Hope this post finds you all well and getting out there and doing something active. Go for it!
People
To the pick-up driver that just passed me a few minutes ago on my ride out on the county road, all I can say is "really". The fact that you nearly forced me off the road and that you left me in a cloud of black smoke, I really hope it made you feel better. I can never understand when people do that. I have mentioned it several times in this blog before, but it just keeps happening. Wait I have an idea. I'll just ride down the middle of the lane as slow as I can and drop smoke bombs every once in a while to make you feel at home. Oh and I forgot to mention that the squeal of your tires at the same time as the smoke was well coordinated. Drive on my friend!
Training Tips/ New Ideas
I have decided to devote more of my coaching time to possums and raccoons. After seeing how they end up on most roads, I feel a need to help the rest of them out a little. So I am opening up slots for the new branch of Miles With Mickey Coaching Camp. I figure the number one priority will be working on speed. That will be accomplished through a series of training plans that include sprints, fartleks, intervals, and the new run for you life workout. Also, we need to work on getting shoes for these creatures. They will have to be racng flats since they only need to go 20-30 feet at a time. Wind-aided I think we could really make some progress. I will also offer the idea of finally wearing headlamps specially fitted for the little guysand gals. Tail lights at this time seem a bit unnecessary. Racing/workout clothes will be optional. I kind of like the fur look and it could catch on with the east coast friends. At this time the camp will not be open to the skunk population due to that oder thing. Sign-up sheets will be available soon!
Confusion
Cash register persons.
Award Winning Recipie from Chef Mickey
Peanut Butter Toast
Take some kind of whole grain bread that has not molded and put it in a toaster or fancy toaster over for you advanced cooks. Press down on the lever on the side making sure the heat setting is not set on burn like you sometimes do. When the toast pops up after a bit, get the natural peanut butter out (Or if you don't care, the junky kind) and spread it on the toast. Eat immediately. I is really no good if left sitting while you go off and do something else. For higher income bracket individuals the peanut butter may be substituted for almond butter, cashew butter, or another kind of high dollar spread. Enjoy!
Advice
Now that colder weather is upon us please know that all gear is not created equal. There are some companies that make clothing that just won't stand up to cold and wet weather. Research what you buy and your running and cycling, walking world will be much much better. Yes, the more you spend the better gear you get. You're worth it!
Take Care of Yourselves and be Safe!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Monday, October 10, 2011
You Heard it Here First
People
Strong rumor out of France that there is a small town developing a new cycling kit made out of cowboy/cowgirl grade denim. Bull riding tested, this new kit features the comfort of high grade and long lasting chafing. Color scheme is light blue and/or dark blue. Features one large pocket in the back mysteriously shaped like a disk. Sequins can be added upon special request. Release date expected in time for Spring fashion splash. There will be a limited supply so jump on this when you get the chance. Everyone will want the chance to show off this new idea in kit fashion and durability.
Training Tip
Ever wonder why after most races there is a beer waiting for you after the finish line? One of the most dehydrating beverages you can possibly drink. Then within the next few feet are several sports drinks that you can have followed by boatloads of bottles of water. Interesting order of serving. My son and I did the Austin Marathon once and towards the finish line...still don't know why you have an out and back in a beautiful town like Austin....and there was a little stand that offered small glasses of beer. Recovery we thought? Energy we thought? Why not, we thought? Drank some down and spit right back out. Yep, beer is the breakfast of some champions but not this one.
Seriously...Pay attention to your water intake at least one week before a race and actually keep water in your training routine at all times enhanced with electrolytes everyday. This especially goes for those of you that let your car get to "E" before you fill up. I bet you do that to your body too!
Confusion
License plates with a message on them. Why?
Award Winning Recipes from Chef Mickey
Flank Steak Delight
Put some flank steak in a crockpot. Throw the whole thing in there. Add some vegetables. Squash works great of may cause some GI trouble if you train to quick after. Like up to 48 hours after. (Just joking) Close the lid. Put on medium heat for a bunch of hours or until mooing stops. Try on running, swimming, cycling partner first then proceed with your portion. When done, stand back. There will be hot steam coming out of the lid. Don't look in to see what is going on. Come on...it's steak in a pot.
Advice
Have some fun this week. Laugh. Smile. Then remember how lucky your are to be doing what you are doing!
Take care and have a great week!
Strong rumor out of France that there is a small town developing a new cycling kit made out of cowboy/cowgirl grade denim. Bull riding tested, this new kit features the comfort of high grade and long lasting chafing. Color scheme is light blue and/or dark blue. Features one large pocket in the back mysteriously shaped like a disk. Sequins can be added upon special request. Release date expected in time for Spring fashion splash. There will be a limited supply so jump on this when you get the chance. Everyone will want the chance to show off this new idea in kit fashion and durability.
Training Tip
Ever wonder why after most races there is a beer waiting for you after the finish line? One of the most dehydrating beverages you can possibly drink. Then within the next few feet are several sports drinks that you can have followed by boatloads of bottles of water. Interesting order of serving. My son and I did the Austin Marathon once and towards the finish line...still don't know why you have an out and back in a beautiful town like Austin....and there was a little stand that offered small glasses of beer. Recovery we thought? Energy we thought? Why not, we thought? Drank some down and spit right back out. Yep, beer is the breakfast of some champions but not this one.
Seriously...Pay attention to your water intake at least one week before a race and actually keep water in your training routine at all times enhanced with electrolytes everyday. This especially goes for those of you that let your car get to "E" before you fill up. I bet you do that to your body too!
Confusion
License plates with a message on them. Why?
Award Winning Recipes from Chef Mickey
Flank Steak Delight
Put some flank steak in a crockpot. Throw the whole thing in there. Add some vegetables. Squash works great of may cause some GI trouble if you train to quick after. Like up to 48 hours after. (Just joking) Close the lid. Put on medium heat for a bunch of hours or until mooing stops. Try on running, swimming, cycling partner first then proceed with your portion. When done, stand back. There will be hot steam coming out of the lid. Don't look in to see what is going on. Come on...it's steak in a pot.
Advice
Have some fun this week. Laugh. Smile. Then remember how lucky your are to be doing what you are doing!
Take care and have a great week!
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Blog Wake-Up.. Again
Back in January I stated that it was time for this blog and blogger to wake up. Well that did not happen. I don't know why but things just did not make it to the blogosphere. I guess I just wasn't charged up about what I was writing and grew weary of the same type of comments that I was making.
So the format will change and the content definitely will change. I want to get into some areas that are not so predictable. You know, I want you to look at this blog and see just what I have come up with next. Each post will contain specific short pieces on a variety of content areas. I hope you will add comments and enjoy a few laughs or mad moments where you want to fire off a reply that burns my computer up. Whatever the reason, read and react. I am not going to put live links in the blog because it takes too long and you all are big boys and girls and can find the stuff on your own. I mean really, come on.
So here goes....
Award Winning Recipes From Chef Mickey-
Tupperware of Stuff Made in a Pot
Warning: This blog's incredible recipe includes some difficult maneuvering around the kitchen so only attempt this if you have the old running shoes on and a old running clothes on.
Get out some cans of tomatoes, cook up some ground turkey, throw in some different kinds of beans (2-3 cans of each should be fine), some banana peppers (Only on non-swimming days) and open the cans and pour robustly into the pot. If you want to pay triple the price, buy fresh. They were fresh before they put them into the cans. It won't hurt you. Heat up in the microwave for a little bit or until it almost burns your tongue and serve. Preferably only to yourself.
You know, you read all of those fancy recipes in the magazines? Who really makes that stuff. Come on.... A. It's to expensive. B. You don't have the time. C. You really don't care.
People
I am constantly reading about all of these super athletes that do all sorts of amazing things. We very seldom hear about those people that run/walk a bit everyday. To them I say, "Fantastic Job", keep up the good work. Because at the end of the day no one has ever asked to see the medals won at a race or wanted to talk about "my" race results. Keep it simple and your ego out of it!
Confusion Dept.
Participants in the TV show Amazing Race.
Drivers trying to get around cyclists.
Stoplights that are blinking and confound drivers at what to do.
When the walk sign turns to don't walk and the numbers start counting down. Do you go back?
Menus
Selecting Wine. Aren't there only so many grapes?
Blank DVD's and CD's
Nutrition Tip
If you can't read the ingredients, don't eat it!
Training Tip
If your socks look worn, they probably are. Stay out of Walmart!
Last but not least....
You can hear more of this crazy stuff on my DailyMile, Twitter, and Facebook pages. You can follow, friend or whatever you do to get this stuff.
Take care of yourselves!
So the format will change and the content definitely will change. I want to get into some areas that are not so predictable. You know, I want you to look at this blog and see just what I have come up with next. Each post will contain specific short pieces on a variety of content areas. I hope you will add comments and enjoy a few laughs or mad moments where you want to fire off a reply that burns my computer up. Whatever the reason, read and react. I am not going to put live links in the blog because it takes too long and you all are big boys and girls and can find the stuff on your own. I mean really, come on.
So here goes....
Award Winning Recipes From Chef Mickey-
Tupperware of Stuff Made in a Pot
Warning: This blog's incredible recipe includes some difficult maneuvering around the kitchen so only attempt this if you have the old running shoes on and a old running clothes on.
Get out some cans of tomatoes, cook up some ground turkey, throw in some different kinds of beans (2-3 cans of each should be fine), some banana peppers (Only on non-swimming days) and open the cans and pour robustly into the pot. If you want to pay triple the price, buy fresh. They were fresh before they put them into the cans. It won't hurt you. Heat up in the microwave for a little bit or until it almost burns your tongue and serve. Preferably only to yourself.
You know, you read all of those fancy recipes in the magazines? Who really makes that stuff. Come on.... A. It's to expensive. B. You don't have the time. C. You really don't care.
People
I am constantly reading about all of these super athletes that do all sorts of amazing things. We very seldom hear about those people that run/walk a bit everyday. To them I say, "Fantastic Job", keep up the good work. Because at the end of the day no one has ever asked to see the medals won at a race or wanted to talk about "my" race results. Keep it simple and your ego out of it!
Confusion Dept.
Participants in the TV show Amazing Race.
Drivers trying to get around cyclists.
Stoplights that are blinking and confound drivers at what to do.
When the walk sign turns to don't walk and the numbers start counting down. Do you go back?
Menus
Selecting Wine. Aren't there only so many grapes?
Blank DVD's and CD's
Nutrition Tip
If you can't read the ingredients, don't eat it!
Training Tip
If your socks look worn, they probably are. Stay out of Walmart!
Last but not least....
You can hear more of this crazy stuff on my DailyMile, Twitter, and Facebook pages. You can follow, friend or whatever you do to get this stuff.
Take care of yourselves!
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Wake-Up Blog, It's 2011
It's time for my blog and me to get back into action. It's been far too long since I have entered a post. Not that there's not been anything to write about. Quite the opposite. There have been many blogworthy subjects enter into the the mind as I have run, biked and swam.
It seems that way to many publications have spent most of their time on "The Best of 2010" and "What are your Resolutions for 2011?". Articles on how to get to a goal quick. Don't train as long. Eat this. Eat that. Wear this and you will be faster. Buy this and you will run, ride, swim longer and faster. There are so many experts. There are so many publications that are lead by advertisers and not by actual investigations and unbiased studies. Come on. If you look at one, another one contradicts the other. What should you do?
Have fun. Pick something that will make you happy. Pick races that you will enjoy the challenge, the location and the people that you are there with. Schedule and develop training that you look forward too. Mix it up. Don't get stuck in a rut. Do a distance that you can feel good about after you have finished. I have been down that road, believe me. My training right now makes me want to jump at it each and everyday. I can't wait to get to it each day. I am also working with some new nutrition products that are making me feel like I have rockets on me. They are listed on the left side of the blog. If you want some help, let me know.
I am excited about my race schedule for this year. It's a great mix of running, cycling, and swimming. Challenges are around every corner. Focus will be on the 100 mile run that I will do in January of 2012. Also, the full ironman distance that I will be doing in September. As well as other triathlons and bike tours that have really caught my interest. A new chapter in my book. The land beyond marathons.
Just like the pitcher that flexes the fingers of his/her glove before he/she throws and breaking ball because they have to get a grip on it a batter can see that sign. What kind of sign are you giving about your grip on what you are doing?
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, and pools be happy and safe and bring you peace.
It seems that way to many publications have spent most of their time on "The Best of 2010" and "What are your Resolutions for 2011?". Articles on how to get to a goal quick. Don't train as long. Eat this. Eat that. Wear this and you will be faster. Buy this and you will run, ride, swim longer and faster. There are so many experts. There are so many publications that are lead by advertisers and not by actual investigations and unbiased studies. Come on. If you look at one, another one contradicts the other. What should you do?
Have fun. Pick something that will make you happy. Pick races that you will enjoy the challenge, the location and the people that you are there with. Schedule and develop training that you look forward too. Mix it up. Don't get stuck in a rut. Do a distance that you can feel good about after you have finished. I have been down that road, believe me. My training right now makes me want to jump at it each and everyday. I can't wait to get to it each day. I am also working with some new nutrition products that are making me feel like I have rockets on me. They are listed on the left side of the blog. If you want some help, let me know.
I am excited about my race schedule for this year. It's a great mix of running, cycling, and swimming. Challenges are around every corner. Focus will be on the 100 mile run that I will do in January of 2012. Also, the full ironman distance that I will be doing in September. As well as other triathlons and bike tours that have really caught my interest. A new chapter in my book. The land beyond marathons.
Just like the pitcher that flexes the fingers of his/her glove before he/she throws and breaking ball because they have to get a grip on it a batter can see that sign. What kind of sign are you giving about your grip on what you are doing?
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, and pools be happy and safe and bring you peace.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Comments from Here and There
Why?
The other day as I was out on a training ride, a person pulled up behind me on a 4 lane residential street and began honking at me. I was about as far over to the right as one could be, but no way was this "gentleman" going to not let me know his feelings about cyclists. Then he switched lanes and didn't even use the one he was in. What purpose does it serve to be honking, yelling, and throwing things? The same thing happens to runners. Have not had it happen in the pool yet, but who knows?
Turkey Vultures
Yeah, that's right. Turkey Vultures. They have been thick around these parts this spring and summer. Had about 15 of them circling and keeping up with me this morning on my ride. Beautiful looking creatures. Ha! When you can hear the wings flapping you know you're in trouble. Hummm....
Lettuce Wraps
These are great! Use Romaine lettuce for the wrap. Fill with shrimp, avocado, tomatoes, and grated carrots. Sauce can be the cocktail sauce or a peanut sauce, or nothing at all. Have had them twice this week. Really great!
How?
How does the wind change on a ride when you are so looking forward to having it at your back after battling it as a headwind for many miles. How does it know to switch and become a headwind for the trip home too?
Socks
If you are doing a "brick" workout that calls for a bike/ run or a run/bike, change socks in between in this very hot and humid weather to guard against blisters. I know it takes time and also not easily done in a race but .....just sayin'
Help Someone Out this Summer
It helps so many people to "run for a cause" and support the efforts of a local or area group. Many local cross country, track, swim, and other athletic teams will really need all of our support this year with all of the budget cuts. It was there for us, now let's make sure it is there for them!
That's all for now, have a great rest of the week!
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, lakes, and pools be happy and safe and may you have peace of mind!
The other day as I was out on a training ride, a person pulled up behind me on a 4 lane residential street and began honking at me. I was about as far over to the right as one could be, but no way was this "gentleman" going to not let me know his feelings about cyclists. Then he switched lanes and didn't even use the one he was in. What purpose does it serve to be honking, yelling, and throwing things? The same thing happens to runners. Have not had it happen in the pool yet, but who knows?
Turkey Vultures
Yeah, that's right. Turkey Vultures. They have been thick around these parts this spring and summer. Had about 15 of them circling and keeping up with me this morning on my ride. Beautiful looking creatures. Ha! When you can hear the wings flapping you know you're in trouble. Hummm....
Lettuce Wraps
These are great! Use Romaine lettuce for the wrap. Fill with shrimp, avocado, tomatoes, and grated carrots. Sauce can be the cocktail sauce or a peanut sauce, or nothing at all. Have had them twice this week. Really great!
How?
How does the wind change on a ride when you are so looking forward to having it at your back after battling it as a headwind for many miles. How does it know to switch and become a headwind for the trip home too?
Socks
If you are doing a "brick" workout that calls for a bike/ run or a run/bike, change socks in between in this very hot and humid weather to guard against blisters. I know it takes time and also not easily done in a race but .....just sayin'
Help Someone Out this Summer
It helps so many people to "run for a cause" and support the efforts of a local or area group. Many local cross country, track, swim, and other athletic teams will really need all of our support this year with all of the budget cuts. It was there for us, now let's make sure it is there for them!
That's all for now, have a great rest of the week!
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, lakes, and pools be happy and safe and may you have peace of mind!
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Disappointment/Reality/An Honest Reflection
The past few days have been kind of tough for me. I have had some kind of "bug" or stomach illness. Normally, that would mean a scale back of training and a blip on the radar. However, this happened two days before a triathlon that I was scheduled to be in. I had been training hard for this tri since completing the Ironman Kansas 70.3 in June. Training was going great and injury free. I was just sailing along.
Then it hit Friday after my early morning swim and 20 mile ride. There was no doubt that the stomach and lower intestinal problems were severe enough that I have to recover fast or not do the Sunday triathlon. I had been on the course several times to ride it and develop strategies for the swim, ride , and run. I knew every bump in the road and how I was going to ride the hills and run the ups and downs of the run course. Drove out there Thursday night and was greeted by perfectly calm waters in the lake and was very excited that it would be a good calm day. My confidence was high and preparation was as good as I had ever done for a race. The 4:00AM wake-ups for swim training and rides and runs had gone well. Nutrition was well planned and hydration was on target. Ready to go. Then......
BAM. Knocked flat, literally by the "Bug". Spent all of Friday either in bed asleep or in the bathroom. What the heck? How could this happen? I was so prepared. How could I be sick? It wasn't fair. What about all of the training? Surely by Friday evening I would be ok and go to the packet pick-up on Saturday. I took some Anti-diarehea medicine Friday but it didn't help and knew that if I took more I would risk the factor that it would dehydrate me for Sunday. So I stopped the medicine. And I wasn't any better Friday evening or Saturday morning. A decision needed to be made. One that I had never had to make before. Yes, this would be my first "sick" no show. After close to 40 marathons/ultras/tri races/other distances, I knew I would not be able to go. So what do you do?
I got mad! I felt like I had let everyone down that had been supporting me all along. Felt sorry for myself. What would I say to them? Got several supporting messages from family and friends and it really helped. But..emptiness/disappointment was still winning.
Then reality hit. And hard. Who did I think I was? Was I above getting sick? I could take the easy way out and hang my head and blame and complain. I had read on Twitter and DailyMile accounts of others having tough days and races. I had watched Lance and many others have terrible crashes in the TDF and make an effort to get up and go on. Some could not due to injury. Others brushed themselves off and with a pedal stroke or two resumed their dreams. I did not have an injury. I had a stumble. A blip. I started gaining strength and and a dose of common sense from others.
My job was to look forward. All I had was a case of the flu or some kind of "bug". The sun would come up on Sunday. The race would go on without me and what I needed to do was look to start a strong recovery that would get me ready for my next race. It was out of my control and the worry and stress was not making any difference. Time for a positive attitude! Time to get a plan developed. Time to get strong! Get next week's training plan ready and go for it. Monday, here we come!
So that's where I am right now on Sunday evening. Also wanted to send along some recovery nutrition ideas:
I have been doing the BRAT nutrition which consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast when it would go down. Also drank Kefir Probiotics and ginger ale. One of the best recovery foods has been one that I saw Dr. Allen Lim share on Versus as food he prepares for Team Radio Shack:
1 doz Eggs Scrambled
1 lb bacon or prosciutto
6 cups Sushi Rice
1/2 cup Soy Sauce
1/4 cup Balsimic Vinegar
2 tbs Brown Sugar
Press hard into a cake pan and let form for a bit then slice and individually wrap. I liked to put it in the fridge to get a little harder. This really hit the spot as far as making me feel better. I am looking forward to Monday and a new day.
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, pools, and lake be happy and safe and bring you peace of mind!
Then it hit Friday after my early morning swim and 20 mile ride. There was no doubt that the stomach and lower intestinal problems were severe enough that I have to recover fast or not do the Sunday triathlon. I had been on the course several times to ride it and develop strategies for the swim, ride , and run. I knew every bump in the road and how I was going to ride the hills and run the ups and downs of the run course. Drove out there Thursday night and was greeted by perfectly calm waters in the lake and was very excited that it would be a good calm day. My confidence was high and preparation was as good as I had ever done for a race. The 4:00AM wake-ups for swim training and rides and runs had gone well. Nutrition was well planned and hydration was on target. Ready to go. Then......
BAM. Knocked flat, literally by the "Bug". Spent all of Friday either in bed asleep or in the bathroom. What the heck? How could this happen? I was so prepared. How could I be sick? It wasn't fair. What about all of the training? Surely by Friday evening I would be ok and go to the packet pick-up on Saturday. I took some Anti-diarehea medicine Friday but it didn't help and knew that if I took more I would risk the factor that it would dehydrate me for Sunday. So I stopped the medicine. And I wasn't any better Friday evening or Saturday morning. A decision needed to be made. One that I had never had to make before. Yes, this would be my first "sick" no show. After close to 40 marathons/ultras/tri races/other distances, I knew I would not be able to go. So what do you do?
I got mad! I felt like I had let everyone down that had been supporting me all along. Felt sorry for myself. What would I say to them? Got several supporting messages from family and friends and it really helped. But..emptiness/disappointment was still winning.
Then reality hit. And hard. Who did I think I was? Was I above getting sick? I could take the easy way out and hang my head and blame and complain. I had read on Twitter and DailyMile accounts of others having tough days and races. I had watched Lance and many others have terrible crashes in the TDF and make an effort to get up and go on. Some could not due to injury. Others brushed themselves off and with a pedal stroke or two resumed their dreams. I did not have an injury. I had a stumble. A blip. I started gaining strength and and a dose of common sense from others.
My job was to look forward. All I had was a case of the flu or some kind of "bug". The sun would come up on Sunday. The race would go on without me and what I needed to do was look to start a strong recovery that would get me ready for my next race. It was out of my control and the worry and stress was not making any difference. Time for a positive attitude! Time to get a plan developed. Time to get strong! Get next week's training plan ready and go for it. Monday, here we come!
So that's where I am right now on Sunday evening. Also wanted to send along some recovery nutrition ideas:
I have been doing the BRAT nutrition which consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast when it would go down. Also drank Kefir Probiotics and ginger ale. One of the best recovery foods has been one that I saw Dr. Allen Lim share on Versus as food he prepares for Team Radio Shack:
1 doz Eggs Scrambled
1 lb bacon or prosciutto
6 cups Sushi Rice
1/2 cup Soy Sauce
1/4 cup Balsimic Vinegar
2 tbs Brown Sugar
Press hard into a cake pan and let form for a bit then slice and individually wrap. I liked to put it in the fridge to get a little harder. This really hit the spot as far as making me feel better. I am looking forward to Monday and a new day.
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, pools, and lake be happy and safe and bring you peace of mind!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Kansas Ironman 70.3 Race Report
The Kansas Ironman 70.3 is in the books. What an experience! It was a great weather day. Temperatures were about ten degrees cooler than the day before and the water temperature dropped as well overnight. The lake was calm as there were no real winds to contend with. Following is a look at just how the pre-race day and race day went for me.
On Saturday it was Packet Pick-up, Expo time, and bike check-in time. Packet pick-up was well run but the lines were a little long but moved quickly. Something I didn't know that was a "rookie" thing was that I needed to have my USAT Member card with me. None of the literature that I saw suggested that. You could not check in without it. You had to buy a temp one ($10) if you didn't have it. After filling out and checking forms, it ws goodie bag time. Nothing special there but the important things like bike, swim, and run numbers were in the packet as well as timing chip and cap. My swim cap was pink because they ran out of the ones that I should have had. Also, mine says Ironman Florida. Not excited I didn't get a Kansas one. it was a hot day and I never ran into one negative person in the packet tent. Great volunteers! The Expo featured several vendors but not a large number. I found that if you needed something it was there though and that was important. Also, there were several places top get your bike worked on if you needed that service. There were several course meeting times that you could go to and find out particulars and also ask questions. That was nice that there were multiple times so you could pick and chose when you wanted to be there. Bike check-in went well and there were plenty of volunteers there to help you and get you through fast. I found my spot and marked it with a landmark so I could find it fast. A very helpful hint that I picked up. My spot was not hard to find since it was on the first row.
It was then on to The Fellowship of Christian Athletes Iron Prayer meeting that I helped host. We had a great turnout and had a great pre-race worship and fellowship time. After the meeting we went out for the before race meal with some great friends from Colorade Springs.
Then it was home to set up the swim bag and transition 1 and 2 items. My transition 1 items included: Bike helmet, bike gloves, bike shoes, socks with baby powder in them for fast foot entry, Body Glide, two towels, 2 24oz. bike bottles and a 48oz CamelBak filled with my special mix of energy drink, sunscreen, GU Chomps and Hammer Supplements for my Bike Bento. Transition 2 items included my running shoes, another pair of socks just in case, cap, Body Glide, Amphipod 20oz bottle pack, GU Chomps and Hammer Supplements. Everything was now ready. With all of that done it was time for bed.
Race day started with a wak-up alarm of 4:00AM. Had Peanut Butter and Cracjers and my energy drink mix and then headed out to the race site which was a little more than 2 miles from my house. By the way, that was nice! We got to the site and they had the athletes parking very far from the main race site. It was not good. They provided shuttle buses and all and they were very quick but it was really a long way away. We got to the race site around 5:30 (my wife and me) and went to set up the transition areas. I had a very bright blue striped towel so it was easy to see. I set up Transition 2 first and then we walked down to the swim start and I set up Transition 2. When we got to the start they said that we could wear wetsuits because the water temperture had dropped enough. The day before they had said no wetsuits unless you wanted to go in the last wave. That would have meant that I would have had to go from wave 4 to 19. Glad that didn't happen and I was real glad to wear the wetsuit. All transition areas were well marked and very well organized with plenty of volunteer help. Again, they were all first class!
The race started late because they were waiting for medical staff to get into place. Then after the first waves were called, wave 4 was called and off I went. We swam out to the start and then we were off. I placed myself towards the side and at the back to avoid the major rush of the start. That was a great piece of advice. I had a clear start and soon started making time up on those who went out too fast. Stayed wide of the buoy line at first to have some open water to swim the 1.2 miles. Did a good job of keeping my direction fairly straight and also avoided most body contact until I rounded the halfway mark and then got greedy and started swimming closer to the buoy line. Got kicked in the head, swam over, elbowed, you name it. Finished the swim much better than I expected though. My swim training had me very well prepared and I had paced myself well to not be completely out of gas after the first leg of the race.
On to the bike portion of the race (56 miles). My swim to bike transition was not fast. But I was pleased how I had everything set out. Getting the wetsuit off was the most time consuming. There were no people to help like I had heard there are at some races. Got everything on and in the right order to avoid penalty and went up to the bike mount area. I had placed my gears in an easy gear the day before because it was an uphill start. That was really effective. Got a good start and was off. Started hydrating at mile 5 (letting my body get adjusted) and then continued to hydrate often during the ride. We had a light headwind at times and also a good tailwind at times. The course was hilly but since I had been on it before I knew what was coming. At first it seemed like everyone was passing me but I kept my pacing strategy and didn't get into that gane. I had a good even pace the entire route and felt great the entire time. Continued to hydrate along the way. There was a huge oil spill from something on the course close to mile 30 and we had to dismount and walk around it carrying our bikes. Aid startions along the course were great but I didn't need to stop. Plenty of volunteers on the course and everything was marked very well.
The bike to run transition went well and I got out of there about two minutes faster. The run was a two loop course around the campgrounds with one significant hill on each loop. By the time the run part started it had warmed up a bit. Hydration was important (Again, waited a couple of miles to start hydration to let body adjust) and my Amphipod worked well though I had to adjust it tighter from the day before when I tried it on. It didn't flop around and was much easier than a hand help I thought. Ususally I have done the hand held bottle but this has changed my mind. Had a great pace during the run and kept it even and steady. Had very good energy and felt fine. Put ice down the front of my tri suit and back to keep the core cool and it worked fantastic. There were multiple aid stations along the run course with so many volunteers at each station. It was great. They had everything ready and knew what they were doing just like on the bike route. Many thanks to them.
As I ran through the finish area, it was a great moment. I had finished my first Ironman (tri) and was so happy that I felt so good and had accomplished a major goal of mine. My training plan was fantastic and my coaching team really kept me on target over the past few months. The success of this race for me was not a one day thing. It was months of training, proper nutrition, hydration and mental focus. I felt well prepared and can't wait until the next one.
After the race I met up with my wife, went through the food tent, then went to the transition areas to pick up my gear, and then met our friends from Colorado and carried things back to the cars. The hardest part was the long trek back to the cars with all of the gear and the bikes. Wow, something needs to be done here. Athletes should not have been the ones parking the farthest away from the Race Complex. But that quickly faded from my mind as I enjoyed the success of a good experience and great support from family and friends! I will be back for more next year!
Race statistics:
Swim (1.2 miles): 46:35 Bike (56 miles): 3:22:13 Run (13.1 miles): 1:59:35 Overall: 6:21:41
18th in a division of 47
Total Swim: 2:27/100m Total Bike: 16.62mph Total Run 9:07/mile
T1: Swim-to-Bike 7:47 T2: Bike-to-Run 5:31
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, lakes, and pools be happy and safe and may they bring you peace of mind!
On Saturday it was Packet Pick-up, Expo time, and bike check-in time. Packet pick-up was well run but the lines were a little long but moved quickly. Something I didn't know that was a "rookie" thing was that I needed to have my USAT Member card with me. None of the literature that I saw suggested that. You could not check in without it. You had to buy a temp one ($10) if you didn't have it. After filling out and checking forms, it ws goodie bag time. Nothing special there but the important things like bike, swim, and run numbers were in the packet as well as timing chip and cap. My swim cap was pink because they ran out of the ones that I should have had. Also, mine says Ironman Florida. Not excited I didn't get a Kansas one. it was a hot day and I never ran into one negative person in the packet tent. Great volunteers! The Expo featured several vendors but not a large number. I found that if you needed something it was there though and that was important. Also, there were several places top get your bike worked on if you needed that service. There were several course meeting times that you could go to and find out particulars and also ask questions. That was nice that there were multiple times so you could pick and chose when you wanted to be there. Bike check-in went well and there were plenty of volunteers there to help you and get you through fast. I found my spot and marked it with a landmark so I could find it fast. A very helpful hint that I picked up. My spot was not hard to find since it was on the first row.
It was then on to The Fellowship of Christian Athletes Iron Prayer meeting that I helped host. We had a great turnout and had a great pre-race worship and fellowship time. After the meeting we went out for the before race meal with some great friends from Colorade Springs.
Then it was home to set up the swim bag and transition 1 and 2 items. My transition 1 items included: Bike helmet, bike gloves, bike shoes, socks with baby powder in them for fast foot entry, Body Glide, two towels, 2 24oz. bike bottles and a 48oz CamelBak filled with my special mix of energy drink, sunscreen, GU Chomps and Hammer Supplements for my Bike Bento. Transition 2 items included my running shoes, another pair of socks just in case, cap, Body Glide, Amphipod 20oz bottle pack, GU Chomps and Hammer Supplements. Everything was now ready. With all of that done it was time for bed.
Race day started with a wak-up alarm of 4:00AM. Had Peanut Butter and Cracjers and my energy drink mix and then headed out to the race site which was a little more than 2 miles from my house. By the way, that was nice! We got to the site and they had the athletes parking very far from the main race site. It was not good. They provided shuttle buses and all and they were very quick but it was really a long way away. We got to the race site around 5:30 (my wife and me) and went to set up the transition areas. I had a very bright blue striped towel so it was easy to see. I set up Transition 2 first and then we walked down to the swim start and I set up Transition 2. When we got to the start they said that we could wear wetsuits because the water temperture had dropped enough. The day before they had said no wetsuits unless you wanted to go in the last wave. That would have meant that I would have had to go from wave 4 to 19. Glad that didn't happen and I was real glad to wear the wetsuit. All transition areas were well marked and very well organized with plenty of volunteer help. Again, they were all first class!
The race started late because they were waiting for medical staff to get into place. Then after the first waves were called, wave 4 was called and off I went. We swam out to the start and then we were off. I placed myself towards the side and at the back to avoid the major rush of the start. That was a great piece of advice. I had a clear start and soon started making time up on those who went out too fast. Stayed wide of the buoy line at first to have some open water to swim the 1.2 miles. Did a good job of keeping my direction fairly straight and also avoided most body contact until I rounded the halfway mark and then got greedy and started swimming closer to the buoy line. Got kicked in the head, swam over, elbowed, you name it. Finished the swim much better than I expected though. My swim training had me very well prepared and I had paced myself well to not be completely out of gas after the first leg of the race.
On to the bike portion of the race (56 miles). My swim to bike transition was not fast. But I was pleased how I had everything set out. Getting the wetsuit off was the most time consuming. There were no people to help like I had heard there are at some races. Got everything on and in the right order to avoid penalty and went up to the bike mount area. I had placed my gears in an easy gear the day before because it was an uphill start. That was really effective. Got a good start and was off. Started hydrating at mile 5 (letting my body get adjusted) and then continued to hydrate often during the ride. We had a light headwind at times and also a good tailwind at times. The course was hilly but since I had been on it before I knew what was coming. At first it seemed like everyone was passing me but I kept my pacing strategy and didn't get into that gane. I had a good even pace the entire route and felt great the entire time. Continued to hydrate along the way. There was a huge oil spill from something on the course close to mile 30 and we had to dismount and walk around it carrying our bikes. Aid startions along the course were great but I didn't need to stop. Plenty of volunteers on the course and everything was marked very well.
The bike to run transition went well and I got out of there about two minutes faster. The run was a two loop course around the campgrounds with one significant hill on each loop. By the time the run part started it had warmed up a bit. Hydration was important (Again, waited a couple of miles to start hydration to let body adjust) and my Amphipod worked well though I had to adjust it tighter from the day before when I tried it on. It didn't flop around and was much easier than a hand help I thought. Ususally I have done the hand held bottle but this has changed my mind. Had a great pace during the run and kept it even and steady. Had very good energy and felt fine. Put ice down the front of my tri suit and back to keep the core cool and it worked fantastic. There were multiple aid stations along the run course with so many volunteers at each station. It was great. They had everything ready and knew what they were doing just like on the bike route. Many thanks to them.
As I ran through the finish area, it was a great moment. I had finished my first Ironman (tri) and was so happy that I felt so good and had accomplished a major goal of mine. My training plan was fantastic and my coaching team really kept me on target over the past few months. The success of this race for me was not a one day thing. It was months of training, proper nutrition, hydration and mental focus. I felt well prepared and can't wait until the next one.
After the race I met up with my wife, went through the food tent, then went to the transition areas to pick up my gear, and then met our friends from Colorado and carried things back to the cars. The hardest part was the long trek back to the cars with all of the gear and the bikes. Wow, something needs to be done here. Athletes should not have been the ones parking the farthest away from the Race Complex. But that quickly faded from my mind as I enjoyed the success of a good experience and great support from family and friends! I will be back for more next year!
Race statistics:
Swim (1.2 miles): 46:35 Bike (56 miles): 3:22:13 Run (13.1 miles): 1:59:35 Overall: 6:21:41
18th in a division of 47
Total Swim: 2:27/100m Total Bike: 16.62mph Total Run 9:07/mile
T1: Swim-to-Bike 7:47 T2: Bike-to-Run 5:31
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, lakes, and pools be happy and safe and may they bring you peace of mind!
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