TWU pioneer power sprint Tri 2014

7.27.14

As mentioned in previous posts, Dallas athletes racing is a local race company that does a really nice job coordinating races. While I've raced with them a few times in the past, conflicts have kept me from racing with them this year until today.  

This event was held at TWU, and benefited the women's soccer team. 

Simple format: 200yd indoor swim, 16.3 "out and back" on the bike and a 5k. 

This event attracted more than 400 athletes. 

I am feeling much better about my swimming, due to increased pool time and the fact that this event was taking place in a 25yd pool. 

When it was my time, I hit the water and moved steadily through the pool. No stops. Out of the water and into transition. My transition times are still slow.  I hit the bike and found great rhythm.  I averaged almost 20mph on the way out and passed several cyclists.  Even after yesterday's bike rally, my legs felt pretty good.   Heading back was much slower.  A headwind and some long rises slowed my pace. I ended at a little over 17mph. I racked my bike and headed out on a slow, steady 5k. When I turned the corner for the home stretch I picked it up and picked it up again to sprint through the finish. 

Medals for all on this one (and other good swag). 

1:36:11. A long way to go to be competitive in my age group. Overall, I was 174 out of 400ish.  As mentioned previously, my bike is an issue. 

I really should race with this group more often. If my schedule allows, I will paricipate in their next Tri in September.  

Tour de Goatneck 2014

7.26.14

After a week off from racing, this weekend was going to be busy, as I did this bike rally on Saturday and a sprint tri on Sunday.  

The "Goatneck" is a bike rally in Cleburne. It is in it's 27th year. (http://www.thegoatneck.com)

I knew of this event last year, as the Joshua Y serves this area. However, due to a conflict, I was unable to participate in 2013. 

My cycling has picked up recently, as I've been training for my 70.3, but, my distances have been in the 20-25 mile range. I've completed two long rallies this year, far fewer than this time last year.  

I signed up for the 70 mile route, but downgraded, as I mistakenly signed up for a sprint tri on Sunday.  I figured I should "save a little something" for the tri.  

I downgraded to the 41 mike route, with hopes of getting it done in 2.5 hours or less with minimal stops.  

My 1st stop was near the 20 mile mark. I hadn't eaten much, and needed to pee, so, I headed for the rest stop.  My gears had been not been shifting well either, so, I had the bicyles inc guy look at it. While he thought he'd resolved the issue, it was not much better post stop. 

All in all, a good ride.  41.6 in 2:34:07. 1400 feet of climbing and 16.2 mph. 

I'll be back for this one in the future. 

The Mayor's Tri 2014

7.13.14

Fort the second year in a row, the Y hosted this event.  Last year, this was my first multisport event ever.  Over the past 12 months, my running has significantly increased, I've completed 3 half marathons, multiple 5ks and 10ks, 3 duathlons, and 3 triathlons. 

While I have become more skilled in racing, I entered this race 10 pounds over my race weight of a year ago.  My diet has been poor and my training has been sporadic.  However this year I had confidence.  

I improved in all areas, and posted a 1:28:50. 3 minutes faster than last year.   I have a long way to go to be competitive,  but, I'm improving.  

My training for Austin 70.3 began last week.  I'll look forward to seeing what I can accomplish over the next few months, and, getting back down to a decent race weight. 

Heavy.

Time to get down to race weight.

After ballooning to almost 240 in 2005 - 2008, I dropped down to 221 in January of 2012. Due to a better diet, I dropped again to 211 before starting my cycling in March 2012.  While I ultimately dropped below 190 (too light), I am most comfortable at 192-195. 

July 13, 2012:  192.5

July  9, 2013:  192

July 11, 2014:  203

Time to get serious.

2005?

2006

2006

2008

2010

2010

2012

2012

2013

2013

2014

2014

Take 2.

This week, my quest to complete a half ironman (70.3) begins.  I started down this path in December, but, was derailed by injuries and life in general. So...take 2. 

The target event:  ironman 70.3 Austin.  This event will take place on my 44th birthday.  

I am entering my training plan a little out of shape and 10 pounds overweight, as I have not been diligent about training and my diet has been poor.  However, I have several events scheduled between now and 10.26 that will keep me honest.  

Here was my mindset going into my December training...not much has changed:

Let the training begin!

In 2013 my wellness events evolved a bit, as I dipped my toe in the pool of multisport events.  As one might imagine, this has led to a desire to increase distances in said events. So, 1st challenge: ironman 70.3.  I asked Tarp, one of the local Tri gurus, which event to target as my 1st half ironman, and, Galveston was the recommendation.  (http://www.ironman.com/triathlon/events/americas/ironman-70.3/texas.aspx#axzz2nUJvL8lf). 

So, tomorrow, my journey begins.  I will follow this 16 week training plan: (http://triathlon.competitor.com/2010/09/training/super-simple-ironman-70-3-triathlon-training-plan_12364). 

I'm entering this training program a little out of shape and banged up, as I have not been diligent about my training in several months, and have a sore right knee. 

I'm hopeful that I can push through the knee pain. 

When training for my 1st sprint Tri last summer, I found great motivation in training for the event, and, saw good results as well. 

I suspect that the cycling will come easy, the improvement on the running will come, and the swimming will suck. It will also be a challenge to find time to "open water" swim between now and the event. 

Game on. 

Here we go....

Firecracker 5000 2014

7.4.14

In an attempt to find something for the weekend before we went out of town, I found this event.  Knowing this route and start / finish line, it was a comfortable option.  

I rode my bike to and from the event, which will become a regular occurrence.  

About 700 runners in this one.  Off to a strong start, maintained pace, and finished strong.  While I missed my 25' target mark for 2014, I only missed slightly, at 25:44.  I'll get there soon.  However, a new PR by a minute.  25' is within reach.  

Sheri finished  41 seconds faster, and took 1st in her AG. For me, 14th of 43. Ugh.