For as many years as I've been writing these reports, you know there's ALWAYS something that happens at a race. There are few (if any) perfect races.
But it isn't all that noise, all those external issues that make a race good or bad. It's how we handle them.
SheRox Sprint Triathlon 750m/10.7 mile bike/5k
I have never done this race before. I watched it last year when I was training for boulder. I had a long ride planned that day and didn't realize there was a race going on. When I was done my ride, I looked up the finish times. DAMN, bitches are FAST.
Mental note: AVOID SheRox
Fast Forward to this year, I'm registered and ready to go. Ready to compete against those insanely fast women.
So, there's that.
Then, there's also the fact that 2 weeks ago I found out that my nemesis was also planning on racing.
Why I'm not particularly fond of her:
1.) She gives triathletes a bad name.
2.) She's mean.
3.) She has a huge ego.
4.) She's one of the faster swimmers. (I often finished within seconds of her at our Dip n Dashes.....which means she beat me at every single race).
But maybe the most important reason:
When we found out that we'd both be at SheRox, she said, "Oh, I'll stick around and cheer you in."
OH
NO
YOU
DI'NT
I want to do well. I run my race to the best of my ability. The results will be what they are. But, DO NOT call me out like that.
Cuz I will open a can of whoop ass every time.
Let's get on with the race.
I took a tour of the course first thing in the morning. The transitions were ridiculous. The run from the water was .25 mile up a very steep hill. Crazy steep. Next (minus the hill) a similarly long run from transition to the point where you can actually mount and dismount your bike.
Running is not exactly my strong point. The more running there is, the more that will hurt my time in the long run.
I turn to My Mike, and I say "I have to take my wetsuit off right at swim exit. It's the only way I will be able to keep up with everyone."
Of course, he replies, "You are brillant."
Let's talk goals. My goal for this race: sub 1:30, aggressive goal: 1:25. Broken down like this:
Swim: 14:00
Bike: 20.5 mph
Run: sub 32:55
Swim
I was in the last wave. I took off at a moderate pace. I hit the 325m mark in 5:07. I was happy with that. We turned. The next 100 was into the current (not a strong current at all). then we turned and the rest was straight home with the current.
I step on the beach in 14:05 (garmin time). PERFECT. I wasn't out of breath, wasn't tired. Felt like I just had a nice little swim.
On the beach, I stopped and stripped my suit off super fast. My Mike yells at me "Sandra got out in 11:00, 3 minutes ahead of you, but she didn't look good."
I took off running up hill. I yelled back. "No problem. I will catch her on the bike."
When I said that, everyone started cheering for me. People were yelling "GO GET HER. You'll catch her!"
Note: Taking my wetsuit off at water's edge, really was brilliant. I ran the quarter of a mile in about 2:00, uphill, and I passed other women who were walking with their wetsuits on.
I run into T1, throw my wetsuit down, put on my helmet, and I'm outta there fast. the fastest t1 time of my AG in under 1 minute.
Now....here's the dumb part....we have to run with our bikes, not just through transition, but down a path toward the road, make a left turn THEN we can mount our bikes.
Again, NOT good for someone who is not the best (but getting better) at running.
Clearly this race was design by a RUNNER for RUNNERS.
I hop on the the bike at the same time another women in my AG did. (She ended up coming in #1 on the bike. I was #2).
We were neck in neck the ENTIRE way. I would beat her on climbs and she'd pass me on the downhills.
I couldn't shake her. (BTW-she ended up coming in 3rd. Well deserved. Well played little lady. Well played).
Then, I made my mistake. at 5 miles, I reached back for my GU. Nothing. both packets fell out of my short pockets. Within those few seconds of loss of concentration, she took off, and I couldn't catch her. Well, I probably could....see LESSONS LEARNED...at the bottom.
BIKE: my garmin posted my speed as 20.2 mph. Officially speed was 19.7....that's with the long transition calculated in. I'm fine with that. Next time, I will be 21 mph. Count on it.
T2:
All of a sudden, I realize that I have no idea where sandra was. How did she get so fast? She must have beat me again. That's when My Mike yells: Sandra hasn't come in yet. You're number 2. GO!!!
In my excitement, I started running out when I realized that I had my helmet on. No wait. I didn't notice the helmet. Heather did. With a quick little hand motion and, "Um, you gotta a little something stuck to your head." I realized my mistake. WTF? I had to run all the way back to my bike.
The Run
Here we go. I'm feeling really good. the run starts on an uphill. Pretty good sized. I think to myself, "This is PERFECT. I need to remember to start slower. This will really help me."
I'm pacing pretty good. I feel great. I have never felt so good during a race.
top of the hill: .65 miles. AWESOME. I'll hit that hard on the way back.
At mile 2, I start to pick up the pace. At mile 2, I glance at my watch. I SWEAR it said 1:17.
I'm a little disappointed, but I knew I was heading to a pr. Heck all I had to do was run less than a 13 minute mile, and I'll PR. But, I wanted MORE than that. I set my sights on a finish time of 1:27. Thinking, well the aggressive goal was PRETTY AGGRESSIVE.
At the halfway point of the run, I stopped for water and gatorade. I didn't have anything on the bike except for water, and I didn't want the problem with cramping that I had at my last race.
With 1 mile left, I hit hard. Mild ups and downs and then the .65 downhill. It's about the only time I can hit an 8:30 mile.
FINISH
At this point, I'm running about as hard as I can run.
Keep in mind...I have NO idea what my time is.
I cross the finish line and don't even look at the clock.
My Mike comes running at me, SCREAMING "1:23!! 1:23!!!! I THINK YOU PLACED 1:23!! You were going so fast. I almost missed you on the bike. You were coming in hot!"
I wrinkle up my face and I'm thinking "Boy....you're delusional. There's no way I was 1:23."
I look at my Garmin: 1:23:45 which just happens to be my offical time.
That's.not.possible. How did that happen?
We hung around waiting for the results. Placing would ROCK, but I'm still walking around dazed and confused as to how I possibly pulled off a 1:23.
results are finally up: 5th place. 5th place.
I've never come in above 50%, let alone top 10. NEVER.
We sit down. Mike's munching on my post race burrito when he says, "Oh hey look. Sandra just crossed the finish line."
12 minutes after me.
"You should go congratulate her. Let her know."
"Nah, that's not my style. She'll see the results."
1:23. What is that? a 9 minute? 10 minute pr? I don't know. I'm still not thinking straight.
I don't even feel like I did a 1:23.
Thrilled? I can't even begin to explain how happy I am. I looked at the official results. All the runners around me ran their 5ks at around 8:30 pace or so. Then there's my little ole 10:29 pace coming in 5th.
There's something to be said for executing a race to plan and being good at the swim and really good on the bike.
But with every race, there's the good and the "where can I improve"
Lessons learned:
1.) don't lose concentration on the bike.
2.) On the short rides, GU is fine, but those shorts pockets were too shallow. Next time, I'll wear my shorts with the leg pockets.
What I did well:
1.) I followed the plan.
2.) I didn't go out like a bat out of hell.
3.) Even when I thought I was behind or coming in close to a PR, I kept my focus up instead of taking the "defeatist" mentality. I wasn't going to give up today.
Where do I go from here:
These are the nagging questions, post race analysis.
Did I go hard enough? I'm not sure. I feel pretty confident that I could have upped the intensity a little bit in each event.
But SHOULD I have? should I have gone faster on the swim? Would that have hurt my bike?
I could have gone faster on the bike. Would that have hurt my run?
I could have gone faster on the run. I should have gone faster on the run.
For the first time, I feel like I have untapped potential. Yes, I can be a faster runner. One of these times, I'll break that damn 10:00 pace.
But I can be faster on the bike. Is that being cocky? Or confident? I was 10th overall today (on the bike). I could have been faster, which is pretty amazing when you realize that I am in the 45-49 AG.
I'll tell you what wasn't cocky...but just plain truth...passing all those women in the early waves on the bike. Times don't lie.
My next race is 7/28. It's an international distance race.
Right now, I'm going to put my feet up, put on some cheesie 80's movie and eat frozen yogurt.
thanks for reading.
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
I pulled 2nd place out of my ass
Here is the question:
Would you rather come in first, second or third during a race where you missed your goal and/or made dumb mistakes?
OR
Would you rather hit your goals and come in last?
I came in second place (AG) after racing one of my worst races ever.
and I was PISSED.
Go ahead, tell me to be happy about coming in second. I don't care. I missed my goals by 10 minutes.
You guys have been reading about my tri adventures since 2005. You know that I have always been a back of the packer. I have never really dreamed of coming in first, second or third. That would always be *nice*, but it doesn't represent who I am or what I can do.
All a medal means is that faster people didn't show up to race that day.
This was my first sprint since 2008. I could have sworn that I did one in 2009 or 2010, but I can't find any results.
I have never been so nervous before a race. I've been training with Ricci for 6 months now, and this was my first race with my new plan and focus. In the past, I've just done sprints for completion. I never really raced them.
Before the race, I watched the transition videos 4 times, taking different notes each time and practicing things. I read over the sprint strategy...too many times to count....and I got last minute advice from Coach.
The race was in the evening on a very hot day. I took all of that into account and planned my day out pretty well.
Still, nothing calmed me down. I can't tell you how nervous I was. My Mike was standing on the beach and he kept giving me this sign to breathe. I knew I must have looked like I was going to be sick because that's how I felt.
I managed to pull off a PR; even though, I made a ton of mistakes. PR, yes. Hit my goal: No.
What I really wanted to get out of this race was to just DO IT. Race a sprint and give me a point of reference for the rest of my season.
Swim
I am really comfortable on the swim. But I went about it all wrong. We had a beach start. I was literally shaking as I stood there. When it was time for us to go, I took off like a bat out of hell. My form was all jacked up. My heart rate felt like it was through the roof. I kept up that pace until I got to the first buoy. It would take me awhile to recover. I had to slow down. I didn't want to ruin my bike and run because I swam too fast. I caught and passed most of the men in the previous wave. When I got out of the water, I was still a mess.
I had to walk the hill back to transition.
Mistake:
I know this was entirely fueled my my nerves. I've had great ow swims this week. It would be better for me to focus on form and the speed will follow; instead of going out there like crazy.
Bike
I was looking forward to this. I will try to keep this short. I hopped on the bike and was ready to go. I scouted out the route before hand and knew that we started on a hill. I took it easy. I let a few people pass me. Once we got to the top, it was all over. Drop the hammer? Not exactly.
I was passing people like they were standing still, but I was holding back. After the swim, I was worried about going too hard and really suffering during the run. I made a goal that I wasn't going to let a woman pass me. When a guy passed, I would stay with him if I could. That's when I realized that I could climb hills better than I thought. I could catch these guys on the uphill. They would pass me on the downs. A couple of months before the race, I watched coach Troy's video on cresting a hill. I'd been practicing the technique. It worked. I got to the top, and I would end up being ahead until we were halfway down.
Toward the end, a guy pulled along side of me and said "Don't let me beat you. You beat me on the hills, but we're heading down now. Don't let me beat you" And he took off. The race was on. hahahahaha! No kidding, we were flying. We pulled into transition together.
I can't say I was disappointed with my speed because it was a PR. I averaged about 19.5 mph. I was disappointed because I held back too much. I was concerned about being able to run. Turns out, I was right....given how dehydrated I was.
Bike Mistake:
My plan was one bottle of infinit on the bike, get water at the aid station. I never saw an aid station. I finished the infinit and needed water. I had a small bottle of water in transition. I drank it down on the way out on the run. But, it wasn't enough. Next time, I will bring 2 bottles.
Run
I drank the little bottle of water. I wasn't even at the half mile mark when my stomach started cramping. There HAS to be an aid station on the run.
And there was....at the halfway mark. I really wish the RD had put an aid station at the 1 mile mark. Then we could have hit it twice. It's not the RD's fault that I messed up my nutrition. At the same time, it was hot out there.
I really missed my goal on the run. I run 5ks at a 9:35 pace. My goal for the 3 miles was 10:00 pace. I finished with a 10:58 pace. (And yes, that is a tie with my previous sprint pr, but it was slower than I could go had I done a better job of....well, just EVERYTHING).
OH! Another thing about the run. It was hilly. I wasn't expecting that at all. I've run out at this reservoir quite a bit, but have never run that course.
With a mile left, my calf started cramping. It was like little shots of lightning. At this point, I'm dreaming about water. I'm staring out at the reservoir filled with water, and I can't drink! OH the pain!
That's it. the finish is uphill through some sand, then a short sprint to the finish.
It really was a day of mixed emotions.
Now that I got that *first* race of the season done, I know what I need to fix. My transitions were fast. I was in and out, faster than I have in the past. I need to use more control and focus on form on the swim. I need to fuel better on the bike and not be afraid to "drop the hammer".
Then, the run will be easier. I wouldn't say it was a sufferfest, but cramps hurt a little bit.
After I finish, I sat down with My Mike and we had the BBQ. He was going on and on about my PR and how fast I went past on the bike and how great it was that I came out ahead of so many men in the previous wave. I listened to him, and I realized that he was right. I did well.
Then he says, "You need to race more."
Me: "You sound like Ricci."
Mike: "He's right. What do these races cost? $100? You need to race more. I know you made mistakes but that's because you hadn't raced in awhile. If you get out there, you'll be in race mentality more often. So, what's next?"
SHERPA HAS SPOKEN.
Finish time: 1:31 and almost 4 minute PR. 2nd place F45-49, but there were only a few of us in the 45-49 AG. My placing doesn't matter as much as my time anyway. (**update** there were in fact 10 of us).
Would you rather come in first, second or third during a race where you missed your goal and/or made dumb mistakes?
OR
Would you rather hit your goals and come in last?
I came in second place (AG) after racing one of my worst races ever.
and I was PISSED.
Go ahead, tell me to be happy about coming in second. I don't care. I missed my goals by 10 minutes.
You guys have been reading about my tri adventures since 2005. You know that I have always been a back of the packer. I have never really dreamed of coming in first, second or third. That would always be *nice*, but it doesn't represent who I am or what I can do.
All a medal means is that faster people didn't show up to race that day.
And that's why I'M PISSED OFF.
I realize that is not exactly true.
MY point is that ANYTHING can happen on race day. Getting 1st, 2nd or 3rd doesn't mean anything more than your day went better than someone else's.
Why should I be happy with a 2nd place when I missed my goal by 10 minutes? And that wasn't even my aggressive goal!
Here's the story:
This was my first sprint since 2008. I could have sworn that I did one in 2009 or 2010, but I can't find any results.
I have never been so nervous before a race. I've been training with Ricci for 6 months now, and this was my first race with my new plan and focus. In the past, I've just done sprints for completion. I never really raced them.
Before the race, I watched the transition videos 4 times, taking different notes each time and practicing things. I read over the sprint strategy...too many times to count....and I got last minute advice from Coach.
The race was in the evening on a very hot day. I took all of that into account and planned my day out pretty well.
Still, nothing calmed me down. I can't tell you how nervous I was. My Mike was standing on the beach and he kept giving me this sign to breathe. I knew I must have looked like I was going to be sick because that's how I felt.
I managed to pull off a PR; even though, I made a ton of mistakes. PR, yes. Hit my goal: No.
What I really wanted to get out of this race was to just DO IT. Race a sprint and give me a point of reference for the rest of my season.
Swim
I am really comfortable on the swim. But I went about it all wrong. We had a beach start. I was literally shaking as I stood there. When it was time for us to go, I took off like a bat out of hell. My form was all jacked up. My heart rate felt like it was through the roof. I kept up that pace until I got to the first buoy. It would take me awhile to recover. I had to slow down. I didn't want to ruin my bike and run because I swam too fast. I caught and passed most of the men in the previous wave. When I got out of the water, I was still a mess.
I had to walk the hill back to transition.
Mistake:
I know this was entirely fueled my my nerves. I've had great ow swims this week. It would be better for me to focus on form and the speed will follow; instead of going out there like crazy.
Bike
I was looking forward to this. I will try to keep this short. I hopped on the bike and was ready to go. I scouted out the route before hand and knew that we started on a hill. I took it easy. I let a few people pass me. Once we got to the top, it was all over. Drop the hammer? Not exactly.
I was passing people like they were standing still, but I was holding back. After the swim, I was worried about going too hard and really suffering during the run. I made a goal that I wasn't going to let a woman pass me. When a guy passed, I would stay with him if I could. That's when I realized that I could climb hills better than I thought. I could catch these guys on the uphill. They would pass me on the downs. A couple of months before the race, I watched coach Troy's video on cresting a hill. I'd been practicing the technique. It worked. I got to the top, and I would end up being ahead until we were halfway down.
Toward the end, a guy pulled along side of me and said "Don't let me beat you. You beat me on the hills, but we're heading down now. Don't let me beat you" And he took off. The race was on. hahahahaha! No kidding, we were flying. We pulled into transition together.
I can't say I was disappointed with my speed because it was a PR. I averaged about 19.5 mph. I was disappointed because I held back too much. I was concerned about being able to run. Turns out, I was right....given how dehydrated I was.
Bike Mistake:
My plan was one bottle of infinit on the bike, get water at the aid station. I never saw an aid station. I finished the infinit and needed water. I had a small bottle of water in transition. I drank it down on the way out on the run. But, it wasn't enough. Next time, I will bring 2 bottles.
Run
I drank the little bottle of water. I wasn't even at the half mile mark when my stomach started cramping. There HAS to be an aid station on the run.
And there was....at the halfway mark. I really wish the RD had put an aid station at the 1 mile mark. Then we could have hit it twice. It's not the RD's fault that I messed up my nutrition. At the same time, it was hot out there.
I really missed my goal on the run. I run 5ks at a 9:35 pace. My goal for the 3 miles was 10:00 pace. I finished with a 10:58 pace. (And yes, that is a tie with my previous sprint pr, but it was slower than I could go had I done a better job of....well, just EVERYTHING).
OH! Another thing about the run. It was hilly. I wasn't expecting that at all. I've run out at this reservoir quite a bit, but have never run that course.
With a mile left, my calf started cramping. It was like little shots of lightning. At this point, I'm dreaming about water. I'm staring out at the reservoir filled with water, and I can't drink! OH the pain!
That's it. the finish is uphill through some sand, then a short sprint to the finish.
It really was a day of mixed emotions.
Now that I got that *first* race of the season done, I know what I need to fix. My transitions were fast. I was in and out, faster than I have in the past. I need to use more control and focus on form on the swim. I need to fuel better on the bike and not be afraid to "drop the hammer".
Then, the run will be easier. I wouldn't say it was a sufferfest, but cramps hurt a little bit.
After I finish, I sat down with My Mike and we had the BBQ. He was going on and on about my PR and how fast I went past on the bike and how great it was that I came out ahead of so many men in the previous wave. I listened to him, and I realized that he was right. I did well.
Then he says, "You need to race more."
Me: "You sound like Ricci."
Mike: "He's right. What do these races cost? $100? You need to race more. I know you made mistakes but that's because you hadn't raced in awhile. If you get out there, you'll be in race mentality more often. So, what's next?"
SHERPA HAS SPOKEN.
Finish time: 1:31 and almost 4 minute PR. 2nd place F45-49, but there were only a few of us in the 45-49 AG. My placing doesn't matter as much as my time anyway. (**update** there were in fact 10 of us).
The end result is that I still have to learn how to race a sprint.
That's what this race was supposed to show me, and it did.
You can be sure, I will not make the same mistakes twice.
Next time, I will be ready.
Next race: Less than a month.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
It's a foregone conclusion
Last night, laying in bed, I was writing my PR blog post.
Cocky?
Irresponsible?
Mmmm, yes.
Even more so because I spent the last 2 weeks sick and really unable to do anything more than 20-30 min of the easiest of running/jogging/walking/crawling.
But what else was I going to do on one of the sleepless nights?
Quick history: I'm only doing sprints this year. As Coach says, ONLY sprints. And yes, he reminds me often.
What about a half marathon?
"What part of sprint do you NOT understand?" I'm pretty sure that's a direct quote.
Fine. I'm good with that. So, of course, when I ask "If I had to choose between a 5k and a 5 mile race, which should I choose?" I was expecting "5k. You're ONLY doing sprints."
Imagine my surprise when he says, "Run the 5 miles. At some point, you have to see what you can do."
ha.ha. I'll tell you what I can do. I can plug along aimlessly, stopping a few minutes at water stations, talking to the volunteers and doing just about EVERYTHING but racing.
HEY, there's also a 10 mile race.
I could practically feel his eyeballs glaring at me through the computer screen.
5 miles it is.
As much as I want to tell you about the morning of the race (a comedy of errors) and arriving at the race (too much excitement for my little heart), I will skip and get right to the race.
THE MASTER PLAN or should I say THE MASTER'S PLAN
The plan, warm up, bleh. fine.
(When I signed up with Coach, I said, "whatever you tell me to do, I will do. I am handing over the reigns cuz this sleigh has gone off course." BUT, I never said I wouldn't complain along the way. Strength training after swimming, really?
But, I digress.
warm up: YES I REALLY DID IT. FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER. YAY ME.
The race itself: 2 miles easy, then go for it like a 5k.
piece.o.cake.
For people WATCHING.
Hmmmm, methinks, he doesn't say anything about stopping at regular and sometimes random intervals to for f*cks sake. WHAT IS HE TRYING TO DO TO ME?
I don't really know what happened but the gun went off and everyone started running. Talk about yer spacing out.
la-dee-da.....I'm just trotting along, having a good time. Man, this race was PACKED. Normally, I try to get around people. but NO. I remembered THE MASTER'S PLAN.
At 1.5 miles into my little "easy" run, I start to think "Hey, all I have to do is maintain THIS pace for the rest of the race, and I have my PR.
STOP
NO
WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?
I cringe and look around "God? Is that you?"
NO. THIS IS COACH. HOW ARE YOU GOING TO EXPLAIN TO ME YOUR FINISH TIME AFTER PULLING OFF THAT LAST 5K PR?
Damn playa. Now you're all up in my face during a race?
FINE
Mile 2 hit, and I knew I was supposed to turn up the pace. We passed a water station and my mouth starting drooling at everyone taking a little break, walking through the aid station.
FOCUS
Do you mind? I GOT THIS.
All of a sudden something happened.
I started running faster.
No.seriously.
I start to approach a slight incline. An incline that historically, I have walked.
It's about as steep as a driveway.
No.seriously.
My pace is going to slow.
It's ok. It's a little hill.
I want to PR.
I need to save energy.
It's ok. slow down. Pick it up on the downhill.
Let me say something here. I've run this race more times than I can count for the past X number of years, the course has remained the same. This year, with the addition of the 10 mile race, the course changed.
I like the new course ALOT more.
Unfortunately, the last mile.....the entire mile....is on another slight incline.....wouldn't call it a hill.
I would, however, call it a pain in the arse when I'm supposed to be running my fastest mile yet.
And I did.
I was giving it everything I had. I had sweat running down my face. My arms were pumping. My little legs were going just as fast as they could.
I was so focused on running and making sure I held that pace that I didn't even realize that I was heading toward the finish.
I hadn't paid any attention to my time during the race. I looked only at pace, and well, I'm not really THAT good at math.
I had no idea what my finish was going to be.
OMG. When I saw the clock, I just wanted to run faster, but I couldn't.
When I crossed the finish line, I started crying.
Yea.
Me.
The Beast of Pain....according to a certain someone who shall remain nameless
I thought I'd pull off a minute PR. But I managed a 5-6 minute PR over 5 miles. I still haven't looked at the official results.
I don't have delusions of grandeur.
I know I will NEVER be the fastest AG runner.
I don't care because triathlon is a 3 sport competition, and I'm a really good swimmer and cyclist.
BUT, when you're able to run a race that you've never been good at...and come in with the best time you've ever had.....it can be a little emotional.
I'm celebrating and taking my PR out for a night on the town.
Then, it's back to cussing during workouts again.
Cocky?
Irresponsible?
Mmmm, yes.
Even more so because I spent the last 2 weeks sick and really unable to do anything more than 20-30 min of the easiest of running/jogging/walking/crawling.
But what else was I going to do on one of the sleepless nights?
Quick history: I'm only doing sprints this year. As Coach says, ONLY sprints. And yes, he reminds me often.
What about a half marathon?
"What part of sprint do you NOT understand?" I'm pretty sure that's a direct quote.
Fine. I'm good with that. So, of course, when I ask "If I had to choose between a 5k and a 5 mile race, which should I choose?" I was expecting "5k. You're ONLY doing sprints."
Imagine my surprise when he says, "Run the 5 miles. At some point, you have to see what you can do."
ha.ha. I'll tell you what I can do. I can plug along aimlessly, stopping a few minutes at water stations, talking to the volunteers and doing just about EVERYTHING but racing.
HEY, there's also a 10 mile race.
I could practically feel his eyeballs glaring at me through the computer screen.
5 miles it is.
As much as I want to tell you about the morning of the race (a comedy of errors) and arriving at the race (too much excitement for my little heart), I will skip and get right to the race.
THE MASTER PLAN or should I say THE MASTER'S PLAN
The plan, warm up, bleh. fine.
(When I signed up with Coach, I said, "whatever you tell me to do, I will do. I am handing over the reigns cuz this sleigh has gone off course." BUT, I never said I wouldn't complain along the way. Strength training after swimming, really?
But, I digress.
warm up: YES I REALLY DID IT. FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER. YAY ME.
The race itself: 2 miles easy, then go for it like a 5k.
piece.o.cake.
For people WATCHING.
Hmmmm, methinks, he doesn't say anything about stopping at regular and sometimes random intervals to for f*cks sake. WHAT IS HE TRYING TO DO TO ME?
I don't really know what happened but the gun went off and everyone started running. Talk about yer spacing out.
la-dee-da.....I'm just trotting along, having a good time. Man, this race was PACKED. Normally, I try to get around people. but NO. I remembered THE MASTER'S PLAN.
At 1.5 miles into my little "easy" run, I start to think "Hey, all I have to do is maintain THIS pace for the rest of the race, and I have my PR.
STOP
NO
WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?
I cringe and look around "God? Is that you?"
NO. THIS IS COACH. HOW ARE YOU GOING TO EXPLAIN TO ME YOUR FINISH TIME AFTER PULLING OFF THAT LAST 5K PR?
Damn playa. Now you're all up in my face during a race?
FINE
Mile 2 hit, and I knew I was supposed to turn up the pace. We passed a water station and my mouth starting drooling at everyone taking a little break, walking through the aid station.
FOCUS
Do you mind? I GOT THIS.
All of a sudden something happened.
I started running faster.
No.seriously.
I start to approach a slight incline. An incline that historically, I have walked.
It's about as steep as a driveway.
No.seriously.
My pace is going to slow.
It's ok. It's a little hill.
I want to PR.
I need to save energy.
It's ok. slow down. Pick it up on the downhill.
Let me say something here. I've run this race more times than I can count for the past X number of years, the course has remained the same. This year, with the addition of the 10 mile race, the course changed.
I like the new course ALOT more.
Unfortunately, the last mile.....the entire mile....is on another slight incline.....wouldn't call it a hill.
I would, however, call it a pain in the arse when I'm supposed to be running my fastest mile yet.
And I did.
I was giving it everything I had. I had sweat running down my face. My arms were pumping. My little legs were going just as fast as they could.
I was so focused on running and making sure I held that pace that I didn't even realize that I was heading toward the finish.
I hadn't paid any attention to my time during the race. I looked only at pace, and well, I'm not really THAT good at math.
I had no idea what my finish was going to be.
OMG. When I saw the clock, I just wanted to run faster, but I couldn't.
When I crossed the finish line, I started crying.
Yea.
Me.
The Beast of Pain....according to a certain someone who shall remain nameless
I thought I'd pull off a minute PR. But I managed a 5-6 minute PR over 5 miles. I still haven't looked at the official results.
I don't have delusions of grandeur.
I know I will NEVER be the fastest AG runner.
I don't care because triathlon is a 3 sport competition, and I'm a really good swimmer and cyclist.
BUT, when you're able to run a race that you've never been good at...and come in with the best time you've ever had.....it can be a little emotional.
I'm celebrating and taking my PR out for a night on the town.
Then, it's back to cussing during workouts again.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
You're gonna like how it feels.
There are races.
And there are RACES.
This morning, I got up for the last race in the Run Denver Series. The Run Denver Series consists of 5 5ks (or you can choose the half marathon for the last race).
We've dealt with wicked weather for this race series. We've had snow and ice and +35mph winds and sub freezing weather.
And at each race, I've managed to pull a PR out of my butt. Sometimes completely unexpected.
But TODAY was different. A month ago, (after my last 5k), Coach Mike said "You've proven you know how to PR. Now, let's go for a new goal."
He throws out (of maybe it was more of throwing up) a goal.
I was like all DAMN FOOL where you get those numbers from.
Of course, I didn't say that to him. I'm not stupid. I didn't exactly want the next week to consist of holding plank for 5 minutes.
But, no way, nuh uh, I could hit that goal. So, I posted it to my computer monitor. Everyday, I looked at it. And everyday, I started thinking "Maybe coach isn't crazy. Maybe."
Then I started strategizing....thinking "OK, to hit that goal, I need to run the first mile at x, the second at x-10, the third at x-10+puke.
It could happen.
Race morning
I decided to leave a little earlier than normal. It was a different venue. I didn't know where I was going AND there's also a half marathon. I expected that meant there would be a whole lot more people.
When I arrived, the first lot I passed was full. the second lot was full. I get to the third lot (which was right next to start). I had nowhere else to go, so I turned into the lot.
Right in the front row, there is a parking spot....just sitting there....right in front of the start.
Today is going to be a good day.
I drink my SUPER FAST BEVERAGE. it's a secret recipe, so if I tell you, I'd.....you know.
I hop across the street. I pick up my race shirt and notice that it's white with GREEN. The green matches my socks.
Today is going to be a good day.
Then I head over to get my medal for completing 3 of the 5 races. It is one of the coolest medals I've ever seen.
Today is going to be a good day.
I drop my stuff off at the car. I realize that I need to find a porta potty pretty fast. That was a long drive to the race. then, I see the lines. Lines that go all the way to Kansas.
Then I remembered the park across the street. They have bathrooms. they're probably packed. But, if nothing else, I can go behind a tree.
I jog over to the park. The bathrooms are completely empty. EMPTY.
Today is going to be a good day.
I jog back up to the start.
I meet one of the coolest women at the start. She is just like me and Sam. We spend the time laughing about completely stupid stuff.
Today is going to be a good day.
This race was going to be interesting. Temperature was expected to rise quickly and the wind was expected to start dying down. We're running along a Dam, so it's flat but completely exposed. I look out over the Dam, and I can see a flag in the distance blowing around like crazy.
I don't have time to think about the wind, and the race starts! BOOM CHUGGA, I'm off and running.
For the first time ever, I decided to actually USE MY GARMIN. I set my paces for each mile.
Of course, I take off really fast and garmin SCREAMS
SLOW DOWN
But, I feel so good! I think to myself.
SLOW DOWN
Really? Will slowing down really help me that much in the end.
At that point, garmin got pissed off and yelled:
TRUST YOUR COACH
Fine, but for the record. I AM NOT HAPPY ABOUT THIS.
We hit the first mile marker, and I pick up my pace about 10 seconds per mile. As I hit the turnaround, I start thinking that this is starting to hurt.
I have to pick up the pace again at mile 2.
That's going to hurt. I can't handle the pain.
No seriously. I CANNOT HANDLE THE PAIN. HOW can I go faster?
I start closing in on mile 2.
That's when Enrique showed up to run with me.
It's my time.
It's my life.
I can do what I like.
(but most importantly)
I LIKE HOW IT FEELS.
Give me more more more.
What y'all consider the best, I consider mediocore.
And who's going to argue with Enrique or Pitbull?
Not.me.
The wind is not bad but it is a headwind, and I'm supposed to be running faster.
And now, I'm right on pace. RIGHT ON PACE. I can't slow down.
I keep singing over and over.
I LIKE HOW IT FEELS.
Did I mention this was an out and back course? That's all fine and dandy.
Except that it's wide open.
That means from 1.5 miles away, I can see the finish.
from 1.5 miles away.
why does it look so far?
I LIKE HOW IT FEELS
I finally look at my garmin. I have .25 miles left. I start running. Just running as hard as I can. A quarter of a mile is far.
It's really far.
I keep staring at a street light off in the distance.
I know that I'm right on the edge of hitting my goal. But I don't care anymore. I'm going as hard as I can.
I swear to you....if I have to hold this pace for ONE MORE SECOND.....
I cross the finish line.
My hands are shaking.
I have to walk. Clock time showed that I missed my goal by a few seconds. But I don't know my chip time.
I grab some water. I need to walk. My heart rate is coming down. All I want to do is sit. I start walking to the car. I wanted to run into the woman that I talked to at the beginning of the race, but I couldn't find her.
I still don't know my official results.
I don't know if I hit my goal.
I know I PR'd, and it was a big one (30 seconds or so)
I know that I had nothing left to give. There was some part of me that came up from the depths that just wasn't going to give up today.
5ks are short and painful. If you race them, REALLY painful.
More than ever, I think I LIKE HOW IT FEELS.
And there are RACES.
This morning, I got up for the last race in the Run Denver Series. The Run Denver Series consists of 5 5ks (or you can choose the half marathon for the last race).
We've dealt with wicked weather for this race series. We've had snow and ice and +35mph winds and sub freezing weather.
And at each race, I've managed to pull a PR out of my butt. Sometimes completely unexpected.
But TODAY was different. A month ago, (after my last 5k), Coach Mike said "You've proven you know how to PR. Now, let's go for a new goal."
He throws out (of maybe it was more of throwing up) a goal.
I was like all DAMN FOOL where you get those numbers from.
Of course, I didn't say that to him. I'm not stupid. I didn't exactly want the next week to consist of holding plank for 5 minutes.
But, no way, nuh uh, I could hit that goal. So, I posted it to my computer monitor. Everyday, I looked at it. And everyday, I started thinking "Maybe coach isn't crazy. Maybe."
Then I started strategizing....thinking "OK, to hit that goal, I need to run the first mile at x, the second at x-10, the third at x-10+puke.
It could happen.
Race morning
I decided to leave a little earlier than normal. It was a different venue. I didn't know where I was going AND there's also a half marathon. I expected that meant there would be a whole lot more people.
When I arrived, the first lot I passed was full. the second lot was full. I get to the third lot (which was right next to start). I had nowhere else to go, so I turned into the lot.
Right in the front row, there is a parking spot....just sitting there....right in front of the start.
Today is going to be a good day.
I drink my SUPER FAST BEVERAGE. it's a secret recipe, so if I tell you, I'd.....you know.
I hop across the street. I pick up my race shirt and notice that it's white with GREEN. The green matches my socks.
Today is going to be a good day.
Then I head over to get my medal for completing 3 of the 5 races. It is one of the coolest medals I've ever seen.
Today is going to be a good day.
I drop my stuff off at the car. I realize that I need to find a porta potty pretty fast. That was a long drive to the race. then, I see the lines. Lines that go all the way to Kansas.
Then I remembered the park across the street. They have bathrooms. they're probably packed. But, if nothing else, I can go behind a tree.
I jog over to the park. The bathrooms are completely empty. EMPTY.
Today is going to be a good day.
I jog back up to the start.
I meet one of the coolest women at the start. She is just like me and Sam. We spend the time laughing about completely stupid stuff.
Today is going to be a good day.
This race was going to be interesting. Temperature was expected to rise quickly and the wind was expected to start dying down. We're running along a Dam, so it's flat but completely exposed. I look out over the Dam, and I can see a flag in the distance blowing around like crazy.
I don't have time to think about the wind, and the race starts! BOOM CHUGGA, I'm off and running.
For the first time ever, I decided to actually USE MY GARMIN. I set my paces for each mile.
Of course, I take off really fast and garmin SCREAMS
SLOW DOWN
But, I feel so good! I think to myself.
SLOW DOWN
Really? Will slowing down really help me that much in the end.
At that point, garmin got pissed off and yelled:
TRUST YOUR COACH
Fine, but for the record. I AM NOT HAPPY ABOUT THIS.
We hit the first mile marker, and I pick up my pace about 10 seconds per mile. As I hit the turnaround, I start thinking that this is starting to hurt.
I have to pick up the pace again at mile 2.
That's going to hurt. I can't handle the pain.
No seriously. I CANNOT HANDLE THE PAIN. HOW can I go faster?
I start closing in on mile 2.
That's when Enrique showed up to run with me.
It's my time.
It's my life.
I can do what I like.
(but most importantly)
I LIKE HOW IT FEELS.
Give me more more more.
What y'all consider the best, I consider mediocore.
And who's going to argue with Enrique or Pitbull?
Not.me.
The wind is not bad but it is a headwind, and I'm supposed to be running faster.
And now, I'm right on pace. RIGHT ON PACE. I can't slow down.
I keep singing over and over.
I LIKE HOW IT FEELS.
Did I mention this was an out and back course? That's all fine and dandy.
Except that it's wide open.
That means from 1.5 miles away, I can see the finish.
from 1.5 miles away.
why does it look so far?
I LIKE HOW IT FEELS
I finally look at my garmin. I have .25 miles left. I start running. Just running as hard as I can. A quarter of a mile is far.
It's really far.
I keep staring at a street light off in the distance.
I know that I'm right on the edge of hitting my goal. But I don't care anymore. I'm going as hard as I can.
I swear to you....if I have to hold this pace for ONE MORE SECOND.....
I cross the finish line.
My hands are shaking.
I have to walk. Clock time showed that I missed my goal by a few seconds. But I don't know my chip time.
I grab some water. I need to walk. My heart rate is coming down. All I want to do is sit. I start walking to the car. I wanted to run into the woman that I talked to at the beginning of the race, but I couldn't find her.
I still don't know my official results.
I don't know if I hit my goal.
I know I PR'd, and it was a big one (30 seconds or so)
I know that I had nothing left to give. There was some part of me that came up from the depths that just wasn't going to give up today.
5ks are short and painful. If you race them, REALLY painful.
More than ever, I think I LIKE HOW IT FEELS.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
That's what you think? Really?
For Turbo: I got my ass kicked. Period.
********************************
Alot has happened over the past 4 months. I won't recap it all for you, but here's the important part. I gots ma-self a coach.
Yessirreeee. I finally pulled the trigger. Why did I do it? Actually, a number of reasons but number 1 was that I pretty much suck, and I haven't been getting any less sucky.
Now that, THAT is out of the way, I'll tell you a little story.
********************************
I was setting up my race schedule for 2012. Coach and I have now been working together since the first week in December. It's actually working. Shocking, right? Pass the control over to the expert and amazing things happen.
I'm already off on a tangent.
We decide that since I am really going to focus on sprints this year that I'm going to do a number of them. A number as in 5 triathlons and numerous running races ranging from 5k-5 miles.
That's a lot for me. My kids are older. Both are driving. I have more time now to dedicate to ME.
Damn tangents.
My first tri of the year will be June 1st. It's a Friday night, should be a lot of fun. I've never done this race, but it gets really good reviews. AND they do a happy hour of sorts post-race.
I sez to coach: Let's make this my test race. I haven't done a sprint in years. I need to practice everything! I need to practice fast transitions. I need to learn how to go fast. I need to learn everything. Please, I'm a sponge. Teach me the ways, O wise One.
THEN
Something happened
I mention the race to my smart ass BFF.
A few minutes later, she sends me a picture of HER REGISTRATION FOR THE SAME RACE, SAME AGE GROUP.
bitch.
Let the trash talking begin.
Not by me, heck no. I'm not the fastest chicka on the course. No way.
BFF starts going on and on and on about how she is going to totally kick my ass.
And on the run, that is true. I'll give her that.
Here's her reasoning:
1.) I'll beat her on the swim. (Tru dat homie)
2.) We're even on the bike (Really?)
3.) I'll make up the difference on the run. (Ummm ok)
Now, I like flying under the radar.
And I'll listen to her trash talk. (Mike and Jman and Googs have even volunteered to help me work on my own trash talking).
But here's what I'm thinking: I WILL BEAT HER. Here's MY reasoning:
1.) She can't touch my swim. I'll have at least 10 minutes. YES, 10 MINUTES on her.
2.) The bike. The bike. The bike. Awww heck. Do you KNOW how much time I've been spending on the bike? She thinks we're even. I sincerely doubt that. I think I can extend my lead on her on the bike. Coach has me doing more bike work than I have ever done in the winter.
3.) The run. Yea, she can beat me pretty easily. But can she make up say 15 or even 20 minutes on the run? Come on. She's fast, but she ain't THAT fast.
I won't even mention that I've recently PR'd on the 5k....THREE TIMES in 2 months.
Nor will I mention that I'm posting my fastest bike speeds EVER.
Nor will I mention that I'm doing Master's swim meets and my swims are at the fastest they've ever been.
Nor will I mention that BFF doesn't have much history in the *training* department. ie: she tends to allow her natural ability to carry her through a race. Don't get me wrong, her natural running ability is pretty incredible.
I don't expect to place.
I don't expect to even be top 10.
But this will certainly be an example of nature versus nurture.
Hard work versus natural ability.
And, I am pretty confident that I'm going to get my own bright shiny new PR in the sprint distance.
All I can say, LET THE GAMES BEGIN.
********************************
Alot has happened over the past 4 months. I won't recap it all for you, but here's the important part. I gots ma-self a coach.
Yessirreeee. I finally pulled the trigger. Why did I do it? Actually, a number of reasons but number 1 was that I pretty much suck, and I haven't been getting any less sucky.
Now that, THAT is out of the way, I'll tell you a little story.
********************************
I was setting up my race schedule for 2012. Coach and I have now been working together since the first week in December. It's actually working. Shocking, right? Pass the control over to the expert and amazing things happen.
I'm already off on a tangent.
We decide that since I am really going to focus on sprints this year that I'm going to do a number of them. A number as in 5 triathlons and numerous running races ranging from 5k-5 miles.
That's a lot for me. My kids are older. Both are driving. I have more time now to dedicate to ME.
Damn tangents.
My first tri of the year will be June 1st. It's a Friday night, should be a lot of fun. I've never done this race, but it gets really good reviews. AND they do a happy hour of sorts post-race.
I sez to coach: Let's make this my test race. I haven't done a sprint in years. I need to practice everything! I need to practice fast transitions. I need to learn how to go fast. I need to learn everything. Please, I'm a sponge. Teach me the ways, O wise One.
THEN
Something happened
I mention the race to my smart ass BFF.
A few minutes later, she sends me a picture of HER REGISTRATION FOR THE SAME RACE, SAME AGE GROUP.
bitch.
Let the trash talking begin.
Not by me, heck no. I'm not the fastest chicka on the course. No way.
BFF starts going on and on and on about how she is going to totally kick my ass.
And on the run, that is true. I'll give her that.
Here's her reasoning:
1.) I'll beat her on the swim. (Tru dat homie)
2.) We're even on the bike (Really?)
3.) I'll make up the difference on the run. (Ummm ok)
Now, I like flying under the radar.
And I'll listen to her trash talk. (Mike and Jman and Googs have even volunteered to help me work on my own trash talking).
But here's what I'm thinking: I WILL BEAT HER. Here's MY reasoning:
1.) She can't touch my swim. I'll have at least 10 minutes. YES, 10 MINUTES on her.
2.) The bike. The bike. The bike. Awww heck. Do you KNOW how much time I've been spending on the bike? She thinks we're even. I sincerely doubt that. I think I can extend my lead on her on the bike. Coach has me doing more bike work than I have ever done in the winter.
3.) The run. Yea, she can beat me pretty easily. But can she make up say 15 or even 20 minutes on the run? Come on. She's fast, but she ain't THAT fast.
I won't even mention that I've recently PR'd on the 5k....THREE TIMES in 2 months.
Nor will I mention that I'm posting my fastest bike speeds EVER.
Nor will I mention that I'm doing Master's swim meets and my swims are at the fastest they've ever been.
Nor will I mention that BFF doesn't have much history in the *training* department. ie: she tends to allow her natural ability to carry her through a race. Don't get me wrong, her natural running ability is pretty incredible.
I don't expect to place.
I don't expect to even be top 10.
But this will certainly be an example of nature versus nurture.
Hard work versus natural ability.
And, I am pretty confident that I'm going to get my own bright shiny new PR in the sprint distance.
All I can say, LET THE GAMES BEGIN.
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