Half Way There

Half way There
State 25: Eugene, Oregon
3:44:29

Eugene, Oregon is state 25, which means I’m half way there. I feel as if I’ve slowed a bit on knocking out the states, but I'm still doing good. The first 25 states were accomplished from 2005 to 2012. This write up includes three sections: Training, the Race and Reflection over the first half of my goal.

Training:
The last marathon run was Hawaii in December. Training in San Francisco is a lot different in the winter than in the Midwest. I actually was focused on other events from Hawaii until February…maybe March.

I was planning long bikes every other weekend, but we’ll talk about biking next week as I have a half ironman.

My mileage in 2012 is about half of what it was the previous years, also 5 months between marathons is pretty long for me. In February I had a lot of visitors so it was a month where my running was more just runs up to 14 miles. Then March hit and I had a 16 mile run. This run was horrible. I crashed and burned and I got home feeling defeated. So by my 18 miler, I was focused and nervous and just hoping I wouldn’t crash and burn again. I was worried the slow down / not logging as many miles meant I was ‘losing it’ The 18 mile was a success as I chose a flatter route and just focused on regaining confidence. The run was around AT&T park and discovery in Mission Bay.

I was cross training more during the weeks, but trying to run 3 times during the week. My 20 miler was on a rainy day. I mapped a loop to keep things interesting, where I ran through golden gate park, and up and around Ocean Beach to Lands End to the Presidio, over the Golden Gate Bridge and through the Marina to home. Elevation gain was just under 2,000 ft and my ability to run the hills was strong (for me).

The following week Ben invited me to join him on his usual 13 mile run through the Mt Tamplais area. This is not my typical run but it was a new challenge and very enjoyable as he was able to coach me on the trails. Over the 13 miles we endured once again somewhere around 2,000 ft of elevation gain. There was some walking and those 13 miles took 2hrs20 minutes (I slowed him down) and I was constantly sucking air and it was more challenging than most long runs.

The following week was my 22 mile run- as I hadn’t run a marathon in awhile I figured it was good to get in a 22 miler. Ben decided to join me on this run. We started at his place and ran through the headlands to make it over the golden gate bridge and into the Marina. We then made our way down Alexander Dr back into Sausalito. Now, knowing Ben’s 13 mile run, I knew he could easily get up to 16 miles without a problem but I was thinking he’d tire out at one point, because he hasn’t run this long of a run in a very long time. Once again, I was thankful for his coaching (and it’s not often I like people pushing/coaching me…if ever). We slowed down and he told me to pick it back up, I was like “woah buddy you are supposed to be crashing and burning and me keeping you going” he kept me going with stories and then our last mile- per garmin was a 7:42. The average was 8:47, but once again, the climbs were ridiculous so that average did include some walking.

I was very confident I could PR on this run. Then in my 2 week taper I got sick. I can’t tell you exactly was wrong, but I was extremely sick and food wasn’t staying down in any way shape or form. My doctor ran some tests, put me on some medicine and put me on the BRAT diet for awhile (Bananas, Rice Apple Sauce and Toast). This is not ideal 1 week before a marathon. And I thought, this is going to be a very bad marathon. The Saturday before I was back to eating normal (after almost 2 weeks).

The Sunday before the marathon, since I finally had energy, and the morning open, Julie Pam and I went to the track for a Julie Workout. I love Julie workouts, and there is the competitive side of me that just has to keep up. We did our own warm ups, I did quarter mile speeds with quarter mile recoveries the speeds were between 1:30 and 1;40. I felt good, when Julie was ready to do some sprints, I decided to join. We did 10 second full out sprints with 20 second recoveries. This is where I need to be smart instead of stupid. 1) When she would say GO I would have a delay start then I’d work my way to catching/keeping up with her. She’s a sprinter - I am not, so a week before a marathon, this is a bad idea. I had 6 10 second full out sprints. Thereafter we moved onto running stairs. Of course where I pulled the excuse “I have a marathon next week, I have to take it easy, was the inverted push ups- how is that going to affect my run compared to those sprints?

Monday, I was hobbling. When I went for a swim at lunch, I was getting in and out of the pool like I had just run a marathon. Tuesday, still hobbling. Wednesday-Friday a little sore but I thought I was going in the right direction. Then on the flight to Eugene, I went downhill. I got off the plane and I did a mini run onto one of those walker things at the airport and my 2nd step- I had to quickly stop because I cramped in a real bad way. The rest of the day they were bothering me as Tony and I walked around downtown Eugene. Sunday I woke up, and I squatted getting up from situps and when I did this- they cramped up again. Tony and I got to the marathon start, and I took a big step up and over a stump, and I cramped up again in a real bad way- first with my right- then I used my left more, and then on my left.


So…This…Is..How..I started State 25.
The Race:
Starting a race feeling like you are at mile 26, is not ideal. For a race I wanted to PR in, I was highly concentrated on my footing right from the start. Tony and I hung out for a bit then we parted ways.  Taking in the start line: There was a short guy right by me that had his headphones on waiting for the start he was jamming in a major way. He was in his own world and it was highly entertaining. Then when you look around at all the guys, they sported staches trying to look like Prefontaine.

As we started, my legs hurt, I started at a 9minute in hopes I could loosen up, I easily worked my way to an 8:30 and by mile 4, I realized, there was no loosening up to be had, it was just going to get worse. At one point I was running and trying to change the song on my ipod, and when I was looking at the ipod instead of focused on my footing, the cramps flared up.

I’d consider myself a person with faith, a Christian but not outwardly religious. I pray for friends and family whenever appropriate, but sometimes, I pray for a good run, and then when I’m running, I reflect on my spirituality and connect to God in this time. There were many prayers early on, that I would make my way through this marathon and maybe still get a personal best. And no, I don’t feel bad for my shallow prayers.

As I got to mile 4, I decided to envision this was the start of my 22 mile run with Ben. I tried to keep his voice in my head to push me through. He was also in Big Sur running a 9 miler on a bum foot that I’m pretty sure is a stress fracture. He thought about doing the marathon and it was going to be a game call when he woke up. I had no clue what he ended up doing, so part of me thought- if he is running on that foot (not saying it’s the smartest thing…but I get it), I had to push through on this pain.

I actually was feeling strong at mile seven, (though it hurt) and around then is when I turned on my ‘marathon mix’ which is currently made up of 24 songs- the songs in my race write up titles. As each one played, I concentrated on that marathon and reflected back on that race (see reflections below). This helped keep my concentration elsewhere.

One thing I loved about this race is, usually the best part is with the half marathoners and the marathon always gets boring and horrible (when they are combined). This one was the opposite, it started to get beautiful just as we split with the half marathoners. This helped me keep my pace up and just enjoy the scenery. I was shocked at the people around me: it was still pretty crowded for a smaller marathon, and there were many girls (running under 8:30s usually it’s spread out and more guys).

I was focused on getting to mile 22, thinking of how I wanted to slow down and Ben wouldn’t let me on the 22 mile run.

Around mile 18, my marathon play list had come to a conclusion. The legs were still sore but I still kept the speed up at a decent pace. But, around mile 20, I really wanted to walk. So I decided instead of walking, I would just slow the pace. This worked but I was trending toward a 9 minute mile.

At mile 24 I decided to walk through a water, and that’s when I really slowed down, but I already calculated there was no way I could PR so I figured, why push it- especially when I have a half iron man the following week. Around mile 25 there was a guy on a bike filming the runners. I’m pretty sure he got stuck on me for a bit (gonna look for that) and…that motivated me to keep going, I can’t be on a video with walking!!!

With less than a half mile left, I kicked it in whatever way I could, and we ended on Hayward field, running a tenth of a mile on the track which was so great! I didn’t PR, but I think this was great training for being able to push through pain. It was a great mental game race, and to be able to push through pain from the start of a race, is a great way to kick off training for the 100 mile run I have planned in October.

In the end, it was my 3rd fastest time the two ahead: 3:40:32- Michigan; 3:43:08- Missouri
I’m half way to my goal and with that, this is the perfect time for reflection. (what a novel!).
State 1: California
Who would have known I’d ever want to move to San Francisco. I didn’t care for it on that race, but I loved my tiffany’s necklace. I also never thought I’d run another marathon again.

State 2: Illinois (and repeated later)
Chicago- It was cold, my legs froze, but I improved my time and I had good company on the run, training for this marathon created the foundation of great friendships.

State 3: Wisconsin (and repeated for the Ironman).
My pseudo Family (Irisa’s family) was there to cheer me on. I was getting stronger, but still, crash and burn was happening, I just wanted under a 4:20 at this time.
**Around this time is when I decided I wanted to run a marathon in every state.

State 4: Virginia (DC)
I was learning how great it could be to travel and visit friends (Jen), as well as run a marathon. I was torn on this one because I added a new challenge of 2 marathons in 2 weeks- this was the first, but I thought it would be the one for a PR. Did not happen.

Stage 5: New York
2nd marathon within a week of the last. I didn’t expect to do well I just waited for a crash and burn, and instead, I got my PR and under 4:20. Becky made sure I had people to cheer me.

State 6: Arizona
This is the first marathon that I can officially say I ran all of it on. I always liked running in Arizona when visiting Lucy and Chelsey so great state to accomplish as a full run.

State 7: Tennessee
Once called home, I loved having my Chicago friends out there with me to share a part of my history. And My mom and my Aunt made it a girls weekend. The first marathon my mom ever watched.

State 8: Minnesota
This was the family marathon. My uncle and I ran the whole thing together (only 2 marathons I have run start and finish with one person) and we made it a great greek family reunion. This is what started my niece’s interest in running (or being like Auntie Tara). She was only 4.

State 9: Texas
Shelia and I had loads of fun the Friday before. Sleeping almost all of Saturday helped give me strength for this run.

State 10: Georgia
This was my first ultra- 40 miles. And first trail run. Very difficult but fun camping road experience with Jen.

State 11: Louisiana
The Charlie’s Angels Trip: Rachel, Alexis, Myself and Mike (As Bozwell) and Christine (did you know Bozwell had a wife J) . I had a new PR.

State 12: Ohio
Hilly, first marathon I finished feeling like I had to sit down and breath slowly so I don’t pass out. Stayed with Erik and Jenny, great to see their life in Cincinnati.

State 13: Indiana
I hoped to break 4 hours. Not only did I break 4 hours, the first time I ever imagined Boston was possible. Maria and I had a little slow down with a car accident but given it was the other person’s fault 100%, and their insurance covered 100% of it, and nobody was injured, it was just a speedbump. It probably gave me the energy for the PR.

State 14: Pennsylvania
The pressure was on for Boston. Not great run but great trip with Rachel A, Connie, Dana and Kathleen.

State 15: North Carolina
Given Philly was a fail, I felt like I needed to take it easy and just enjoy myself. David Lee ran the 2nd half with me which was helpful. Slowed the pace down and finished strong- with enough energy to dance that night.

State 16: Missouri
PR and closer to Boston. Road tripping with Rachel and Matt was fun.

State 17: North Dakota
I became my Grandfather’s friends’ adopted grandchild. The race wasn’t the greatest, but it was a great trip.

State 18: Idaho
Another Crash and Burn. Jen and I went hiking the next day (ouch), and this is when she introduced me to Tony- the loud mouth friend that got me through Ironman Training giving me tips on eating and a training plan.

State 19: Alaska
A 50K, and I had the opportunity to see Molly’s life there. It was a beautiful and amazing run.

State 20: Michigan
FINALLY- Qualified for Boston. Stayed with Kelly, I am real lucky to have so many great friends scattered throughout.

State 21: Nevada
Can you say Drunk Run? The 2nd race I started and ended with the same person: Evelio. He also became my drinking partner on the run. Pretty sure we danced like rockstars that night. Nate and Ash came up from San Diego to support.

State 22: Florida
Got to meet and spend quality time with Tatiana (and Xavi and Michelle). Such a sweet girl, such great friends.

State 23: Massachusetts
My parents joined, trained with Jeff but we didn’t run together because he was faster. Great Trip, tough run, but good overall.

State 24: Hawaii
What was I thinking doing this one so early? Flights were cheap and I really wanted a real vacation. That’s what I made it, Marathon was just a morning event. Umbrella drinks were plentiful the afternoon/early evening before.

State 25: Oregon
Ummm Well- read above. This trip was the kick off to 100 miler training so Tony met me there so we both started training the same way.  I do have a chip on my shoulder since they beat us at the Rosebowl. They continue to live up to their name Boregon Oregon- and Wisconsin is still better. 

Half way there!

Just Me, Myself & I

Just Me, Myself & I
Honolulu Marathon, Hawaii
State #24
4:08:40

2011 has been quite the year. Ironman training started early January, with the Miami Marathon end of January. Ironman Training continued, and i completed the Boston Marathon. I decided to cut out a marathon in May, and focus on Ironman Training. I completed the American Triple T, and the Racine Half Ironman. Then, just as Ironman training peaked at 16 hours a week, I moved to San Francisco. I made a new bike friend, completed my first 100 miler which was actually 130 miles with what would soon be known as my new normal elevation profile. I completed the Ironman and enjoyed every moment of it. Still, when people ask about it, I smile big and say "I had so much fun!"

After the Ironman I had a goal to complete one more marathon, but living in San Franciso, I'm still getting my budget underway, I was limited on vacation time, and well, I started focusing on shorter interval training. So up until the end of October, I still hadn't fully committed to another marathon and I definitely wasn't putting in miles. Oklahoma was on the radar, but when looking at tickets, it just didn't seem worth it, to travel so much, and pay so much for Oklahoma. Maybe eventually i will have to, but when I looked at the Honolulu Marathon, it was only $50 more to fly there.

I had to get a marathon in as I raised money based on the miles I was to race in 2011, so I couldn't raise the money and not race those miles- it's not how I work, so Hawaii it was.

I was at a point where I kind of felt like I needed some me time. I find it an art to be able to spend quality time with yourself, in public but alone. People tend to react akwardly to this thing- you see a cute girl walk into a nice restaurant and she says "Table for one' you get looks and people think "poor girl" But then, you get perks- you get to talk to many nice people and meet many people yet, you get to do your thing and go your own way (and sometimes, you get your drinks paid for).

I booked Hawaii with the possibility that I might not go it alone, and the excitement to go it alone is what pushed me to book it without knowing anyone else's availability. Up until now, I had chosen my marathons based on another event or another friend's availabilty to join. So, not only was this state number 24 (my favorite number), probably the most fun vacation spot you can have in the states, it also continued with the theme of my move to California: Focus on Me. It's all about me (maybe that sounds selfish but to a people pleaser, it's a big breakthrough).

I booked early November, with just over a month to prepare. The longest distance I had run since the ironman was 13 miles- so it was time to get to work. I got a 20 miler in the weekend after I booked the trip. Pam has become a fun running partner. She doesn't go the long distance, but she gets out there with me and then i run on my own and meet up with her from time to time- taking breaks, or her running with me. It really passes the time. The weekend after the 20 miler, I ran 12 miles. It was mid november and we had the most beautiful weather, and I took Pam this waterfall I love running by in Golden Gate Park. After the 20 miler i didn't have any run longer than 15 miles.

One thing I haven't mentioned about 2011, is though it has been a super awesome year, I have made the mistake of cutting out Yoga and replacing it with Muscle Conditioning. Muscle Conditioning was definitely not the mistake. That was great. BUT, sacrificing yoga was. I"m not much of a stretcher so yoga keeps me stretched out and in check. After the IRonman, Julie started stretching me out to learn that I had serious issues with knots and being tight- everywhere. I kind of ignored it. And every now and then i'd have a pain here or there. Then I got a bad hamstring issue, which might be hamstring related or IT band related or many other things. But I'm a firm believer it was an issue because I wasn't stretching, then I started to again, and I started doing more interval workouts moving faster on my hamstrings which jus irritated the minor issue. Three weeks before the Marathon, this issue took me out of the game for 3 days straight. I tried after 3 days of rest, and still, the pain was too much to be on, so I pretty much cut down most workouts other than yoga, biking, slow runs and weights - more abs and arms and stretching/rolling out the knots in my legs (Julie calls this Myofacial release or something like that? I nearly cried the first few times, but 2 times a day for a week almost 15 minutes at a time, and it's not as painful anymore).

This was the least prepared Ive ever been for a marathon- but it was another state and it was a fun one so the preparation wasn't such a concern. My concern was whether or not I could really run on my bum leg or not. My taper week was the opposite of most. I started with 2 miles and worked my way up to 5 through the week (with 5 the day before the marathon).

I made it to Hawaii and I was loving every minute of it. I went out the Friday night i got in. Had a few drinks that were delicious and went for a walk to discover a bit. I made my way to bed by 12 am. I woke up at 6 am to go for a run and get to the expo to pick up my race stuff. While waiting for the expo to open I walked all around looking for food. I finally found this awesome whole in the wall place right by the convention center, and they made me some hawaiin breakfast thing that was delicious.

With the humidity already at 6am being a bit much, I figured I should start hydrating. But the vacationer in me just wanted to vacation- I was in Hawaii after all. So, I had 2 drinks around 2pm- with lunch. I had signed up to go on this sailing event which i didn'tknow what to expect other than i was going out on a sail boat. Well, it turned out to be a booze cruise. If you ever go to Honolulu, I suggest you take a ride on the Waikiki Rigger. It's super cheap and the drinks on it area also cheap. They take you out, look out for dolphins (which I saw on my first trip), Sea Turtles (saw on my 2nd trip) and then you just enjoy the atmosphere and chill music. At your choice you can sit at the front of the boat on the net and let the waves splash you as you move real fast across the water. I drank champange while on the cruise, and as I got splashed, I ended up slamming my drinks. So now it's 5pm the night before the marathon, and I was pretty drunk. I called it a night, drinking lots of gatorade and having pizza for dinner (because i just wanted to fall asleep).

I had yet to go through my race stuff, so I set the alarm for 2am. At 2am, I continued to drink fluids and go through all my race stuff. I also had to cancel my rental car for Monday as I signed up for a snorkling event that was taking me out to the west side of the island (which was where i wanted to go with a rental).

At 4am i made my way about 2 miles to the start. They sang the national anthem and set off a load of fireworks, and we were off. I vowed to start off slow and was keeping an eye on my hamstring pain, which was not there. After a few miles at a 9-9:30 I decided I was warmed up and picked it up at a faster comfortable pace. I knew I could crash and burn, I also knew I wasn't prepared to go the distance so i figured I better get in what i could on the front end. Around mile 7 we were making our way around Diamond Mountain (which was called that because some guys thought they foudn diamonds in the mountain- but they were wrong...the mountain kept the name though it actually looks like a dorsal fin of a dolphin). I felt great on the climb, maybe a little just soreness, but nothing bad.

We started running on some rolling hills, when my stomach started to bother me. And already around mile 10, I was struggling. Not because I was fatiguing or because of muscle pain, but because I put myself in a spot of being dehydrated and the bouncing irritated my stomach. My first bathroom stop was before the half way mark.
Putting more fluids in my body felt horrible, but I knew I had to and because of how my stomach felt, I decided I would get through the marathon without any gus/food, there was no way I would stomach that. Around mile 10 we also went from night to day. The sun was up and it actually felt a little cooler at this point. We had some wind which felt good, and there was some rain.

I was focused on making sure I didn't completely flop on my time- but I also thought, no need to rush through this course, it's beautiful out here. Look at the mountainside, the greens, the sky, clouds and the water. So I took it all in (in between cursing at how my stomach felt).

Just before mile 23 the stomach issues were at its worst and I had to walk. There was no way I could stomach the bouncing until after another bathroom stop. At the mile 23 water stop, the single porta potty was hidden and I wasn't given the greatest directions to it. I knew I would feel better if I just made that stop, so I back tracked in my footsteps. I got looks for going the 'wrong way' but- unlike most people out there, I have had my victories- this marathon was not about time and I chose enjoying myself the night before instead on caring about the time. I pushed myself to the limit on not being prepared, which is fine. I think I've said this many times, but I need to keep things interesting, not every marathon can be focused on time. This one was Hawaii! There was no other way to get the state done than with pretty drinks with umbrellas.

At the end, it was really just a battle between me and my stomach, so when it came time to kick it, I had lots left in me and I did just that. Once I finished, I ate a bagel, laid around for a bit, and then slowly walked back to my hotel. On the walk back, my legs were a little sore, but I felt hungover. You know, when you have alot to drink and breathing hurts when you are standing, so you'd rather be laying in bed? When you feel like the best place for you would be horizontal, not vertical. I made my way to this place I wanted to try breakfast. They came to my rescue with Rice and eggs...seriously, exactly what I needed. I then went back to the hotel and laid in bed for a half hour while my stomach screamed. Once I managed to get out of bed, I got pepto bismal right away and after an hour lounging on the beach, the stomach was more under control and I was finally drinking fluids again. I made sure I drank a good 60 oz of water/gatorade before I got back on that booze cruise and enjoyed round two.

I know usually this is a blog for marathons and not my vacations, but I have to write down my Monday experience because it was just awesome :) Monday, I woke up real early for a snorkling tour. I would love to scuba dive but I wasn't there long enough for a crash certification. So, snorkling it was. I swam with a sea turtle, saw 50+ dolphins in the water- sleeping - learning how they operate when they are asleep.
Then, it was time.
Time to see a whale, or actually 4!
We sat around watching them float around coming up for air, sometimes talking to one another and then diving down. As I was switching from my regular camera to my camera phone, they started to get active. You see, it's mating season and the men fight over the girls. There were only 3 at one point, and a 4th was joining which caused trouble. One minute one of the Whales came right up to the boat on the right side, I ran out to see it and as I did, it dove under the boat- tail up- I felt like I could almost reach out and touch it. I ran to the other side of the boat to watch it come up. Then it went to the front of the boat where the whales started to get rowdy! Yelling (or i'm calling it htat) at eachother and moving around- and though they were moving slow earlier and you would think hump back whales are slow in nature, those suckers can move! they moved to the right side of the boat again and started circling. It was just so amazing to see them in action. They were pissed and they were right there, putting on a show for our boat.

An amazing trip, meeting some great people (islanders and candadians were the ones I tended to talk with most). The trip was a success. The me time was amazing, makes me long for more. Usually I complete a marathon and on the side, bet some vacation/visiting of the state in. But this time, I vacationed and on the side, I got another marathon done (and i got part of my tan back- yay :) )

**PS- the song that goes with this title- Kelly Clarkson- 'What doesn't kill you' -great song- look it up!

Fun e-mail Dialogue from my Spectators at the Ironman

Okay so i read these today and thought- it's kind of fun to get the spectator's view- so i'd share:

11:21AM
Jen W.
"Has anyone seen her on the bike?"

3:38PM
Jeff T
"Yes...it's 3:38. She should be running by now"

3:50pm
Tony K
"She just went through camp randall and fighting away! MM3 I think. All systems r good 4 her"

4:03pm
Mike Z
"I saw her on the run too and she looked really solid"

4:20pm
Rachel A
"My update is late, but i saw her at mile 111 on the bike and she was good...to think in total she is traveling the same distance I did to get here by car... ~140 miles!"

4:20 pm
Ultra en
"I saw her about a half a mile into the run and she was positive and smiling! She looks great."

6:42PM
Ultra Jen
"I just saw her heading out to finish her final 13.1 mi loop. She is giving the smile of a pretty tuckered out lady, but she is blowing by all the other runners out there. She is really moving well and running strong."

7:40 pm
Tony K
"Just left Tara on the course. Mile 24.5. She's flirting with the boys and forgot she was even racing! ...Ok, maybe not. She's doing great and soon to finish."

The Final Chapter of the Ironman Journey: The Victory Lap

IRONMAN WISCONSIN 2011
12:54:39
Overall Rank 942
Division Rank 32

Swim: 1:27:50 Rank: 1784/84
T1: 7:53
Bike: 6:34:04 17.01mph Rank: 1330/47
T2: 6:26
Run: 4:38:26 10:37/mi Rank: 942 / 32


The Ironman Journey is a journey you make together, but, alone. Along the way, you pull in support from family and friends and on the day of the race, you are out there, with *2800 other racers doing the same thing, starting at the same time, experiencing similar challenges, but at the end of the day, it’s your race. You get to call the shots and decide what’s best for your race; it’s you against your own mind and body. There are highs and there are lows, and I’m proud to say, most of my lows were all prior to the cannon shooting off, and 7:00am, on Sunday, September 11, 2011. I rode the high for almost the whole 12 hours 54 minutes and 39 seconds.

Backing up: A little bit about me. I’m a planner for the most part, but when it comes to my races, I kind of focus on the training and go with the flow come race weekend. This has created minor hiccups but we always figure it out. For the San Antonio Marathon, Sheila and I didn’t book a hotel in time and they ended up being sold out, but we got an amazing deal on VRBO and ended up just fine. Traveling with Rachel Johnson for marathons works pretty well, because I just have to kick back and let her tell me where to be and go, and for Philly, I’m thinking that Connie took charge for our wonderful group of five. I sometimes forget there is more to prepare for than training for the race. So, it’s not a shocker, that I didn’t read the full ironman manual of race day weekend and procedures until the Tuesday before the race.

I booked my ticket flying into Chicago, and I thought I would have time to visit before taking the train up to Milwaukee to get a car from my parents. When I read the manual, I learned mandatory check in was until 4pm on Friday. So, the story of getting to Madison really did turn into a planes, trains and automobiles sort of story with no reason to be in Chicago (well, I did manage to have breakfast with Laura and see Jess so it was worth it). My parents picked me up from the train station around 11:30am on Friday, and I took one of their cars to Madison.

So, my biggest freak out moment was when I got to my parent’s house. 1) I ordered a race jersey to wear for the race, and it never showed up. I knew I would be fine in the jersey because I’ve worn Alison’s before, and I was excited to wear the Team DetermiNation logo. So I had to come up with a plan B. 2) Alejandro- when I left the Midwest, I left Alejandro behind and took the risk of asking my dad to take it in for a tune up. He had a friend that swore by this shop so my dad took it there. Well, they must have not known how to deal with my bike as they didn’t adjust the derailer right and it was making a grinding noise. Seeing as my bike was fine before I left- I started to freak out. They also made my dad think the bike was super fragile and not to touch the gears at all… umm okay- I’m doing a 112 mile race- you should care for your bikes, but to call them fragile – I think they were doing a CYA so my dad would think he ruined it when I noticed something was wrong. AND the frame wasn’t clean- it was super dirty- to the point I got my hands all greasy on the handle bars- so of course I had a freakout moment and decided my race was ruined- I would somehow not get through the bike. My dad was not responsible for this- I called the shots and he just was helping me out- but he felt bad, so I did my best to contain myself around him, but the moment I got in that car and drove away- I started to cry.

I called Veronica and then Jeff. Jeff LOVES drama- he thinks no race is a race without a little drama, but with that, he’s good at finding solutions. So, as I drove to Madison, he found me a bike shop I could take the bike to (I could have done it on sight at the ironman- but I wanted more one on one attention …and I had to buy my nutrition anyway which wasn’t going to be found right on site. My stress level went from a 10 (highest) to a 4 in that time. And then I talked to Veronica and she helped me maintain at the level 4.

Once I got to Madison, I spent 2 hours in line for athlete check in. In this time I met a few guys in line that were extremely chill. All the rules people tell me to follow race day didn’t seem to apply to them and I just loved hearing that- because there are more than one way to get to the finish line. They had all done it before, and they were all about the experience. Prior to talking to them, the stress got back to an 8 and then it came back down to that level 4 area.

After checking in, I took care of my bike. Endurance zone had workers that were a little young and cocky- but they knew what they were doing so if they wanted to show off and make me feel dumb not knowing technical terms for my bike parts- I didn’t care. I just wanted them to fix my bike.

I was back to Monona Terrace for the Dinner/Mandatory Meeting by 6:30pm. This dinner was such a great experience. It was an Ironman Celebration. They had given us all sorts of fun statistics like 26% of the racers were female, which was a record high for Madison; The oldest racer was 76 and youngest was 18, the largest male age group was 40-44, and females was (mine) 30-34. The Madison Ironman has been going on since 2002 and this was the 10th year. I thought back to the first Madison Ironman- and I remember Sarah Harnden and I running that evening, and feeling like, if these people can do this crazy thing, we can go for a 5 mile run and not complain we made it a point to run by them and cheer. Little did I ever imagine that I would be completing the same thing as the crazy people 10 years later?

After dinner I made my way to Hotel Cory. We watched a funny movie to try to calm me (because I was back up to an 8 where I stayed for while), and I started packing my bags- which just seemed like a cluster. As the ironman isn’t like your typical race- we had 5 bags: 1) Your morning drop off bag 2) Swim to Bike Transition Bag 3) Bike to Run Transition Bag 4) Bike special needs bag 5) Run Special needs bag. In this time I realized I had to buy some stuff to fill them as I did a poor job packing before I left California. I didn’t have much in my special needs bags- as I figure I’d bring most of what I needed with me and then not bother to pick up the special needs bag at the end of the race.

I woke up with a tension headache Saturday morning, and the tension was high. I managed to get about 9 hours of sleep though, and it was time to run errands. With the errands, I decided I would go to Charlie’s Bachelor Party at Bucky’s Traveling Bus- and say hi to all those guys (seeing as I’m missing his wedding- and I mean- he happened to be in town- so I could at least hug and congratulate him!) I got to catch up with him and Dave and of course, see Betz and Alsteen. They were fun drunk as usual and in this time the stress level went down to maybe a 3- until I realized I should get going and had so much more to do for the day.

I made my way back to Monona Terrace (where I’m pretty proud to say I parallel parked my dad’s big truck in a small spot). I met up with Veronica and Daryl and we walked through the transitions (which were inside!). Alison called me in this time- which if you all don’t know- Alison had a trip with her mom to Europe- an opportunity she couldn’t pass up- so she wasn’t there to see me cross the finish line- however she was there in spirit 110%- and she made sure she got some European plan on her phone so she could call and keep tabs on me. If that’s not a great supporter/friend- I don’t know what is!
My stress level got back up to an 8. I managed to go for a swim, and it dropped probably to a 7 and then it was time to check in my bike. On my walk to my car to get my bike, I called Brandon, who successfully got my stress level to a 1 and pretty much was able to maintain thereafter at a 2 or 3. My parents and I met up for dinner and then when I got to Cory’s my stress level was back up, but he made me some chamomile tea and I made it to sleep nice and sound.
My alarm went off, and I started my pre-race plan: When I race marathons, I usually can’t get hungry enough before the race, but I knew I had to do something this time- so I bought Eggos- you know Eggo waffles- because I figured I could toast and pick away at those- so I had 2 odwala vitamin C drinks and 5 eggos. I figure anything was better than nothing.

Veronica and I met up in the Transition and before you knew it, I met up with my dad and we made our way to the swim. On the way I ran into Tony K and he gave me some last minute motivation. *One thing I did that was a little unorthodox – was my bike was equipped with only one water bottle. I decided I didn’t like the cages on the back because it just made me feel too heavy – and with being used to Alexander who is lighter than Alejandro- I figured I wanted to be as light as possible. There were water stations every 15ish miles on the bike course so I would take their drinks and keep my one water bottle for when I needed it otherwise. (This actually worked out well!). Tony said he thought that would be a decent plan- so I was a little more confident in this decision.
Walking to the swim start, I saw Jillian and Aristotle- it was good to see them and remembering- Together but alone. We got in the water, and I lost all – and we had a good 5-10 minutes to float before the start. Once that cannon went off- all *2800 of us were off. I didn’t find the congestion to be too bad- I just stayed relaxed and would stop and wait if I needed to. I broke the swim down in quarters and just made it to each turn. I was told on the first turn – it’s so congested and tight- that everyone stops and lifts their heads up and moos- it’s the moo corner. I only heard this from one person and wondered how true this was- but sure enough- as we turned- we all started to moo (and yes, I joined in- because this is supposed to be fun), and again, I reminded myself- we were all in this together (but alone).

As I swam- I thought about my first triathlon- in California. Mazan and I did it together. I remember being in that swim- .45ish miles long, and thinking “what have I gotten myself into, and I think I can do an Ironman in 3 years!? I can’t even handle this swim!” …but with time, I got better and stronger, and here I was, doing the full 2.4 miles in an ironman. I have done my longest open water swims with Emily- so I then pictured her swimming there with me, I had dialogue in my head- of me and her, stopping at a bouy and counting how many more laps we had. I was out there alone- but at the same time, I wasn’t!

The swim did have its hiccups. It was congested, and on the first turn, I managed to get trampled, I thought my cap was going to come off and my goggles were bumped- I didn’t want to deal with them- because that would mean treading and risking a cramp, so I just pushed them tighter to my face. About a loop later, I couldn’t deal wit that anymore and had to readjust- my contact was kind of suctioning out too, but I managed to make it so it was bearable until I finished. I couldn’t see out of my right eye- but I figured I’d just keep following the people in front of me. When I made it out of the water I had to readjust my contact, and I wasn’t sure if I would lose it or not, but I figured I’d deal with that in transition (as I prepared and had spare contacts with me).

Now when you get out of the swim- you have to run up the helix into the building and to transition. It was a pretty easy run because you had so many crowds- I saw Emily and Sara, and my Dad (I forget who else- sorry). The volunteers were AMAZING- you walked in the room with the bags and someone grabbed your bag for you and took you to the changing room where they sat with you- catering to your needs. With a few minutes, I was off to retrieve my bike. I stopped to be lathered with sunscreen, and I went on my way. Now the bike- you get to ride down the other helix to the bike path which was lots of fun. Coming out of the bike, I saw two people but now I’m forgetting who- please claim your support! Then I saw Mike. On the out and back, there is a no pass zone-- so the goal is to get past anyone moving slower than you before you hit that zone. As we entered that zone- we actually came to a stop for a bike accident to clear. Then we were off, and before you knew it, we were at the loop.

What I didn’t know was my cousin, Mandy and her husband just bought a place pretty much on the course! So as I made my way on the loop, I first saw Jen and Andrea, which was actually after I passed them…and as I turned to see them, I nearly fell off my bike J Then a few minutes later I heard another cheer, and, though I didn’t see her, I have known that voice my whole life and so I waved behind me, knowing I just passed Mandy (and confirming later ;) )

I was feeling great on the first loop- I knew what Jeff told me, that it’s going to hit me in the 2nd, but part of me didn’t care, if it felt good- I just wanted to ride it. The climb to Mt. Horeb didn’t feel like a climb, and the rolling right after, was just so much fun! Up and down, and up and up and up and down. By the time I made it to the 3 bad climbs in the 2nd half of the loop, I started to feel it. But, I thought, I need to keep high cadence and just keep moving. I made the first climb, and then saw my parents just before the 2nd. Jeff was on the third, and he wasn’t just there with the signs he made for us – he had a mega phone!

The whole two loops, I pictured being out there with both Jeff and Maria- I tried to envision it was like the first time I rode the loop- the first with Jeff and the 2nd with Maria, with a negative split- but for some reason I pictured Maria more on the first loop, and Jeff more on the 2nd (and well- I slowed on the 2nd).

The 2nd loop had its emotional downfalls. I started to slow, but I kept reminding myself to push out any goal times others made for me- that this was my race and if my number one goal was to enjoy- then that’s what I would do! There is a turn and then a climb that I actually love to do because I am so good at shifting on it, I usually fly by people- but on my second loop I was an idiot, and didn’t shift right, and my chain fell off- so I had to stop and put it back on. It actually felt good to stop for a moment, but then rough to get back on my bike. I started to get nauseous at the water stops…and climbs. I focused on fixing that issue, and continued on. I moved a lot slower on the 2nd climbs, but luckily Sara and Emily were on the first climb, my parents were in their same place, and Jeff was on the third again- running alongside as I biked up to the top.

Jen and Andrea were kind of everywhere- I felt so lucky to have them- living in Madison – they knew how to get in and out and just kept showing up everywhere- which always gave me an extra burst of energy- they might win the award for maneuvering the course!

I finished the 2nd loop, and it was time to head back (BTW- it was hot!). My legs were cramping and my feet were numb- I kept unclipping my shoes one at a time trying to stretch and get blood moving around better. It was my Morton’s Neruoma (inflation of a nerve on the bottom of your foot when put under high stress..common when you have Morton’s toe- which is when your 2nd toe is bigger than your first- it’s explained in another write up) that was acting up but I just kept pushing through. I wondered how my mom’s chronic pain compared- and figured- my pain would go away soon enough, so I just had to be strong at fighting through the pain, like my mom is on a daily basis.

There were a few people I had seen all through the bike- so we started talking a bit- but of course – not long enough for any violations ;) Soon enough I had made it back to the transition- but not before seeing Jen and Andrea again, and Rachel A.

I managed to put some jelly on my arm chaffing that happened on the swim, and change shorts while in transition. Again- I had the best lady working with me- catering to my needs- getting me water, taking out my Tylenol and practically feeding it to me.

I started out the run at a strong 8:30-9 – but soon slowed- and I didn’t care- I was doing this! Ultra Jen made it to the run, and gave me some positive reinforcement. I missed my parents, but I saw Jen and Andrea again- and Tony. Tony updated me that texts were flying around like crazy and it sounds like people have been able to see me in many places and everyone was communicating with where and when they saw me – to help eachother out on getting to the right places at right times.

It was hot, and I was icing as much as possible. I kept battling with stomach issues- whether it was one way or another- I knew I couldn’t run the whole race without a stop to alleviate the problem. We got to run through Camp Randall, which was nice and quiet. Around Breeze Terrace, I started putting more of a walking plan in motion- mostly walking hills.

I thought- I’ve kind of done it all in Madison, I went to school there, and ran for fun, I’ve done crazy legs, I’ve done the half marathon, and the full marathon- and now I was doing the Ironman! As I ran on different parts of the Ironman course, I remembered how I felt doing all those other races. I remembered how my first endurance event in Madison was the Half Marathon, and I ended up in the medical tent where I had 2 bags of fluids pumped in me in under 30 minutes. The medical director tried to tell me some people aren’t made for endurance events and that might just be me and I definitely shouldn't run a marathon that fall (which I did). I remember how after I finished the full marathon, I wanted to find that guy and tell him it was my 3rd Marathon and how I ran my first just fine the following October, and now, being here and running the Ironman – I wanted to find this guy and ask him if he still stands behind what he said. (oh and if you haven’t read other race write ups- I had walking pneumonia….on that race that I passed out at the finish).

Observatory Hill was walked- by me and by about 99% of everyone else. And then I coasted on the down. I saw Andrea and Jen and then had a mile to run up and down State Street before I turned around. I regained speed in this time, just thriving off the crowds. And then back out by Picnic Point, I was tired again, I wouldn’t just walk through water stops- but shortly after I would have to walk again to keep down what I took in at the water stops. I finally managed to go by a porta potty at a convenient time- which helped a lot.

I saw Tony again and we laughed at the TMI- that is never TMI when you are racing- it’s just normal. He joked that he was going to send a text around to my support, repeating the exact crude details I gave him. I just laughed and said “do it” …they are all unphased by that ;) Every time I had a TMI moment- I would think of my Triple T friend Jami- as- we didn’t know each other long, but we seemed to exchange our best TMI moments- I knew she would be proud with by not caring on this race!

When I made it to the Capitol, I decided it was time to give my spectators sweaty hugs. First I saw Keri, Michelle, Ed, Gabe and Kelly, thenmy parents, and then Rachel A and J. I made my way to the turn around and it was back for lap 2!

The sun was starting to go down, and we had more shade coverage, which helped me a lot. I was in great spirits, and Ed and Michelle walked with me a little and it was just nice to see them! Right before the run around camp Randall, I had another bathroom stop. I then just kept moving forward, chatting with whomever when I could.
Observatory was walked again, and Michelle, Keri and company were at the top. Then I made my way down and Jen and Andrea were at the bottom. State street was a little slower- but Ultra Jen managed to give me a little extra energy and when i saw Andrea and Jen again- I told them I was crashing. And with 6 miles to go, I hit a quiet/focused zone. At this same time, some guy by me- told Jen and Andrea, his watched reads he has burned 10,000 calories. (And what did I eat during the race? 1 gu before the swim, 3 bags of the power bar energy chews, 1 gu flask (so about 3 gus in that), electrolyte pills- maybe a total of 10- all on the bike, then I had a bottle of pedialyte before I got on the run, and 4 gus on the run- probably about 2,000 calories. After the run I had a protein shake, some champagne and a big mac from McDonalds),

I finally made it with 3 miles to go and I looked at my watch and had about 40 minutes to complete it to get under 13 hours. I decided this would be my goal which meant sticking with the current pace but I could also walk. By 2 miles to go, I just needed a 15 minute mile to get under 13 hours. I got a few cramps of course- and had to walk them out. My friends were spread not just at the finish line but throughout the last half mile. I saw them all and – Kathleen would be proud- I kicked it!

Once you cross that finish line, you have more help! Two people come to you to hold you up and then one sticks with you until you leave the finisher area- but I didn’t need help- I felt great- I was so happy- I was short for words, and I think she thought that meant bad things- but then once I located my family- she let me go- and I just went to them and the tears started to flow. I’m an Ironman- and not only that- I’m an Ironman in under 13 hours!

Three years ago, I was inspired by 4 friends, and I decided I would become an Ironman. I just wanted to finish- which you have 17 hours to do. I stuck to my goal, and I not only completed it, I blew it away. It’s almost surreal to think of how far I’ve come. Such a happy moment though came to a sad end when I had to say goodbye to my spectators. I haven’t seen them in a month, and I kind of forgot that we don’t live in the same city anymore, so I can’t just go out for lunch with them this week and rehash the day. When I moved away from Chicago, it wasn’t so much a goodbye, as much as a “I’ll see you at the Ironman” Luckily I have other events to see them soon enough- but they all were so wonderful.

Andrea and Jen- We’ve known each other since college- you tolerated me when I wanted to go running before a Real Estate Club Social event- and you both decided to give the triathlon a try to see what it’s all about. Jen- your training with me (however it may be- Kayak and Moped) up north was priceless! And Andrea- I think you were the first person I biked with when I decided I wanted to do the ironman- and therefore- needed to bike!

Rachel J- PIC- Pace leader! You keep me grounded with my running- always making sure I’m being healthy and doing things right. And PS- You looked radiant at the race, I can’t wait to see you walk down the Aisle. I miss you!

Rachel A- Thanks for the balance- I might not have been to many yoga classes in the past year- but all the classes we have gone to in the past- and just your friendship- helps me breath! The fact that you rented a car to come up and see me was so great. I’m sad because I don’t know when we will see each other again.

Ultra Jen- Man oh man- you can be tough on me! But sometimes I need it. Thanks for believing in me! And you too- for renting a car to get up to Madison! So…When is the next ultra? 100 miler in 2012?

Keri - World’s best cheerleader! Can’t wait for you and Alison to get your butts to San Fran for a visit.

Michelle- It was so great to have one of my original 4 inspirations at the race. To see you throughout, I really hope I made you proud. None of this would have happened if it weren’t for you!

Tony K- Cheers to making your own rules! And the stories along the way.

Ed, Kelly and Gabe- So good to see you guys! Kelly- any interest in the ironman? ;)

Mike- Next year is your year!

Jeff- Sorry if my race didn’t have enough drama ;) You were with me on the whole bike- I think biking with you and your friends is what made me love biking – thanks!

Mandy- So happy you could make it out and we got girl time after! Love you Cuz!

Mom and Dad- I sometimes get calmer around you because I see how nervous you are for me and I don’t want you to worry. I really am the luckiest girl alive to have you as my parents- Thanks for all your support and understanding that this I my thing. I think most parents might be apprehensive because of the stress this puts on a body- but you understand it’s my passion and you embrace it just as much as I do.

Tony S. – you weren’t physically at the race- but you kind of have been there from point one- thanks for the training plan, and the words of encouragement- even if I didn’t take it as encouragement J

And Last but not least- Alison- like Michelle- none of this would have happened for me if it weren’t for you. Words aren’t enough to share the love and appreciation there is for you in my life.

So many other great friends that have put up with me on this journey- thanks! I’m so lucky to have all of you in my life.


And that concludes my Ironman Journey Blog Series.

XOXO

The Ironman Journey- Part 8 (I'm WAY behind on the pictures!)

The Ironman Journey Part 8 – Phase V complete: Respect the Taper!

Phase V was the final phase, the Taper also known as the Active Recovery, a whole four weeks! I am always told to remember to respect the taper and I managed to keep that drilled in my brain over the last few weeks, I have to follow my schedule which means, no extra. I might have added in an extra muscle conditioning class in the first few weeks, but I knew to keep it to the plan the last two weeks.

In this phase, I realized something I didn’t realize in the competitive stage. I think I was so busy being in motion, that it wasn’t until the moment I was given a rest that I noticed all the work I had put in. Sleeping in came easy. Actually, waking up became difficult. I was shocked seeing as I moved from the Midwest to the West Coast and so when I would wake up at 8am that was really like Chicago’s 10am so when I would sleep in until 10am- that was like NOON, I don’t know when I slept in until noon without the help of alcohol making me hungover..

I managed to do a good job with the sleep, 7 to 8 hours most nights. I drinking in moderation have come more naturally in San Francisco, but I do admit, until the last week, I was still enjoying wine. Also, since moving to San Francisco, I started drinking coffee regularly. I decided in my last week to cut out the coffee, and most caffeine in hopes that any caffeine consumed at the Ironman would actually do its job.

Then there is the whole hunger thing and as always noted- the weight gain. Since I’m technically homeless, I don’t have access to a scale, and that’s probably a good thing. The Taper has made me feel like a sloth, and worse, I might not have been hungry in the competitive stage because I was too busy to notice, but in the taper stage, the hunger pains came back full force and I probably fell into sweets more than I should have. I figured I would just feed the hunger, and after the ironman comes working from Ground Zero. (Note- at weigh in for ironman it is confirmed, 8 lbs gained since the start of training).

What is Ground Zero? That is that what I am calling life after the Ironman. I have been told how much the Ironman itself will take everything out of me, which means you have to rebuild thereafter. And at my Ground Zero comes the focus of shorter workouts, higher intensity, and interval work. Julie, my dear roomy is all about the shorter workouts, higher intensity and interval work, and she just so happens to be a newly trained personal trainer- eager to kick my butt! So, every time I feel the pants be annoyingly tight, I just tell myself, ground zero is just around the corner.

Back to the last phase…Respect the Taper! As I started to rest, I also started to regain energy, and realize that all the work I put in over the earlier 33 weeks really paid off. Though it is all about endurance training, when you take out the endurance, the shorter workouts become stronger and faster!
I managed to bike out in Half Moon Bay with one of my new bike friends, and went and completed 65 miles on a double paradise loop with another one of my new bike friends. After the 65 mile bike, I had a 6 mile run. This 6 mile run might have been the fastest I’ve run 6 miles at 48 minutes.
My final longer workout weekend was a mile swim on Saturday and a double brick of 10/2 on Sunday. Because of the ability to swim and bike out in Healdsburg by Tommy’s on Sunday, I put the two workouts together (technically it’s not overdoing it- I rested on Saturday). This was a great end to the training. The swim was a lot of fun, didn’t feel like a full mile, and was the first time in open water since I moved to San Francisco (no wetsuit though- so awesome!). After that swim, I got on my bike and managed to complete the 10 miles in 33 minutes, which included a decent amount of climbing. It was sunny and hot on the run, but it was just two miles and at a comfortable pace I completed it in just less than 16 minutes. I told myself, anything I did in the first 10/2 I had to do just as well or better on the 2nd. The Bike I ended up completing 30 seconds slower; however I also modified the bike and included a very large climb so I found that acceptable. Though it took work, I managed to complete the run in 15:30. Any other workouts of the week were just play- and I knew I was ready for the Ironman.

So beyond training, this is the time when people put in their two cents. Everyone means well, but I have learned to pick and choose what I listen to- though I have to admit the stuff I don’t want to listen to gives me high anxiety to hear (which is exactly why I can’t listen to it).

THE MOST IMPORTANT PART of Phase 5 Training: What I have learned about my racing is this: My happy zone is training, but you turn training into racing and I tense up. I tend to have morbid/negative thoughts like, what if I get a flat and can’t get it changed, what if someone on the swim hits me and I lose my goggles..what if the most ridiculous thing happens and I don’t finish- I know it’s ridiculous- but this is what happens when I think about racing.
I was given the most real insight to my racing less than a week before the race. I need to be relaxed.
Carlos- Julie’s friend told me professional athletes play their sports relaxed and that’s why they can play so well. So, I continue to work on reducing the tension and anxiety when I think of the ironman. I close my eyes and think about all my favorite training moments. Then I also think of the positive support I’ve been given- it’s just about finishing- pay no attention to the time. Be happy with making it to the start, be happy with the journey! I picture someone who makes me happy, telling me this and I’m a little calmer. .I have to go back to phase III – What makes you happy? And take those moments with me to the Victory Lap! Nutrition is important, pacing is important, technique is important, but none of that matters if I’m tense.

And now- in just a few days I can hear the words. “Tara Kreuser, YOU, are an Ironman” My last few nights are high anxiety, my hunger level remains high, and my stomach is going crazy.

…To Be Continued…with the Victory Lap Report!

Ironman- The Journey- Part 7 (PICTURES TO FOLLOW)

Ironman- The Journey- Part 7 - Phase IIII Complete: If You Are Gonna Jump…then Jump Far!

I’m a little behind schedule with this write-up as recovery week has passed already by a week. But Phase 4 has come and gone. Part of me wonders where did it go, part of me think it’s supposed to be harder and I did something wrong and I’m not prepared for the ironman. But I have stared at my training schedule and rechecked it to see I somehow I missed workouts, and I didn’t. I’m not discounting how much time ironman consumes of your life, I think I had a few reasons for not realizing the intensity. 1) Up until June, I had added a lot more running miles, so the increase in how much time I put into training wasn’t as significant for the ‘normal’ person. I mean yes, 16 hours in one week is a lot more than my 10 hours a week, but the majority of that is on the weekend. 2) I had a big life event go on during the competitive phase, so it provided a sense of balance- it just meant everything was intensified and my adrenaline must have gotten me through it.

Natasha Beddingfield has a song that defines me in Phase 4. The first verse and part of her chorus is this:I got a short attention span, can’t sit around couch potato land, I wanna do all kinds of stuff, talking about it’s not enough. I want to go to the extreme, I wanna stretch my limousine, I wanna take it way off road, go where I’m not supposed to go. (Life is music play it louder) If you are gonna jump then jump far fly like a sky diver.So where to begin? I guess a little more detail of my move.

About a year ago I decided I wanted to leave the Midwest. I Love my friends, I Love my family, but it’s just one of those things I wanted to do. I decided San Francisco was where I wanted to be, and I made it happen. Phase 4 started and I didn’t have a job yet, but I had a timeline. I would move out of my place when my lease was up in June, live with friends who had offered it up in July, and leave Chicago in August. So this means on top of ironman training I had to: Move out of a place, be homeless for a bit, wrap up my current job so I don’t leave others with a mess to pick up, find a job across the country and then move across the country. Got it :)

Oh- to keep with tracking weight gain- this phase was a little special, I was so busy- I was very bad at my nutrition- as in I probably didn’t eat like a normal ironman. I probably should have had more food, but luckily, I haven’t gained weight this phase- I’m pretty content at this point.Phase 4, the competitive phase – the toughest phase, the one I was told would take away all my energy and I’d never be any more exhausted than in this phase- started on June 20th.

Week One: Knowing I was moving soon, I decided to spend a night with my parents. So I completed my 50 mile ride by mapping out a ride from their house, through part of Racine, almost to Lake Geneva and then to Waukesha and back to their house. It was a pleasant ride for the most part, a few climbs and then flat parts. I then made my way back to Chicago so I could get a swim in. Sunday was gay pride parade day. My Madison friends were having a party for it at Nancy’s and well; they are probably the number one neglected groups of my friends. So, I figured I would go to the party that started at noon. So I first had to wake up at 5am to get a triple brick in of 15mile bikes and 30 minutes running. All went well and I managed to be to the party by 1:00ish. Did I imbibe on a few cocktails? Yes. I have yet to sacrifice alcohol for the ironman; I’ve just learned a sense of balance which is difficult for someone who is a Badger. Badgers tend to only know Binge- you know “if you are going to jump, then jump far, if you are going to drink, then drink lots!”

Week Two: The 4th of July Weekend. During the last week, I managed to move out of my place. With a going away barbeque my last night with Nancy, Jim, Alison and Keri – it was a blast even if the next day Alison and I struggled on the bike ride. I then moved in with Jen and Jess. Jen Jess and I planned to go up to their family’s’ lake house for the weekend. I told Jen I had to get my workouts in and she told me how perfect it would be up there. So Saturday Jen kayaked next to me as I swam, and then took the moped and went the whole 45 miles. It was pretty fun doing it that way; she would moped ahead and then guides me through the intersections. The next day, my long run was real hot and horrible- more walking than I would like.

Week Three: Well I guess you can’t do it all sometimes- I got sick. REAL sick. A fever, sweats, dehydrated and missing a day of work and my throat was so swollen I couldn’t talk for awhile. This put a damper on training. I missed quite a bit during the week, which was an intense week. I managed to recover enough by the weekend but the 80 mile bike was cut short to 72 miles when it was weak and I got a flat tire. One I couldn’t change, it broke my lever and the outer tube also had a hole so I called Emily up (as i knew she was on the course) and she drove me to get the flat fixed at a shop (that’s where i lost 8 miles). Once I finished that ride, I had to drive straight to MN as my niece’s baptism was the next day. Sunday I managed to find the energy to go swim and run after the baptism.

Week Four: I spent the week in Minnesota with my brother’s family. This week was modified a bit, not sacrificing big workouts, but cut out the extra stuff so it was a modified taper. Monday I still had a 20 mile run, which i was still dehydrated and cotton mouth all day before running it. It was hot, and it was horrible, but I kept thinking “this is what you have to do, you have to be miserable and not have the best run, but you have to fight the mental game to get to the end, because this is what the ironman is all about” I ended up running an extra mile since I got lost in my brother’s neighborhood (seriously the most confusing place alive...Greendale, Wisconsin’s neighborhood streets come 2nd). When it came to the weekend, it was the Racine Half Ironman. You can read all about that in my previous write up.

Week Five: I’m coming down to the final weeks of living in Chicago. I managed to put longer workouts on the mornings and still have celebrating in the evenings. My boss was out of town so I had to wrap up my portfolio and take care of his which had lots going on with it. Efficiency was key- to get everything needed done at work, workouts, and socially. That weekend was a little easier of a weekend. Emily and I went for a 2.5 mile swim on Saturday, which got cut short due to the city opening the sewage into the lake, and bacteria levels were too high to be swimming in. I have to say this- I think the risk of dying from bacteria in Lake Michigan is higher than the risk of me being eaten by a shark in the Pacific- maybe I’m wrong- I hope I’m not. :) I ended up going out a little too hard on Saturday night, where I had to exchange Sunday and Monday rest days, so the Sunday 4 hour workout got moved to Monday night after work.

Week Six: My last week living in Chicago. Wednesday was my last day of work, and I managed to move my weekend workouts to Thursday and Friday. This was also the peak week of workouts with about 20 hours of working out. It didn’t seem too bad? But I also didn’t have work for 4 days, and 2 were focused on working out and 2 were on moving. My feet were killing after the 27 miles run on old shoes within 2 days (and 60 miles biking and 2 miles swimming). Friday I drove back to my Parent’s place and had a family night with them then Saturday I went for a swim and well...I moved to San Francisco. Sunday was my rest day but i happened to walk a good 6 miles all around San Francisco.

Week Seven: Living in San Francisco. So, I left Alejandro in Wisconsin as I have1 month before the ironman and decided it would be okay not to ride him in that time. Moving to San Fran - you learn how to ride hills. I made it through the week (no ocean swimming yet), bought a new bike, Alexander, and then signed up for the Marin Century Ride (106 miles, 7,000 feet of climbing) that Saturday. Training required a 7 hour ride, I ended up riding for 8.5 hours. Now, I have learned that my speed is not the same in San Fran than what it is in Chicago, but its soooo beautiful and Alexander is so great, it doesn’t bother me too much. I had to bike to the start (my car had not yet arrived), which was a headache as the bike directions were not that clear and it was about 24 miles which took almost 2 hours with getting lost. I made a few new friends on the ride which was my goal as I needed new biking friends. It’s interesting because i think the majority of my new friends have some sort of tie to the Midwest. This ride might just be the best thing for my mental game on the 2nd loop of the Madison Ironman bike portion. Marshall’s Wall might just be comparable to doing the 3 bad climbs at the end of the loop in Madison..2 times around! After a long swim on Sunday- I had reached the end of the competitive stage and kind of wondered when I would start working hard.

Recovery week was bliss as I continue to adjust to San Francisco. In the moment, I don’t think all my hard work was noticed, but since living in San Francisco, I have been getting my 8 hours of sleep, I have been drinking lots of coffee, and I have been struggling when the alarm goes off- this is kind of new to me. My recovery weekend included lots of sleep including sleeping in until 10am on Sunday! I think all this has something to do with competitive stage. J - or at least I hope it did because that means I’m almost near ready for the Victory lap: THE IRONMAN!

My jumping far here doesn’t apply to the Ironman Training in general, it applies to life. To maintain a sense of balance in my life, I added not just the obstacle of life and work with ironman training, but I added the element of moving and starting a new job. When I looked at the long term picture a few months ago, I was scared to how it would work out. But I broke it down, week by week, day by day and I made it through. I’m not all the way there, but man; it feels good to be in the Taper portion of training.

If you don’t know my living situation in San Fran, it’s all temporary until October-ish when Julie and I will sign a longer term lease. After the ironman and after we have found a place to live and I’m settled in my new job- I don’t know what I’m going to do. As much as I love the ironman training, I am taking a year off of ironmen so I can focus on my new life in San Fran (but there will be marathons and stories ;)).

Sultri, Blistri-ing, tripical...just plain hot as hell

Sultri, Blistri-ing, tripical...just plain hot as hell

Racine Half Ironman

5:57:29

Swim 42:54 (1.2 miles)
T1: 4:09

Bike 2:59:14 (56 miles)

T2: 2:33

Run 2:08:39 (13.1 miles)

This was a return visit to the Racine Half Ironman. At one point I was told it would be a good checkpoint to see if I’ve improved since last year as now I’m training for a longer distance. I did want to see improvement but I also knew that I didn’t allow for a taper because this wasn’t THE race of my year; it was only training.

As I was out racing, I realized I would have to just focus on the current race and not try to compare to the year before; it was a lot hotter this year (ending in a heat index of 100+ degrees), and there was a head wind that seemed to affect me in 3 directions as the side wind also pushed against me. It wasn’t incredibly strong, but it was still enough to make me work harder for the 56 mile bike.

I spent the entire week before the half-ironman in Minnesota with my brother’s family. Prior to this weekend, I’ve always just had one water bottle and I switch out at aid stations if needed, but last year, the one water bottle was sufficient. I’ve been given lots of grief over this, training for the Ironman and all, and then I got real sick two weeks ago, and the whole week leading up to the half ironman, I was struggling with hydration. The Saturday before the Half Ironman, Veronica and I went out to do 2 loops of the Madison Ironman course and I was going through water like crazy. Then on Monday, I had a 20 mile run and carried water with me as it was super hot and humid out. Over the course of 20 miles I went through 40 oz of Gatorade and 1 soda and was still not satisfied during the race. When I wasn’t working out, I was total cotton mouth. So, I decided it was about time to get more water bottle cages. I’m not sure I like what I bought as I swear the thing doubles Alejandro’s weight- but I didn’t have many options so I just went with it.

My parents once again were the world’s greatest spectators. When it comes to the Racine Ironman, my dad is involved in every race weekend aspect. My Uncle and Dad dock their boat at the harbor right there, so he’s very familiar with getting there (to this day, I probably couldn’t drive it on my own without gps). So, we went to the expo, once I picked up my race information, we checked in my bike. The process went quick and I said good night to Alejandro.

My Parents, Veronica, Daryl and I did our traditional eve of the half ironman dinner at the Olive Garden. When I got home, I wanted to kind of re-situate my current life in a car situation (Which hasn’t been announced in a blog yet- maybe I need a special one just for it- but I’m moving at the end of the month- to San Francisco). Once I was done with that, I went to bed, but I turned on the TV and got sucked into a Hallmark movie. I think I fell asleep around 11pm. The alarm went off at 4:15 am, and I think I rolled out of bed at 4:30 and we left the house by 5:00.

My dad drove me to the start and waited around while I set up transition. Backtrack to last week. I got a flat and it was an outer tube flat as well as inner tube flat, so I had to get the whole tire changed. They ended up putting the extender back on (which I really didn’t want). Well, this makes it impossible for me to get air in that back tire. So without an easy fix, the back tire wasn’t blown up all the way. I decided since it was a hot day, it was probably not the worst thing.

I saw Anne and her husband, and then my dad and I hung out in the shade for awhile. It was only 6:30am but it was already hot. I was in a new age group this year (as by the end of the year I will be 30…craziness!), so I didn’t start with Veronica. My wave started at 8:05 which was a little later than the previous year.

Veronica, Daryl, Deanna and I hung out in the water waiting for our waves to start. Once it came time, I was off. The water felt great and it was clear. You could see in front of you, which was a change from the Triple T. I felt like I was going slow but did my best not to get discouraged. I tried to remind myself, I passed people as much as people passed me, but whenever I’m in the water, I always feel like I’m the last out. On the final few hundred meters of the swim, I noticed every breath and moment out of the water felt humid. I thought to myself ‘this is going to be one long day!” I got out of the water and it turns out, I actually improved by a minute! I saw Anne when I got out of the water, and I was looking for my dad in his red shirt. Turns out, while he was waiting for me to start, he went and bought himself an “Ironman Support Crew” T-Shirt. If anyone is deserving of that shirt, it’s him. So I waved to him and went on my way.

Because of the Triple T- I think Transitions have gotten easier for me. I wiped off and got on the bike (with my dad watching me from the side lines). I got on the bike, and this year I was ready for mounting on the hill- and was on an easy gear. I quickly got on the bike- waved once again to my dad, and went on my way. I started off at a fast and easy pace, but then we turned and hit wind. It wasn’t a strong gust, but it was enough of a head wind to make me have to work harder. I was thankful for my extra water cages and swapped out water already at the first aid station. My nutrition was a bit off this year because the night before the race, I realized my favorite food on the bike- had melted together and I couldn’t eat it. So I just had lots of gus and my anti-fatigue pills. I popped2 anti-fatigue pills every 40 minutes and gued every hour. I made sure I drank water ever 12 minutes, if not more when needed. The head wind was also a side wind and I was looking forward to the turn around to get pushed. I didn’t make any friends on the bike like I did last year – and was wishing Simon was there. Once you get past the first 20 miles, you get the fun stretch with the rolling hills. As the first 20 miles took me almost 1hr 10 minutes, I tried to pick up speed on the 2nd 20 miles. I managed the 2nd in about 1hr and 03 minutes- but that still wasn’t good enough.

I decided I needed to not look at the time, and make my spectators on the bike my check points. I first saw my dad around mile 18 as planned- I waved and continued on. Then on my way back, I knew my mom would be joining him around mile 40. I went by and didn’t see them, but saw his car in the parking lot- I figured he might be in it waiting for my mom to arrive- so I turned and waved real big to the car- it turns out- my parents were actually right there- so they thought I was waving to them. There is a part of the course where the bikers see the runners. As I was approaching the end of my bike, I saw Daryl on the Run. He was already at mile 5. I was very happy for my dismount and focused on dismounting gracefully, I missed my parents cheering.

In transition, I grabbed my Gatorade which was so hot I swear it should have been boiling. I pocketed a gu, and I went on my way. I was feeling pretty good, but I was hot. I realized I needed to start working on getting my body temperature down. My focus of the run is always – just look at the quarter of the run you have ahead of you. At each water station, I grabbed a coke, a water, a powerade and ice- provided they had all this there. Everytime I grabbed ice, I would put the ice in my sports bra for cooling of the body and I would put 2 cubes in my visor on my temples. This seemed to cool me down enough to keep going. I was hydrating so much, I never touched my gu.
I made a friend, Jeremy, on the run at mile marker 3. However, I was walking through the water stops and he continued to run through them so I lost him at the turn around. Then I made friends with another man, David. He had a rough day of racing, with 2 flat tires. We were talking about how we don’t train with a group, we do our own thing, which has been on my mind a lot lately- almost everyone racing these long distances belong to some sort of group- Vision Quest, Well Fit, Chicago Endurance Sports- you name it, people belong to it. My team might not be a training group- but they provide me my heart and soul: Team DetermiNation. As stated in many blogs before- my friends in that group – inspire me. They are my training family. Veronica and I were in Racine, but Alison and Michelle and Andy were with us in spirit –miles north doing the Door County Half Ironman. (With that said- below is the link to my fundraising site for this year- I have been focused on Ironman Training and my move where I haven’t been focused on my fundraising- if you can donate, click on the link at the end of this.

David and I ran for a few miles together but I lost him around the turn around for loop two. At the same time, I saw my parents. I stopped and hugged them, and actually took a pedialite ice pop from them (which I learned later - that’s actually against the rules- I’m such a rule follower I feel bad I broke this rule- but have justified it with the fact that at least once- they were out of ice at a water stop- so on this hot and humid day- if the race people couldn’t provide for me something to keep me from over-heating- they gave me no choice but to grab from my parents).

As I was approaching my 2nd loop they announced the heat index was 99 degrees and rising. Around the 7.5 mile aid station- I actually saw one of the volunteers on the side of the road vomiting- apparently the heat was even too much for people not in the race. I ran into Jeremy again around mile 9. We ended up sticking together for almost the entire rest of the race. We didn’t always talk, but we knew we were keeping each other going. I would stop at the waters and catch up- and I probably had it in me to go faster, but I enjoyed the company. I already knew I wasn’t PRing and with the heat, I decided there was no need to push it more. My parents were at the finish line as I crossed – just under 6 hours. (and when we got to the car- the temp read 100 degrees!).

While I didn’t PR, I’m happy with my time. I do think I’m improving and I’m on my way to being successful at the ironman. I finished feeling strong, like I could have gone longer and further even in that heat. My run this year ended up slower than last year, but it felt stronger and I ran a lot more (just walking the waters and one big hill). After I cooled off and rested some, I went back outside. The temps had dropped about 15 degrees at that point, but it was unbearably hot and humid. The shower I had just taken wore off and I was sweating within minutes of being outside. At that point, I couldn’t believe I had just completed a half ironman in that heat.

I'm raising money for ACS!!! Check out my site- and donate!!!

http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/DetermiNation/DNFY11IL?px=4909726&pg=personal&fr_id=35207