLkUXTaGIuP0WXuQ_is6v_e0gCcPWk9-1sVIYn3RBVNB2HwNJErldm59RWfZtyGQtPi_bISgTOrs9VdqBZeCbEZ0xmCHXoTmaZmP52rd4Y1_13TFAJCSrH7V2NaxX/s320/may13_13.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHeb7k3SKEEPSObXwoJrl-wSLtSTwrwUnU-7TLZWc8oUfJ9xQMZb_2R4mYdHd2zIu0dNtSzw5phWAJUGNyqWExwM-rD18ghJ2OjblGM61nULcKN3rG8sMe4LOvLnVXOxA04fGMC5d-amPy/s1600/may13_11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHeb7k3SKEEPSObXwoJrl-wSLtSTwrwUnU-7TLZWc8oUfJ9xQMZb_2R4mYdHd2zIu0dNtSzw5phWAJUGNyqWExwM-rD18ghJ2OjblGM61nULcKN3rG8sMe4LOvLnVXOxA04fGMC5d-amPy/s320/may13_11.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>the worst of the hills</i></div><br />
</div><i>pm: <span style="color: blue;">swim / 1,600 yds* / 0:30</span></i><br />
I couldn't recruit anyone to join me, so I headed to Lake Natoma after work for another half hour of open water swimming. I was actually kind of excited to do it since the buoys for crew are still there and act like lane lines : ) For some reason I grabbed a sleeveless wetsuit when I left work and was afraid I'd be too cold, but it actually worked out fine once I got moving. I did get some funny looks from people as I walked up wearing a wetsuit and got in, and I'm sure most thought I was crazy : )<br />
<br />
I felt great for the majority of the swim. I found a rhythm much quicker than last time and just cruised along. There were a couple times where the current was noticeably strong and I almost freaked out, but it was nothing I couldn't handle, surprising more than anything. I made it around the rectangle in 25 minutes so I added on a little out-and-back to get to 30. The best part of the swim was when I got out and a couple told me they'd been watching me and were impressed by how fast I was! I explained that the wetsuit and current helped, but they said I still looked great : )<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><i><b>Totals</b></i></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;">swim:</span> 5,350 yards</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;">bike:</span> 88 miles</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">run:</span> 11.6 miles</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">other:</span> 0 hours</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>total time: 9.3 hours</i></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358832218008785220.post-34175735556207369932012-05-14T00:08:00.000-07:002012-05-14T00:08:17.706-07:00Wildflower Long Course (Race Report)<div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLcie2IXCe75vBG0WZXKTLsAYyg7kNOUxm4JY2sIIvMREAG05q1vL7_ApKGbsnmKKT8KdqCF2Cri1qIdo4FsZDIAuPP2reH-fi8JffGl7K-SxQIgZDvOEgEj69jgkTZPis48ff7rVk2CF/s1600/wildflower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLcie2IXCe75vBG0WZXKTLsAYyg7kNOUxm4JY2sIIvMREAG05q1vL7_ApKGbsnmKKT8KdqCF2Cri1qIdo4FsZDIAuPP2reH-fi8JffGl7K-SxQIgZDvOEgEj69jgkTZPis48ff7rVk2CF/s200/wildflower.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>I may be a little late, but I finally managed to put together a race recap for the awesomeness that was Wildflower. And once again let me just say that if you've never experienced these races, <i>put them on your list!</i> Seriously. This recap became ridiculously long, so if you make it through I'll be thoroughly impressed. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
I met up with some friends on Friday to head down to the race together. We managed to figure out the puzzle of getting four different bikes on one bike rack and fitting the gear of four triathletes in one car before setting off. The drive was pretty uneventful, but did take longer than I thought. For some reason I was thinking 3.5 hours, when in reality it was more like 5! We stopped to get some groceries before heading to our rental house at Lake Nacimiento. It was getting pretty late at that point so we dropped off our stuff real quick and then headed to Lake San Antonio to pick up our race stuff. On our way there my friends offered to drive the infamous "Nasty Grade" so I could get a sneak peak and know what to expect of this epic hill on race day. It definitely went on for a while, but it didn't seem quite as bad as I'd expected, at least not from a car.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7mrhvEtI6R80LD6_hfFWSiZiGatg48G_XHy0uBbhmfUr4HDi8wH16Deo_Ek9f137i1FRkiTq1HzsXdJjRrJB4TXKzKTx7x8-cvdPvYv8NtU9cFjAafsGNF0bpqy5qt_1c_mjHW54B4OXN/s1600/rental.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7mrhvEtI6R80LD6_hfFWSiZiGatg48G_XHy0uBbhmfUr4HDi8wH16Deo_Ek9f137i1FRkiTq1HzsXdJjRrJB4TXKzKTx7x8-cvdPvYv8NtU9cFjAafsGNF0bpqy5qt_1c_mjHW54B4OXN/s320/rental.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>the view from our house!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> </i></div>For those of you who don't know, Wildflower is a weekend-long triathlon festival. There are races on both Saturday and Sunday, and most people camp out at the lake making it one big party. Think Woodstock for triathletes. As we rolled into the campground it was like triathlon city. Tents everywhere, bikes all over the place, gear laid out. Part of me wished we'd camped to get the full experience, but I'll admit having a real bed and shower was pretty nice : ) We parked and then grabbed the shuttle to head down the mile-long Lynch Hill to the race area. The hill was a doozy, but fortunately those doing long course only have to go down it on the bike and run. Since it was so late it wasn't very crowded and we were able to pick up our packets within minutes. Then we checked out the huge transition area right on the lake, took a look at the swim start, and then made our way back.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDzRZXKoBsrltsGo7WG1lUC7l1oakwtWdw8a3h7Q-GX-TllmiRrLPJPLlVyMjWCvNKM7VwmRdoYUYcPE_Gbsab3DKzgP-qXVIjeBpk0WVAZ0YxUdAOC2s0-Vb4sFxJHrs5DrkxT0fUMNCN/s1600/DSCF2601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDzRZXKoBsrltsGo7WG1lUC7l1oakwtWdw8a3h7Q-GX-TllmiRrLPJPLlVyMjWCvNKM7VwmRdoYUYcPE_Gbsab3DKzgP-qXVIjeBpk0WVAZ0YxUdAOC2s0-Vb4sFxJHrs5DrkxT0fUMNCN/s320/DSCF2601.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>campgrounds</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPHlG7B0JPWxfagynHQJfZUJns_kJjPz4SA3PyGl6ka5XHC6X3iONKboSNECMoyDI86EKprscuuPEbjaetj9PRZQ8TGFXGWfgf6VITGgVWL-wIkzb_bz761wkZLOFyKUIQztBi9oSbIMg6/s1600/IMG_4711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPHlG7B0JPWxfagynHQJfZUJns_kJjPz4SA3PyGl6ka5XHC6X3iONKboSNECMoyDI86EKprscuuPEbjaetj9PRZQ8TGFXGWfgf6VITGgVWL-wIkzb_bz761wkZLOFyKUIQztBi9oSbIMg6/s320/IMG_4711.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>sweet tan lines!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdNAVsaV_sGIOSu92bCvDFTO9ne5naBpfJlkHcF4ReEjX3tRZL7KQpQPTMaRRkMnzeMRoJRGCcmX28wrUe_BctR24TMOgybFQf4VcmkgWMMzVe-qaBOrpLbI3XfY99eeEEI0k6J5iIgaY/s1600/IMG_4712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdNAVsaV_sGIOSu92bCvDFTO9ne5naBpfJlkHcF4ReEjX3tRZL7KQpQPTMaRRkMnzeMRoJRGCcmX28wrUe_BctR24TMOgybFQf4VcmkgWMMzVe-qaBOrpLbI3XfY99eeEEI0k6J5iIgaY/s320/IMG_4712.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>at the top of Lynch</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvNpfYluAUBJKW_jmg2WfPE6tdCw1nmlmhEWYjkmQ_IEuv02au2IWaOTKL5NeYTmi5GYFr0VcF3ESx4fbSbqDBwbUOOjv82Ck9MEzGn1iD0fTl8fooIZlXMjJ08RxuwvTH6TEsYHO5Ngv0/s1600/DSCF2618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvNpfYluAUBJKW_jmg2WfPE6tdCw1nmlmhEWYjkmQ_IEuv02au2IWaOTKL5NeYTmi5GYFr0VcF3ESx4fbSbqDBwbUOOjv82Ck9MEzGn1iD0fTl8fooIZlXMjJ08RxuwvTH6TEsYHO5Ngv0/s320/DSCF2618.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>empty transition</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGsbec_5jUJ1xmfWHQYpSvpFj97vVOKu4htT-jbV8wYk_-WLCnEr7zInGRQAIYpK7MOcspkcEOtsTNQHjVsV6QnRoQ9rdbX2JH9DcpKJP8jsrVeUFtjh4lKLttTjl8tdwQCeHIv49ofYud/s1600/DSCF2616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGsbec_5jUJ1xmfWHQYpSvpFj97vVOKu4htT-jbV8wYk_-WLCnEr7zInGRQAIYpK7MOcspkcEOtsTNQHjVsV6QnRoQ9rdbX2JH9DcpKJP8jsrVeUFtjh4lKLttTjl8tdwQCeHIv49ofYud/s320/DSCF2616.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>swim start all ready to go!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzJOnxe9b4r9gIWCAZ5LbHF6xZ9V46CSCS4Pot3h6eDMiaYpYH8Qrnqp2LrBGhJp3PHdlXBDGdIyXA8x4zEt1-VkqkJR9SWsyo_JWBVugNZRG1WsJ2MPOXpVztLrD_l7x7y5MoDKM8k7U7/s1600/DSCF2619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzJOnxe9b4r9gIWCAZ5LbHF6xZ9V46CSCS4Pot3h6eDMiaYpYH8Qrnqp2LrBGhJp3PHdlXBDGdIyXA8x4zEt1-VkqkJR9SWsyo_JWBVugNZRG1WsJ2MPOXpVztLrD_l7x7y5MoDKM8k7U7/s320/DSCF2619.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br />
When we got back to the rental we made a quick dinner of pasta and then I got to work getting my last minute race things together and double-checking my gear. We hung out and chatted for a while before I realized it was getting pretty late and I should probably get some sleep!<br />
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</div><u><b>Pre-Race</b></u><br />
Wildflower has a fairly late start (8am for the pros) and then waves for age groupers, so we didn't have to get up too early. We had to be at the campground by 8am so I went through my usual pre-race routine, ate some breakfast, loaded up my bike and gear, and then were on our way! On race day the shuttle aren't running in the morning so athletes typically ride their bikes down Lynch Hill. My friend had brought along an extra aero helmet and had offered to let me use it. At first I said no way - I didn't want to look like a total poser : / But then my friends reassured me that lots of people would be wearing them and that it would give me an advantage, especially on the descents. And so I donned my fancy helmet said adios to my friends and cruised down Lynch!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisNY4v0J0Tngxlk2EILXR9KIAJ7CSb-8OHoTijBGndrnSeq_vIgb0DDcjRqmKhyphenhyphen2UzIpHQ3mXP7K9OiA8DMxG8uFL88MLiGb9_NIR7FBuGlGNG16GLKT24qv4CI95TLNwd6Hx5wGaM-x4u/s1600/IMG_4715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisNY4v0J0Tngxlk2EILXR9KIAJ7CSb-8OHoTijBGndrnSeq_vIgb0DDcjRqmKhyphenhyphen2UzIpHQ3mXP7K9OiA8DMxG8uFL88MLiGb9_NIR7FBuGlGNG16GLKT24qv4CI95TLNwd6Hx5wGaM-x4u/s320/IMG_4715.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>trying to figure out the aero helmet</i>...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7PZdwPaaD2AbLjHBtKy6KdszjTYKAhfGrEEPAjrcxho6H05b-X0LD0opRXQqy3GDkQ0obSRhNzgvKJHCY9Eim8twYvkPMi2GjB0nheRfkEVTUKHOKW1KPNgQv3x2NP2W3ZUwEYJ3UMUn/s1600/IMG_4716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7PZdwPaaD2AbLjHBtKy6KdszjTYKAhfGrEEPAjrcxho6H05b-X0LD0opRXQqy3GDkQ0obSRhNzgvKJHCY9Eim8twYvkPMi2GjB0nheRfkEVTUKHOKW1KPNgQv3x2NP2W3ZUwEYJ3UMUn/s320/IMG_4716.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>...and good to go!</i></div><br />
There were people everywhere and the air had a tangible excitement to it. I headed into transition and found my spot pretty easily. I lucked out and had a spot literally right next to the bike in and close to the bike out. As I was setting out my gear my coach found me and told me to come meet up with everyone when I was done. I still had a while til my swim start (9:10am) so I headed over to the Team One10 trailer to hang out for a bit. The guys had already started by that point so I hung out with the girls, took some pics, and checked out the swim course. With about 15 minutes to go I got my wetsuit on and grabbed my swim stuff and made my way down to the boat ramp!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0E7fNfeW7lfUcHaW_QpTGRUMdakO0uWzSjELSK3gTjn4_GFwUNUtrFm3ka26jeZ6SXsYRYlbx95WFXBtIubhUKe3j5-I1m0YpvEMB5rAIux3HQdixX6RRIx4_zdIQYX2zZZCBw4LaThhm/s1600/DSCF2622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0E7fNfeW7lfUcHaW_QpTGRUMdakO0uWzSjELSK3gTjn4_GFwUNUtrFm3ka26jeZ6SXsYRYlbx95WFXBtIubhUKe3j5-I1m0YpvEMB5rAIux3HQdixX6RRIx4_zdIQYX2zZZCBw4LaThhm/s320/DSCF2622.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>transition</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVsdqZPRGyaQl3MRN9ZUPni75bPI5L3LHTkmSgIO-pROffxVguI7ggEToZbbOLYmb1Gr2X1UYukho10fLtNjRayk6gjlz1eE3niHJ8rImU4Jp6HSHTAqPpZCuT1StJQ-KkYIP6zcfjeNE2/s1600/DSCF2623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVsdqZPRGyaQl3MRN9ZUPni75bPI5L3LHTkmSgIO-pROffxVguI7ggEToZbbOLYmb1Gr2X1UYukho10fLtNjRayk6gjlz1eE3niHJ8rImU4Jp6HSHTAqPpZCuT1StJQ-KkYIP6zcfjeNE2/s320/DSCF2623.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgacR-vAsSRBW7NPJFHLA4jrSu7fOjYbrPqBN3P1C7StajDLNoeTsEG8JsWRQJZITab9qKkv3S0aP7RUOAvgxWUN6ShKA-GIhE64-ZbUEhEEXd9zj4UMKDiCW3Z_WJWf8gXWEz9GAq_W8h_/s1600/wildflower12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgacR-vAsSRBW7NPJFHLA4jrSu7fOjYbrPqBN3P1C7StajDLNoeTsEG8JsWRQJZITab9qKkv3S0aP7RUOAvgxWUN6ShKA-GIhE64-ZbUEhEEXd9zj4UMKDiCW3Z_WJWf8gXWEz9GAq_W8h_/s320/wildflower12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbBQF7Gs-e2Lr4XMl_1BnNaPVuSHbI2DNVTdXXVPsg8DH7pGhBeb0ooxOQaYXY2YIrj6wg9CuwPtDz4lnD-A2FB7jq_Q4ciJ3LpCpfmFStuPVDHdelfe78joj4jdas943SVJ69TFDXDJmu/s1600/wildflower10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbBQF7Gs-e2Lr4XMl_1BnNaPVuSHbI2DNVTdXXVPsg8DH7pGhBeb0ooxOQaYXY2YIrj6wg9CuwPtDz4lnD-A2FB7jq_Q4ciJ3LpCpfmFStuPVDHdelfe78joj4jdas943SVJ69TFDXDJmu/s320/wildflower10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1SsZ7G3DCu82TaibNaY2ve6BDhcwBLrAAchLgV-xq_eFvnGGOrLsSO9HZ4mhvewg_b2-4K1cxpeN5UxQVhUIofXIYCakyKlN8i3DlWotgIjSqacc1zPGrxHPIs-yI5SLrdhPr24YB9Cp/s1600/IMG_4720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1SsZ7G3DCu82TaibNaY2ve6BDhcwBLrAAchLgV-xq_eFvnGGOrLsSO9HZ4mhvewg_b2-4K1cxpeN5UxQVhUIofXIYCakyKlN8i3DlWotgIjSqacc1zPGrxHPIs-yI5SLrdhPr24YB9Cp/s320/IMG_4720.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Team One10!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPhCxdysIzYDe6-mpmLocmXqF7l9D5w0h3vMcCjCwJv6OUe1FhLhs6r352JWNnigVAJCpnuTKiLPZnz9Bb4wEc0imDP5WXisThYugyjoepnOyQ7c_vL7IgFTLV8eK_J47iMChA1x3M8T-D/s1600/IMG_4724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPhCxdysIzYDe6-mpmLocmXqF7l9D5w0h3vMcCjCwJv6OUe1FhLhs6r352JWNnigVAJCpnuTKiLPZnz9Bb4wEc0imDP5WXisThYugyjoepnOyQ7c_vL7IgFTLV8eK_J47iMChA1x3M8T-D/s320/IMG_4724.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>One10 long course gals</i></div><br />
<u><b>Swim</b></u><br />
My wave (F29 & under and 50+) was the first women's wave. My friends wished me luck and then I hurried down to join the rest of the purple capped ladies. I was confused at first because all of a sudden everyone was in the water swimming out, and the thought crossed my mind that I'd missed the start, but turns out they were just warming up. I got in the water and was pleased to find that it was actually quite pleasant! I'd opted to go sleeveless and was so happy I did. I placed myself a few rows back to the left, and then we were off! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSncTdeiirZ42Lg0DvYrnZkvRl0C6K-8LUsr8c5HBeT2fsy5ocCw3mdq1eWLiogeLPLM8V69-besOGOX-Ez0_KApEzojSlA0U85sHDR_Dtrip9zD1V0uORsocnfftQuOLIAS_To9ZQVMOJ/s1600/wildflower7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSncTdeiirZ42Lg0DvYrnZkvRl0C6K-8LUsr8c5HBeT2fsy5ocCw3mdq1eWLiogeLPLM8V69-besOGOX-Ez0_KApEzojSlA0U85sHDR_Dtrip9zD1V0uORsocnfftQuOLIAS_To9ZQVMOJ/s320/wildflower7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ6ssOPZdHA5DHz8wKG-IDr7bcgwikRYYNWZhz52fRSzNo5__vnRhACpY8NdWQ_To35ryhHd2zL3L9BEZt7D7tpuMeeHllarVf9ON3LssXgFk9A7RrjPL7lAdfAKFu1Gy1dywCMWGIoHF6/s1600/IMG_4736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ6ssOPZdHA5DHz8wKG-IDr7bcgwikRYYNWZhz52fRSzNo5__vnRhACpY8NdWQ_To35ryhHd2zL3L9BEZt7D7tpuMeeHllarVf9ON3LssXgFk9A7RrjPL7lAdfAKFu1Gy1dywCMWGIoHF6/s320/IMG_4736.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
It was a little crowded the first few minutes and some women were pretty vicious, grabbing ankles and throwing elbows. But soon enough it spread out and I was able to get some space. The swim course was an L-shaped out and back so it was pretty easy to follow, just keep the buoys on the right. Instead of doing a lot of sighting I just tried to stay within my wave and make sure there were people around me. My mind often had weird and random thoughts while I'm swimming in open water and this was no different, but I was able to really get into a zone during the middle of the swim. I kept telling myself to focus on my stroke and I think it really helped.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqLyr6bLkO2GJm4V2wknnwf0zyvZZC8FpZxQX68YhPwxxgwz_r6L7gB2oAc5mHQaJzxUTEt9oRBZMTFg-ViiEuHA13V3CnPR3_GPGAlNuib7rKGYi2yrSikS2ALwS4mDTWlFooAWijbks0/s1600/IMG_4727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqLyr6bLkO2GJm4V2wknnwf0zyvZZC8FpZxQX68YhPwxxgwz_r6L7gB2oAc5mHQaJzxUTEt9oRBZMTFg-ViiEuHA13V3CnPR3_GPGAlNuib7rKGYi2yrSikS2ALwS4mDTWlFooAWijbks0/s320/IMG_4727.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>swim course</i></div><br />
I finally got to the turnaround and was happy to be heading back, but at this point the fast women from the wave behind mine had started catching up and instead of swimming around us, they wanted to go over us. Thanks, ladies! I also caught some of the slower male swimmers from the wave ahead of me and had a hard time getting around them. They clearly were not very good swimmers and were flailing around in the water, making it difficult to get past them without getting kicked (which I did). Finally I could see the swim finish and I tried to push a little more. I never really know how to gauge my effort in the swim - I usually try to just stay comfortable - so I figured my time would be similar to that of <a href="http://rachelmakesarunforit.blogspot.com/2012/04/oceanside-703-race-report.html">Oceanside</a>, about 40 minutes. So when I stepped out of the water and saw the time on my watch, I was a little shocked to see a 4 minute PR! As I ran up the boat ramp I had a huge grin on my face and when I spotted my friends I smiled and yelled "37!" It was definitely an awesome way to start a race!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjeLEhAcuXqmV6kks6yTJ2xWctN8X645qAkSrPRXXIn8PDBa9HcEn6Xiltn1afJVD33nNJDQV-iDN4PmEkT8McA9ATJt9cW0s6VJC8MavCvhJZaO2TYCudQN2eLz7dhMZS857UiWVZiTeq/s1600/wild5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjeLEhAcuXqmV6kks6yTJ2xWctN8X645qAkSrPRXXIn8PDBa9HcEn6Xiltn1afJVD33nNJDQV-iDN4PmEkT8McA9ATJt9cW0s6VJC8MavCvhJZaO2TYCudQN2eLz7dhMZS857UiWVZiTeq/s320/wild5.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>right before I freaked out about my time</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYZohtH9kVTtKCJvAHTXTzUKY2nVes_KegwD4vpXnBpwkkMoK4FDJJzmMoA_JBXo1ohZRPIO8SPUUm4WDbt2qyCzfxO7E2WN7P4EMbE9yNZbM4ks-cgDmqdpb9_Npujc3qGQQKN3hn5xS/s1600/IMG_4745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYZohtH9kVTtKCJvAHTXTzUKY2nVes_KegwD4vpXnBpwkkMoK4FDJJzmMoA_JBXo1ohZRPIO8SPUUm4WDbt2qyCzfxO7E2WN7P4EMbE9yNZbM4ks-cgDmqdpb9_Npujc3qGQQKN3hn5xS/s320/IMG_4745.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="color: red;"><b>swim time (1.2 mi): 37:09</b></i></div><br />
<u><b><span style="color: black;">T1</span></b></u><br />
<span style="color: black;">The run to transition wasn't too bad, and I was so stoked about my swim that I really didn't care! </span>I peeled off my wetsuit and threw on my bike gear. This was my first time wearing a trisuit in a race and I loved the convenience of it and not having to worry about a shirt in T1. As I grabbed my bike and headed out some volunteers suddenly started shouting at me and pointing at my leg - I had no timing chip! I knew I'd had it on at the swim start, but had no idea where or when I'd lost it. I started to run back to my gear to look for it when they urged my forward to give me a replacement. As they strapped it to my ankle and I got going all I could think about was that my awesome swim time might not even be recorded! I was devastated (and only a little bit dramatic), but the race had to go on.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><b><i>T1 time: 4:12</i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"><u><b>Bike</b></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">As I mentioned before, this bike course is no joke. It's known for being one of the most challenging out there, with relentless hills and often windy and hot conditions. Our first big hill came in the first mile up Beach. It's not quite as bad as Lynch but it was certainly no walk in the park and had my legs burning and heart rate high. At the top we headed out of the park and onto the country roads where we'd spend the next 50+ miles. The first 10 miles I didn't feel all that great. There were some small hills and some flats, but my legs just felt flat. I started to let my head get to me with thoughts of what a long day it would be if my legs were tired now. I tried to just relax and focus on the race and tried to just enjoy the experience for what it was - a long training day. The course was actually quite beautiful, winding through rolling hills of countryside, passing pastures full of horses and cows, riding along oak tree lined roads. It was quiet and peaceful, even when the course got tough!</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM1-WUpIzkthTDw-XzXPtXMWswMJ2LV_1hwWSbX6WqVYl3orggKIr9afBuXk2k_ESfnNhta99WoyVO6BPX-PngXk0bXwovr5zVoxcXTIR6ECp9Dq8jRWhq_K6eps-VtG0y3eOsN0yuml6r/s1600/bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM1-WUpIzkthTDw-XzXPtXMWswMJ2LV_1hwWSbX6WqVYl3orggKIr9afBuXk2k_ESfnNhta99WoyVO6BPX-PngXk0bXwovr5zVoxcXTIR6ECp9Dq8jRWhq_K6eps-VtG0y3eOsN0yuml6r/s320/bike.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikYdp-7MFLILAhbC27xJYGjVaKUcP3Rgby99IY6AAvtx1I_cP4UwKD_eo-AidpCHg9ua9-oSRJxSXzE6hyphenhyphen-LCOCYI27XD4MsrA_P8uxlsEQb0boQOKY7UX_BBPnjOZGke8DUMbt8CAbJ03/s1600/wild9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikYdp-7MFLILAhbC27xJYGjVaKUcP3Rgby99IY6AAvtx1I_cP4UwKD_eo-AidpCHg9ua9-oSRJxSXzE6hyphenhyphen-LCOCYI27XD4MsrA_P8uxlsEQb0boQOKY7UX_BBPnjOZGke8DUMbt8CAbJ03/s320/wild9.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"> <i>climbing up the first hill</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">Once again I was using this longer day as practice for fueling. My new Speedfil bottle held 40 oz of Gu Roctane (480 cals) and I had three Honey Stinger waffles (480 cals) broken in half and taken approximately every 45 minutes. This seemed to work out pretty well, and I found having the fluids right in my face and available hands free had me drinking a lot more and more frequently. I'll post a more thorough review later but I am definitely happy with it. My stomach held up well and I felt decently hydrated, so I think I'm starting to get a sense of what my fueling strategy will be.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">There was a nice long stretch of flat in the middle when my legs perked up a bit and I found myself cruising at 19-20 mph. I was making up good time and watching my average speed come up, but I knew what was coming - Nasty Grade. Around mile 41 the road began to go up and I began the steady climb that would last til mile 45. I was grateful that we drove it the night before because I knew that while it was long, it wasn't too steep, and I knew that it had a false peak where you round a corner and keep going up. If I hadn't known these things I think it would've been very discouraging. I focused on my breathing and tried not to push too hard or think about how much farther. By that time it had really warmed up and I was dripping with sweat as I made my way up. When I finally crested that bad boy and could see the epic descent ahead of me it was a mini victory for the day : ) </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRtfZG0W5BYLxa6QiAOjwkn6_jJfk0ZCQvYIaHrLI4XXVmsGf0jYuwshtOrhyZNKTXTZEOoqFf_CFKd5zy5TIEapO8_fYYawvwpheQsjn_ntQeLBnf8IGbwWwTWHrh3Cn-QSKV2okrnprz/s1600/wild8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRtfZG0W5BYLxa6QiAOjwkn6_jJfk0ZCQvYIaHrLI4XXVmsGf0jYuwshtOrhyZNKTXTZEOoqFf_CFKd5zy5TIEapO8_fYYawvwpheQsjn_ntQeLBnf8IGbwWwTWHrh3Cn-QSKV2okrnprz/s320/wild8.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">While the up part of the hills were tough, the down parts could be downright scary. Some were steep enough that within seconds you could be going 40+ mph. It's especially scary to descend in aero, but even scarier (and more dangerous) to try and get out of aero while descending. The problem with this is you have to decide at the top of a descent which way you're going to go - obviously aero is faster, but riskier since it's less stable and doesn't give you access to the brakes. There were a few hills that I ended up staying in aero and I just said a little prayer as I flew down them, keeping my eyes trained a few feet in front of me and my body still.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">One of the other things that makes this course so challenging is that you've got Nasty Grade late in the course which trashes your legs and puts a dent in your average speed, but then the last 11 miles are a gradual ascent with some good little hills thrown in. Those last miles were pretty brutal for my legs, but another part of my body was in even more pain - my bum. I've noticed in training rides and at Oceanside that after about 35 miles my saddle becomes incredibly uncomfortable, and this time it was downright painful. On even the smallest descents I'd hover over my saddle to relieve some of the pressure only to have it return with seconds of sitting back down. There were moments it was so bad it nearly brought me to tears, and I even contemplated stopping for a bit. I'm pretty sure it's more of a fit issue than the saddle itself, and I have plans to get a good fit soon because God knows my crotch can't deal with that for 112 miles!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">So needless to say as I rolled back into the campgrounds I was ready to be off my bike. The last mile was a fast descent down Lynch Hill and I tried to just let loose and not ride the brakes too much. As I entered the chute at the bottom of the hill I spotted my teammates and gave them a big smile before dismounting and heading into transition. I was a little off from the time I'd had in mind, but more than anything I was just happy to have the bike behind me.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLRYTefP-C6UgDbAMpN04Xbzg7vIKhm54kdnOOKH8OLUNua4XW1Tqs2yFlVX_JTRkgvWWqj5CdAp9mWeDv_BDOuTnSV8WidO8S4boYlMO_ewHJ5rOljOGiCXOoK6ImjaPUAcjKgQn6EzY/s1600/IMG_4785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLRYTefP-C6UgDbAMpN04Xbzg7vIKhm54kdnOOKH8OLUNua4XW1Tqs2yFlVX_JTRkgvWWqj5CdAp9mWeDv_BDOuTnSV8WidO8S4boYlMO_ewHJ5rOljOGiCXOoK6ImjaPUAcjKgQn6EzY/s320/IMG_4785.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfk01nm9UMgYG5C_N61AzudOe9-cpd5FczaOycV1FKWfA7TUH7-c-5PrsEgzAOrWXOxue00STttmyxGQIj1QocF1WCRUIAAVzNu_PE6fpEJnu1nGjqES6rxyid2klOf84ldf6_QniA5Hfx/s1600/IMG_4786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfk01nm9UMgYG5C_N61AzudOe9-cpd5FczaOycV1FKWfA7TUH7-c-5PrsEgzAOrWXOxue00STttmyxGQIj1QocF1WCRUIAAVzNu_PE6fpEJnu1nGjqES6rxyid2klOf84ldf6_QniA5Hfx/s320/IMG_4786.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><b><i>bike time (56 miles): 3:34:41</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;"><b><i> </i></b></span></span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: left;"><u><b>T2</b></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">I had a ridiculously slow T2 time, partly since I was still worried about my timing chip and tried to find it, and partly because I honestly just did not want to start the run. I didn't find my chip and eventually I sucked it up and jogged to the run out, stopping briefly to empty my bladder.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="color: red;"><b>T2 time: 4:55</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><b><span style="color: black;">Run</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">The best word to describe this course is brutal. Partly because your legs are so trashed from the bike, but also because even on it's own, it's a tough half marathon course. It's mostly run on trails winding through the campsite and around the lake so it's quite scenic and has a ton of crowd support, but has plenty of hills, too. From the start my legs just didn't have anything. The first few small hills had my quads and calves burning, and they were only a taste of what was to come. Fortunately there were some good running sections in the first few miles, but then you hit the crazy hill at miles 4, which I was told "even the pros walk it". You didn't have to tell me twice! In fact, I walked pretty much all the hills and I think that was the only way I was able to keep up some kind of running on the other sections. I took full advantage of the downhills, however, and let myself just rip down them. On one in particular people around me were calling for me to be careful and slow down, and I just kept thinking that you can't! One thing I know is how to run down hills, and you can't hold back!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY-rGTo4JYtwjSyLHjuaHZZzApsDRlcDX6Ds652iwIOyM6uMC_YgImmX1B6Ro7sIB8yprNWu0sprSht5qk841idk1JvwtLQjqN33sTgX5xETPqqfad0MrXPQJJPJc6M14DqoYyldQT-GCM/s1600/run.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY-rGTo4JYtwjSyLHjuaHZZzApsDRlcDX6Ds652iwIOyM6uMC_YgImmX1B6Ro7sIB8yprNWu0sprSht5qk841idk1JvwtLQjqN33sTgX5xETPqqfad0MrXPQJJPJc6M14DqoYyldQT-GCM/s320/run.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf8PmzJEnZvMAD61ZCQVX5i_XwYnGhluiUfxmUI4QaD2HMI3HS3nb21lKDl43doSoA8X4lDXfP_NaL09w5oDqrRVHuYCTyd-SFLTs8NjCGb07vrDPGK0_AOmVeAEEVEKc1cBoU4ckb6euA/s1600/wild7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf8PmzJEnZvMAD61ZCQVX5i_XwYnGhluiUfxmUI4QaD2HMI3HS3nb21lKDl43doSoA8X4lDXfP_NaL09w5oDqrRVHuYCTyd-SFLTs8NjCGb07vrDPGK0_AOmVeAEEVEKc1cBoU4ckb6euA/s320/wild7.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">It was really warm by this point, too. Thanks to the late start I was running right in the middle of the day, and temps were reaching the mid-80s. I understand for many this isn't all that hot, but with the mild weather we've been having I haven't much time to acclimate to warmer temps. Fortunately the aid stations were great and had plenty of water and hoses at a few to spray us down. I took full advantage every time! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">The volunteers are also what makes this race so special. The majority are students from nearby Cal Poly University and for them it's like a huge party. They were easily the most enthusiastic volunteers I've encountered at any race! Another "tradition" is for some of the volunteers to be, ummm....nude. Apparently they'll just hang out at aid stations sans clothes. Not really sure what the reasoning is, but I can't say I'm all that surprised. So with about 8 miles under my belt and no naked encounters, I thought it might just be an urban legend. But then I rounded a bend and <i>bam!</i> Naked lad, hands held out for high fives. As I approached I raised my hand only to pull it away at the last second, unsure of just how clean that hand was : / He was blatantly drunk (which is probably to be expected), but looked like he was having a good time. Certainly a memorable part of the race!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">I was fading in the second half and struck up conversations with some of the people around me to commiserate. It seemed everyone was struggling so it was nice to not be alone. Running through the campground was a great boost, too as everyone was out cheering. Team in Training has a big presence at this event so it was fun and a little nostalgic to hear everyone yelling "<a href="http://rachelintraining.blogspot.com/">Go TEAM!</a>" At mile 9 we arrived at "the pit" a mile-long out-and-back that is a gradual downhill on the way out, but then turns into a nasty uphill for tired legs. Long before I reached this point I stopped caring about my time. I knew I was going to be off from where I'd hoped, and I honestly didn't care. I wasn't focused mentally during the run and my body was just too tired to push harder. I gave everything I had left to get to mile 12, knowing that the last mile was down Lynch. I let my legs fly and when I entered the chute I did my best finishing kick, savoring the cheers around me and finishing feeling proud.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNW4z9t6QUvGtB8sd3G99hbZ0RaBrM7M8kfbCu6-3DtDoWx6iA-g9Vaj32LQ_BK0LuOuQ3UanBX-ASwPhlNoAGy80B_JVplRufu8lgCxCfpQ2v7NAatsMJr4UAvcAHUW1o8yIpv8rogmqa/s1600/IMG_4809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNW4z9t6QUvGtB8sd3G99hbZ0RaBrM7M8kfbCu6-3DtDoWx6iA-g9Vaj32LQ_BK0LuOuQ3UanBX-ASwPhlNoAGy80B_JVplRufu8lgCxCfpQ2v7NAatsMJr4UAvcAHUW1o8yIpv8rogmqa/s320/IMG_4809.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgplwxgjO64yOGChCgLMHQQIK8wsJd_gAZlI_rmRbpYhW67w6PpL05YzTzqicK33Aj2vUUw68FUjjLM0NeKDXlkk9aXqGl8p9UuUD19XhUOlKJssPfc8Xu_1QnBJ9R20eduyE4cw0MN989C/s1600/IMG_4810.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgplwxgjO64yOGChCgLMHQQIK8wsJd_gAZlI_rmRbpYhW67w6PpL05YzTzqicK33Aj2vUUw68FUjjLM0NeKDXlkk9aXqGl8p9UuUD19XhUOlKJssPfc8Xu_1QnBJ9R20eduyE4cw0MN989C/s320/IMG_4810.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmdm2GHzamhyV4ihRY_UdFUPoabkCpTFEzJJigim8GAIjVgpMxacZyaFWlHCjh-kxyQOQF3nQBIa8bSTL4XED0gu3Y3INnvk3HUfAn54qOaYGRaw6Pmu9D6miN-98BhhSnXZzLf87M0Mm/s1600/wild10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmdm2GHzamhyV4ihRY_UdFUPoabkCpTFEzJJigim8GAIjVgpMxacZyaFWlHCjh-kxyQOQF3nQBIa8bSTL4XED0gu3Y3INnvk3HUfAn54qOaYGRaw6Pmu9D6miN-98BhhSnXZzLf87M0Mm/s320/wild10.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_id_L3MiB6b9jeKK5eI9oxJPvxM8nYNMj9ZBtx1qrDGXEoHt3-TVtyUQumcorGw2t4_-5vxI4x6_SNyz1oYBSrc2BgkmI9LRd3UKrUlMsxbwohJrJu8TFp5HqQugAS532CfEEGnwJRCm/s1600/wild4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_id_L3MiB6b9jeKK5eI9oxJPvxM8nYNMj9ZBtx1qrDGXEoHt3-TVtyUQumcorGw2t4_-5vxI4x6_SNyz1oYBSrc2BgkmI9LRd3UKrUlMsxbwohJrJu8TFp5HqQugAS532CfEEGnwJRCm/s320/wild4.jpg" width="208" /></a></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"> </span><i><b> </b></i></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><i><b>run time (13.1 mi): 2:18:02</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><b><span style="color: black;">Post-Race</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">I was pretty exhausted, so all I wanted to do was head to the team's trailer and sit down. My body was definitely fatigued, but nothing specific ached except for my feet. I knew I had some nasty blisters because I'd felt them on the run, and my toes were bruised from the steep downhills. I met up with everybody and we shared congratulations and shared stories of from our day. Then we headed down to the dock to take a post-race dip in the cool water - it was glorious!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ2LvCzPgvXUfV62wwkkSVpH9W39q6vi0JbqWQG5SAJFVhWv17MUMqMQ4kPXvGpD0aH93tdpNxqE4aVhiOADG9MOEwNqZyR7Xhw3RzCR8qkLXlnpKbOiJTUZunWG7xaodmU6oWk099EBcm/s1600/wild1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ2LvCzPgvXUfV62wwkkSVpH9W39q6vi0JbqWQG5SAJFVhWv17MUMqMQ4kPXvGpD0aH93tdpNxqE4aVhiOADG9MOEwNqZyR7Xhw3RzCR8qkLXlnpKbOiJTUZunWG7xaodmU6oWk099EBcm/s320/wild1.jpg" width="219" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>hahahaha possibly my favorite race pic!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrzMhC8WwKPVMlvUEbGwxxCVRszh6OMW0e1Xg5A5H4fZWj5zKTG0q-BXloFbe8-w5BVvDWHzfblYTgOoihmj6347DCmkefNfHZLTd-OJPf3M6I1ACI2QAV7xMYDZ4tLGEcm5TMJDmE0tTL/s1600/IMG_4823.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrzMhC8WwKPVMlvUEbGwxxCVRszh6OMW0e1Xg5A5H4fZWj5zKTG0q-BXloFbe8-w5BVvDWHzfblYTgOoihmj6347DCmkefNfHZLTd-OJPf3M6I1ACI2QAV7xMYDZ4tLGEcm5TMJDmE0tTL/s320/IMG_4823.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH9QOAt55oGiciGH7qOcDyTPC2gRBLSD38ymX4-2EdA8VFLTkY5WwsbLfi25Y2tWZGK-_co1VIzi_uzNjtnJ6kQKYmI31JI5G7xiLbe4AhctDI4pp5WKuomDE6cR5Un5_T93nJYHGeU5GJ/s1600/IMG_4819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH9QOAt55oGiciGH7qOcDyTPC2gRBLSD38ymX4-2EdA8VFLTkY5WwsbLfi25Y2tWZGK-_co1VIzi_uzNjtnJ6kQKYmI31JI5G7xiLbe4AhctDI4pp5WKuomDE6cR5Un5_T93nJYHGeU5GJ/s320/IMG_4819.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><b><i> </i></b><i><span style="color: black;">post-race soak!</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWncOHx2428rS51IYXiZxQxYYLQ2RNHBrmEQyzAhf-u1e1c8F3O1DMK7Jw_QSv23rzqyoB10KcSMq9Qm61jPz5QSZ0ytlpc5TuEKCfq13XMABLTMU37ndXtZ6aeVlawMC696fxPKCXNwWh/s1600/IMG_4826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWncOHx2428rS51IYXiZxQxYYLQ2RNHBrmEQyzAhf-u1e1c8F3O1DMK7Jw_QSv23rzqyoB10KcSMq9Qm61jPz5QSZ0ytlpc5TuEKCfq13XMABLTMU37ndXtZ6aeVlawMC696fxPKCXNwWh/s320/IMG_4826.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><b><i>total time: 6:38:59</i></b></div><div style="color: red; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">After hanging out for a while we decided to head up to the expo to check out the merchandise and get something to eat. I snacked on a strawberry gelato while we shopped which totally hit the spot. While my friends were chatting at one of the booths my other friend and I were talking with a vendor about the race and the question of who'd won came up. I piped in and said that I was pretty sure defending champion <a href="http://leapdaysports.com/">Jesse Thomas</a> had won again, and right as I said that, I see a guy walking by with aviators on. If you know about Jesse you know he's known for racing with oldschool metallic aviators on; it's sort of become his signature thing. And wouldn't you know it, there was Jesse Thomas 20 feet away from me! I think he might have heard because he glanced our way. Meanwhile I grabbed my two girlfriends to let them know, and then off we were to try and meet him. </span></div><div style="color: red; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red; text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">We hovered like little schoolgirls while he gave an interview, and when he was done descended on him to take a picture. He was incredibly nice and humble and seemed extremely genuine. He's a phenomenal athlete that still up and coming, so to win Wildflower back-to-back is really impressive. He's not too bad on the eyes either ; ) We squealed and freaked out for the next half hour while recounting the encounter with anyone who'd listen. No doubt about it, one of the best parts of the weekend!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz_OJKuL9kOhwYDJYmAPKVvdZl9d3mksLwmiOJOgQl5I7njirJbCLONC6tbdUnAIC8ZoR4QPTjux3T1p0Pye0KvU7b2PXBUXd9o1ZuZ3Sf2JdUPIS5OBVVIoCDbzgUzRl7wj7IUaleuJeu/s1600/IMG_4827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz_OJKuL9kOhwYDJYmAPKVvdZl9d3mksLwmiOJOgQl5I7njirJbCLONC6tbdUnAIC8ZoR4QPTjux3T1p0Pye0KvU7b2PXBUXd9o1ZuZ3Sf2JdUPIS5OBVVIoCDbzgUzRl7wj7IUaleuJeu/s320/IMG_4827.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>so.freaking.cool.</i><i> </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">After calming down from our Jesse encounter we grabbed some food and hung out for a but while we ate, and then I somehow was talked into walking back up instead of taking the shuttle. Bad idea. The hill was steep and long, and my legs were not too happy since they thought they were done for the day! But we made it and headed back to the rental where a nice hot shower awaited. I was left with a nice little sunburn as a souvenir - and I even put on sunscreen! Gotta work on that : /</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWC0p2sKvGgs7WU5xLurNAZY_8z8rMGo_Q3lQSB0izNlpu1zU5W0ROWydarteOpoUo2UaWXcEmBKNQkeB_d8MoieXP2dDPnU8aQ2iJX-a6Cvr7_WCR50z-l4dXSMuG41rVK1TGcsgqy0ar/s1600/wildflower3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWC0p2sKvGgs7WU5xLurNAZY_8z8rMGo_Q3lQSB0izNlpu1zU5W0ROWydarteOpoUo2UaWXcEmBKNQkeB_d8MoieXP2dDPnU8aQ2iJX-a6Cvr7_WCR50z-l4dXSMuG41rVK1TGcsgqy0ar/s320/wildflower3.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>ready for a nap!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj90kVIjYkUpqbaj2NWlRHNcqG7ZHkfT7FkRCrx3f72xOzMPQ9TdhqfCAtGm5l3RxiTUCTbfzMWfban0uAjzthRLBiC67rWrmH9l-1iSvcnJRcik3Nv5LH-mC1bBcZYfBreZ2s0YXh6zjb-/s1600/burn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj90kVIjYkUpqbaj2NWlRHNcqG7ZHkfT7FkRCrx3f72xOzMPQ9TdhqfCAtGm5l3RxiTUCTbfzMWfban0uAjzthRLBiC67rWrmH9l-1iSvcnJRcik3Nv5LH-mC1bBcZYfBreZ2s0YXh6zjb-/s320/burn.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>these have now turned into sweet tan lines</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>All in all I couldn't have asked for a better experience at Wildflower. I'm proud of myself for completing such a challenging course, regardless of what my times were. I also had a fantastic time hanging out with my team and cheering each other on. Wildflower surpassed my expectations and was every bit as amazing as everyone said it would be and then some. It was the hardest triathlon I've ever done, but you can bet I'll be back : )Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08696705811259786752noreply@blogger.com3