Dino Tri, A Hidden Gem!

What a fantastic weekend I had at the Dino Tri with my TriEdge teammates! I must confess I was unfamiliar with this race until this year, and I didn't really know what to expect. Amber's aunt and uncle were incredibly generous with an invitation for the team to stay in their gorgeous home, so with a place to stay and good company, I was excited to race.

The Dino tri is held in Vernal Utah which is basically a dinosaur artifact hotspot. I found Vernal to be a good mixture of southern Utah red rock dessert, and northern utah greenery. On Friday evening we picked up our packets and arrived at T1 to drop off our bikes. I was overwhelmed at the heat as we racked our bikes and I stood dripping with sweat in the 100 degree inferno. The lake was beautiful and inviting and was the perfect way to cool off. After our little swim we headed to Cafe Rio for our favorite pre-race meal. I was thrilled that Vernal has a Cafe Rio!

Race morning my alarm jolted me awake at 4:15 after a four hour nap. I'm usually too excited and nervous to be tired. We were a little late leaving the house, but Laura made up the time by driving about 80 miles per hour to T2. We arrived in perfect time to drop our things and board the bus that would take us up to the lake. I love races with two transition areas, I don't know why, but I think it makes things interesting. At 7:00 it was already starting to get warm. The start time was about 30 minutes delayed because one of the buses had technical problems. This made the Olympic racers a little nervous and the Sprint racers like myself, glad we were doing the sprint. There were a lot of videographers walking around interviewing people before the race started. I was interviewed and asked what I love most about this sport. I don't remember what I said, but as I thought about it later, I LOVE racing with friends and being a part of a team. I headed down to the water and waited to start my race.

The swim was AWESOME! One of the best venues I've swam. I'm not speaking of my swimming abilities, I'm talking about the lake. The water felt so good and the course was well marked and well anchored (no drifting buoys). As you come out of the water, you have a little hike up the long boat ramp to get to T1. Normally I will jog to T1 even if my heart feels like exploding, but I knew the bike course I was up against and decided to race smart. 

The bike course is great. You have about 25 ft. of parking lot after exiting T1 before you start climbing a very formidable hill. I'm so glad I live in Utah county and climb mountains and hills frequently otherwise the first 1.8 mile climb would have freaked me out a bit. I knew exactly where the downhill would begin and couldn't wait to shift into my big gear and zoom down the hill. I passed so many sprinters that I realized how slow my swim was. I love my Kestrel and feeling the power of a quality bike on the downhill stretches. I passed so many people just peddling their hearts out and probably wondering why I was so fast. It's not me, it's the bike! I have had pretty severe issues with muscle cramping lately so my game plan was to not go all out on the bike and save some juice for the run. My bike time was pretty decent, considering I usually treat sprint distances like time trials. 

Coming in to T2 I heard Jen cheering me on and ringing her cowbell, it's so fun to have that support! I took off on my run trying to beat the heat. The run course had a lot of out and back loops which I personally don't mind because you see a lot of people and it's very social. I had some fantastic runners fly past me like it was nothing to them. I know I'm not a strong runner but I was especially disappointed in how weak I felt on the run. I wasn't wearing a watch but my pace felt like I was jogging 11 minute miles. I was so grateful once again to be doing a sprint that day and not an olympic. There were a lot of great volunteers and spectators cheering everyone on, I wanted to feed off their energy and just take off, but my legs wouldn't allow it. I managed to sprint my last 100 meters, I like to cross the finish line with nothing left in the tank, leaving it all out on the course. My perception of my run time was a little off, I thought I ran 11 minute miles, but I managed to finish my run in 26 minutes, about 8:30 minute miles. I felt a little better about that. 

I was lucky enough to place first in my division that day (you never know who is going to show up to race on any given day). This is where Dino Tri blew me away. Usually finishers receive a medal, and then the first three overall finishers receive extra swag such as drink mixes, a trophy, or t-shirt, or a certificate reminding you that you're the coolest. Dino Tri took it to the next level. They awarded cash prized to the first three overall for sprint and olympic AND gave cash to Athena and Clydsdale first place finishers...what?! I've NEVER been to a race where Athena and Clydsdale received anything but a finisher medal and reminder that they should have a salad for their post race meal. They wanted to show some love to those categories and I'm still amazed by that. Winning any amount of cash is cool, but winning $100 is even cooler. Top finisher got $150. I could walk away with my Benjamin and be happy but that's not all. Extra swag awards were given to the fastest run split, and the King/Queen of the mountain (the person who booked it up that 1.8 mile climb the fastest, our very own Amber). Oh, I'm not done, do you think they gave out little trophies to all the 1st through 3rd place finishes? Nope, they gave HUGE STONE PLAQUES with first or second or third carved into them. Seriously, they're gorgeous and it's going to sit in my garden as a reminder of the coolest race ever. The post race food was good, the misting tent was refreshing, and the atmosphere was fun and supportive. 

The race director and his crew asked us for our feedback after the race, they wanted to know how to improve and what we liked. We couldn't think of any complaints, we suggested another aid station for the olympic bike course, but we had nothing but praise for this race. I know they could have not given the cash awards or spent the money on the stone plaques and they would have still had an awesome race, but the race director made it clear that it's not about making a ton of money, but putting on a great race people will want to be a part of. Mission accomplished.

Thank you to Dino Tri for a great race. Thank you to our wonderful team sponsors; Kestrel, HEAD, Flexr Sports, Switch Eyewear, T3, Bearpaw, GU, and Coach Keena training for taking a chance on a "non-competive" women's team. Thank you to my teammates for cheering me on and celebrating my efforts whether I reach the podium or not. A personal thank you to my husband for supporting me in my love for this sport, and cheering me on while home sick and caring for ill children with no complaints so I can race. 

Boise....A Super Fun Weekend and a Super Hard Race!

Boise….A Perfect Set Up for Disaster

This has definitely been the year of long distance racing for me!  After completing Leadman 125K and the HITS Half Ironman distance the last two months I was convinced by a friend that it would be a good idea to do Boise.  Here is a little history about Boise 70.3 for me….I went up last year and it snowed!  The course was cut from 56 miles to 15 and is was FREEZING!  I also missed qualifying for Worlds by one slot.  So, a piece of my little soul wanted redemption from last year.  But, I couldn’t commit to the race due to the history of it being so unpredictable.  I decided to commit to doing the race last minute…so last minute that I signed up when I got there!  I have never done that at any race….so really, there was NO pressure to perform! 

I traveled up with one of my favorite traveling buddies, Colleen Rue and a new triathlon friend, Breanna.  (I love making new friends!) We made the long drive up to Boise (it is so ugly!) and checked into the race.  I was relieved that they let me check in!  We then ate at the yummiest Mediterranean place called Mazzah…AMAZING!  The weather was beautiful, we ate outside, enjoyed each other’s company, and then headed over to Albertsons to get our fresh fruit to eat.

Friday we headed to check in…AGAIN…to get our bikes lubed up.  We actually didn’t end up doing that; we ended up being interviewed by the news instead…and we made the cut! We were cracking up that evening when we watched ourselves on the news…our 30 seconds of fame! We got our bikes checked into the race and headed off to a movie. Is there a better way to spend the afternoon before the race then watching a movie…no better way to check out of reality!  That evening we met the Southern Utah Triathlon Club at the Olive Garden for dinner.  I was so impressed with their large group of triathletes.  I walked in knowing none of them and walked out feeling very welcomed.  They were all so friendly and it made for a great evening before the race.

Race Day:  I don’t know what to think of the late start triathlon.  On one hand I love it…on the other I don’t.  Needless to say we woke up to have breakfast number 1 and 7 am and then a couple hours had breakfast number 2.  We drove up in a large van with the Southern Utah Tri Club and got everything set up.  At transition I was ready to get into race mode and focus on what I was going to do that day.  Really…my goal was to have fun!!!  But, I was still pretty focused ensuring I had everything I needed.  It was so fun to see teammates, McKenzie and Cherry up there and our bikes were pretty close to each other!

It was a little windy and I knew going down from the lake would be a headwind so I prepared for that.  My wave was number 11 so I visited with McKenzie (LOVED seeing her up there) and did all pre-race nutrition.  The water temperature was 58 degrees which I knew would be a little chilly.  What I didn’t realize was that I was about to have my toughest swim ever!  I was one of the first in the water as I wanted all the time to get used to the water before swimming.  I took my usual spot before the race started and was off.  The first about 500 yards was awesome. Lots of buoys to spot off, and I felt like I was in a good rhythm.  As we got farther out into the lake it became a little choppy, but then we turned to a different direction…and it got REALLY choppy!  I felt like I was in the ocean.  The choppiness wasn’t consistent and I couldn’t get in a rhythm.  I stopped a couple times to look around to see what was going on. I kept telling myself to just relax; there were no goals for the day besides to enjoy myself.  It was really hard to enjoy myself but I kept thinking it was bound to get better the closer we got into shore.  I am not sure if the swim was long, but I know I swam an extra 300 yards according to my Garmin.  I have never been so happy to get out of the water…SUCCESS!  (Tough swims are always a good mental builder!)

The transition is a little longer as you run up the boat ramp and around to transition.  T1 was pretty uneventful.  The transition was a clean transition, which I love…makes it much more organized. 

Then it was off on the bike.  I ensured I had everything I needed while in transition and took off.  I knew immediately it was going to be a windy day.  At mile one I went for my salts…they were GONE!  Every last one of them!  They must have fallen out of my trisuit pocket as I was going over a speedbump on the way out of transition.  Anyone that does long distance races knows how important salt is…especially on a hot day.  I figured I was just going to do what I could and it was most likely was going to catch up with me….especially if it was really windy and the bike took a bit longer.   I decided I couldn’t worry about it because there really wasn’t anything I could do.  I slowed at the first aid station at mile 15 and dumped in a bottle of Ironman Perform into my aerobottle (note: I have never taken this before…but it did have sodium).  At the second aid station as I grabbed the second bottle I looked at what it had in it and I looked at the calories..Holy crap!  My body isn’t used to digesting that many calories…so I went back to straight water for the last 20 miles to let what I had in my tummy work on digesting.  The bike course wasn’t nearly as busy as I thought it would be and I wondered where everyone was at.  I spent the last few miles leap frogging with some guy which was entertaining in all the headwind.  (My mantra of the day.. “I love the wind.”) I would say that 80% of the bike was a headwind..I am not even exaggerating…it as tough!  I honestly like the Boise bike course…it has some good hills and climbs, but I don’t love it so much in the wind as it is a pretty exposed course. It was a consistent 15 MPH with gusts to 20.  When I averaged 20.5 MPH I was super happy about it!  I earned every bit of it.

Then the run….I immediately started taking in salt as I knew I was so behind in what I needed with the heat of the day.  The first 3 miles were great…mostly in the shade and on the green belt.  Miles 4-6 were pretty decent…I saw some familiar faces through there which always is a great boost.  It was at about mile 6.5 where things turned South.  My stomach was bloated and it was revolting!  I figured it didn’t like the perform and from miles 6-12 I had to make 3 stops to the potty.  It wasn’t a pretty loop…I am pretty sure I spent about 5 minutes in bathrooms on the second loop.  At mile 8 I remembered this is fun!  I am not going to beat myself up!  And I started talking to volunteers at the aid stations and enjoying myself.  I walked by as kids were spraying water, I thanked all the volunteers who were out there, and walked when I ran into someone I knew.  I was honestly so happy to see the finish line.  I crossed and then headed to the next bathroom. 

My overall time was 5:20…I will take this time for the conditions and nutrition of the day.  I took 4^th in my age group and ended up with a slot to Worlds. I ended up declining it, but was so happy that I had redeemed last year! 

Boise was a reminder that as triathletes we can’t expect ourselves to perform exceptionally at every race.  I had the race of my life 3 weeks ago and it was so nice to come to Boise to have fun and have no expectations.  It was also fun to see what my body could put together after a half iron distance 3 weeks ago. I love to race!  Every race teaches me more about the sport and more about myself!

So what did Boise teach me?

1.     Having fun races are important!!  Having those no stress races are vital to our season!

2.     Having challenging races where things don’t go as planned is not always bad.  These are the races that make us stronger triathletes.  They are the races that teach us how to race when the stars aren’t aligning for us.

3.     Even in a disastrous race I have learned to hold it together, stay calm, and just make due with what my body has for that day instead of turning into a head case. 

4.     I LOVE traveling to races with friends!!  It was the perfect girls weekend!

5.     I am NEVER, EVER doing Boise again!  This race is not for me!  Three years there…never a good race…yip, done!  If I talk about signing up for next year…please stop me!

6.     The triathlon community is the best!!  Always welcoming and always friendly.  Loved the SUTC! 

As always….I couldn’t do this without all the support I receive!  I huge thanks to all our sponsors who help ensure we have what we need to perform at our races.  (Kestrel, TriEdge, HEAD, Bearpaw, Flexr, Gu, and Switch).  A huge thanks to my most awesome husband!  I could never do this without his support!  A shout out to my favorite coaches, Coach Heath and Coach M.  They are simply the best!  They have taught me so much about racing…I honestly can’t thank them enough!  They have taught me to be a faster and smarter triathlete!  Also a shout out to Natalie Rasmussen who ensures my legs are never broken….I love that girl!

Now here is to some much needed recovery!

Lucky Peak Reservoir

Pre Race Dinner with great company!

Me, McKenzie, and Breanna getting ready to swim!

Two thumbs up...coming in off the bike...So happy to be done with wind!

HITS - Grand Junction Half Iron

When I first heard about this new race in CO, I was super excited.  Ever since I did my first half in the fall of 2012, I had been marinating on the idea of doing another race.  Grand Junction was perfect, it's not too far to drive, and I have family there, which is great for lodging.  :)

The day before the race, as usual, I went with Amber's family and my littles over to Highline Lake to hop in for a swim.  The water was a little chilly, but not too bad.  The lake is long, with higher protected sides, and pretty (though the water itself was pretty dirty).  We got a good feel for the transition area, and sat through the pre-race meeting.  Both of us were having some technical issues - my cateye battery was dead on my bike, and Amber's garmin was acting up.  So instead of our planned leisurely drive of the bike course, we ran into Fruita (town nearby), and got our stuff situated.  Once bikes were ready, we brought them back and checked them in. A couple of things that were different for me on this race were that the transition area was a good little job up from the water... up a grass hill, through the park, and over the parking lot.  I figured I'd have plenty of time to get out of my wetsuit and gear on my run over.  The other thing that I didn't necessarily love is that the bike out was on the side away from the road, so you had to run your bike over the grass and around transition to get to the parking lot of the park.

SO - race day.

Got up at 4am to have a nice big breakfast.  Had all my things loaded and ready to roll, was feeling really good.  After a last minute inventory to make sure I hadn't over looked anything, Amber and I hopped in the car and headed toward the lake.  It was SO calm and quiet at the race start.  There was a bit of buzz, but there weren't a ton of racers.  There were roughly 250 doing the half, and 50 doing the full.  I really liked the set up for the HITS transition.  The bike setup was nice, and the big containers for your other "stuff" is great to have it handy, but not right in the way.  I also didn't know at the start how much I would like the little stool they had at each station.  I'll touch on that later :)

Race start:  After a brief rundown from Mark Wilson (race director), and a lovely little prayer, we got in the water about waist deep and waited for the mass start.  I picked my usual spot - up front but off to the side.  About a minute into the swim, two guys (one on either side) both elbowed me simultaneously in the head.  :(  It caught me so off guard that I popped up out of the water, and not-so-gently shoved them both away from me with my hands.  Then, I got back to my joyful swim.  The water was nice and calm once about 10 minutes in, and the people started to spread out.  I was feeling so good that when I hit the last buoy I was going all out and feeling great.  When I hit the shore and got up, Mark (race d) was there and told me I was the 2nd woman out - WOOHOO!  Then I looked at my watch and saw my time!  YES. Final swim time 30:55!

There were no wetsuit strippers at this event, but beforehand, Amber and I designated James Lawrence as our helper.  I saw him as I started running up the hill, and got the suit yanked off and ran toward transition.  My feet were COLD.  The lake was chilly, and my feet felt like stumps.  I hate that sensation.  Once in transition, I threw on my helmet, socks, shoes, glasses and ran!  T1 time: 2:56.  Not too bad considering that counted the run up from the lake.

I was really excited for the bike on this race.  I had been feeling the itch, big time to be out on my bike.  Within the first mile, I was all adrenaline, and almost had a euphoric feeling.  I was flying!  The course itself was filled with lots of rolling country roads (my favorite!).  The course had two out and back sections.  It was beautiful scenery, had some little and a couple big climbs on the first big.  The first out and back included a steep hill climb and lots of little rolling sections.  The second out and back was a little more difficult.  It included an eleven mile climb.  Yes, I said 11.  I was feeling pretty good overall on this, but it was slow going, and there was a headwind.  When I hit the turnaround, I FLEW down the hill.  I tried to remember not to kill myself going all out on the last 5 or so miles, so I wouldn't have dead legs on the run.   My nutrition on the bike was so dialed in; I've never felt so good on the bike before.  I was really conscientious about how I was feeling, so I was taking more/less salt/water during the whole bike ride.  I averaged 19.5mph on the bike - and I was happy with that! One little down note is that the bike course was long.  It was 57.22 miles :(  Bike time: 2:56:11.

T2 - oh, this is where I was happy for my little stool.  After running my bike over the grass into transition, I set it up, and then sat to change my shoes.  I didn't realize that the quick sit motion would make my head woosey!  I almost fell of my stool - was sure glad it was there though!  I threw on my running belt, grabbed my water bottle, switched shoes, and ran out.  T2 time: 1:50

Coach told me to not kill myself out the gate on the run, no matter how good I was feeling.  right off the bat, the run was pretty much downhill, you went over the dam and then down on a trail that linked to a road.  My legs were a little jelly, but I just kept going.  I felt okay and then I hit the hill.  I ran through that, and then the wind came.  I don't mean a breeze, or light wind... I run in that all the time at home.  This was real serious wind, with big gusts!  Miles 2-6.5 (turnaround) sucked!  It was so windy, and my usual tactic of finding a running buddy didn't work.  I found one gal, but she was doing a run 2/walk1, then I found another guy, but he stopped for the port-o.  It was kind of lonely.  Though I was kind of spent, and going slower than I would have liked, I wasn't mentally falling apart.  I just kept telling myself that I could still hit my own goal overall.  When I hit the "halfway" point, I sadly realized that the run was going to be long too :(  The run course ended up being 13.4 miles.  The bonus of the turnaround was that I had a nice brief tailwind that was STRONG!  But all good things must come to an end... like when I had to make a right turn down the road, and my friend the tailwind, had become a new nemesis - crosswind.  I stopped at every aid station, and got water/coke.  I should have forced myself to do better on my salts and gu on the run.  That is where I need to nail it down next time.   Running in was great! I came around the bend toward the finish and saw my sister with my little kids, and Amber's little kids.  They were screaming and cheering like crazy! Derek even gave me a nice back handspring, and then they ran it in with me.  My final time on the run was 2:09:09.  

My overall time was 5:41:03.  I wanted to finish in 5:45 or less, and so I was tickled pink about this.  I was especially happy with my swim and bike.  And I learned that sometimes, even when you feel amazing in one event, you may need to reign it in a bit so you have some left to give on the others.  The best bonus of the day was to find out that I actually placed!!! I took 2nd in my agegroup, and was stoked!

From Austin 70.3 until this race was just over 6 months.  I cut 15 minutes off my time, and got a PR on my swim and bike. 

As usual, I had a terrific time racing with Amber.  She is so great to race with, and I'm always blown away by how much inner drive she has.  I hope it will rub off on me :)  It is wonderful to have a friend out there on the course - even if it is just to see that you're not the only one dying a little :) 

Special thanks to my great teammates who cheer for and support me!  Thank you so much to my coaches, Mahogani and Heath with HT Training.  I learn SO much from you both, and am grateful that you see the potential in me to do hard things, and that you believe in me.  I couldn't train a day without the support of my husband and kids - I'm so blessed that they support me in my craziness to do this awesome sport.  

Thank you to our wonderful sponsors HEAD Swimming - I am so in love with my goggles I can't even express it - -and thank you so much for your constant attention and support of me and our entire team - BEARPAW, I love that after I beat my feet up, your shoes are there to help them get better! Thanks so much to Kestrel (love my bike!), TriEdge, Gu, Flexr, and Switch - this sponsor support is phenomenal to have!

I loved the HITS race - Mark was a fantastic director, the staff and volunteers were well prepared, and I loved the smaller feel to a distance race.  I will do a HITS race again!

HITS Grand Junction.....My goal has been met!

Pre swim at Highline Lake

Out on the run

I love seeing my kids at the finish line!

Always happy when you get to the finish!

Number two woman!

Overall female awards

As I started planning my 2013 race season I decided I wanted to do more long distance races because I love the challenge of them! When HITS announced their new race in Grand Junction for this year I was so excited because it was close to home and I had heard great reviews about their races. The course looked a lot like where we live and the average temperature was in the range of what I like to race in. So I decided I would sign up. My good friend, Laura, also signed up which would make for a super fun race weekend!! Her sister was so generous to let my family stay at her home with Laura's family. So not only was I excited for race weekend, but so were my kids! They literally played ALL weekend!

The week before the race I really took advantage of my taper by resting and focusing on how I was going to deal with the last miles of the race. In prior half distances I have always fallen apart mentally and I was determined to get it figured out through mental strength and nutrition. I can run a great half marathon and I knew I just needed to find a way to deal with my head to run a great half in an 70.3 distance.

We arrived in Grand Junction late Thursday night and decided Friday would be a day of race preparation. We packed a lunch for our families and we all set out to the venue of the race. Highline State Park is a very family friendly location. It has a couple small beaches for kids to play on, several picnic tables, and a playground. The kids were very entertained while I got in a short open water swim and bike ride. The unfortunate part was my garmin decided to completely seize up and I had a momentary panic attack. We all know how much we rely on that dang piece of equipment and I had no idea how I would race without it!!! The dang piece tells me race time for nutrition, heartrate, speed...all those details that are SO important in a long distance race. Luckily, after plugging it into the charger it decided to work again. Nothing like a little panic the day before the race! Laura and I had decided to not drive the bike course as it seemed to be pretty uneventful from looking at the profile, but as we sat in the race meeting and heard people talking about “all the hills” we decided we better go check it out. So we checked into the race, checked in our bikes and went out onto the course. It is funny what people think “hills” are. It made me feel really lucky to live where we do. We are so used to rolling hills and big climbs in the canyons I feel we can go race anywhere and be OK. The course was going to be full of rolling hills and false flats with a little wind...just how I like it! The night before the race I got a call from Coach to discuss the race. I really love talking to Coach before an A race!

Race morning was pretty uneventful. We arrived at transition just over an hour before the race and got everything set up. HITS is honestly such a friendly race. The race director, Mark, is everywhere! Checking on athletes, ensuring everyone has what they need, and he was found all over the venue during the race cheering on athletes. The transition space was unusually big, which I loved...I was just unsure what to do with all my space!! I had a stool, a sweet slot holder for my bike, and loads of room for my bag and transition mat. Everyone was so friendly and helpful in transition. It was true triathlon spirit in the transition area that morning.

I was a little nervous about the swim start..all half and full athletes would start together. I have never started a race with men and with so many people...and I know how aggressive the guys can be I was really hoping I wouldn't get plummeted in the water. Laura and I got into the water just a couple minutes before race start and situated ourselves where we felt would be a smart, yet safe spot. The horn went off at seven promptly and I took off hoping to not get smashed! The first 700 yards or so was pretty chaotic. I think I probably swallowed a couple cups of water among all the choppy water we were creating (it had been glass before the race, but we were creating a bit of choppiness). It wasn't until I was about half way through the swim that I felt I could get into a rhythm and find my own space. I was feeling great in the water and felt strong. Side note...we learned the day before that they wouldn't have wetsuit strippers, but if we could find someone they could strip the suit for us. I asked James if he would be at the swim exit and if he was willing to be the wetsuit stripper...I was very grateful for that he was there and willing. Every second counts! I had told him if I had the swim of my life I would come out at 36 minutes...but gave him the range of 36-39. When I came out and looked at my watch I had to look at the distance to make sure I didn't miss a buoy...I had come out in 33:59...swim of my LIFE! I was SO excited! James was right where he said he would be and quickly stripped of my suit. Can I just add I love seeing familiar faces on the course. I was so happy running into transition. I grabbed my bike and committed to myself that I would not let the swim go to waste. (Swim: 33:59)

The bike was a slight downhill for the first 7 miles which was great to get the heart rate under control. Then the rolling hills started. The farm roads were so beautiful and I was in my happy place taking my nutrition exactly as I had planned and calculated. I passed the first female at 18 miles and knew I was in third place at that point. I also knew there would probably be 11 miles that was going to be into a headwind and slightly uphill. When I got to that point I just buckled down and pedaled. I was grateful for all those windy days I have biked in the last month. As I got to about 2 miles to the turn around I saw girl number 2. I passed her and knew now I was in 2nd place. I don't think she girl liked that I passed her because we played leap frog for about 10 miles. I kept glancing at my garmin to ensure I was still racing my race and not racing her race. Then I decided I was right where I needed to be and maybe I could bike tire her legs the last 12 miles. I came into transition about 30 seconds in front of her. (Bike average 21.8MPH...bike ended up being 1.07 miles long)

I gathered what I needed for the run and ensured I had all nutrition...I was not going to screw up my nutrition on this race. I headed out learning the leading female was 10 minutes in front of me and third place was right on my heels. I kept glance of my watch the first 2 miles to ensure I didn't go out to fast and glanced back every so often to make sure 3rd place wasn't catching up to me. My goal was to run smart. I knew that miles 2-6.5 going out was a slight uphill, what I didn't consider was that it was going to be straight into that same dang wind! It was windy! But, I kept my mind focused and kept dialed in on my nutrition. The run course ended up being fun (I was tired, but it was fun). Everyone was encouraging those around them and yelling supportive things. I don't know how many times I was told I was number 2. It is always so nice to hear words of encouragement and I enjoyed encouraging others. It really kept my mind busy. Miles 8-10 were rough but I was not going to stop, I was not going to loose my 2nd place slot. There was a man in front of me that I just focused on keeping up with between those rough miles. He glanced back and told me that if I beat him his friends were going to give him crap! He was great to talk to for a few minutes and then at mile 11 we hit those two miles of uphill. I knew that if I kept consistent I would keep my spot. I had pretty much ignored my garmin on the run and just ran off feel because I didn't want to blow up. I knew if I just ran consistent I wouldn't be caught. As I approached the finish line I grabbed my kids and we ran in together....they LOVE that about my races. (Run average 7:38...ended up being 13.4 miles!).When I crossed the finish Kim Boldt yelled 4:59. My main goal for this year was to do a 5 hour 70.3. I was so excited...I had held it together and had the race I knew I was capable of!! It was so nice to see so many familiar faces at the finish line...thanks CK Elite! I ended up four minutes behind the lead woman.

I quickly found the girl who had won and she was so friendly and I learned she was a pro...Heather Gullnick. I was so impressed with her!

I honestly could not have asked for a better day. I feel like when we race these distances there are so many things that can go wrong that when everything goes right we need to savor the moment. I love the challenge of this sport and I am so happy that all the stars aligned for me at this race! I am still doing the happy dance!

A huge thanks to my husband who supports me in my training as well as coming to these crazy events. I honestly could not do this without his support. Thanks to Heath and Mahogani Thurston. Their advice and training helped me reach my goal and I am so grateful for them!! A shout out to the TriEdge Womens Team and my dear friend Laura! A huge thanks to all of our sponsors: Kestrel, TriEdge, HEAD, Gu, Flexr, and Switch. Thanks for everything!

If you are considering doing a HITS race....DO IT! They are great!

Leadman 125...An Inferno of Heat!

Earlier this year as I was setting goals and deciding my race schedule I decided I wanted to focus on some long distance races this year. I had heard great reviews about Leadman and decided I would put it on my calendar. Leadman Tempe is a 125K: 1.7 mile swim, 70 mile bike, and 8 mile run. Swimming is my weak point and running is my strength so I figured this distance would be perfect for me since my weak point was longer then a half ironman. I never considered the conditions of the race because it is in April....April in Utah means cold weather. So I figured it would probably be perfect in Arizona.  After signing up I had a few people say...it is going to be hot! Here is a little side note...I don't like racing in the heat.
With that said...here is how it went down. I drove down to Tempe with a great group of friends and Coach. We spent the two days leading up to the race literally not doing much of anything besides staying out of the sun and hot weather. (Yes, 88 degrees feels hot when you are used to 40 degrees). We literally did a lot of sitting, watching movies, and sitting in the hot tub. We scored with the house we rented as it had the best TV/movie set up, a hot tub and pool in the backyard, and was close to Tempe Town Lake. We hit up the expo, checked in bikes, checked out the bike course, stressed out about the bike course, and ate a lot of yummy food! I couldn't have asked for a better two days before a race!

Race morning came and we got to transition about an hour before it closed. I did my typical set up of transition, drank more water, went over all my nutrition,  drank more water, and was ready. For some reason I was more nervous then usual. I don't know if it was because it was a distance I have never done or if it was the first race of the season. But, nonetheless I was nervous.

Swim: The swim was a little tough. The sun was shining right in our faces for the swim out. The course was an out and back which I thought I would love. But, you couldn't see a darn thing! So I figured as long as I could see the shore when I would breathe to the right then I was going the right direction. I really had to rely on just seeing people in front of me. I just kept it relaxed on the swim as I have never swam that far in open water and I just wasn't sure how hard to push it. I figured it was going to be a long day and there was no reason to kill myself in the water. So, I just swam. Time: 53 minutes.

Bike: The bike course was a four loop course with A LOT of turns. Literally....four U turns per loop amongst several other turns on each loop. I was dreading all the turns on the course, but it actually ended up being a great one. And I can now say I have had a lot of practice cornering! It was the most consistent bike ride I have had. I held a good pace the entire time, and feel like I have gained a lot of strength there this past year. Usually in a half I am ready to get off the bike, but today at mile 70 I wanted to keep going! I wasn't hot and I felt like I had nailed my nutrition for the bike. (Average 20.5 MPH)

Run: The run was a complete different story. This is where my day goes bad. The course was advertised at 40% on trail and there was no way to preview the run course. So I was going in blind, which I don't like. But, I started my run with a happy spirit and was happy to still be racing. My paces the first 3 miles were great! I was happy to be on trail and things were going well. After mile 3 things went ugly....really ugly...and it went ugly fast! All I could think about was how hot I was. There was not one ounce of shade on the run course....Zero! It ran through Papago Park which was basically a cactus field of heat. I knew I was hydrated, but all I could think of was hot and thirsty. Miles 6-7.5 were very ugly. Within minutes I had gone from feeling great to thinking I was going to call Coach M when I was done and tell her I am done racing long distance races. When I crossed the finish line I immediately just sat down. I felt like garbage. Once I got some calories in me I was able to process what happened. I didn't take any gu or salts on my run in 90 degree heat....brilliant! When I talked to my mom she said how did you not remember to take that. I learned a lot from this race.....when you don't get enough salt or nutrition your mind goes blank and you literally can't even identify what is wrong. All I could think of was hot and thirsty....my mind never went to I probably need salt and calories. (8:19 pace average). This was the slowest run I have ever had! But, this is why I love racing. You never know what is going to happen on race day. You never know if things are going to come together or fall apart. And no matter what happens, good or bad, you are left as an athlete to figure out how to replicate or not replicate what you did. I know I am going to make some drastic changes before my next race on how I am going to remind myself to take needed nutrition on the run. I also learned I really am not made to race in heat. Some people love it....I hate it. I am a fair weather racer.

A special thanks to my great friends who were at the finish line at Leadman to drape ice on me and get me fluid. A huge thanks to Coach for coming down to race with us and helping us ensure all our bikes were in great shape to race and waiting at the finish line as well. Another big thanks to Coach M for helping me process through my race and knowing what we need to do in the future to help me nail these longer distances. I also want to give a shout out to my awesome husband who puts up with my craziness and is so willing to take care of the kiddos when I come on these crazy adventures. I am so appreciative. I continue to have a great love for this sport and look forward to another fun year of racing! 

A big thanks to our sponsors: TriEdge, HEAD, Switch, GU, Bearpaw, Kestrel.

One more side note...Laura Anderson gets the award for toughest person of the day!  I was so proud to see her cross the finish line.  Way to stick it out in tough conditions!

What is a trip without good food!  Loved this place in downtown Tempe!

Coach knows how to load up the bikes!

I think this is one of my favorite venues...minus the heat!

I just love racing with this girl!

Sunrise on race morning!  Beautiful!

I love these girls!  I absolutely loved traveling and racing with them!

Shamrock Half Marathon....Kick off to the Season

Earlier this year my husband had set a goal to run the Shamrock Half Marathon.  As it drew closer and I talked with my coaches it was decided I needed to do a spring half marathon.  The Shamrock Half fit the bill perfectly...the start line was a mile from my house, I had run most of the course on training runs, and my daughter's dance competition that day wasn't until late that afternoon...perfect match!

The Shamrock Half Marathon is not a PR course....it is very hilly the entire race!  My garmin had a total climb of 1,392 feet when I crossed the finish line.  I didn't have much expectation from this race as I was at a triathlon camp last weekend and when I ran on Tuesday it felt like I had lead legs and was dragging a ton of bricks behind me.  I had decided I would do with whatever my legs would give me.  My only strategy was to not kill myself the first four miles of hills.

Since this was just a long training day without much expectation I spent Friday night at the Tin Angel Cafe with a bunch of friends eating the yummiest dinner and, yes, dessert.  I woke up race morning 90 minutes before the race start and left my house 15 minutes before start time.  Yes, this was a very non-stress morning.

When I got to the race I decided I better get into some sort of race mode so I did a short little warm up, took my gu, and headed to the start line.  When the gun went off I didn't have lead legs!  I ran with a couple people for the first four miles that were holding a pace I figured was pretty good for all the hills.  Mentally I thought lets just get through these first four miles and then we can really run.  Four miles came and went, my heart rate was where I wanted and I decided it was time to start picking people off.  One my one I started targeting people.  I ignored the headwind and the uphill and just ran. I knew that for every up there was going to be a good downhill somewhere.  And when those came I ran hard!  When I got to mile 9 and picked off two more girls I figured I was somewhere near the front of the pack.  My legs were still cooperating but I knew I had one more hill at mile 10.  That hill was of the devil...it was steep!  But, once I reached the top I pushed it to the finish line.  My legs were not happy and my music was turned up louder.

I was so pleased when I crossed the finish line in 1:32:37!  I had exceeded my expectations for the day.  I am now wondering if I should just treat every race like it is all fun and no stress....as I did everything that I would NEVER do the night before a race.  Yet... I had a great day!  So, I think I am changing my mantra to the same as a good friend of mine....It is all about fun!  And today....was FUN!  I ended up placing 4th overall and 1st in age group.

I am so excited for this upcoming race season because I have chosen some super fun races with super fun people, and this year is going to be FUN!

A special thanks to my awesome triathlon team....I love these girls!  Also, thanks to GU....there is no better product in a half marathon...TriEdge, Flexr, and Switch (their glasses rock!)

And a big congratulations to my husband who reached his time goal for his half marathon as well!!  It was fun to be at the finish line to cheer him on as he is at so many of mine being my biggest cheerleader.

Off Season...and a cold winter ride

I have to say I have been thoroughly enjoying the offseason.  Since Austin in the end of October I have basically been doing whatever I have felt like.  It has kind of looked like this:  maybe a 3-5 mile run on a nice day outside, a spin class here and there, and some nice swims that have been short and sweet.  After last season I really needed to take some time off...both my mind and my body!
I ended the season with a couple injuries...one that I am still exactly not sure what it is, but it is feeling better!  I have spent my time with chiropractors, massage therapists, and physical therapists rather then actually training!  Luckily, I have been referred to some awesome people who have been so great to offer suggestions and techniques to try.  So with that being said, maybe I have enjoyed my off season too much! 

I was invited to go to St. George over New Years...yes, that meant ditching my husband on New Years Eve!  In those 24 hours I put in more training then I have in the past two months!  It included an awesome swim workout at the pool that coach suggested to conclude 2012...20 100's with a 12 second rest.  I had serious doubts about that, but "everyone else was going to do it!"  So...I did as well.  It was actually a great workout and I was glad I did it when I was done.  That evening was filled with visiting with training buddies and washing down my salt covered Kestrel from the ride down.  The weather was going to be COLD for a bike ride the next day.  I have rules...they include not riding if it is below 45 degrees.  This bike ride was definitely going to be against the rules and I wasn't completely set on going out.  Which meant a great run New Years morning through the hills of Bloomington with great company. Then some breakfast and off to the bike.  Did I mention it was cold?  Yes, 31 degrees when we got on our bikes!  We looked like marshmallows!  We ended up biking 40 miles and it actually wasn't too bad after the first few minutes....maybe we all just went numb?  And, yes, the bike ride reminded me I have REALLY enjoyed my off season!  It definitely wasn't the ride I had two months ago.  But, that is what off season is for.  To let our bodies and minds recover, maybe put on a couple pounds, enjoy not having structure,  and spending more time with family so that we can be ready to rebuild our speed for another great year of racing! I was set on taking that off season break and I am looking forward to the pay offs this coming year as I build back my endurance and speed.