June 2. 2012- Kahakuloa Coast Half-Marathon (Maui)
When I planned my trip to Maui I had planned to do one race which was the South Maui Triathlon. But I came across a half marathon that I could not turn down. I had a two hour run that day anyways…. So why not run a half marathon
When I read about the race it said challenging, hilly and beautiful…. Need I say more, why not you only live once! I had ridden my bike several times in the area of the run and yes it is hilly! There is one hill that is names the wall! It is a 22% and it is long.
The morning of the June 2 2012 arrived luckily it was only a 10 min drive. Once I got to the start location (DT Fleming beach) I checked in a dn got my race number. As you all know the bathroom is pretty important prior to a race…. Unfortunately all the washrooms were locked so to the bushes it was, I think it would be wise to bring TP to future races
The race started at 6:30 am and this was the Kahakuloa Coast Half-Marathon so I was happy to be a part of it. 6:30 sharp we started off we were up a very long hill but I was smiling! I managed to pace this one girl which great!
As we started up another hill it was very rewarding with a cliff and ocean at your side. It felt like for every hill you were rewarded with the most spectacular view. We then came into a tiny fishing village and then came the rally big hill, I made it up but slowly…. For parts of the run my husband would join me on his road bike and we would have a quick chat and the odd photo.
As most of you don’t know my grandmother passed away the other week. I did this run in memory of my granny who lived in England (Wales) and for my mum as I love her to bits and she is a great supporter of my triathlons.
There were parts of the run that reminded me of England very narrow road, hilly, windy and the ocean at your side. This race had about 7 aid stations and was very well organized. As I was approaching the end you were up quite high looking down on the most amazing tiny community, and cliff all around, and the ocean crashing and the small church, the local kids cheering you on and welcoming you into their community. All the kids would race each finisher through the finish line and they had a blast doing it!
Everyone received the best finisher’s medal; it is shaped out to be Maui, with the little church that land marks the tow where the race ended.
All proceeds went to help maintain their local church. We were welcomed into the community with breakfast, and live Hawaiian music which topped off the morning.
If anyone travels to Maui around June 2 I HIGHLY recommend this run. This race will be one I will forever remember as one of those special memories, not for my PB but for an everlasting memory I never forget.
South Maui Triathlon: June 10, 2012
3:30 am came pretty quickly on June 10, 2012. The race started at 6:05am at the Wailea beach on Maui. There were a lot of people from USA, few from Japan, Italy, Canada, Spain, Australia, and China.
Previously to the race I had been doing a lot of open water swims on Maui to get use to the ocean swimming, I tell you it was nice to be able to look down and see the bottom and see sand, fishes and beautiful blues, and sometime a turtle…
I was a bit nervous to start as it was my first ocean swim. Off the horn went, I placed myself on the outside at the right near the front. I hoped over some waves and when it was safe to dive in I was off! I just kept thinking be calm and breath, oh and have fun!:) I got into a great pattern and off I went. I was passing people and then I started passing the men who left 5 min prior to the women! I then started to look down to enjoy the view once we passed the first buoy there was no view of the bottom just deep blue ocean, so I started singing in my head “ just keep swimming” from Finding Nemo and that got me calm….
Angie, I sprinted around the first buoy and that helped a lot and a got a little more aggressive…. It was the last stretch of the swim and I as having so much fun! I could have just kept swimming! I am more of a pool swimmer, but I must say one could get use to tropical swimming…. The finish of the swim came, and I felt so happy about the swim part.
There was a good hill up to T1 and my bike was located the farthest end which was good for the bike exist. There were hills for the first part of the bike ride, and then some downhill with a head wind and gradual up hill on the way back.
T2 came and went and then it was off to the run. Felt good at the start and there was nice downhill at the beginning, but you know what that means….. This run was HOT, not much wind and there were hills, thank goodness for sponges! The end was nearing and the last KM was downhill which was awesome and at this point I felt like I could just freaking run!
I was so happy with my results. Compared to last year’s OD triathlons I improved by about 20 min, and I place 5th in my age cat.
Angie thank you for believing in me and putting together wonderful programs, you the best!
Mahalo!
Sarah Van Tine
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Nola's IMCdA race report-June 24, 2012
When the volume was starting to ramp up for Ironman and the weather wasn't all that co-operative for long outdoor rides, I started to question why did I sign up for another Ironman? I had already done 3, I had nothing to prove. Cindy reminded me that we are fortunate because we can do it, whereas so many are not. As well, it is fun! Having Cindy training for IMCdA was great! I picked up some nutrition ideas from her that I incorporated on race day which really helped and she is a strong athlete and that helped to push me on the rides and runs. I haven't been the best at being consistent in my training for the 3 previous Ironman's. This time around I was good at getting the workouts in and the distance. Inevitably, I put pressure on myself of having a time goal for this Ironman which is not realistic, since so much can happen that day that is beyond your control. I had a really good talk with Angie 5 days before the race and I reaffirmed my original goal which was to run the whole marathon - only allow walks thru aid stations. (I hadn't been able to do that in the previous Ironman's.) Couple of other things that Angie said were: On paper I should have a great day and Do the best I can in that moment. I wrote those down and repeated them whenever I started to have doubt. I also listened to the Crucible again and that really helped as well. Couple of points I took from that were: fitness is in the bank, execution is important - slowing down the least; Why am I doing this- want to run the marathon. So the whole day for me was to set myself up to be successful in running the whole marathon. This was the most work and preparation I have ever put into an Ironman.
I came up on Thurs with JoZ. My family was unable to make it because of final exams and work. This was ok, the plan was to have the summer off to spend it with my family and not worry about training for Ironman. Besides regular pre-race nerves, I was quite concerned about the swim. This is not typical of me to worry about the swim, but since the water was so cold - I was worried how I would do on the bike after being in the cold water. Cindy and I swam Friday morning and I was pleasantly surprised! Don't get me wrong - it was cold, but not nearly as cold as I was expecting. Once I knew that, I was good. After the swim I picked up my race package and then went on a short bike to check gears, etc. Took the rest of the day easy and then went to the supper and info meeting, which in my mind was short on info and more just sappy inspirational videos. On Sat, did a short run, packed my bags and took my stuff to transition. Nerves didn't start to bother me til the evening - but if they didn't, I would worry! ;-) I had my pre-race steak and carbs, which works quite well for me! I wasn't feeling all that tired that night, but did fall asleep and got 3 good hours of sleep and then had the restless/light sleep until time to get up. I had pb and honey on toast. JoZ knows me quite well - she checked the garbage to see if I ate most of the crusts (I did!), she had me eat half a banana and then she was happy, for she figured I had eaten enough.
Got to outside of transition, dropped of my special needs bags, saw Cindy and Scott, got body marked. Went into transition, went to my bike gear bag and opened the hotshots and placed them inside my shoes to warm my shoes. Fussed with my bike - pumping tires, worrying if I put enough air and got my nutrition ready. Transition closed at 6:30 and I thought that meant getting in. No! It was to leave transition to go to beach, but they had you standing at the exit for almost a half hour before they let you onto the beach. OK - finally on the beach! Went to the far right (course is counter-clock-wise) and about halfway back or so. Once the horn or cannon sounds - off we go. Finally, I'm doing something, the worrying and anticipation is over and I'm happy! The water wasn't too bad, but I knew my feet and hands will be cold when I get out. Had some contact in the first loop, but not too bad. I swam relatively straight for me, sighted ok and kept myself in an aerobic pace. I was able to breath every 4 strokes (no bilateral breathing) and kept that for the whole time, except when jostled or sighting. Got out of the water to do the second loop - high five Mike Riley (he was in the water announcing). Second loop - started off and stayed very choppy. Where in the heck did these waves come from?!? Coming back was a lot easier, the waves were pushing you back to shore. Once in a while I would get ahead of myself and think about bike and would have to remind myself to stay in the box. I finished the swim with a respectable 1:24:26 considering I hadn't done any open water swims of any sort and it was cold and rough water.
Transition 1 Transitions are where I suck big time and waste free speed and today was no exception. I didn't rehearse in my mind what I was going to do while swimming and it showed. It didn't help that my hands weren't working and once I had help from a volunteer, I got out of there.
Bike - Took it easy at first - as going thru town and lots of turns, one girl wiped out in front of me - I think she clipped a motorcycle - course marshal. Don't know if she continued and finished. Once out of town started sipping diluted Infinit. I was comfortable temp wise on the bike - had toe warmers on bike shoes, long sleeve shirt over tri top (kept shirt on for whole bike) and small knit gloves over bike gloves (took off quite late in the bike). I really can't stand to be cold on the bike, because I expend so much energy to keep warm and then there won't be anything left for the run. I took it really easy - cheesy easy for the first 60k. That included the new part of the bike course - heading SW and climbing most of the way with a head wind! I got passed by many, but I kept reminding myself that my goal was to set myself up so I can run the whole marathon. Another goal was to smile the whole race and to have fun. I did have fun, bopped to the music - either on my bike or on the run. I smiled because if you do, it doesn't hurt as much! I was very happy how my nutrition worked out on the bike. It was easy to get in and had no gut issues. Thank you so much Cindy for that! I took 4 bottles of Infinit for the whole bike ride. I had a banana, gu chomps and a protein bar for the first half and 4 gu gels and some ginger ale on second half. Also took a Gas-X late in the bike, which helped to prevent gut issues. Bike 7:29:29 Was quite ok with that - was a difficult course and windy, but never did I have a low moment on the bike. I was setting myself up for the marathon.
Transition 2 Bit more respectable, but not great 5:29
Run - Had a little trouble getting my Garmin to locate satellites, I thought I had it ready - but wasn't. Saw JoZ on the way out - told her about my Garmin, she told not worry about it and get going. So I did. Not too long after the Garmin connected and was able to see what my pace was. I was feeling pretty good after the bike and was really trying to hold myself back to a very easy pace so I can continue to run the whole marathon. Once I got of town, I saw Cindy and she looked really strong. I also saw other people I have met over the weekend. By the time I was on the run, I would alternate the PowerAde with coke or broth. I always took water as well. Things were going quite well, had a bit of bloaty tummy before the halfway point - so I took a Gas-X and that helped. Got to special needs and had some of my ginger ale - warm, but seemed to help too. Headed to the turn around for the halfway point and started back. There was a bit of an incline and here was the first time I felt I might not be able to run the whole marathon - I went out too fast for the first half. So, did a check - I could keep running as long as I slowed the pace down. Running slowly was better than walking. I also had to remind myself to smile - because it really doesn't hurt as much if you are smiling. I thought as long as I kept an easy pace and hopefully I could pick up the pace on the last 8-10k. I started not to take something every aid station at this point just to give my tummy a rest. I did take some broth and water and that seemed to help. Before I got to the last turn around (~30k), I needed something to get me thru the last bit - this is when I took my only gel on the run - Espresso Love - yummy!! Just what I needed. Didn't take anything for the next 2 aid stations, but I did allow myself to walk those. Once I went down the last big hill, it was good - had 5 miles or 8k to go - just like the Banff Winterstart! That's not bad and I was done with the hill! I had picked up a fellow runner on the hill heading out to the turnaround and Chris helped me keep the pace up for the last 10-12k. Friendly competition is always welcomed for that last push. Coming to the finish line was great - small decline made it easier and the spectators cheering you on was great. I felt strong, try to keep up with Chris, but his long legs beat my short legs! (I had teased him about me being older and shorter and passing him up the hill and that's when he started running with me.) Anyways we congratulated each other at the finish line and thanked for being there to get 'er done! JoZ was at the finish line and she was so happy for me!
So, finish time 14:09:14 - pretty darn good in my books and a PB to boot! 20 minutes PB and that race was Arizona!
I had a great day! I accomplished what I set out to do and that to me was a well executed, successful race. Ironman is often considered as an individual sport, but not to me. The support I get from friends and family is incredible. I can't thank everyone enough for their positive words and encouragement! THANK YOU :-)
I came up on Thurs with JoZ. My family was unable to make it because of final exams and work. This was ok, the plan was to have the summer off to spend it with my family and not worry about training for Ironman. Besides regular pre-race nerves, I was quite concerned about the swim. This is not typical of me to worry about the swim, but since the water was so cold - I was worried how I would do on the bike after being in the cold water. Cindy and I swam Friday morning and I was pleasantly surprised! Don't get me wrong - it was cold, but not nearly as cold as I was expecting. Once I knew that, I was good. After the swim I picked up my race package and then went on a short bike to check gears, etc. Took the rest of the day easy and then went to the supper and info meeting, which in my mind was short on info and more just sappy inspirational videos. On Sat, did a short run, packed my bags and took my stuff to transition. Nerves didn't start to bother me til the evening - but if they didn't, I would worry! ;-) I had my pre-race steak and carbs, which works quite well for me! I wasn't feeling all that tired that night, but did fall asleep and got 3 good hours of sleep and then had the restless/light sleep until time to get up. I had pb and honey on toast. JoZ knows me quite well - she checked the garbage to see if I ate most of the crusts (I did!), she had me eat half a banana and then she was happy, for she figured I had eaten enough.
Got to outside of transition, dropped of my special needs bags, saw Cindy and Scott, got body marked. Went into transition, went to my bike gear bag and opened the hotshots and placed them inside my shoes to warm my shoes. Fussed with my bike - pumping tires, worrying if I put enough air and got my nutrition ready. Transition closed at 6:30 and I thought that meant getting in. No! It was to leave transition to go to beach, but they had you standing at the exit for almost a half hour before they let you onto the beach. OK - finally on the beach! Went to the far right (course is counter-clock-wise) and about halfway back or so. Once the horn or cannon sounds - off we go. Finally, I'm doing something, the worrying and anticipation is over and I'm happy! The water wasn't too bad, but I knew my feet and hands will be cold when I get out. Had some contact in the first loop, but not too bad. I swam relatively straight for me, sighted ok and kept myself in an aerobic pace. I was able to breath every 4 strokes (no bilateral breathing) and kept that for the whole time, except when jostled or sighting. Got out of the water to do the second loop - high five Mike Riley (he was in the water announcing). Second loop - started off and stayed very choppy. Where in the heck did these waves come from?!? Coming back was a lot easier, the waves were pushing you back to shore. Once in a while I would get ahead of myself and think about bike and would have to remind myself to stay in the box. I finished the swim with a respectable 1:24:26 considering I hadn't done any open water swims of any sort and it was cold and rough water.
Transition 1 Transitions are where I suck big time and waste free speed and today was no exception. I didn't rehearse in my mind what I was going to do while swimming and it showed. It didn't help that my hands weren't working and once I had help from a volunteer, I got out of there.
Bike - Took it easy at first - as going thru town and lots of turns, one girl wiped out in front of me - I think she clipped a motorcycle - course marshal. Don't know if she continued and finished. Once out of town started sipping diluted Infinit. I was comfortable temp wise on the bike - had toe warmers on bike shoes, long sleeve shirt over tri top (kept shirt on for whole bike) and small knit gloves over bike gloves (took off quite late in the bike). I really can't stand to be cold on the bike, because I expend so much energy to keep warm and then there won't be anything left for the run. I took it really easy - cheesy easy for the first 60k. That included the new part of the bike course - heading SW and climbing most of the way with a head wind! I got passed by many, but I kept reminding myself that my goal was to set myself up so I can run the whole marathon. Another goal was to smile the whole race and to have fun. I did have fun, bopped to the music - either on my bike or on the run. I smiled because if you do, it doesn't hurt as much! I was very happy how my nutrition worked out on the bike. It was easy to get in and had no gut issues. Thank you so much Cindy for that! I took 4 bottles of Infinit for the whole bike ride. I had a banana, gu chomps and a protein bar for the first half and 4 gu gels and some ginger ale on second half. Also took a Gas-X late in the bike, which helped to prevent gut issues. Bike 7:29:29 Was quite ok with that - was a difficult course and windy, but never did I have a low moment on the bike. I was setting myself up for the marathon.
Transition 2 Bit more respectable, but not great 5:29
Run - Had a little trouble getting my Garmin to locate satellites, I thought I had it ready - but wasn't. Saw JoZ on the way out - told her about my Garmin, she told not worry about it and get going. So I did. Not too long after the Garmin connected and was able to see what my pace was. I was feeling pretty good after the bike and was really trying to hold myself back to a very easy pace so I can continue to run the whole marathon. Once I got of town, I saw Cindy and she looked really strong. I also saw other people I have met over the weekend. By the time I was on the run, I would alternate the PowerAde with coke or broth. I always took water as well. Things were going quite well, had a bit of bloaty tummy before the halfway point - so I took a Gas-X and that helped. Got to special needs and had some of my ginger ale - warm, but seemed to help too. Headed to the turn around for the halfway point and started back. There was a bit of an incline and here was the first time I felt I might not be able to run the whole marathon - I went out too fast for the first half. So, did a check - I could keep running as long as I slowed the pace down. Running slowly was better than walking. I also had to remind myself to smile - because it really doesn't hurt as much if you are smiling. I thought as long as I kept an easy pace and hopefully I could pick up the pace on the last 8-10k. I started not to take something every aid station at this point just to give my tummy a rest. I did take some broth and water and that seemed to help. Before I got to the last turn around (~30k), I needed something to get me thru the last bit - this is when I took my only gel on the run - Espresso Love - yummy!! Just what I needed. Didn't take anything for the next 2 aid stations, but I did allow myself to walk those. Once I went down the last big hill, it was good - had 5 miles or 8k to go - just like the Banff Winterstart! That's not bad and I was done with the hill! I had picked up a fellow runner on the hill heading out to the turnaround and Chris helped me keep the pace up for the last 10-12k. Friendly competition is always welcomed for that last push. Coming to the finish line was great - small decline made it easier and the spectators cheering you on was great. I felt strong, try to keep up with Chris, but his long legs beat my short legs! (I had teased him about me being older and shorter and passing him up the hill and that's when he started running with me.) Anyways we congratulated each other at the finish line and thanked for being there to get 'er done! JoZ was at the finish line and she was so happy for me!
So, finish time 14:09:14 - pretty darn good in my books and a PB to boot! 20 minutes PB and that race was Arizona!
I had a great day! I accomplished what I set out to do and that to me was a well executed, successful race. Ironman is often considered as an individual sport, but not to me. The support I get from friends and family is incredible. I can't thank everyone enough for their positive words and encouragement! THANK YOU :-)
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Leslie-Anne's 3 in 1 race report-Spring 2012
So far my 2012 race season has had several ups and downs attached to it.
I started off with the “Big Run” May 5th. I deliberately avoided the Police Half as it is notoriously bad for weather that weekend. Well the race Gods decided to mess with my plan and switched the bad weather weekends.
The Police Half was nice and sunny with dry roads and pathways throughout the course. The Big Run, however, was the complete opposite.
Nothing like a half mary in a blizzard! Last aide station had slurpies not just water, that’s how much snow fell! I was done at 15k and somehow managed to finish. I was cold, tired and very miserable at the end of the race!
To summarize; a very challenging day weather, course and internal issues-wise, it was one for the record books and bragging rights abound for those that completed any of the distances that day!
Things had to be better for the Calgary Half Marathon 3 weeks later. Putting the previous run behind me, I focused on how I could complete the half and be close to or even better my PB.
I decided to make a few dietary changes about 2 to 3 days prior race day and went prepared to the race with instant dissolve Imodium. I also took a bit more time to warm up, keep to myself and focus on how I was going to make it through the 21.1 kms ahead.
I missed the start but wasn’t too worried, too crowded anyways and yeah for chip timing.
I had to stop during the Calgary half, lost a total of 5mins 30 sec but after that I didn’t stop once, NOT ONCE!! That is a new record for me! Most inspiring thing for me was when I was passing two runners just after the 15km mark, I overheard, “ Don’t let people passing you get to you, they will not be able to sustain that pace” I smiled as I knew I have (and still struggle with) been there. That being said, I thought to myself, “He has no idea where I have come from and how hard I’ve trained!” So when I passed them I simply said, “I’ve earned this” and kept on going!
Coming into the finish line for this race was the 1st time my rugby spirit wanted to straight-arm every single person in front of me. I was ready to pour it on and everyone else seemed to slow to impulse! I did not get the time I was seeking but I executed the best half I’ve ever done and that was a HUGE boost for my self-confidence as a runner.
I was so thrilled with how I felt at the end of that race. It taught me I can and will do better!
My long awaited triathlon season began with the Vulcan Tinman. I last did this race in 2010, had fun and thought it would be a good race to start the 2012 season.
Due to my swim time I was slated in the 20th heat, 2nd last for the day. This was the same time as Angie’s all I said to her was as long as we weren’t in the same lane I would be fine. We car-pooled and arrived approximately 10:30am, (our heat was 4:15pm btw). She had family members participating as well as fellow TTL’er, Danny Woo competing in his 1st triathlon.
For those of you that have travelled to and from races with Angie, it is quite the adventure. A word of warning: if your personal gear is anywhere near Angie’s and she does a scoop of her gear be forewarned, your gear is fair game. I was in “defcon 3” (military term of urgency, defcon 1 being all out emergency, state of war) when I couldn’t find my bike shoes. As it turned out Angie scooped them with her stuff and wondered whose shoes were beside all her transition set up gear!
Race time was on and in the water I go. Not a fan of such a start but that is the challenge of a sprint! The key was to keep calm and keep my breathing at an even pace. 20 lengths seemed to end quickly and I dashed towards the timing mat that seemed sooooo far away!
Hopped on the bike and out I went knowing that Angie was going to be in hot pursuit (I know she started after me as I saw her on the deck). Good incentive for me to push myself on my new bike! Headwind on the out, just how long can 7.5km be?! Hit the turnaround and zoom! What a blast with a tailwind! Angie did catch me at transition and was off on the run “lickety split”
The run was the run was the run. 5km can be a challenge and I had some! My breathing was too rapid and I had to slow my pace in order to keep my heart rate from going too crazy. I eventually settled it and the latter half was better than the 1st half. Angie coached me in for the last kick, which I found very beneficial and will utilize that learning in future. It’s different being one of the last racers on the course due to my swim time but the fan support at the end was amazing.
Great race, good times, and a pleasing result: 36th overall, 7th Female overall, 1st in my Age Group. Swim 8:56, Bike 28:40 Run 26:43 Total Time: 1:04:18 (PB in all events from 2010)
This is a fun race to kick start the season with, family friendly and fantastic atmosphere!
Note to self: Eat before I race and not wait for the end, as there will be nothing left!
No taper for this gal as I headed into the week before Wasa starting with a 120km ride Bragg Creek to Elbow River Falls the day after Vulcan. Challenging but fun, breath taking scenery and the weather was lovely. I was reminded once again of my absolute dislike for descents, as I had to stop and regroup my poop before continuing out of Elbow River Falls. I finished the ride on a positive note and the next time won’t be so hard.
Afterwards, nothing a cold beer at a bar-b-que with fellow TTL athletes and family members didn’t cure. What a way to end a fantastic weekend of racing and riding! Thank-you John and Wilma!
Wasa Olympic was a race that I signed up long before any others. The reason I could was I knew it was held before the CFL season would begin. That was the deal this year between Roger and I, no signing up for races until we knew when we would be heading to Regina for the Rider home games!
I was ready for Wasa, and was looking forward to this fun filled race I have heard so much about. Booked my accommodations and my good friend Stacey Boivin and her adorable 4-month-old son Jacob joined me for the weekend.
The weather did not look promising but we held onto the hope that race day would be somewhat decent. We drove through rain on Friday and watched the temperature hover around 7c all day Saturday. At least we did not drive through snow as many others had to!
One thing about arriving on Friday and having all day Sat to hang about was I was completely rested for the race. This is something that does not occur enough for me with my hectic lifestyle. I did manage an easy 20min pre race run on Saturday morning.
I did not partake in the pre race swim in the afternoon. I am comfortable enough in open water and I commended all those that did go in. One of which was an honorary TTL’er from my rugby days. Todd fit right in with everyone and was so excited to be prepping for his first Oly.
During race package pick up it was confirmed the 1500m swim was shortened to 750m due to the water temperature and outside air temperature. All I was hoping for was dry roads for the bike; the cold temps were not as much of a concern.
Sunday we were up early and arrived to get a fairly good parking spot. I have to admit there was a moment or two that I seriously considered not doing the race. The inner triathlete and to step up and say, “Just do it, you’ll be ok and will have a fun day”.
My internals cooperated with me and with assistance from my friend “Emo”, I was hoping for a non-gut issue kind of day. I got just that! Yeah baby!!
I set up my transition area with Todd and a couple of other former and current rugby players an immediately named our area “rugby row”. Very cool to have friends from another sport that have moved into triathlons! My spirits were uplifted! So much so I was able to get my wetsuit on all by myself! Wow! “I’m a big girl now!”
I watched the sprint athletes come out of the water and some did not look good at all. I decided that this was not going to be a day to set any records in the water, no need to kill myself there even though it is my best event. That meant I would save it for the bike and the run instead.
Saw Todd off from the swim to bike and headed to the beach myself. Stopped to say hello to a few people and almost missed the swim start! D’oh! Ran to my spot, left side, walked into the water, warmed my wetsuit and dove in and walked back out.
Yup, the water was effin’ cold! I did not have to wait long before we started and that was a good thing!
As far as the swim goes, I was calm and to be honest, enjoyed the swim regardless of the cold water. That is how much I love open water swimming. I got past many athletes and on the home stretch really started to get my swim mojo going. I had to laugh as one swimmer tried to keep pace with me, she seemed to like to swim right beside me which I tried to avoid and eventually she couldn’t keep the pace (heh heh) and dropped back.
Out I got and had some difficulty getting my zipper down, manual dexterity was somewhat challenged! Suit stripped (I SO love that part!) and off to the bike.
Swim Time: 14:44, 1st in my Age Group!
The choice of clothing for the swim included a tight fitting t-shirt and a tight fitting long sleeved tech shirt, worked perfect under my TTL jacket. I put gloves on, as I did not want to get cold hands on the bike. What I didn’t have was anything for my feet. I knew there were there but couldn’t feel them!
The bike was out and back on a clean smooth road with a slight headwind to contend with until the turnaround. I used this opportunity to practice getting comfortable in my aerobars and learned I can do just that! Lots of “cat and mousing” going on that made for a fun ride. I was pushing myself and even with cold legs and no feeling in my feet I urged myself onwards. I had my cadence but no speed, must remember to check that before the race starts! Glad to see the bike marshals out checking for drafting.
I had my sights on one athlete in my age group and worked on passing her inside 2km left on the bike. Good push for the end and I encouraged myself to spin my legs with 700m or so left to prep for the run. Clean dismount and ran to my transition spot on what I believed were my feet.
Bike Time: 1:21:39, 3rd in my Age Group and a PB!
Now the run is on and I knew I had to play this one as smart as possible. I did not wear my gloves or TTL jacket but left my long sleeved shirt on. Got my runners on, tied up and was off. I even managed to get my watch on (yes, my watch) and start the timer as I crossed the timing mat. The gloves helped with the maintaining of manual dexterity!
The one thing the gloves did not help was my feet. I could not feel them! I thought of the character Eugene Levy plays in the movie, “Best in Show”, he has two left feet, and I looked down to see if I had put my runners on the correct feet they felt that odd! I had to laugh at myself and hope that they eventually would warm up. They did, around the 3km mark and that is when I thought I had something in my shoe. I tried to ignore it but Angie’s voice was in my head telling me not to ignore and to fix the problem when it starts versus trying to solve an issue later on. No sticks or stones in my shoe just the defrosting going on and they simply “felt funny”.
The run continued and I was happy with my pace. I slowed up a bit to take in some water (not Gatorade, blech that stuff is horrid!).
I started to get a bit warm and that sensation always challenges me so I removed my long sleeved shirt and instantly felt better.
I really pushed through the last 2 km. Going past the finishing area is torturous at the best of times and it seemed to take me forever to get back to that place. I remembered how Angie coached me in at Vulcan and began to do the same thing as I came to the finish again. I challenged myself and overtook a 30yr old in the last 10m or so!
I almost lost my cookies after crossing the finish line but took a few deep breaths and I was ok.
I stopped my watch and thought I might have come close to a PB in a “stand alone” 10k let alone part of a triathlon.
Run time 55:08, 10th in my Age Group PB for an Oly distance (and just shy of my PB stand alone 10k by 9 seconds)
End result was 4th in my Age Group overall, yeah me!
This was the best Olympic distance race for me so far. I had a blast and will seriously think about doing Wasa again next year. The volunteers were SO good, the food at the end excellent and lots of it. The camaraderie with new and old friends (in a new sport) added to the weekend experience.
We all enjoyed some Wasa sun that came out for the rest of the day, yummy food and yes, a beer, Pilsner beer of course!
Thanks everyone for a great race!
I started off with the “Big Run” May 5th. I deliberately avoided the Police Half as it is notoriously bad for weather that weekend. Well the race Gods decided to mess with my plan and switched the bad weather weekends.
The Police Half was nice and sunny with dry roads and pathways throughout the course. The Big Run, however, was the complete opposite.
Nothing like a half mary in a blizzard! Last aide station had slurpies not just water, that’s how much snow fell! I was done at 15k and somehow managed to finish. I was cold, tired and very miserable at the end of the race!
To summarize; a very challenging day weather, course and internal issues-wise, it was one for the record books and bragging rights abound for those that completed any of the distances that day!
Things had to be better for the Calgary Half Marathon 3 weeks later. Putting the previous run behind me, I focused on how I could complete the half and be close to or even better my PB.
I decided to make a few dietary changes about 2 to 3 days prior race day and went prepared to the race with instant dissolve Imodium. I also took a bit more time to warm up, keep to myself and focus on how I was going to make it through the 21.1 kms ahead.
I missed the start but wasn’t too worried, too crowded anyways and yeah for chip timing.
I had to stop during the Calgary half, lost a total of 5mins 30 sec but after that I didn’t stop once, NOT ONCE!! That is a new record for me! Most inspiring thing for me was when I was passing two runners just after the 15km mark, I overheard, “ Don’t let people passing you get to you, they will not be able to sustain that pace” I smiled as I knew I have (and still struggle with) been there. That being said, I thought to myself, “He has no idea where I have come from and how hard I’ve trained!” So when I passed them I simply said, “I’ve earned this” and kept on going!
Coming into the finish line for this race was the 1st time my rugby spirit wanted to straight-arm every single person in front of me. I was ready to pour it on and everyone else seemed to slow to impulse! I did not get the time I was seeking but I executed the best half I’ve ever done and that was a HUGE boost for my self-confidence as a runner.
I was so thrilled with how I felt at the end of that race. It taught me I can and will do better!
My long awaited triathlon season began with the Vulcan Tinman. I last did this race in 2010, had fun and thought it would be a good race to start the 2012 season.
Due to my swim time I was slated in the 20th heat, 2nd last for the day. This was the same time as Angie’s all I said to her was as long as we weren’t in the same lane I would be fine. We car-pooled and arrived approximately 10:30am, (our heat was 4:15pm btw). She had family members participating as well as fellow TTL’er, Danny Woo competing in his 1st triathlon.
For those of you that have travelled to and from races with Angie, it is quite the adventure. A word of warning: if your personal gear is anywhere near Angie’s and she does a scoop of her gear be forewarned, your gear is fair game. I was in “defcon 3” (military term of urgency, defcon 1 being all out emergency, state of war) when I couldn’t find my bike shoes. As it turned out Angie scooped them with her stuff and wondered whose shoes were beside all her transition set up gear!
Race time was on and in the water I go. Not a fan of such a start but that is the challenge of a sprint! The key was to keep calm and keep my breathing at an even pace. 20 lengths seemed to end quickly and I dashed towards the timing mat that seemed sooooo far away!
Hopped on the bike and out I went knowing that Angie was going to be in hot pursuit (I know she started after me as I saw her on the deck). Good incentive for me to push myself on my new bike! Headwind on the out, just how long can 7.5km be?! Hit the turnaround and zoom! What a blast with a tailwind! Angie did catch me at transition and was off on the run “lickety split”
The run was the run was the run. 5km can be a challenge and I had some! My breathing was too rapid and I had to slow my pace in order to keep my heart rate from going too crazy. I eventually settled it and the latter half was better than the 1st half. Angie coached me in for the last kick, which I found very beneficial and will utilize that learning in future. It’s different being one of the last racers on the course due to my swim time but the fan support at the end was amazing.
Great race, good times, and a pleasing result: 36th overall, 7th Female overall, 1st in my Age Group. Swim 8:56, Bike 28:40 Run 26:43 Total Time: 1:04:18 (PB in all events from 2010)
This is a fun race to kick start the season with, family friendly and fantastic atmosphere!
Note to self: Eat before I race and not wait for the end, as there will be nothing left!
No taper for this gal as I headed into the week before Wasa starting with a 120km ride Bragg Creek to Elbow River Falls the day after Vulcan. Challenging but fun, breath taking scenery and the weather was lovely. I was reminded once again of my absolute dislike for descents, as I had to stop and regroup my poop before continuing out of Elbow River Falls. I finished the ride on a positive note and the next time won’t be so hard.
Afterwards, nothing a cold beer at a bar-b-que with fellow TTL athletes and family members didn’t cure. What a way to end a fantastic weekend of racing and riding! Thank-you John and Wilma!
Wasa Olympic was a race that I signed up long before any others. The reason I could was I knew it was held before the CFL season would begin. That was the deal this year between Roger and I, no signing up for races until we knew when we would be heading to Regina for the Rider home games!
I was ready for Wasa, and was looking forward to this fun filled race I have heard so much about. Booked my accommodations and my good friend Stacey Boivin and her adorable 4-month-old son Jacob joined me for the weekend.
The weather did not look promising but we held onto the hope that race day would be somewhat decent. We drove through rain on Friday and watched the temperature hover around 7c all day Saturday. At least we did not drive through snow as many others had to!
One thing about arriving on Friday and having all day Sat to hang about was I was completely rested for the race. This is something that does not occur enough for me with my hectic lifestyle. I did manage an easy 20min pre race run on Saturday morning.
I did not partake in the pre race swim in the afternoon. I am comfortable enough in open water and I commended all those that did go in. One of which was an honorary TTL’er from my rugby days. Todd fit right in with everyone and was so excited to be prepping for his first Oly.
During race package pick up it was confirmed the 1500m swim was shortened to 750m due to the water temperature and outside air temperature. All I was hoping for was dry roads for the bike; the cold temps were not as much of a concern.
Sunday we were up early and arrived to get a fairly good parking spot. I have to admit there was a moment or two that I seriously considered not doing the race. The inner triathlete and to step up and say, “Just do it, you’ll be ok and will have a fun day”.
My internals cooperated with me and with assistance from my friend “Emo”, I was hoping for a non-gut issue kind of day. I got just that! Yeah baby!!
I set up my transition area with Todd and a couple of other former and current rugby players an immediately named our area “rugby row”. Very cool to have friends from another sport that have moved into triathlons! My spirits were uplifted! So much so I was able to get my wetsuit on all by myself! Wow! “I’m a big girl now!”
I watched the sprint athletes come out of the water and some did not look good at all. I decided that this was not going to be a day to set any records in the water, no need to kill myself there even though it is my best event. That meant I would save it for the bike and the run instead.
Saw Todd off from the swim to bike and headed to the beach myself. Stopped to say hello to a few people and almost missed the swim start! D’oh! Ran to my spot, left side, walked into the water, warmed my wetsuit and dove in and walked back out.
Yup, the water was effin’ cold! I did not have to wait long before we started and that was a good thing!
As far as the swim goes, I was calm and to be honest, enjoyed the swim regardless of the cold water. That is how much I love open water swimming. I got past many athletes and on the home stretch really started to get my swim mojo going. I had to laugh as one swimmer tried to keep pace with me, she seemed to like to swim right beside me which I tried to avoid and eventually she couldn’t keep the pace (heh heh) and dropped back.
Out I got and had some difficulty getting my zipper down, manual dexterity was somewhat challenged! Suit stripped (I SO love that part!) and off to the bike.
Swim Time: 14:44, 1st in my Age Group!
The choice of clothing for the swim included a tight fitting t-shirt and a tight fitting long sleeved tech shirt, worked perfect under my TTL jacket. I put gloves on, as I did not want to get cold hands on the bike. What I didn’t have was anything for my feet. I knew there were there but couldn’t feel them!
The bike was out and back on a clean smooth road with a slight headwind to contend with until the turnaround. I used this opportunity to practice getting comfortable in my aerobars and learned I can do just that! Lots of “cat and mousing” going on that made for a fun ride. I was pushing myself and even with cold legs and no feeling in my feet I urged myself onwards. I had my cadence but no speed, must remember to check that before the race starts! Glad to see the bike marshals out checking for drafting.
I had my sights on one athlete in my age group and worked on passing her inside 2km left on the bike. Good push for the end and I encouraged myself to spin my legs with 700m or so left to prep for the run. Clean dismount and ran to my transition spot on what I believed were my feet.
Bike Time: 1:21:39, 3rd in my Age Group and a PB!
Now the run is on and I knew I had to play this one as smart as possible. I did not wear my gloves or TTL jacket but left my long sleeved shirt on. Got my runners on, tied up and was off. I even managed to get my watch on (yes, my watch) and start the timer as I crossed the timing mat. The gloves helped with the maintaining of manual dexterity!
The one thing the gloves did not help was my feet. I could not feel them! I thought of the character Eugene Levy plays in the movie, “Best in Show”, he has two left feet, and I looked down to see if I had put my runners on the correct feet they felt that odd! I had to laugh at myself and hope that they eventually would warm up. They did, around the 3km mark and that is when I thought I had something in my shoe. I tried to ignore it but Angie’s voice was in my head telling me not to ignore and to fix the problem when it starts versus trying to solve an issue later on. No sticks or stones in my shoe just the defrosting going on and they simply “felt funny”.
The run continued and I was happy with my pace. I slowed up a bit to take in some water (not Gatorade, blech that stuff is horrid!).
I started to get a bit warm and that sensation always challenges me so I removed my long sleeved shirt and instantly felt better.
I really pushed through the last 2 km. Going past the finishing area is torturous at the best of times and it seemed to take me forever to get back to that place. I remembered how Angie coached me in at Vulcan and began to do the same thing as I came to the finish again. I challenged myself and overtook a 30yr old in the last 10m or so!
I almost lost my cookies after crossing the finish line but took a few deep breaths and I was ok.
I stopped my watch and thought I might have come close to a PB in a “stand alone” 10k let alone part of a triathlon.
Run time 55:08, 10th in my Age Group PB for an Oly distance (and just shy of my PB stand alone 10k by 9 seconds)
End result was 4th in my Age Group overall, yeah me!
This was the best Olympic distance race for me so far. I had a blast and will seriously think about doing Wasa again next year. The volunteers were SO good, the food at the end excellent and lots of it. The camaraderie with new and old friends (in a new sport) added to the weekend experience.
We all enjoyed some Wasa sun that came out for the rest of the day, yummy food and yes, a beer, Pilsner beer of course!
Thanks everyone for a great race!
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