It's All About the Finish!

I'd like to start out by saying that while the Ironman World Championships in Kona didn't turn out the way I had wanted, I can honestly say I don't think I would change the experience.  I say this because the lessons I learned and the people I met created a journey both enlightening and life changing.  Let's start out that morning.

I had gotten to the race venue around 5:30 am.  I had my usual peanut butter and banana sandwich and coffee earlier in the morning.  I was feeling nervous but excited.  Going through body marking was an experience as lines of athletes waited to get "tattooed."  I was sipping on Gatorade and feeling like I was in a dream.  I swiftly headed to my bike to pump the tires and fill the bottles.  I double checked my gels to make sure they were all in order.  I then retreated to my family to hang out and watch Pete Jacobs layer on sunscreen (a sight to behold-indeed!!).

I heard the cannon go off!  The pros were in the water and starting their day- mine would start 30 minutes later with the age groupers at 7 am.  I took my time getting to the beach and got in the water about 10 minutes before our start.  As usual, I get cold while treading water and my teeth start chattering. I think to myself how on earth does my body react to temperatures that aren't considered extreme.  I've always had an issue with temperature and frequently joke about my "thermoregulation disorder."  Needless to say, I couldn't wait to get going! Finally, the cannon goes off and it's showtime.  It is true what they say about the swim as a 2.4 mile trek of chaotic frenzy.  I literally was sucked into the abyss of bodies for the entire leg. But...I'm no pansy in the water and I fight my way through until the very end.  I felt good and strong as I exited the water.

You'd think you were competing in a sprint triathlon the way people were frantically changing into bike gear at transition.  I thought to myself...be patient...ignore what others are doing...this is your race.  I get on my bike and feel great.  The sea of cyclists and spectators make for an invigorating start to the bike leg as we ride through part of town.  I consciously remain cautious and let the testosterone-laden age group men make their aggressive moves to pass.  I get on the Queen K and work my way to Hawi.  I feel amazing.  I'm enjoying this part of the bike course and strangely singing A-ha's "Take on Me."   This wasn't one of the songs on my mental playlist but I'm going with it.  I get to the turn-around in Hawi and my momentum is still on course.  During the ride I do my usual gel every 45 minutes with Gatorade Perform and water as my fluid replacement.  This is where the major failure on my part kicked in.  It was my usual nutrition plan. I didn't change anything from my past IM nutrition regimen because I've always been pretty successful.  Did I mention I think I have a "thermoregulation disorder?"

Of course I'm sweating....a lot...but it is deceiving on the bike.  At about mile 73 I suddenly feel stabbing cramps coursing through my adductor muscles in my legs and around my ankles/calves.  It is sudden and takes me by surprise.  The cramps take on a life of their own and I'm sucked into their fury.  I lose all power in my legs and my speed goes down in epic proportion.  I calm myself because getting anxious clearly will not help.  I stop at the next aid station.  I stretch and ask for Perform hoping a boost in the electrolytes will help.  I have to wait for the next gap in riders to start up again. I'd like to point out that during my ride there is a consistent crowd of cyclists everywhere.  You are never alone on the course.  Okay...so I'm back on the bike but the cramps just don't go away.  At about mile 90 I'm pissed and anxious.  I stop at the next aid station (stretch and drink).  I stop again and then again....4 times total to stretch and drink.  I am beside myself because the cramps will not subside, but I eventually get my body to T2 completely grateful I had finished.  At this point I'm sitting with a volunteer in T2 literally deciding if I should continue.  This has never happened to me before.  Like I said, my past three IM's have all been somewhat successful- physically speaking.  The volunteer tells me there is a PT just around the corner who could help stretch me out on the massage table.  At this point I'll take any relief in the form of additional rest and massaging hands.  The PT did his best and his massaging hands were a comfort but the cramps were embedded and there to stay.  I continued to sip Gatorade Perform in a desperate attempt to conjure up some kind of balance in my depleted electrolyte stores.  After spending way too much time in T2 (I think it was about 17 or 18 minutes) I make the decision to continue the race.  It was close to 2 pm at this point.  I start to walk.

I see my family at the start of the marathon.  I burst into tears and apologize.  At the time, I felt like a disappointment and failure.  Disappointed in myself that I let my friends and family down and feeling like a failure for not preparing better with my nutrition.  They reassure me and tell me they are proud.  I tell them I'm not sure if I can finish.  They urge me to keep going.  I tell them I may have to walk most of the way because the cramping in my legs feels debilitating. They tell me that is fine.  I tell them it may be late before I finish.  They tell me they will wait until midnight if they have to.  Other spectators see me and encourage me to keep going.  I have 10 hours until midnight.  I can realistically walk this marathon and make the cutoff.  I continue my walk.

I can easily say I learned a lot during that walk/shuffle marathon.  I learned the power of kind words and how they allow the body to survive and push forward no matter the speed or pain.  I learned the power of having a walking companion share his struggles of the day and how this common bond moves us forward to the finish. I learned how to be mentally stronger and tougher.  I repeated part of a quote from Chrissy Wellington's book, A Life Without Limits- "...keep your head."  While there were some points during the marathon I cried this was done at the first half.  By the time I reached the halfway mark I got myself together and just kept repeating...."keep your head."

I chuckle at my stint in the infamous Energy Lab.  By the time I got there the sun was setting and the temperature was quite comfortable.  This is where I got my official glow necklace.

Now...I can clearly say that I ended up not even focusing on my nutrition during the marathon- probably foolish but I'm just being honest. I'll have plenty of time after the race to reflect and make an appointment to see a sports dietitian. Mainly, I just grabbed whatever seemed palatable at the time- Coke, orange slices, pretzels, water.  Gatorade Perform took a backseat as the mere site of it made my stomach crawl.

I finally make the turn to town and I know that I will soon be done.  My walk goes into a shuffle which goes into a run (okay...maybe not a run).  The finish seems like it takes eternity but I finally reach the carpet and I'm totally overjoyed.  I high five strangers and see my family.  I cross the finish line relieved and exhilarated. I didn't give up.  I didn't quit.  While I didn't set any records, I could have cared less.  I fought this race with my heart and soul and finished.  And that is victory!

Afterthought:
So people are now asking me "What next?"  Those of you that know me well already know the answer..."Redemption on the Big Island!"  I'd like to go back.  It may not be next year, but I will make it again and I will know what to do next time.  Hawaii is a magical place and I had a great time visiting.  The people...the atmosphere...the scenery...It is breathtaking.

...to be continued

Ready to fight!

It's About Time

After a year of day dreaming, training, fantasizing, training, a little worrying, and more training the time has finally come and my trip to Kona is a week away.  Looking back over the last year, I can honestly say I am relieved and excited that the journey is almost complete.  I'm relieved that the countless hours in the gym and on the roads will finally be tested.  I'm excited that the final test will be in a place that has stood as the most iconic and memorable location in triathlon history.  I feel completely blessed and honored to have the privilege and opportunity to race in Kona and will never take the experience- good or bad- for granted.

2013 has been year of challenge for me both personally and physically.  Triathlon has been a great outlet for me to channel frustration and disappointment in a positive and constructive way.  While a calf tear and plantar fasciitis have been a constant nag on my body, the mental toughness and work I've put in will have me ready on race day.  If I have to crawl or limp my way to the finish line...I will finish....and I will finish knowing I did my very best and had an awesome time doing it.  People ask me all the time about my specific goals for Kona...."What time are you wanting to achieve?"....or "Where do you want to place in your age group?"...etc...I say simply that my goals are not measured in numbers, but rather in adjectives.  My goals are to be strong, tough, happy, powerful, and above all, grateful.  The numerical outcome is strictly secondary.

Many times, you will not see me wearing a watch or utilizing a bike computer when I race.  In fact, I use very little technology when I train...period.  Now, I am not saying that I've scrapped all technology.  A treadmill can be very useful for interval sets.  I have a basic Garmin that helps me track my miles on long runs- it can be very helpful.  I lost my Cat Eye on my bike several months ago, so I've been riding pretty clueless all summer, but I think my cycling skills are still on point; so, I'm not too worried. Now, I know I fall into the minority with my prehistoric training methodology, and I'm fine with that. Everyone needs to find a program that will fit their specific goals and personality.

But, for me, I honestly believe that the true enjoyment of racing is the experience your body is feeling on that day.  Sometimes it will feel great; other times you feel like crap.  In the end, I usually don't want a computer to tell me how I should feel when I cross the finish line.  Because when I cross the finish line- in Kona or anywhere else- I simply want to feel strong, tough, happy, powerful, and above all, grateful.

If anyone is interested in tracking me or watching the Ironman World Championships, it will be streaming live on www.ironman.com on Saturday, October 12!

P.S.  Big thanks to Leanne Zentz for being a wonderful friend and training buddy. You are amazing.  Also, Catherine Lacrosse- your words of encouragement and always believing in me are much appreciated.  You definitely inspire me!!!

The Daily Grind

Ding...Ding...Ding...there goes the alarm.
Time to wake up and move the day along.

Kids off to school; two hours to spare.
Let's get to the gym- there's Kona to prepare.

Into the pool for a little swimming.
Let's get the set going with 10 x 100.
Working a pull; enjoying a kick.
What's that do I feel; but a twinge in my hip?
Out of the pool after 3500; into the shower for some de-chlorination.

Out in the gym and onto the treadmill.
The schedule says 6 miles with tempo.
Feeling the urge to call it kaput-
I trudge along, but there's a twinge in my foot.

Out of the gym and off to my job.
The life of a nurse can make the head throb.
But I love what I do and value my work.
Some days are good and others berserk.

Back at home and the kids are too.
I hear them want dinner and that's what I do.
I get the meals out and hear one complain;
"Chicken again?" he says with disdain.

I trek to the gym; there's a cycle class to teach.
I motivate myself; there are goals to reach.
But what is that I feel?  An ache or pain?
My calf makes a protest and I cuss without shame.

Back at home to a setting sun.
I love my kids and my work is done.
Although I'm getting older and the body feels it too.
I wouldn't change a thing.
Tomorrow is brand new!

Anna

Race Report: Toughman 1/2 distance Triathlon

The predicted weather certainly made me worry coming into this race, but with most things in life, you do your best to make the best out of the situation.

The Toughman 1/2 distance triathlon race was Saturday, June 1st in Richmond, Indiana.  The 1/2 distance consisted of a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, and 13.1 mile run.  The participation was much smaller compared to typical Ironman 70.3 races, but the support and course were excellent and I would recommend Toughman to others in the future.  I did not come into this race tapered or with any personal expectations.  Mainly, the idea of doing a race called Toughman appealed to me- I like a challenge.

The morning of the race was rainy, breezy and  temps in the upper 60s.  My biggest fear was a possible cancellation of the swim from lightening, but we were fortunate for rain only.  By the time 7 AM arrived the rain had stopped and all was good for the rest of the day.  Water temperature was a nice 73 degrees- wetsuit legal.  I entered the water feeling pretty good and got to the first yellow buoy without incident.  I was getting into a nice groove and arrived at the second buoy without too much difficulty; however, I was swimming solo and had to look up frequently to keep track of direction. Once I rounded the second buoy my goal was to get to the third yellow buoy.  Ahhh....the third, infamous, yellow buoy.  It was so far away and I struggled to locate it. I thought I had sited the third yellow buoy and tracked it for awhile.  Unfortunately, I was siting the wrong buoy and found myself heading back towards the swim exit.  I soon realized my blunder when I spotted the third buoy from a far away distance.  I quickly changed my direction and hauled it quickly to the correct buoy. I rounded it and headed back towards the exit!  I probably added about an extra 100-150 yards to my swim, but overall I was pleased because I stayed calm and didn't freak out.

I got to my bike and headed out on the two-loop course.  The bike is my strength so I was excited about the ride. I thought the course was well-marked and fairly easy to navigate.  Again, with smaller races you find that you will be doing portions of the race alone so you pay extra attention to the road markings.  The terrain was rolling and challenging at certain points (I prefer hills).  The pavement was wet so you had to be mindful during the entire ride.  There were a few flat stretches that brought some relief to tired legs.  I saw an Amish kid riding his homemade scooter- the kid had some speed! When I rode by him I imagined what he must of thought seeing us like aliens on our tri bikes and funky aero helmets. Overall, I was pleased with the course.  I averaged 21.5 mph with a 2:36 split.

The run course was two loops with a combination of hills and flats.The run was probably where I was most unprepared.  My longest run up to the race was 11 miles.  Again,  not to sound like a broken record, but rehabilitating a calf injury takes time- I don't want to screw it up again.  The first couple of miles were tough- two big climbs with a fairly steep descend.  I was in a dark place mentally.  But....I tried to keep my mind focused and was repeating the names of my kids and pets.  The run had a nice flat section that I found particularly helpful. The aid stations had water, Gatorade, Hammer gels, and awesome kids yelling words of motivation. My run time was not impressive (1:46) but I can't complain.   I got to the finish line with the overall, female win and a time of 4:54.

The volunteer support was tremendous and many people were very encouraging to me during the entire race. I hope to do at least two more races before Kona in October.  However, I'm  not sure which ones to do.  I have a busy summer with the kids (Holiday World, orchestra, band camp, drum lessons, volleyball camp, online Spanish class, etc....), and of course my nursing job (ugh...the job always get in the way of my triathlon hobby).  Happy racing!

Muncie in May race report- The Cold Blows!

I was debating whether or not to do this race; mainly because I've been getting over a calf injury and races in Muncie have always been weather challenged for me.  But, I'm signed up for the Toughman Half in Richmond scheduled for June 1st and I thought, if anything, it would be a good training day.  I participated in the Olympic distance event (1500 meter swim, 24.8 mile bike ride and 6.2 mile run).

I woke up to find the weather at 43 F, with a strong breeze, and a continuous drizzle.  My brain was struggling to find a real purpose in going but I'm never one to bag a race due to weather (you know....just a minor flesh wound!!).  Also, Chris was doing the race with me so there is always a little more motivation when you are not alone.  Plus, I was excited to wear my Team Bicycle Outfitters Indy race kit (team BOI) and wanted to show it off.

We get to the race site and learn the water temperature is 61 F- terrific!  My only wetsuit is sleeveless so I was a bit nervous about how I would respond in the water.  Since I am a former swimmer I thought...a small inconvenience (ha ha).  I avoid warming up in the water because hypothermia is a real possibility and I want to stay somewhat warm until the race start.  I learn minutes before that the initial 2 loop course was now a longer 1 loop course (still 1500 meters). When the cannon goes off I head quickly into the water.  Initially, I have a hard time adjusting and calming myself down but years of swimming have taught me the importance of a steady and efficient breathing pattern. As I get settled in I have difficulty navigating the buoys and get off course a bit.  I do my best to keep an eye on other swimmers and just do a little breastroke to orient where I am.

I exit the swim thankful to be done and get ready for the bike.  My fingers are numb and I struggle to get my shoes and helmet on.  I manage to get some socks over my feet but the socks and feet are wet- ugh...I ditch the arm warmers after a feeble attempt and head out onto the course.  The bike course is two loops and relatively flat- a nice fast ride.  I get stuck behind a large truck slowing down for other riders.  He was too wide to pass so I become a little frustrated that I have to slow down for a bit.  No problem; however...you have to roll with the punches sometimes.  I laugh at myself when my inability to pucker my lips for some sweet hydration results in a dribbly Gatorade mess down my chin and chest.

I finish the bike ride thankful to be done and get ready for the run.  I can't undo the strap to my helmet because my fingers are numb.  I can't move my mouth to drink fluids.  I manage to pull the strap over my chin to get the helmet off and ditch the hydration effort.  I am conservative on the run.  I don't want to mess up my calf.  The out and back run is rolling and can be a challenge.  I get passed by quite a few guys but I'm okay with it.  I get some encouraging words along the way and I try to say thank you but my mouth can't form words- too cold!!

I get to the finish thankful to be done!  As always, the volunteers are nice and so supportive. For me, my time was slow but, again, I can't dwell on that. Everyone was racing in the same conditions as me- no excuses.  I finished what I started and managed to pull the overall female win.

I was unable to stay for awards because I had to pick up my son from orchestra practice.  I love triathlon, but kids trump awards!  In addition, my body was shaking and I was somewhat dehydrated from no fluids or nutrition.  I was pretty motivated to get to a heated car ASAP.

Overall, I felt the volunteer support was great and the race well-organized.  I'm not sure if I can say that about the weather, but that is something no one can control!  Happy racing.

The Break Up Letter

My Dearest Injury:

I'm not sure how to explain this in a way that will not hurt your feelings or make you upset with me, but I feel I need a permanent break up with you.  Ever since you've come in to my life two weeks ago you've been nothing short of a nightmare.  To be honest, my training was moving along very well without you.  I mean, my running was making huge strides.  I was feeling strong, fit, fast and confident- ready to tackle the season in full force.

But then you come along...so sneaky...so unexpected...an innocent pain in my calf.  You've done this before- teasing me with your flirtatious twinges.  So I tell myself to rest...to ice...to be conservative...to keep you out of my life.  But...no...you are persistent.  You greet me with a sharp pain and an inability to run.  You cling to my calf like glue unable to accept the fact that I dislike you.

What is it about me that you are so attracted to?  You seem to want me more as I age!  I guess I should be flattered, but I have not given any signals for you to think I desire or want you.  On the contrary; you repulse me.  In fact,  I would not be dramatic to describe you as a stalker and creeper.

Of course, I've worked so hard to avoid you all winter.  Focusing on my strength and stretching with the most deliberate intentions- to keep you out of my life.  But...you still come knocking at my door insisting on coming in and staying for awhile.

Well, this girl is stronger than you.  I am swimming and biking better than ever.  While I'm still unable to run, the TLC I'm giving to myself is slowly tearing you apart.  I can feel you slowly releasing your grip on my calf- and I appreciate that.  You will not slow me down or break my spirit.

I realize that, as you read this letter, you may feel confused and hurt.  You may want to grasp at any straw and believe there is a future with us...there is not...to put it simply- I AM BREAKING UP WITH YOU FOREVER!

Best wishes,

Anna

Oops...I Did it Again!

I think many of us can relate to having a few embarrassing moments related to triathlon.  As I've looked back on my years in the sport I have collected my fair share of awkward, or just plain stupid, experiences-with only one person to blame- ME.  You would think over time the number of blunders would decrease for me as learning should occur with mistakes.  But...I guess I'm a hard student to reach who continues to daydream out the window.  The following is a list of things I've done (triathlon related mistakes only) that I'm not particularly proud of but I can laugh about it now.

1.  Wearing my helmet backwards. Now...I only did this once and I was new to cycling/triathlon.  Tuxedo Brothers may still have the photo.
2.  Misplacing my timing chip the day before the race.  The nerves got the best of me and I struggled to keep my thoughts in check.  Luckily, a few deep breaths and a thorough dissection of the hotel room gave me the strength to look in the most obvious of places- the side pocket of my transition bag (duh...)
3.  Leaving my timing chip at the hotel race morning.  I literally had an anxiety attack and needed a mini intervention from my husband and two friends (Batt and Leanne).  Luckily, I was able to get a new timing chip at the swim start.  But...I wasted so much energy in my frantic state (argh!!!!!!).
4.  Losing my timing chip during the swim.  You'd think I was suffering a life threatening injury as I emerged from the lake screaming and arms waving.  Bless the volunteers who put up with my antics that morning.
5.Getting passed on the bike and not falling back soon enough- the rider who passed blessed me with a huge loogie that landed on my face.  He then yelled something in French or German and sped away.
6. Failing to properly store feminine supplies in transition bag race morning.  Who knew I'd be greeted with the monthly curse before the start of the race?  I methodically asked every female in the vicinity if a Tampax could be donated to this poor, unprepared fool that I felt I was.  Luckily, I struck gold with lucky lady number 34!
7.  Knocking over a bike rack at transition. The adrenaline must have been high as I racked the bike and prepared to run.  Unfortunately, my over-zealous nature cost me a lot of time as I deliriously tried to get the rack back up again.  Have I mentioned how blessed I am for the volunteers who, again, helped me?
8.  Forgetting to properly lube all chafe-prone areas....ouch...details not necessary.
9.  Waiting until the last minute to get a hotel room for a race.  I ended up booking a room at a great price- I'm all about saving a dollar!  Unfortunately,  my procrastination and thriftiness rewarded me with a top-notch room:  a blood-stained mattress and bugs.  Did I mention the distinct odor of pot accentuated the atmosphere in a most excellent way?!
10.  Making a wrong turn on the bike/swimming in wrong direction.  This has happened to many a triathlete and I now know to at least become somewhat familiar with the race course- just in case.

Needless to say, I can admit I haven't yet had "the perfect race"- but who has??  Part of what I love about triathlon is that many of us can somewhat relate to the above faux pas.  I am sure I will continue to make mistakes, but my goal is do everything I can to not make them again!