tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48949129581857743982024-03-12T20:39:23.074-04:00Tri Becca- The journey to Triathlon continues...To read how I got to this point, please see my blog at: http://tribecca-journey.blogspot.com/Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.comBlogger83125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-9990387520915353382018-10-25T08:12:00.001-04:002018-10-25T09:04:19.289-04:00Ironman 70.3 New Orleans<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ErQ_e2zQQ6A/W9FKf9qe8UI/AAAAAAAAJLY/CQyIO7V5s-0sNl01ZggZXH4kQx3KCL59ACLcBGAs/s1600/sft.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="150" data-original-width="337" height="142" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ErQ_e2zQQ6A/W9FKf9qe8UI/AAAAAAAAJLY/CQyIO7V5s-0sNl01ZggZXH4kQx3KCL59ACLcBGAs/s320/sft.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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It all started in Williamsburg when Alexis a.k.a. Dr. B Badass said, "Let's go home to race Ironman 70.3 New Orleans. I don't know why she asked, but my answer was, "I hate you!... Okay, you sign up first and I'm in". I really doubted that she would sign up in advance, as Alexis is known for rolling into town, signing up for a race the day before, racing, then ending up on the podium or something. She is badazz like that! Then, one day about a month later, she posted on Facebook that she signed up. She didn't text me or anything, knowing that I would see her post and figure out that we were racing this thing. So, I kept my word and signed up immediately, after checking with my coach. For some reason, my coach is always down for me doing something crazy, like 2 races in 2 days or in this instance, racing 2 Ironman 70.3 triathlons within 4 weeks of each other. Now, in her defense, I did tell her that I was just starting to get my consistency in order and wasn't ready to end my season after Ironman 70.3 Atlantic City. So, I was IN!!! Alexis said that we could stay with her family that lived right off the course, we would share the cost of a rental car and this race eventually had the Tri Bike Transport service, so we could ship our bikes. However, this race wasn't at an ideal time, as my friend Shayla's Cancer Free Party was that weekend and my God sister's wedding was about 3 weeks prior {My God sister is really my ex-sister and law that showed up to my race with my brother. I recently changed her title because she is so amazing and a God send}. I figured out a way to make it happen, as this was the 10th anniversary and final year of New Orleans having this race. How awesome would this be to go home to race and have family support? I was STOKED. I promised myself that I would stay consistent with my training, so I wouldn't have my family out there all dang day and have Alexis thinking that I had a problem on the course or something because I was taking so long. Mission accomplished: I was race ready when it was time to travel! LET'S GEAUX!!!!!!!! The Ironman 70.3 New Orleans triathlon was set to be my 2018 season finale triathlon!!<br />
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<b>Friday:</b><br />
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My travel to New Orleans was uneventful. Alexis met me in the airport and off we went to Ironman village. We chatted about how we had not received ANY emails or FB notices from the race director and how this race was drastically different from a PR perspective than other 70.3 races. After recently racing AC 70.3 with the awesome Delmo, my expectations were very high for a race director. When we pulled up and saw transition set up, I breathed a sigh of relief, as this was a sign that a race was indeed going to happen. We were expecting an AMAZING Ironman Village and lots of awesome 10 year anniversary race gear. Sadly, the race director did not order anything with 2018 on it, except the t-shirt with athlete names. Most of the gear had 2017 on it, we were falsely told that it was all discounted, and it looked like they had just gotten the un sold gear from Kona the week prior. The expo was extremely sub par and the entire race expo/registration just seemed low budget/small town and definitely not of Ironman quality. Most times, we are assigned a swim cap with a color to correspond to our age group or something, but at this race, they told us to just pick what ever color cap we wanted. Huh? There weren't many vendors there. The whole feel to this race was just "different".<br />
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I wanted to attend the athlete briefing, as I was confused by the swim course map in the athlete guide. It was supposed to be the shape of a M, but I wasn't seeing it. Well, we were told that the swim course had changed and so did the bike and the run courses. When the race director got up to talk, he told us stories about Hurricane Katrina 13 years prior, information on the water pumps for the city, where to dance on tables in the French Quarter, how he saved money by making us ride in circles and how he spent so much money on 900 lb stairs for us to enter/exit the swim. He told us goodbye before he ever talked about the swim course, until I inquired. He showed us the map that was in our race packet which had been changed from the athlete guide and used his finger to quickly draw an imaginary line on the map on where/how we would swim. Okay? Alexis asked a follow up question about the color of the buoys and turn buoys and his answer ended with, "I think". Oh boy. This was all a sign of the race potentially being a shit show.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The facial expression when you realize you traveled to a race that wasn't properly organized</td></tr>
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Alexis and I got some good traditional New Orleans food at Acme Oyster House, went shopping for race day essentials and ended the evening just hanging out on the couch relaxing while we could.<br />
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<b>Saturday:</b><br />
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We went out for the practice swim, which was uneventful and then took our bikes for a pre-race spin to make sure all was in good working order. We tied up some other pre -race tasks and her family cooked a pre-race meal for us. I just LOVE my New Orleans people!! They took very good care of us! I was in a bit of a panic all day because I could not find my watch. Once I realized that I indeed did not have it, the panic set in pretty profoundly. I texted my Tri Tribe and Coach and everyone just encouraged me to race "naked" (meaning, without a watch). I was petrified! How was I going to race without a watch and have no metrics to know how fast/slow I was going and how I was doing on time, as there are cut off times? I was racing at home, so I could not get a DNF (Did Not Finish/Disqualified)! I have never DNF'd at this distance.... well, I did pull myself out of Poconos 70.3 the 2nd time because I didn't feel well and then there was that time that I missed a turn at Ironman 70.3 Cozumel, but I never did check to see if I got disqualified.... I knew that I was trained to finish the distance, but not having a watch made me feel VERY uncomfortable. Like, I was moved to tears and had heart palpitations. I am the chic that wears a watch even when the battery is dead, because I don't feel dressed without a watch. To race with out a watch? THE HORROR!!! I called every bike store, every sporting goods store, every store on the Garmin Store locator, and NO ONE had the watch I wanted to purchase. I started to slowly try to wrap my mind around racing naked. I put up posts on FB for happy/successful stories and texted with my coach, Tri Tribe and friend until I started to be able to visualize myself racing watch less and finishing. I was determined to start AND finish. I was determined to go fast when I could and take it one sport at a time. I was determined to not be bothered by the pending cold front and winds that were developing over night. I was determined that I could and I would do this!! WAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Practice swim COMPLETE</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shake out ride!</td></tr>
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<b>RACE DAY/SUNDAY:</b><br />
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I was awakened before my alarm by the sound of the WIND. Oh boy. I knew there was a small craft advisory, so I anticipated a delay or cancellation of the swim. I was determined to race the race that was laid out for me that day. I raced in the pouring rain in Atlantic City, raced in Cozumel with winds on the back side of the island, I swam in choppy water before. I knew I could do the distance and was determined to finish in the allotted time, regardless of race conditions.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh faced and ready to race!!!</td></tr>
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Swim: 1.2 miles (planned)<br />
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Driving to the race site, I looked away when I saw the white caps on Lake Ponchartrain, as I knew that we were swimming in a protected marina. I was praying that it was really "protected". I stayed positive and focused on being a finisher that day. The announcement came that the swim would be delayed because the water safety personnel could not get to the marina, because they were coming from the big lake and battling 4-6ft waves. I called BS on that, as I knew that the water safety personnel would not likely to be out there with the small craft advisory, and I think the boats are usually in place the day prior. But I stayed positive and got on the ground and started stretching. I sent a few texts to my Tri Tribe to get the thoughts out of my mind, but I was good. Eventually they told us that the swim was not wet suit legal, because the water in the marina was warm, unlike the big lake. We were FREEZING, so it was hard to believe this. We decided to wear our wetsuits and get in the very last wave. Halima was there volunteering and she is so pleasant and calming that we were un bothered as we waited forever to start the swim. They shortened the swim to 500 yards, and had 2 turn buoys and only 2 kayakers out there to assist 1100 athletes, if needed. This was sounding dangerous. We <i>finally </i>started and were swimming through 2 rows of boats, so it was fine. When we made the 1st turn, it felt DANGEROUS out there. The waves were huge, we couldn't see and my only thought was "I didn't want to swim this bad! They should have canceled this swim altogether!". Reportedly, some athletes saw a woman calling for help, but the kayakers could not get to her and they saw her go under. God, I pray that she is okay. I made the 2nd turn, where the water was calmer and headed back to shore. Halima was there cheering as I jogged to transition.<br />
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<b>Bike: 56 miles. 2 loops</b><br />
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I knew to expect a windy course and WINDY it was. I had no idea of my pace, so that was probably a good thing. While going over bridges with side winds, I am sure my speed was super slow and would have been demoralizing had I known my actual speed. I was just going to go fast when I could and not burn my legs out when I had a head and/or side wind. The wind WHUPPED my butt. I started to think about going back to transition after the first loop. I started to write my race report in my head and how I was going to explain that the wind won that day. How I decided to be a quitter. I planned a brunch spot to take my friends and family to if they came out to cheer me on. I was planning to quit and was wrapping my head around that. I wasn't tired or ill, I was just tired of getting beat by the wind.... until the tail wind came. YASSS! I started to say, "I DON'T QUIT WHEN IT'S HARD, I QUIT WHEN I'M DONE!... I DON'T QUIT WHEN IT'S HARD, I QUIT WHEN I'M DONE!!. I repeated this over and over and picked up my speed. I started to pass people on the bike. I had no idea of my speed, but felt like I was flying! When I had the choice of going to transition and being a quitter, or going on the 2nd loop, I decided to go on the 2nd loop. I was NOT going to quit today. I had been through the torturous winds once, so I could do it again. I just vowed to go as fast as I could when the winds died down. I'm not sure if it was the winds in my face or crud I picked up in the lake, but my nose was off the CHAIN. I had to stop at a porty potty to get tissue and blow my nose. I put some extra tissue in my shirt for later and had to stop twice more on the 2nd loop to blow my nose and apply some cream to my girl parts (OUCHH!! I must have been riding differently trying to stay upright on the bike with the winds, and my girl took the brunt of it). I was right behind Alexis on every turn, but these 3 stops put me further behind her. Ugh.... But then, I finished the bike course!!<br />
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<b>Run: 13.1 miles. 2.5 loops</b><br />
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I wasn't tired. I wasn't hurting. I vowed to run 1 mile, walk the aid stations and repeat until I got to the finish line. Yeah. That plan was upended when my legs told me, "After what you just put me through on that bike, what we WON'T do, is run today!!". My legs were beat! Before I hit the 1st mile marker I saw my brother and his ex wife/my lovely God sister (new title for her)!! What the hellllll???? I stopped to give them both a hug and told them that I would be back. For most of my run, I tried to come up with a story about how they ended up there together to cheer me on. It made me so happy that they could put whatever differences they have aside to be there together to support me. That's love bruh. That's love for ME! I was very happy!! My legs were really tired and I could not get any speeds like I had recently seen on my runs. I vowed to do what it takes to become a stronger and faster athlete. There were people that passed me on the bike and run that were clearly stronger and faster so I knew the race conditions were not debilitating. I am just not the best athlete that I can be at this time. The run was 2.5 loops, so there was plenty of time to see and encourage/be encouraged by other athletes. I saw Alexis a few times. She was hanging out with a senior athlete and seemed to be doing just fine. I saw an old college friend that I hadn't seen in years and before long I saw MY COUSIN SIMONE!!!!! I could not be happier!!! I gave her a hug and she said that she would see me at the finish line. Oh man, I had to hurry up and get to the finish line! I ran, I walked, I sang, I gave high fives and encouraging words to others, I joked with the volunteers and before long... well, after a very long LONG time, I was crossing the finish line with my family there screaming for me!!! Actually, my brother picked up an orange cone to use as a mega phone and told me that it was about time I finished! Ha!!! Whatever!! I know he was proud! Halima was there too calling my name, just as she did after the swim and bike! {That Halima is some kind of awesome!} I ran through the finish chute, they gave me a Gatorade, took my timing chip..... and then took my name down and told me that they would <i>mail me my medal</i>. UM... WHAT???? No medal???? Oh, I LOST IT. I called for the race director, PR person whomever they needed to call RIGHT NOW that could figure out how I was going to get a medal TODAY. I raced TODAY and wanted my medal TODAY. The race director came over with his lying, sorry, disorganized self and gave some lame excuses and I was NOT having it. Another athlete crossed the finish line after me and it was his first triathlon ever, but no medal. His wife lost her shyt. Another athlete came over and told the race director how this has been the most low budget Ironman event ever. We were NOT happy. They never produced a medal for this year and tried to give us medals from 2017. After nothing was happening, I snatched the medal out of the race director's hand, snatched the MAGA looking non athletic hat they were giving and headed out to see my family. I was MAD, SAD and extremely DISAPPOINTED! I am still disappointed days later.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These were the medals from the canceled race LAST YEAR</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the finisher hat. Do you see the word "FINISHER"? It wasn't even a running hat. It was cheap, thick cotton</td></tr>
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At the end of the day, I FINISHED!! It was a very hard day, but I came, I raced and I conquered my goal to be a finisher once again. What could be more awesome than setting a hard goal, battling defeating thoughts, lost gear, challenging weather and finishing despite it all in the allotted time? That's a wrap for the 2018 Triathlon season and I could not be more proud. I DID IT!!!! Let's see what 2019 brings. I pray that I am able do the work to become a stronger and faster athlete.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mi Familia! My God sister, cousin Simone and big brother Mark!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast the morning after the race with Alexis and Halima</td></tr>
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Love,<br />
Tri Becca<br />
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<br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-59974165602449194452018-09-25T01:00:00.000-04:002018-09-25T10:31:07.759-04:00Ironman 70.3 Atlantic City<br />
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In preparation for the Ironman 70.3 Atlantic City triathlon, I raced the Chicago International Triathlon and the Super Sprint triathlon on back to back days. Yes, 2 races in 2 days. However, the mileage was nothing in comparison to this 70.3 triathlon, where I swam 1.2 miles in water that seemed to be against the current and extremely salty, biked 56 miles in what felt like a monsoon at times and then a constant drizzle and rain at other times, then ran 13.1 miles which was in continuous rain that at times, made me thankful that I was wearing a hat with a brim to keep the water out of my eyes. Weather wise, it was a miserable day.<br />
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I drove to Atlantic City on Friday after working in Delaware and worked until Lisa arrived. She had a tough week, so we immediately went for some liquid sunshine in a cocktail glass, and some food. It was nice to sleep in on a Saturday morning. I think we surprised ourselves by how late we awakened, as our girls drove there from Maryland and we hadn't even moved to a vertical position yet. We slowly got going for the day and rode our bikes over to transition. We decided to stop at the ATM to take out some cash for retail therapy, this way we would not blow our budget in the Ironman Shopping Village.... well, that was the <i>plan</i>. We saw so many familiar faces and put faces with names from FB groups. We linked up with Shaunna and Crystal, went for a pre race meal and picked up race day necessities at a local store. Before long, we were all back in our rooms to rest up for the big day. Lots of laughs were had with these ladies. They are a great mix of smart and funny!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I hope I didn't blow my budget!!</td></tr>
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Waiting on our great pre-race meal at Kelsey's! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These guys make me look tiny!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying beautiful blue skies the day before the race</td></tr>
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<b>Race day</b><br />
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3:30am wake up. We checked the forecast and it only said a CHANCE of rain. Yeah, that was a big fat LIE. The morning started off gray at sunrise. I thought that a little rain would keep us cool. Who knew that the rain would be a menace? Obviously not the meteorologists or whoever puts info on the weather app and back up app that I use. Ugh! I was not feeling well, but was determined to push through. The last time I was unwell on the morning of a race, I ended up turning in my timing chip after the swim. I was determined to not let that happen today. I was going to push through!<br />
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<b>Swim: 1.2 miles</b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre swim!!</td></tr>
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We made the absolute best out of the time that we had to wait to start the swim. 3 of us took turns crying, we prayed with each other <i>and with</i> 2 different sets of strangers/fellow competitors, we asked a volunteer to take our picture and text to us, we danced, we told stories, Lisa started singing some song about a baby shark, until one nervous athlete shut it down. We dodged the wet spots on the ground from fellow competitors peeing in their wet suit. You know, just regular pre race fun stuff. Before long... well after what seemed like forever, it was time to jump in and swim. I didn't hear a beep or anything it was like, JUST GOOOO. So, off we went. I thought I was killing it, but every time I looked at my watch it said that I was taking forever. I didn't feel like I was swimming that slow. There was a lot of safety personnel in the water on jet skis, paddle boards, boats, etc that were making some waves. The course was a little confusing and not what I remember seeing in the guide or them explaining at the briefing. But I took it buoy by buoy and before long, it was time to get out. There were 2 young girls who stripped me out of my wetsuit so fast, and I was on my way!<br />
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<b>Bike: 56 miles</b><br />
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I really can't remember much about the ride except that there were quite a few turns that we had to take slow due to the rain. It was pretty flat minus some on ramps. The rain was UNforgiving! At times it POURED and all I could do was keep my head down and keep it moving. I was surprised that I did not feel any anxiety about riding in the rain. Maybe on the curves I had some anxiety but other than that, I was okay. I had 2 mechanical issues. The first was before I even got on my bike, but a few people came to help me at the mount line. Then riding up a ramp, I switched gears and my chain became lodged so tightly that I had to walk down the off ramp and down to a corner to ask a cop to call SAG to help me. Someone out there helped me, although he was so rough, I was afraid that he would crack my frame. I was on my way after quite a few minutes. It continued to rain and RAIN.<br />
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<b>Run 13.1 miles</b><br />
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I was not going to think too much about the rain and just keep my head down. Lisa was in transition and gave me a big hug as I headed out to run. My goal was to just take it 1 mile at a time and only walk the aid stations. At mile 2, I stopped to stretch my achilles and saw Lisa Laws and the ladies from AWTT, Megan and Shirley. They gave me a nice boost of energy as I headed out onto the non live section of the boardwalk. My watch died at mile 3. Great! I paced myself and shuffled in the rain for the first 7 miles, it started to get hairy by mile 9 and then the wheels completely came off by mile 10. Nothing hurt and I surprisingly did not feel tired, but my legs just would NOT listen to my brain anymore. They just did not want to move faster than a very slow walk. They were done. I was done. I wanted the rain to be DONE. I did not want to play anymore and when I tell you those last 3 miles were the longest 3 miles EVER, trust and believe I was OVER IT. I kept saying, "Becca, if you are tired of being wet and cold, you have GOT to just pick up the pace. MOVE Becca!". But nothing worked. No words. No motivation. I didn't cry, but I growled at anyone that told me how close I was to the finish. I wanted no parts of it... Until I turned the last corner and could hear the finish line. I straightened my clothes and my face and put on a little lip gloss to give me some power. At the beginning of the finisher chute, there was a sign that read, ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE. I saw the red carpet, picked up the pace and ran through the FINISHER chute to the sound of my girls cheering and the announcer calling my name! My legs wanted to make up to me after I got my medal, so when Beyonce started playing, they decided to do a little New Orleans 7th Ward high step, with a two step, a twerk and a twirl. I AM ONCE AGAIN AN IRONMAN 70.3 TRIATHLON FINISHER!!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I DID IT!!!!!</td></tr>
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Next up: I do it all over again in New Orleans soon. Please standby. Reloading......<br />
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<br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-54694815284089356982018-07-10T23:20:00.001-04:002018-07-11T07:23:38.017-04:00Rev 3 Williamsburg: Olympic distance triathlonThe weekend started with a meet up for Fast Chix on Friday at Chili's. It was great to see so many facebook friends in person!The camaraderie of 30+ women all coming together to race and support each other was second to none! Last year, we were excited to have 5 Trikandians racing. Who knew we could turn Williamsburg into into what looked like a sea of chocolate goodness that was as loud as we were beautiful and racing strong? I could not be more happier than to be among so many of my sister friends. It was Von's birthday, so we surprised her with a beautiful cake and let her know about the lip gloss exchange PRANK. We got her good! Good times with the ladies on Friday. Good times...<br />
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<b>Saturday: </b>Layla and I got up before the crack of dawn to meet the Fast Chix that were racing and cheer them on. Everyone did amazing and finished without incident. We all supported each other for a practice swim and Layla and I went on a short "shake out" ride to make sure our bikes were ready for our race on Sunday.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Driq post practice swim</td></tr>
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<b>RACE DAY:</b> Like last year, my training wasn't up to par with what it would take to have a good half distance triathlon. I managed to get more training in this year, but even with a 10 mile run in the bank and some 3 and 4 hour rides, I just didn't feel fit enough to put it all together. I didn't want to be out there suffering because my fitness isn't where it needs to be, so I downgraded to the Olympic distance race: 0.9 mile swim, 27 mile bike and 6.2 mile run.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre Olympic swim with our sherpas and relay team members!</td></tr>
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<b>Swim: 0.8 miles</b> - The wait to get started was longer than expected, because the dock that we were jumping off with the timing mat collapsed. The race organizers were also adjusting the course so that we would not have to deal with the current that some of the half distance triathletes had to contend with. When we got started, it was uneventful for me. I found myself being overly cautious and sighting a lot, which I believe tends to slow me down during my open water swims. I need to get back to sighting every 5-6 strokes. It was a straight swim to a turn buoy, a turn and then a straight swim. It was a little confusing once we turned, because there were red buoys that were a different shape, the boats the Athletes serving Athletes had were orange and a few times I thought they were buoys, the sun was in my eyes and I just could not see anything. I just followed the swim caps ahead of me and brought it on in. Overall, not a bad swim, but I really want to get faster in open water.<br />
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<b>Bike:</b> 27 miles - I was having a really good ride. When ever I felt my speed dip, I said out loud to myself, "come on, don't mess around girl!!". For some reason that worked. I felt strong out there.... until I hit a pot hole. HARD. The trees provided some nice shade, but they made it hard to see some spots on the road. I immediately knew that this was a bad hit. I heard the air coming out of my tire and started to slow down. What I absolutely love about the way my mind works, is that I immediately stared to think about how I was going to quickly work this out. I decided to take my shoes off, put them on my handle bars, put my bike on my shoulder and just run it in to transition. Yeah.... That was until I realized that I was EIGHT miles from transition. So, my plan B was to get to work and change my flat tire. I had everything I needed and Robert Clarence and those guys at Arrow Bicycles made me change my tire a few times in the past to make sure I knew what I was doing. That was a few years ago but, I knew that I could figure it out. I was doing well, but kept asking folks passing by to call Sag support to help me. A few Fast Chix and some others offered to stop and help, but I declined. I really didn't want to mess up anybody's race. A fellow Fast Chix and BTA member stopped and wouldn't leave my side until Sag support came out. I am eternally grateful to them. I had it just right but was a little nervous to use the CO2 cartridge for some reason. When they used the CO2 cartridge, my tire made a popping sound, because the tube wasn't seated properly. They got me fixed up and I was on my way. I finished the last 8 miles strong and was on to transition.<br />
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<b>Run:</b> 6.2 miles - I felt good starting the run. I planned to make it a great run and was going to remind myself to not mess around and get it done. The plan was to just walk the aid stations and take something at each one since it was getting hot. The run started in the grass and before long, I stepped into a pot hole, rolled my ankle and found myself on the ground. I have had so many ankle injuries in life that I know how to tell if it's a bad roll or if I can continue on and deal with it later. Thankfully, I knew that I could pick myself up off that ground and continue on. I am not sure why I walked as much as I did. Maybe it was the ankle or maybe I was just tired, but that run took me longer than I had anticipated. Oh well. I got it done.<br />
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<b>Post race:</b> I was so hot and sweaty and just felt angry (probably just hungry) and non social so I headed straight to transition to get my bike, to the car to change and then... my medal fell off the dang ribbon. They had run out of Olympic medals, so they gave me a half distance medal. Well, the medal was exactly the same, the ribbon was different. I took it falling off the ribbon as a sign of something. I was hot and hungry, but once I got some food in me and took a baby wipe bath, I felt better. The Fast Chix took the podium in a major way! We represented well, had a lot of fun and stayed glossy<br />
while doing it!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Von!!! She took to the podium on BOTH days!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note the medal is NOT connected to the ribbon. Ugh</td></tr>
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<b>Next up:</b> Chicago Super Sprint and Olympic, Atlantic City 70.3 and maybe New Orleans, 70.3 if Alexis registers first. I have some running races on the books too (Army 10 miler, Marine Corp Marathon and Across the Bridge 10K).<br />
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All in all, it was a good race and an even better weekend! I laughed SO HARD with the Fast Chix. This is the same distance triathlon that I did in Bear, DE 1 month ago, and this race was not a struggle fest like that one. So, I AM making improvements! I still like this triathlon life. It makes me feel like a badazz, trikandian, superhero of a woman!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seeing Mr. Peanut made me happy. I took this picture for my sister JuJu.</td></tr>
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<br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-37596309540023798052018-05-21T00:19:00.000-04:002018-05-21T01:02:34.922-04:00Bear Triathlon: 0.9 Mile Swim, 25 Mile Bike, 6 Mile Run - May 20, 2018 Bear, Delaware<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Do you remember the T'Challa and M'Baku battle for the throne? T'Challa won in the end, but he got his butt WHUPPED! Yeah, that is how I felt after finishing today's race. I finished, but it was a hard fought battle of me against the asphalt and my thoughts.<br />
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THANKFUL. That is the word given to me by Lisa this morning. We met in the parking lot at 4:45am to head to the park for the race. I began to tell her how I had recently read some old race reports and how I needed to have a good race experience, which means I need to train harder and more consistently, so race day could just be the test for all the hard work I put in while training. She immediately recognized that negative self talk about to come out and nipped that right in the bud. She reminded me that no matter how hard or consistently I train, I never know what race day will bring. She shared that she is going into this race and every race THANKFUL. Thankful for the ability to do this physically. She's right. We are blessed to have the mental and physical strength to get through these challenges. The sport of triathlon is expensive, so we are blessed to have the financial resources, and some of us have family support to make this all attainable. Triathlon is a tough sport, but for many of us, it's therapy and it strengthens us mentally to take on the many challenges in life. So, I carried that word with me today. I was THANKFUL.<br />
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The fact that I was able to compete at all today was a blessing. Mid week last week, I felt a vertigo spell coming on. I didn't know if it was from my head injury, as I still get vertigo spells for some reason, or if it was just sinus congestion/my sinuses draining to my middle ear again. I took a few days to take Zyrtec D twice a day and pushed forward cautiously. I went for a swim on Friday night and found that I only felt dizzy if I breathed to my right. I knew the race course had all buoys were to my left, so I would be okay. I have been training, but not as consistently as I need to and I have not been incorporating other exercises in, that will prevent injury. However, I knew that I could swim 0.9 miles, cycle 25 miles and run 6.2 miles, so I headed up to the race site on Saturday after a day of real estate business.<br />
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<b>Swim: 0.9 miles</b><br />
Uneventful. The course was clearly marked and there was plenty of race support on the water. It seemed like it took forever, so I know that I need to work on my swimming endurance. When I saw Layla swimming by me towards the end (she started in the wave after me), I knew that I needed to work on my form and speed again. I reminded myself that today was all about racing MY race. <i>My race, my pace.</i> My day was going to be representative of the training that I put in, and no matter if I was passed by everyone on the course, I was going to finish. My motto is: FINISHING IS WINNING. I finished and was terribly dizzy upon exiting the water, but I pressed forward.<br />
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<b>Bike: 25 miles</b><br />
It was a little tough getting ready for the bike. The dizziness continued as I put on my shoes and bent over to get the rest of my stuff ready. I knew I would be fine if I just kept my head up. My T1 (1st transition) was a little long, but before long, I felt comfortable with pressing forward. If I am completely honest, I am still very nervous about riding on wet roads. I am almost back to my pre accident confidence on the bike, but wet roads still makes me proceed with a lot of caution. I reminded myself again: MY RACE, MY PACE. It helped that my coach was on the course and I could chase Layla and Lisa, so I was motivated to go at my fastest comfortable pace. The course was fair. It had a few inclines over bridges and false flats, but no real hills.<br />
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<b>Run: 6.2 miles</b><br />
It felt more like 62 miles to me. The course was fair, but my legs felt shot. There was only a little bump of a hill, but relatively flat and on a shady course. I haven't done any of my scheduled brick (bike then run) workouts, so my legs were screaming at me in the first mile. I wasn't in pain and nothing was wrong out there, except I just wanted to be done. I took many walk breaks and reminded myself that I was a finisher and I would soon earn my medal, and I did!!<br />
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THANKFUL. I am most thankful for Lisa and her positivity, and for my coach who pushed me to keep moving every time I saw her on the course. All of the athletes and volunteers were positive and shared words of encouragement. All in all, it was a good day. It showed me that I need to get more consistent with training and other exercises to help make me the best triathlete that I can be.<br />
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This was a great race course and venue. The location was a short 2 hour drive from DC, plus the race staff and volunteers were second to none. If you are in the DC/Baltimore/Philly/Jersey area, I would highly suggest you consider this race next year. It had the feel of a Rev 3 race, but on a smaller, nicer and more intimate scale.<br />
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<br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-21318968074820254812018-05-13T12:08:00.002-04:002018-05-13T17:24:52.692-04:00IGNITE SwimRun Maryland: Greenbrier State Park - May 12, 2018<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">WARNING: This is NOT a "saved" post; this post contains plenty of vulgar language</span><br />
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">IGNITE SwimRun is an endurance race that combines the thrill of endurance racing with the beauty of nature. </span></span></span></span></h6>
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<h6 class="font_6" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; pointer-events: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Participants compete as a two-person team. Not a relay. Teams consist of all men, all women and mixed gender. The race begins with a mass wave start. Teams complete numerous swim and run legs ending at the finish line. During the race, teammates must remain within 10 meters of each other at all times. Teammates must com</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">plete the entire course and cross the finish line together. Everything we started with, we had to finish with and carry with us. This means we had to swim in our sneakers and carry a first aid kit, tether, GPS, and run with wetsuit, goggles, swim cap, buoy, etc. No easy feat!</span></span></span></h6>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: 0px 0px; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Lisa and I completed the short course: (Thank God we decided to change from the long course!!)</span></span></span></h6>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Swim - 4 legs: 1.4 mi</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Run - 5 legs: 7.8 mi (it was supposed to be 6.2 miles. SURPRISE!)</span></span></h6>
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<span style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Total distance: 9.2</span></span></h6>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Colors: We were given rubber bands at the end of each swim course to tell us what signs to follow on the course. Not tree markings, but Ignite signs. The tree markings will get you lost in the woods.</span></span></h6>
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<span style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></span></h6>
<h6 class="font_6" style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.4em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Run 1: <span style="color: red;">Red</span> - 0.9 miles </span></span></h6>
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<span style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Uneventful. When we started, My swim buoy started to slide down my leg. I took it off and decided to run with it in hand. {We needed a swim buoy because we had to swim in our sneakers, which would pull our legs down while swimming. The swim buoy helped to keep our feet up while swimming) . We were running on uneven grass, so it took a few minutes to gain our confidence. It was a mass start and we quickly got dropped by all except 2 teams. Forget them!</span></span></h6>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In hindsight, it just doesn't look like it was an even playing field.This was the start. Do you see me an Lisa? Me either. We were waaaaaaaay in the back. They got a head start! lol</span></div>
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<span style="background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: 0px 0px; border: 0px; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Swim 1: 0.35 miles:</span></span></h6>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">I couldn't keep the buoy between my legs, it kept sliding down and at one point it was around my ankle. I had to summon a kayaker to ask that I hold on while I pulled the buoy up. Lisa's response: GIRL, JUST KEEP YOUR LEGS CLOSED! Ugh. I hated her. Swimming in shoes was hard, getting dragged across the lake by Lisa (we were tethered by a 10 meter cord), who is clearly a much faster swimmer than me, was hard. I couldn't see. It felt like a total shit show to me. We finished the first swim and as we approached the aid station and I saw our coach Danny. He asked how it was. My response, "THAT WAS HARD AS FUCK!". He just laughed and said at some point I will be saying it was fun as fuck. Yeah, that moment didn't come throughout that race.</span></h6>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Lisa is looking at me like, "What ARE you DOING??!!! Why couldn't you just keep your legs closed and not let the buoy go down to your ankle??!!! Come ON! We gotta GO!!!" LOL</span></h6>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Run 2: <span style="color: #45818e;">Green</span> - Almost 2 miles. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm not sure of the elevation. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lisa was dragging me up the freaking mountain with her words telling to just take 10 steps at a time. "Just 10 steps.... COME ON BECCA!!!!!!!!".</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Swim 2: 0.35 miles</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Uneventful. I kept my legs closed as suggested and had my buoy the right way and tightened. No cuss words at the end.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Run 3: <span style="color: blue;">Blue</span> - Closer to 1.5 miles</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was feeling totally unfit. I started to tell Lisa how my mama told me that my legs were getting big. I started to talk about how my arms and belly were too, and how I hated it all, but it's all my fault because I haven't done a pushup or situp in months..... she quickly corrected my self hate talk and started to tell me that I don't hate anything about my body. That God gave me this body and I am going to do everything I can to make it the best that I can. She told me that I love my body, because God gave it to me. She saved me from my negative self talk, as it could have brought me down that dark rabbit hole and had me thinking that I wasn't fit enough to finish this race and had no business out there. That Lisa is a good friend. Thanks Lisa! This run wasn't that bad. It was less steep and we saw the lake before we knew it</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Swim 3: 0.35 miles</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Uneventful for me. Lisa kept stopping and had a tough time going again. I tried to tell her to stay horizontal when she stopped, but I think her sneakers were pulling her to a more vertical position and the swim buoy </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">made it hard to change positions or something. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Run 4: <span style="color: orange;">Orange </span>- about 4 miles - elevation was almost 9% grade</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This race was now described by Lisa as some #whitepepo shit. What were we doing out here in these woods?!! </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lisa was OVER IT and kept asking, WHEN WILL THIS ENNNNDDDDDD?!!???. All l I could say was, "I don't know girl, let's go find out. Just take 10 steps at a time. Just 10 steps....". I started to remind Lisa that we have finished 100 mile bike rides, marathons, 70.3 races and Ironman competitions, that we have jumped off boats and swam to shore then hopped on our bikes followed by a run. The reminders that we are BAD ASS were needed at this point. We needed to remind ourselves that we could do this, because we have done harder things. Hell, Lisa is a Mother. What could be harder than giving birth and raising an amazing son? <i>HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY, LISA!!!</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We came up on an aide station. They told us that we just have 2 more miles to "run", then swim again and then it's just a 0.5 mile run to the finish line. This is when the melt down occurred. NO one was saved! Here is a list of people and things that got cussed out. And by cussed out, I mean we <i>very harshly</i> said FUCK them and probably called them a bitch too, for extra effect. Here is an example of the way this fuck fest/complete melt down went: "Yeah, fuck Danny and his lil' friends that planned this fucking course. Yeah, girl, Fuck Danny!.....{Haaaaa! We were OVER IT and the word FUCK just some how made us feel better. We even used the F word when we saw some people out in the woods. They just laughed at us. We weren't angry, for those that don't understand. It was just a way to get through it. Lisa and I can cuss each other out one second and be 10000% okay the next second. Not angry at all. It's a survival technique. Fuck is a stress relieving word in difficult situations. You should try it! lol} <b>Lisa:</b> who the fuck put all these fucking rocks out here?! <b>Me:</b> Mother Nature. <b>Lisa: </b>Yeah, Fuck that bitch too!". Here is a non comprehensive list of people who got cussed out:</span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lisa - yeah, I think that's how it got started. At the last aid station when it was time to get going again. I cussed her out, because it was her idea to do this. I think it went something like, "You know what? Fuck you, Lisa. This shit was all your idea! Lisa chuckled and said, "come on girl, let's finish this race."</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Fellow racer who completed the short course race and came back on the course to run some more. Yeah, fuck him</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mother nature (see the example above)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Race director (see above)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Trees - I cussed them out in my mind, for dropping all those damn leaves and making it hard to see the rocks. I rolled my ankle on a rock, but kept going. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All the people back at home tracking us and wondering what was taking us so long. "Yeah, fuck them. They need to get off the couch and come out here and see how HARD this shit is"</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The people that already finished. They better had not eaten up all the Chick-fil-A and drank up all the beer. They know Danny and them ordered that chicken for us!!!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The people who will think that instead of using the vulgarity in our race reports we should "use our words". Fuck them. FUCK is the only appropriate word to describe our thoughts and feelings during this difficult time. The shit was tough, bruh!</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We cussed our way through the end of the last run, swam 0.35 miles again tethered, which means, I was dragged across the lake AGAIN by Lisa. She was swimming HARD this time. Me and 2 kayakers tried to get her to slow down so I could adjust my buoy. This chick was FOCUSED on finishing this last swim. She got me all twisted up in the tether by going to my right and then back to my left. I could tell she was on a mission to get out of the lake, so I just adjusted the tether and my swim stroke to her and we got 'er done!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">We look like we are in deep prayer and thankful to the Almighty for getting us through huh? Just a 0.5 run to the finish line!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lisa crawled on to the sand at the end of that last swim with a look in her eye that said, "THERE IS A GOD! THERE IZ A GOD!!!!!!!!!". We waddled through the sand, hit the finisher's chute.... and ran like some rock stars to the finish line! My Coach Suzy came over to me looking all gingerly. I said, no worries. I don't hate you! LOL. Lisa and I proceeded to eat all the food and beer and took pictures like we just won 1st place. Haaaa. I had to get up to go home after I found myself putting my head on the table to take a nap.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I must say, Lisa and I ignited our inner athlete! Go get you some. Challenge yourself to do new and harder things. <a href="https://www.igniteswimrun.com/" target="_blank">Here is the link to the Ignite series</a>. There are several races remaining this year! If you sign up, let me know. I might try to come out there to race it too. Crazy, I know!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is how I was feeling about Lisa signing us up for this race.... but we got 'er DONE!!!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">.... okay, let me stop procrastinating and go get this 30 mile bike ride done. </span></div>
Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-1864196721380556612017-08-13T23:22:00.001-04:002017-08-14T09:26:05.729-04:00Rev 3 Poconos Mountains - Half - August 13, 2017<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;">I signed up for this race again although I swore that I would <i>never </i>do another race with ‘mountain’ in the name. However, the timing of this race is perfect for an October Ironman triathlon. I was thinking about going back to race Ironman Louisville for redemption. However, as the season wore on and my training wasn’t consistent, especially with riding hills, I decided to instead race Ironman Maryland again. Michael Shipley signed up to race Poconos also, so it was a GO.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Pre- race:</b> The day got off to an unexpectedly late start. We made it to the pre-race talk right on time and to transition in the nick of time to rack our bikes. We checked into our Air BnB with his teammate/girlfriend and then went on to meet his family for dinner. I saw some signs of my ‘monthly visitor’ and tried to pray it away.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Race day:</b> I awakened before my alarm and discovered that my monthly visitor was indeed here. Lately the 1st day of my cycle is a day to curl up and remain in the fetal position. I tried to make myself eat, but could barely get anything down. I took some Midol, but it never seemed to kick in. I used the bathroom a few times and we stopped at Dunkin’ Donuts on the way to the race site, so I could use it again. My tummy hurt, I couldn’t stop crying, and I just generally didn’t feel well. I got nauseous on the car ride to the race. I texted my coach and Lisa for some good race vibes. They both came back with tough talk and motivation, which only made me cry more. I made it to transition and I kept crying. I saw my coach Danny and got a hug and told him that I didn’t feel well, but I was going to take it one sport at a time. My nice transition neighbor told me that it would be okay and to just keep moving forward. I used the bathroom again and started to feel a little better. There was an area to warm up pre-swim, which was good so I could get acclimated to the chilly water. I ran back to get some tinted goggles and before long, it was time to hop in.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Swim:</b> Not long after I got in, my chest started to feel tight. I tried to breathe every 3 strokes, like I normally do when I get into a groove, but that made me feel short of breath. (I also felt a little short of breath this morning, but I chalked that up to being in the mountains). I had a cramp like feeling in my chest and thought, “maybe I just have to burp”. I burped and the feeling didn’t go away. After awhile of swimming while being short of breath and having this cramp/tight like feeling in my chest, I decided that today wasn’t my day to race. My coach made me think of a phase that would get me through the dark moments of the race and to write that on my forearm. I wrote the words, “<i><span style="color: red;"><b>I WILL</b></span></i>” on my forearm. I saw that a few times when I stroked. But my thought were, “<span style="color: red;"><b>I WILL</b></span> FINISH THIS SWIM…. <b><i><span style="color: red;">I WILL</span></i> </b>LIVE TO RACE ANOTHER DAY… <i><span style="color: red;"><b>I WILL</b></span></i> LISTEN TO MY BODY AND ACKNOWLEDGE THAT SOMETHING IS JUST NOT RIGHT TODAY…. <i><span style="color: red;"><b>I WILL</b></span></i> NOT PUT MYSELF IN JEOPARDY OF NOT MAKING IT HOME TO MY MAMA AND JUJU…<b> <i><span style="color: red;">I WILL</span></i></b> BE OKAY WITH PULLING MYSELF FROM THIS RACE TODAY… <i><span style="color: red;"><b>I WILL</b></span></i> TAKE CARE OF MYSELF TODAY AND THEN GET BACK TO TRAINING FOR IRONMAN MARYLAND”. I saw the swim exit and made a bee line for it, but missed the last turn. I was told that I had to swim back and make that turn. When I got out, I saw Michael’s girlfriend and told her that I was done and asked where the car was parked. This was my 18th (I think) triathlon and I have never pulled myself from a race. Today just wasn’t my day and I am 1000% okay with that. I saw my coach Danny and told him that I was done. He didn’t put up a fuss or ask any questions. He just said okay. I asked a staff member to take my timing chip, changed out of my wet clothes and I was OUT. Time: too long</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Post race:</b> I went to the Med tent and asked them to take my blood pressure. It was high for me, but not too high: 117/77 (I am usually 90’s over 60’s). My belly sounds and feels like there is an exorcist in it, my chest still doesn’t feel right. I took another dose of Midol and the cramps have started to subside. I don’t have one ounce of dissatisfaction with my race performance today. Today, I was smart. Today, I listened to my body and I live to race another day. Now, if my cycle comes down on the day of Ironman Maryland, I am not so sure how the day will play out differently. I just know that feeling short of breath with chest discomfort, and continuing to race was not smart.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;">After a couple of hours, I started to feel better and I went out to cheer on others. I texted my coach and told her that I was feeling better. She asked me if I could go out and run 13 miles, on the course in the opposite direction of the runners still racing. I felt up to it and took off. After about a 1/2 mile, I realized that I had changed into post race gear, which<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>wasn’t a good idea to run in. I had on long pants and a cotton long sleeved shirt. I figured that if I got too hot, I could always just run in my sports bra, so I kept going. My body felt good, the hills weren’t too challenging and the athletes on the course were making jokes about me running the wrong way. It wasn’t too bad until I got close to the end of the 2nd loop of a 4 loop course. I started to feel light headed and remembered that I never ate after the swim and I didn’t have much for breakfast. They only<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>had gels on the course and I needed food to ward off the lightheaded<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;">feeling from not having enough nutrition in me. So, I called it. I ran 2 of the 4 loops and headed to get a Cliff bar from Daniella’s bag. What a shit of a training day! I’ve had to remind myself that today’s performance was not about ability, as I have raced this distance 4 times, to include this same race last year. Doubt starts to creep in when I don’t accomplish my goals. Today, my body was simply the boss of me. Total: 1.2 mile swim and 6.2 mile run.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Next up:</b> Ironman Maryland.<i> <b><span style="color: red;">I WILL</span></b></i></span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;">Tri Becca</span></span></div>
Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-66475316587721195732017-08-13T23:20:00.004-04:002017-08-13T23:20:46.140-04:00Rev 3 Williamsburg - Olympic -July 9, 2017<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;">I was initially scheduled to race the Half distance triathlon (1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run), but didn’t feel ready, as my training hasn’t been consistent. I consulted with my coach before the race and decided that it was best to just race the Olympic distance triathlon (0.9 mile swim, 25 mile bike 6.2 mile swim). Heather decided to get back in the triathlon journey<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>after a hiatus, so I was super pumped about racing with her again! Layla was signed up to race, too so we booked a room and planned to carpool. The drive down to Williamsburg was uneventful. We got checked in and found a nice spot for a pre race meal. Before long, it was GAME TIME!</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Swim:</b> I find that I am extremely cautious in the swim. I sight more than necessary, both for the course makers and for other swimmers that are too close. It’s always like I don’t trust my vision or something, because when I see something or someone, I tend to look again 2 or 3 more times, which I know slows me down. Goal: sight less and only once. I need to come up with a set amount of stroke to take before I sight, and stick with it. Time: too long</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>T1: </b>Uneventful. Time: too long</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bike:</b> The goal of the day was to fall in love with racing again. Just have fun and complete the distance. I didn’t push it on the bike at all. I took in the sites and just enjoyed riding my bike again. Time: too long</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>T2:</b> Uneventful. Time: too long</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Run: </b>Heather’s husband snapped a picture of me coming out of T2. The size of the smile on my face is immeasurable. When I saw that, I realized that I need to keep doing triathlons, if doing so makes me that happy. It was a hot day and I decided to stick to my goal of “just have fun”. I cheered others on, applied lipgloss, sang happy songs, gave high 5’s to others running in the opposite direction and finished strong. It wasn’t about speed. It was about doing a triathlon, because I can… and because I like this crazy stuff. Time: too long</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;">It was a good day. No issues. I had fun. I finished what I started. It was a great training day. </span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Next up: </b>Poconos Half on August 13th.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><span style="font-size: small;">Tri Becca</span></span></div>
Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-57709264910482969672016-10-11T23:15:00.002-04:002016-10-11T23:49:07.183-04:00Ironman Maryland... well, sort of<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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An Ironman triathlon is a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike ride and a 26.2 mile swim. The night before, we knew that the bike ride would be shortened due to flooding on the bike course. The swim ended up being canceled and the bike ride was shortened more than we were told. I will sign up for another Ironman triathlon, so I can complete the entire distance. Well, truth be told, I would have likely signed up for another Ironman anyway. While I did not complete the entire ironman distance at Ironman Maryland, it was so mentally exhausting with the swim delay then cancellation, the 2 hour wait to start the bike, running through water and mud multiple times, I believe that if we had swam the 2.4 miles and cycled the entire 112 miles, it would have been far easier than what we went through. However, since it was such a tough day and because I accomplished my goal of crossing an Ironman finish line and heard the words, "REBECCA WILLIAMS, YOU ARE AN IRONMAN", I still consider myself to be an Ironman Finisher. I raced the race that was laid out for me, although it is bittersweet and feels like an incomplete goal.<br />
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<b>Pre Race - Thursday:</b><br />
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The person that was supposed to travel to Cambridge to help and support me, disappointed me and went AWOL, so I arrived in Cambridge all alone. I knew that some BTA members would be there, Tania and Lisa were volunteering and that I would make friends. After seeing so many trump signs on my drive there and not seeing anyone of color when I arrived at the athlete reception, I was having BTA withdrawal in the worst way. I put out a BTA bat signal on Facebook and BTA started to come out of the woodworks. I saw Erica and soon met Alex Torres. I ended up having dinner with Alex and that ended up being one of the blessings of my weekend. Alex shared the poem "Thinking" by Walter Wintle and other tips to help me get through the mental aspect of the run.<br />
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<b>Pre Race - Friday:</b><br />
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I headed out to rack my bike and for a practice swim and met the women of the All Women Tri Team (AWTT). They welcomed me in quickly and I instantly felt as though I had support. Note to self: Only race with friends, as the pre race stuff is much more fun and a lot less lonely. I felt the anxiety creep in while looking at the rough water that we were swimming in the next day. Erica and the ladies of the AWTT were done with the swim by the time I was ready to hop in, so I decided to just find a place to relax. I pulled into the Hyatt, booked a couple of treatments at the spa, had lunch overlooking the water and before long, I was nice and zen. I had dinner with AWTT, found my missing wallet (I left it at the Hyatt) and before long, I was laid up and resting for the big day.<br />
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<b>Race day!</b><br />
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I did my usual pre-race meal and met the AWTT ladies in the lobby at 4:30 am. When we arrived at transition, it was flooded. That should have been a sign of the day to come. I didn't feel nervous or scared. I was just ready to get the day started and make my way to the finish line. It was really odd to not have my crew with me pre race, but I was just trying to focus on the day ahead and stay calm. They announced a 30 minute swim delay. I met Kimberlie and Tom Sheer shared some tips with us newbies. I noticed that the time had passed for the 30 minute delay, but they didn't make another announcement. I happened to look to my right and saw Tania! I screamed and hugged her so TIGHT and started to cry. The tears were of happiness that she was there. Tania is ALWAYS there for every important moment in my life since we've met, especially for triathlon stuff. I really needed to see a familiar face at that time. My BTA peeps are cool and all, but seeing a familiar face is what I needed. I fought hard to not think about all of the support that I had last year and compare it to this year. I was fighting all morning to be positive and focused, but when I saw Tania, I completely LOST it. As I hugged her and cried, they announced that the swim was canceled and I started to cry harder. Those tears were of disappointment, as I felt like my day was being chipped away and that I wouldn't have the full ironman experience. I saw Lenora, Tania left to do her volunteer duties and I was off to prep for and wait for the bike ride to start.<br />
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<b>Bike:</b><br />
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They were starting at bib numbers 1-100 and sending athletes off every 3 seconds. My race number was 2,610, which meant that I would be waiting around for at least another TWO HOURS to start the bike. I spoke to everyone that was up to chat, met other BTA members, huddled in the tent to stay warm, drank a bottle of my bike hydration, because at this point, it had been hours since my 3:30am breakfast. After many hours of waiting, at 9:35am, I was finally able to start the bike. It was windy as expected. I was advised to go fast when I could, because the wind would surely slow me down at several points. I promised myself that I would never allow my speed to drop below 16mph. Whenever it did, I gave myself permission to take a little break, reposition, drink, eat and get focused again. I had to keep stopping to blow my nose, as I haven't mastered the snot rocket thing yet. I stayed on top of my hydration/nutrition, enjoyed the rain showers and stood up on every turn to stretch my legs a bit. I didn't spend too much time at special needs this time. I just changed my socks, reapplied chamois cream, changed out my bottles, blew my nose again and I was off. Before long, I was at mile 90. I got a hug from Lisa, drank a strangers coca cola, blew my nose again and I was off. I don't know what was up with my dang nose!!! Lisa told me that I had fewer miles to go than they previously told us. When I made it to transition, I was impressed that I had rode the 100 miles in a little over 6 hours, so my goal of averaging 16+mph was accomplished! My quads were burning, so I knew that I probably went a little too hard. I was completely shocked by the amount of water that I had to walk through to get into transition and even more shocked to see people on the run course walking/running through the water. I knew that I had 8 hours to run the marathon and was not excited about getting started and having to run through that water. I lubed up extra good, because I knew it was supposed to rain again and I headed out.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2FNCyr6bv5s/V_2ms0yGLjI/AAAAAAAAI8A/-HO3cCOo1QEzOUyQCT4rFuE_D1ewSTFIwCLcB/s1600/lube.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2FNCyr6bv5s/V_2ms0yGLjI/AAAAAAAAI8A/-HO3cCOo1QEzOUyQCT4rFuE_D1ewSTFIwCLcB/s320/lube.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">About to lube it up</td></tr>
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<b>Run: <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6uI62UdcKZI/V_2lAF7IUQI/AAAAAAAAI70/vEq8IbKccOM2Zjl9-Bl2wRfpe4FxmfgbQCEw/s1600/run.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6uI62UdcKZI/V_2lAF7IUQI/AAAAAAAAI70/vEq8IbKccOM2Zjl9-Bl2wRfpe4FxmfgbQCEw/s320/run.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was a part of the run course</td></tr>
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I promised myself that I would only walk the aid stations. I ended up walking through water and mud about 6 times each loop (it was 2.5 loops). At the end of loop one, I saw Tania, Lisa and AWTT. My spirits were shot, because at that point, I had been through the water and mud a couple of times and I was NOT happy about it. Tania waded through the water with me on loop 1 and Lisa waded through the waters with me on the second loop. It was just a casual walk though calf deep water as they tried to talk to me to keep my mind off of the shitty run conditions. The water receded on the 3rd loop, but the mud got deeper and slicker. As it got dark and late, it started to rain, my darn feet were hurting, the course had thinned out, and my thoughts started to go dark. It started to rain harder around mile 21. I just stopped on the side of the road and started to analyze the decisions of my life. A little lady in yellow came up and told me, "Oh no, no NO! YOU KEEP MOVING!!". I noticed that the age on her calf was 72. 72!! So, I dried my tears and started moving again. At mile 22 this girl gave me some Aleeve that made my throat burn like they had been soaking in hot sauce. I took the soup. I saw Erica and tried to chat her up and she was rude AF. I let her be and took off. I recalled the words to the poem that Alex told me to commit to memory, and made a cadence of it: <span style="color: red;"><b>"Success begins with a fellow's will, it's all in the state of mind"</b>. </span>I repeated that for the next few miles and before long I was back to where Tania was, she pumped me up and then ran off to the finish line to meet me. I passed the spot where Lisa had been sitting as I made my way to the finish line. I remembered Lisa telling me last year that <i>my Ironman dream was delayed but not denied</i>. I heard the cheers at the finish line and I thought and said out loud, I will NOT be denied! I WILL NOT be denied! I WILL NOT BE DENIED.... The song by Meghan Trainor, "No", started blaring out of the speakers. I heard someone say BTA!!, My hand went up, I heard my name called and then called again and the words, "REBECCA WILLIAMS OF WASHINGTON, DC.... YOU ARE AN IRONMAN!". Tania was right there in the finish chute with my medal. She put it around my neck and then we hugged and jumped around like 10 year olds! No tears. No pain. Just happiness. I DID IT!!<br />
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<b>THANK YOU:</b><br />
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Thanks to my Coach for helping me to get more comfortable on my bike again and for getting me to the start line healthy and positive.<br />
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Thanks to Tania for always being there for me. Always. Seeing you at the swim, on the bike course, walking through the water with me and being at the finish line with my medal. You are ALWAYS there. THANK YOU!<br />
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Thanks to Lisa for the back cracking hug at mile 90 on the bike, for wading through the waters with me, for always supporting and believing in me, and for telling me that my goals were delayed but not denied. Words matter and you always know the right thing to say. THANK YOU!<br />
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Thank you to everyone who texted, sent FB messages, positive thoughts and vibes. Your energy carried me through those dark moments on the run. Thanks to Alex Torres for sharing tips with me over dinner. Thanks to everyone that came out to ride with me during training. That meant more to me than you would ever know. My anxiety on the bike was bad and you riding with me helped to increase my confidence. THANK YOU all.<br />
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Those AWTT women are the TRUTH. Since I didn't have anyone with me to help, they got my bike and bags after the race and put them in their hotel room. Not only did they bring me to the race site, they gave me a ride back to the hotel, invited me to their room for a post race massage with an amazing masseuse, invited me to get into their hot tub post race, invited me to pre race dinner and post race lunch. I was just a part of their crew. The TRUTH, I tell you. These women embody true sisterhood. THANK YOU ALL!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AWTT support crew!<br />
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I am not quite ready to change my name from Tri Becca to IRON BECCA just yet. I have to complete the full distance of an Ironman triathlon before I do that and get the tattoo. But, I did finish an Ironman competition, so I am proudly a FINISHER!!<br />
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Tri BeccaTri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-78257491857605146572016-06-11T23:32:00.001-04:002016-06-14T23:19:44.141-04:00Getting back to being brave<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Before my bike crash a couple of years ago, I would hop on my bike solo, go ride down to the river or to a trail, pack my bike up and go on a group ride knowing that I would see someone I knew or meet some new cycling friends. I didn't <i>need </i>to have someone to ride with me, I didn't <i>need </i>to know the pace of the group in advance in fear of getting dropped. I was perfectly okay riding and just getting it IN. Until that fateful day, when I went out on a solo ride in the 'hood and ended up in the back of an ambulance with my head split open. I've never been able to get my mojo back. The anxiety has been far greater than I have admitted to anyone. Anxiety about falling, anxiety about getting left alone, anxiety about riding solo, anxiety because of... the anxiety. But today, I made a huge step toward getting my mojo back. Today I ended up being the brave Tri Becca I used to be.<br />
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I signed up for the Patuxent River Rural Legacy ride. I invited folks to join me, but got no bites. My coach had it on my plan and I was committed to getting it done, even if it meant going alone. I had a sick tummy this morning, I got a late start, I considered not going, I got there and considered riding the 22 mile route instead of the 44 mile route as planned. I was ALL OVER THE PLACE! I pulled up and saw Tedd and Lynette. I started out riding with them, but ended up leaving them on the first climb. I met up with 2 other girls, who I ended up leaving on the next hill. I kept finding people and then leaving them when I realized that I had more in me to give on the bike. I rode with these 2 women for awhile that challenged me to keep up. They decided to go to the rest stop, but I had hydration and my legs were feeling fresh, so I didn't stop at the rest stop. I caught up with another group and hung with them for awhile before I realized that I could push my pace more. As I took off, this tall piece of man candy with <a href="http://www.giibike.org/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=240034&module_id=172721" target="_blank">Getting It IN </a>cycling took off with me. We pushed each other and chased each other up and down hills. My bladder started to hate me, so he held my bike while I hit the bushes. We made a quick stop for hydration at the next aid station and pushed off again. I past SO many people today! I've never said "ON YOUR LEFT"... and gave so many words of encouragement as much as I did today. I thank John at <a href="http://www.90pluscycling.com/" target="_blank">90+ cycling </a>for the help with hill climbing. His classes kick my ass every time and I am always one of the last to finish a climb, but I can see that it's helping me to get stronger.<br />
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I did the damn thang today! I went out there, not knowing if I would see a familiar face or if I would be riding solo because I got a late start, but I decided to be brave and get it done. I did it! I completed the 44 mile route and discovered a new cycling group to ride with. I was BRAVE today and for that I am extremely proud of myself! Last year, I was too afraid to get outside to ride. I spent countless hours on my trainer due to fear. This year I hope to get back to the brave Tri Becca that I once was and become a stronger and faster cyclist/triathlete. This year I will get outside more and just do the damn thing! This year I will train for an Ironman again and hope to change my name to "Iron Becca". Nice ring to it, huh?<br />
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Love,<br />
the very BRAVE and PROUD Tri Becca Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-33209663772152618422016-05-16T23:29:00.001-04:002016-05-17T14:47:02.848-04:00Toeing the Triathon line againIts hard to believe that I haven't blogged in 7 months. A lot has happened in that time. The thing that has remained constant is my desire to be a better me.<br />
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Immediately after failing to complete Ironman Louisville, I decided to race the next Ironman race that was still open, Ironman Cozumel. My immediate thought after that guy took my timing chip was, "Well, I just have to try again". I didn't want all of the training that I had done and my fitness to go to waste without trying again. Many of my friends told me to hang up my triathlon shoes and try again next year. I was advised to finish the year out with the NYC Marathon and be proud. I felt fine and decided to sign up for Cozumel. My Coach thought that I had enough time to ramp up again and that I would be fine, if I wanted to do it. I did. It was terribly hard getting back into the high level of training again, but I did my best. I ran the NYC marathon on November 4th, which was a COMPLETE BLAST.... minus the last 6 miles. After the NYC marathon, I was DONE for the year. I did not want to train anymore. I no longer wanted to race Cozumel. I did not want to have to follow a training plan anymore, so I applied for a refund from Cozumel, Tri Bike Transport and Endurance Sport Travel. I was fine with my decision. Here's the thing: I always know exactly what I want to do. Sometimes I question my reasons, but I know what I want to do.... however, I reserve the right to change my mind and I am okay with that too. I am sure that my friends and coach thought I was a little insane or that I made the decision to race Cozumel too soon. But no one knows me like I do. I knew that I wanted to do, until I didn't want to do it anymore. Makes perfect sense to me. No one has to agree or support my decisions.<br />
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For the next 5 months, I struggled to get in some exercise. I tried Solid Core, Fly Wheel, Soul Cycle, running speed work with Derrek, indoor cycling classes with DC Tri, etc. I was never consistent with anything. I tried out a Paleo diet and went back to my regular diet to see if I felt differently. I watched my belly grow and my arms and legs get flabby. I contemplated hanging up the triathlon boots and becoming a Pilates instructor. At the end of it all, I just wanted to Tri again, so I signed up for Ironman Louisville. I just HAVE to try again. I signed up for some running, cycling and swimming events and the Columbia triathlon to help me to build up my base fitness. However, I wasn't ready for the first few events on the calendar. I decided that what I needed was a training plan again, so I hired a coach. I started full on training again at the beginning of April. It was incredibly hard getting back into a routine again, but the clock was ticking and the Columbia Triathlon was creeping up on me.<br />
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May 15, 2016: Columbia Triathlon - Olympic distance<br />
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<b>What went right:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Unlike last year, I did not cry multiple times before the swim, nor did I have the multiple 'nervous pee in my wetsuit' thing going on (DON"T JUDGE ME!!!)</li>
<li>Unlike last year, I did not have a FREAK OUT session as soon as I got into the water. Last year, I immediately swam to the wall and told the cop and volunteer that I didn't want to do this today. I was extremely nervous about the bike ride after the swim. The volunteer asked if I was trained to do the distance. When I told her yes, the cop told me, " WELL, GET YOUR HEAD IN THE GAME AND GET TO SWIMMING!". Such tough love, but it got me going...</li>
<li>Unlike last year, I did not find myself waiting in transition, crying by Lisa's bike and texting my friends that I could not go on the bike course. Nor did I have the subsequent cussing out by Lisa to "GET YOUR SHIT AND LET'S GO OUT ON THE BIKE, NOOOW!!!" (I have such lovely friends)</li>
<li>Unlike last year, I did not find myself crouched behind Lisa on the bike for the first 5 miles, because I was afraid of the slick roads and I wasn't comfortable on my bike</li>
<li>Unlike last year, I did not make adjustments on the run to finish</li>
<li>I FINISHED and to me, FINISHING IS WINNING!! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>What sucked: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>The water temperature: The water was FREEZING (reportedly 62 degrees). I had on a neoprene cap, ear plugs, a wet suit, neoprene sleeves, neoprene booties and I was STILL freezing. I needed neoprene gloves. I had to bald my fist up and scrunch my toes a few times while swimming to get the circulation going. I was at the 300 meter buoy before I got into a groove. I couldn't see the buoys because of their position in line with the sun. This was a slow and FRIGID swim for me, but I got it done. My hands felt frozen so my T1 was extremely long. Ever tried to take off booties or put on socks with frozen/numb hands?</li>
<li>The wind: At certain points on the bike course, I felt like I was going to literally get blown off my bike. Being wet and cold made the winds feel even worse. I literally could not feel my toes and my hands felt numb</li>
<li>Not seeing a familiar face as I crossed the finish line. I knew my girls were close by, but seeing a familiar face in the finish chute is priceless</li>
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All in all, it was a sucky day for a triathlon, but it was just a training day and I got it done! I have come a long way since last year this time, and for that, I am extremely PROUD.<br />
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<b>What I need to do:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Increase my confidence on the bike. I am still nervous to go aero</li>
<li>Get stronger and faster on hills. 90+ will help me with this (when I can make it there. Traffic and work doesn't always let me be great)</li>
<li>Get faster on the run. I basically need to run more and run intervals and hills. I have a sneaky suspicion that my coach has something up her sleeves to help with this</li>
</ul>
<b>The most awesome parts of the day: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>Hearing my name called as I exited the water, finished up the bike and approached the finish line. I think it was the awesome Live Now Tri Now folks that had me feeling like a ROCK STAR out there!! I know how hard it is to be a spectator and with such undesirable weather conditions, I appreciate each and every one of you even more! THANK YOU!!! </li>
<li>Seeing my girls as I approached the finish line. I cussed 2 of them out, but they just laughed it off and told me to hurry my ass up and finish (where do I find such lovely friends???Lol!)</li>
<li>Learning that my coach WON THE TRIATHLON! She was the first female finisher! How awesome is THAT? This chic knows what it takes to be successful in these Triathlon streets, so I will be obedient.... well, I will try :)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</li>
</ul>
<br />
I am extremely proud of myself for crossing yet another triathlon finish line. I think this was Triathlon #15. I do this because I can. I do this to become a better me. My goal for 2016 is to become an Ironman triathlete. I have been chasing this dream since 2014. I have had the goal since 2012. Let's make it happen! Who's with me? If you don't Tri, I can always use a yoga buddy. It takes a village....<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Love,<br />
Tri Becca<br />
<br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-86340926834961813762015-10-13T17:16:00.001-04:002015-10-13T23:10:31.122-04:00Ironman Louisville 2015<b>History:</b><br />
<br />
I learned to swim in preparation of my first triathlon in 2010. Since then, I have completed 14 triathlons to include Sprint, Olympic and Ironman 70.3 distance races. After my second Ironman 70.3 race in Cozumel, I felt and thought that I could double the distance. I never thought about completing a full Ironman until then. I had to delay my decision to race a full Ironman a year due to financial situations, but in 2013 I signed up for the inaugural Ironman Chattanooga. The timing wasn't ideal, but I was trying to push forward despite all that I was dealing with. Unfortunately, I ended up having a bicycle accident that caused me to have to pull out of the race 10 weeks prior. As soon as I was released by my doctors, I signed up for Ironman Louisville. Tania and Von both signed up to race with me and Lloyd agreed to coach me. I was all set... except I didn't have a bike that was in condition to ride. I spent time on my damaged bike on the trainer and eventually got a bike in mid May. If I am completely honest, I had anxiety every single week while training for this race. I had anxiety about riding alone and about riding with others that were faster than me. I tried hard to get over my fear of falling again and tried to get comfortable with going into the aero position. I did my best with training and tried to have balance. When the day came to travel to Louisville, I felt prepared.<br />
<br />
<b>Pre Race:</b><br />
<br />
I arrived on Thursday and headed straight to Von's condo. We went over to the Ironman Village to get checked in with Leslie and Maggs. When the Volunteer pulled out my swim cap and race bracelet, the tears started to flow. I was overcome with the emotions of finally making it to this point after fighting so hard to get back to the triathlon starting line. Dawn came in on Friday morning after my short run and massage. We had an afternoon of pampering with the girls, lunch outside, attended the BTA Meet and Greet and then had dinner with Tania and Heather. Kevin came in on Saturday morning and we all went to get my bike checked in after I took it for a 20 minute spin and then we had a nice dinner. I got everything laid out while they went to get Bertha from the airport before it was time for bed. Kevin, Bertha and dawn all did a phenomenal job at keeping me calm and making sure that I had everything that I needed on race morning. I was so happy to have the support of friends there on my big day. Of course Tania was right by my side, as usual, before it was time to jump in.<br />
<br />
<b>Swim:</b><br />
<br />
I have been mentally preparing to just JUMP and not hesitate, as I always do. I consistently reminded myself that the fear I felt was irrational, as once I'm in the water and I can see out my goggles, I'm fine. I hesitated for a second, told myself to just jump... and so I did. Unfortunately, I didn't give Priscilla a chance to swim out the way and I jumped right on top of her. When I popped up, I apologized to her and took off. My chin was hurting and I prayed that she was okay. It was hard to get in my groove in first few hundred yards. The water was nice and cool, but the current felt like it was pushing me sideways. Before long, I got into my groove, but noticed people were walking! It was spooky as there was fog over the water as the sun was rising and I saw all of these bodies in black wet suits walking in the river. I called a kayak over so I could hold on to access the situation. I was determined to not stand and walk, as I didn't want the mushy river to squish between my toes. Before long, we swam around the island and it was time to swim to the exit. I peeked at my average pace a few times and knew that I was right on target to complete the 2.4 mile swim in 1 hour 40 minutes, as planned. Mission accomplished.<br />
<br />
<b>T1:</b><br />
<br />
I was so grateful to have assistance with removing the wetsuit and changing into the bike gear. It felt like the time went quickly, so I was surprised to see that I spent over 14 minutes there. Must improve! <br />
<br />
<b>Bike:</b><br />
<br />
I started the 112 mile bike ride with fresh feeling legs. The swim hadn't tired me out at all. I knew that the first 10 miles were flat, so I planned to get fueled up before the hills started. I had 2 small zip lock bags of cut up potatoes with sea salt to eat once per hour along with my Infinit liquid nutrition. I accidentally dropped one of my bags of potatoes in the first mile. I noticed that the potatoes in the 2nd bag had a funny color to them. I tried to take out a small piece and dropped that bag too. I was determined to not allow that to rattle me. I had a back up Cliff bar in my back pocket and recalled that there would be Cliff bars on the course. I trained with those too, so I knew that my stomach could handle it. I noticed that my speed was 17-18mph and I remembered that Lloyd and Robert told me to keep a speed that I could maintain for the entire day. I was warned about going out too fast and burning out later in the day. I tried to dial it back a tiny bit and then we hit the first hill. My legs felt fresh, but I was determined to not "burn any matches" early on. I felt great and held a nice pace. we turned onto the out and back portion of the course and before long, I heard the first crash. This section was entirely too congested with cyclist riding 2-3 across in each directions at some points. There were some fast declines and long climbs and folks were riding very recklessly. At around the 21 mile marker, I saw a woman lying on the ground across the street and Tania called out to me from a chair saying that her day was done. I was going up a little incline, tried to stop to check on her, pressed too hard on my breaks, maybe forgot to clip out (I can't remember) and I fell. It was such a silly fall, but my knee was hurting. Someone brought me some ice, I checked over my bike, made sure that I could move my knee, checked on Tania, called to notify her wife of her accident, and I was on my way. The first timing mat and turn around was just ahead. I needed to gather myself, so I stopped, went to the porta potty, refilled a bottle and tried to get my head back in the game. I felt rattled. My knee only hurt for a little while after that. I'm not sure if I blocked out the pain or if it was better. I do know that I was extremely cautious for the rest of the race. I'd never seen so many crashes on a course before. I noticed that my speed wasn't increasing. I tried to go aero continuously, but every time I did, there was someone or a car that was too close for comfort or a downhill that made me uncomfortable riding aero. I noticed that the course had thinned out and that many people were starting their second loop as I was starting my first. I kept pushing forward. I stayed on my nutrition plan to drink every 15-20 minutes and eat a tiny bite of something solid every hour. No hill felt insurmountable after I reminded myself that Lloyd took me on a ride up a freaking mountain! There were plenty of spectators in La Grange! I hit the mid way cut off point. I kept pushing forward but realized that time was getting away from me. My speed never really increased unless I was going down a long hill and there weren't that many of those. I started to calculate the time and thought that I would be okay. I didn't want to burn out and not have anything left for the run. I knew that if I could make the bike cut off, I would get to the finish line of the run at all costs before the clock stuck 12am. I never quit. I pushed forward and keep pushing and pushed until I got to the end of my 112 mile ride. Unfortunately, I was a few seconds too late. I dismounted in time, but had to run around the corner to the timing mat. The cutoff was 6:30pm, but I had to be done at 6:29:59. When I finished the clock said 6:30. I told the guy that it wasn't 6:31, so I should be fine. He said, "No, you have to be finished before the clock reads 6:30. You are too late. I'm sorry but we can't allow you to continue. I have to take your timing chip." He was a little hesitant to take the timing chip off my ankle, like he thought I would kick him in the head. <span style="color: red;"><b>My day was done.</b></span> I walked my bike in with my head held high as spectators and volunteers clapped. Some told me that they were sorry. A BTA Sherpa was right there and said that I missed it by 14 seconds. She assisted me with changing into some other shoes and a hat and with getting my bags. I was able to hold my head high, because I felt that <b>I did my best and I never quit.</b> The sadness didn't immediately kick in. I borrowed a telephone to call Kevin and took a walk back to the hotel.<br />
<br />
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
I never got up to my planned speed after the crash. My knee only hurt a little bit and I didn't think that it impacted my ride at all. Did it? Was I rattled from the accident and never recovered due to fear/anxiety? Was it because I didn't stay in aero enough? Was it because I was being too conservative riding in fear of burning out too soon? Truth be told, I've not gotten totally comfortable in the aero position during training and I rode aero even less on race day. Yes, I could have saved some minutes in T1 and at Special Needs. I only went to the porta potty once and only stopped for a minute or two at aid stations. I'm sure I lost some time when I fell and I was making sure that Tania was okay after her accident. But still. Even with all of that, I should <i>never</i> have come that close to cut off. It's puzzling to me. But I do know one thing: I NEVER QUIT. I fought to the end and tried to beat the clock. The two heartbreaking facts are that I missed the cut of by SECONDS and that I felt absolutely fine and knew that I could make the midnight cutoff in 5.5 hours if I gave it my best. I had mentally prepared myself to be ready to fight and to become an Ironman before midnight. I wasn't permitted to continue, so I just have to try again. The rules are the rules and I simply did not meet the cutoff, but it's a hard pill to swallow. I am working on logistics to try again really soon.<br />
<br />
The nature of my spirit is not one of a quitter. The two most immediate things I did post DNF were to check if another race was still open and called my coach. The most important thing that I did was make a list of what went right and what I could have improved upon. Here is that list:<br />
<br />
Things done RIGHT:<br />
<ul>
<li>Got over my fear of jumping in to start the swim</li>
<li>Conquered the swim in my expected time</li>
<li>Nailed my nutrition on the bike</li>
<li>Kept a positive attitude </li>
</ul>
Things to IMPROVE:<br />
<ul>
<li>Shorter transition time (swim to bike)</li>
<li>Be careful when stopping to avoid silly crashes</li>
<li>Shorter time at special needs</li>
<li>Get stronger and faster on hills </li>
</ul>
The most important thing that I need to improve is my confidence on the bike.<br />
<br />
While I am terribly saddened by not accomplishing my goal, I am still proud of myself. I am proud that I fought my way back from the bike crash last year. I am proud that despite my anxiety of riding, I keep pushing forward and challenging myself to overcome my fears. I am proud that even when time is against me, I will still push and try to beat the clock until the very last second. I think that speaks to my character. I am determined to get comfortable again riding my bike, especially in the aero position. I started competing in triathlons because of my my desire to be better, to do more and to challenge myself. I have done that and I will continue to do that. I decided to do an Ironman triathlon, because I believed that I could. I still believe that I can, no mater how this turned out. I realize that it's a blessing to be able to physically do this. Everyone is not so lucky. Just one short year ago I wasn't physically able to do what I did on Sunday. I do this because I can, because I <i>get</i> to do this, because I am blessed. <br />
<br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-44069934444911318992015-06-16T06:41:00.000-04:002016-05-17T00:04:38.420-04:00Facing my fears and getting back out there<style>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Fear.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What an extremely powerful emotion. It can be
mentally crippling and can overcome you, if you allow it. It’s so very easy to
suggest that a person “get over it and do it anyway”, but that is much easier
said than done. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some people deny that
fear is real. I can attest that it is. It’s REALLY real. I have allowed fear to
totally sidetrack me and consume me. I have allowed fear to prevent me from
doing the things that I absolutely love to do. While I did need to take time to
recover after my bicycle crash and I had some family issues that were demanding
of my time, I have allowed fear to keep me on the sidelines for far too long. But, not
anymore! I felt the fear, I fought it and I won. </div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #ff6600;">Columbia Triathlon (0.93 mile swim, 25 mile bike, 6.2
mile run)</span></b>: I must have cried 5 times before I got in the water. I’m
not 100% certain why. I was just extremely emotional about getting back out
there to do a triathlon again. I knew that I could handle the distances. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never doubted my ability. I believe it was
the thought of getting on the bike that had me in tears. I was afraid to get
on the bike, as I had only purchased it a week prior and I wasn’t that familiar
with it. It’s super light weight compared to my last bike and I wasn’t
comfortable in the aero bars. I wasn’t comfortable with how light it was going
down hills. I wasn’t comfortable with the electronic shifters. Most notably, I
wasn’t comfortable with the thought of riding it in the rain, as the roads
would be slippery, making it more likely for a fall again. I was a COMPLETE
rack of nerves. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was afraid I was going
to fall. As soon as I started the swim, I swam to the wall and told the cop
that I didn’t want to do the race today. He told me to get my mind in the game
and to get to swimming.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span> Maybe
I just needed some tough love? As I swam, I felt the raindrops and worked
myself up into a complete frenzy. I prayed that Lisa had a bad swim (sorry
Lisa!) and that her bronchitis was too bad for her to continue the race. I had
decided that if this were the case, I would end my race and not go out on the
bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I started the swim a while before
Lisa did, so I knew I would have to wait. I noticed numbers on top of the buoys
and assumed there would be 15 of them. After the 10<sup>th</sup> one, it was
time to exit the swim, however I was mentally prepared to swim further. I must
have been in the transition area for 20 minutes crying and texting my cycling coach,
Tania and boyfriend about how I couldn’t go out on the bike. They all
encouraged me to just go and reminded me that it was just a practice day. When
Lisa came into transition, she saw me waiting for her by her bike. The look on
her face was of pure disgust from her swim. She looked at me and asked what the
hell I was doing standing by her bike. I burst into tears. She said, “Oh no! Get
your shit together, grab your bike and let’s go! We’ll do this together”. Tough
love again. No one would let me give in to the fear. I got it together and headed
out to ride. I hung behind Lisa for a long time, as I was afraid to go down
hills, afraid let go of the handle bars to get water or to take in nutrition,
afraid that I would mess my gears up going up hills, afraid of the slick roads.
I was just completely overcome with fear. I tried to strike up a conversation
with Lisa. She just ignored me or grunted at me. Finally, I got the courage to
just GO.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I made it up all the hills and
just took my time practicing on my new bike. Before long, I made it to the
finish line and was able to smile back at Leslie’s cheering face. I think I
mean mugged her as I was heading out. The run was uneventful. I knew that I had
to make some changes in order to make it to the finish line before the race
cutoff. I finished the race with Lisa by my side with her amazing family
support and Kevin at the finish line. I did it! Tri Becca: 1 Fear: 0</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #ff6600;">Washington’s Crossing (1.2 mile swim across the Potomac
River):</span></b><span style="color: #ff6600;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought it would be a good idea to practice
jumping off a boat before the Escape the Cape Triathlon. Plus, I thought it
would be completely BADASS to swim 1.3 miles across the Potomac River from
Virginia to Maryland. Tania and Von were both racing, so I signed up. Now, I
did not stop to think about how nervous I am to jump into the water at the
weekday swims or at other triathlons. Yeah, that never crossed my mind. As we
were lining up to get on the boat, I got <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">really
</i>quiet. Tania kept asking if I was okay. I wasn’t tearful, but I had the
nervous pee thing going on. Oh BOY! When it was time to jump, Tania and Von
jumped in with no issue and I just stood there. I screamed to Dennis (who was
running the event) if I could sit down then jump in. He screamed back,
“REBECCA, JUMP OR JUST STAY ON THE BOAT!!. I screamed FUGGGGGGG!..... and
jumped in. My goggles immediately fogged up. Thank goodness, Tania was there. I
started to panic saying “my goggle are foggy, my goggles are foggy, I CANT SEE!
I CAN’T SEE!!” She let me hold on to her while I cleared and adjusted my
goggles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’s such a good friend! I
started to swim when the horn blew and kept reminding myself that my heat rate
would soon slow down, that my body was just trying to acclimate. Before long, I
got into a groove until something changed. It seemed like I was swimming
sideways and not getting any closer to the ferris wheel at the National Harbor
that we were swimming back to. The current had changed, as a tide came through.
It was pushing us under the bridge to the left when we were supposed to go
straight. Tarus was working safety and in a kayak. I asked if I was swimming in
the right direction and he affirmed. That ferris wheel looked like I was
swimming while standing still. It was NOT getting any closer! At one point, I
took a breaststroke to look where I was going and my feet touched the muddy
bottom of the yucky Potomac River! I SCREAMED! Tarus asked if I was okay and
then laughed when I told him that I got Potomac mud between my toes. At last
the ferris wheel and buoys finally came into closer view and it was time to exit. Whew!
I swam more than the 1.2 miles and it took me FOREVER, but I did it. I must
have looked a mess, as Von kept asking if I was okay. Tania took me home, as I
needed to eat and take a rest before my run. That night my throat started to
hurt, Tania couldn’t stop sneezing and Von had a scratchy throat. That Potomac
River water gave us the coodies, but we are CERTIFIED BADASSES for swimming
from state to state across a river! At least in my mind, we are! Even though I freaked out in the beginning, I still did it and to me, that's winning. Tri Becca: 1
Fear: 0</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #ff6600;">Escape the Cape Triathlon (1 mile swim, 25 mile bike, 5
mile run) Cape May, NJ: </span></b>When I saw the advertisement for this race,
I just HAD to sign up! I wanted to be on that boat! Lisa signed up for it too, so I
was IN.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When she shared with me that
it was a 15-foot drop when we jumped off the boat, I almost messed my pants.
Uh OH! I vowed to practice diving at the pool. Yeah, that never happened.
Whenever I went to the pool, I could never work up the nerve to dive in. I am
such a punk! It started to STORM on race morning. Lightening, thunder, you name
it. I prayed that the swim would get canceled. My prayers were not answered. Before
long, we were being herded onto the boat and were stuck there until it was
time to jump off. I felt nervous, but kept telling myself that it was just
excitement that I felt. The energy was on TEN, the music was loud and the race
director was pumping up the crowd. The Olympic triathletes all donned their
yellow caps and before you knew it, it was time to jump in and swim the 1 mile
back to shore. Lisa and I decided to jump together. When it was our turn, Lisa
jumped and I looked at the guy standing there. He directed me to move to the
side to speak with the Sports Psychologists. They shared with me that it was
just adrenaline that had my heart racing, that it only took 4 seconds to hit
the water,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to not look down and just
step out, instructed me to take some belly breaths, etc. I just couldn’t do it.
I turned away from the water and the lady told me to not give up. I looked at
her and said, “oh NO, I am NOT a QUITTER!”. She played on that and affirmed. I
said that over and over, “I AM NOT A QUITTER! I AM NOT A QUITTER!...”. I asked if I could sit down and
jump in. They gave me permission to do so, I then asked them to push me in and
I was off… The swim was my fastest swim yet, due to the current. The bike ride
was uneventful minus the newbies that were riding on the left, guys speeding by
on the right, many fellow triathletes on the side of the road with flats and a
couple of falls after people took the curves too fast. I tried
getting into the aero bars a few times, but I couldn’t get over the fear of
swerving and crashing or hitting a pot hole (I realized that I didn’t have any
CO2 cartridges to fix a flat). I felt strong on the bike but was likely not
fast enough yet. The run was HOT and running on sand sucks. Since I was one of
the last Olympic triathletes to jump off the boat, I was one of the last few athletes on
the course. Nevertheless, I crossed the finish line and earned my medal and
T-shirt. Lesson learned: Jumping off boats is NOT my thing! Although I was
overcome with fear, I still got off the boat and swam back to shore. So to me,
that’s a WIN. Tri Becca: 1 Fear: 0</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Fear.</b> It’s a
powerful emotion, but one that you can fight off and win. I feel like I can
call myself a triathlete again. My fitness level, speed and endurance are not
where I’d like them to be, but I am determined to remain consistent, give every workout my very best and make
sure that my nutrition plan is OnPoint.</div>
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Ironman Louisville training starts on Sunday.
The next 16 weeks will be interesting. At least I don’t have to battle with
fear any longer.</div>
Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-44773886909018996052014-11-26T21:47:00.000-05:002014-11-26T21:47:38.680-05:00The journey continues....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As I sit here on Thanksgiving-eve and reflect upon everything that has happened in the last year, I truly have a lot to be thankful for. Most of all, I am thankful for my health.<br />
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About 6 weeks after my last post, I was involved in a bicycle accident while training for Ironman Chattanooga. I ended up with 12 staples in my scalp, a sprained shoulder, a hip contusion (bad bruise), some abrasions, but worst of all a traumatic brain injury (concussion). I was misdiagnosed and did some things in the next few days that actually made my concussion worse. Surprisingly, there isn't a lot of information out there on concussion diagnosis and treatment. For the next 10 weeks, I was under the care of a neurologist and physical therapist for concussion therapy. As soon as I was cleared, I signed up for another Ironman triathlon, Ironman Louisville, which will be on October 11, 2015. The greatest difference between where I am mentally about this race versus the one I originally signed up for in Chattanooga, is that I no longer wonder <i>if</i> it's possible to become an Ironman. I <i>know</i> that it's possible. I am more committed and want to accomplish this goal more than ever before. God willing, I will. <br />
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I have made the decision to raise funds for brain trauma research on my journey to Ironman. This will give me even more of a cause to train and race. I hope you'll support me. I'm excited! My possibilities are endless!! Thank God for my health! What are you thankful for?<br />
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<br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-32754001261476288612014-06-09T09:02:00.000-04:002014-06-09T09:12:32.212-04:00Check in: IM Chattanooga training <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: black;">This week starts the 3rd week of training for Ironman Chattanooga. Life has been too busy to document everything thus far. I have been slowly building my base over the last few months and the IM training plan started over Memorial Day weekend.</span><br />
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I want to share the highs and lows of training. I don't want folks to see that I crossed the finish line and not know the challenging moments that I had in preparation for this event. Below is an email interchange that I had with my Coach on Saturday. Since this post, I ran 9.75 (I got lost due to being a wanderer, ran out of time and made my way back 5.25 miles short) and I have cycled nearly 3 hours. I'm committed to doing my best to get the trainings in. Stay tuned....<br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Hey Coach,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Congrats on finishing Comrades last weekend!! I hope that you're able to run the Ethiopia marathon this weekend.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">My first two weeks of Ironman training have been tough. With the move of my Mom and Sister to the area and getting them settled in, work obligations, personal stuff and being completely exhausted, it's been really tough to get my training in. I had a little breakdown yesterday morning, because I overslept but I wanted to get a bike ride in. I just started to wonder: Can I even do this? Did I bite off more than I can chew? Do I have enough time to properly prepare?? Do I have a solid enough base? .... I have a little note on my mirror that reads "How bad do you want it?" I asked and answered that question with: "I want it. I want it bad". This is something that I want to do for ME . I don't want to continue giving all of my time and energy to my job and to my family and have nothing left for me. This IM is for me.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"> So, I brushed away tears, looked at the calendar and I counted the weeks. I have 16 weeks to get ready for Ironman Chattanooga. I'm going to jump in where I need to be. Today I'm going to run the 15 miles. I know that I can do that. I'm headed to California now. I rented a bike and I will ride my two hours tomorrow. I also packed my swim gear. I plan to run twice, swim twice & cycle twice while here. I just plan on getting on board.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">I just wanted to share with you the mental challenges that I've faced this week. I know it won't be the last time that I have some sort of breakdown while training for this Ironman. I'm in. I'm committed. I will do this. I know you help me. I can do this.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Rebecca</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Rebecca,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">I'm glad you shared. You'll have a few more moments like this and the answer will always be, "YES, I want this!" In the end, Tri training should be a stress reliever, not a stress inducer. The workouts are an opportunity for you to dump all of the frustrations of the day. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Just keep doing what you can on the schedule. I've yet to get everything done on my training schedule and I've completed 12 Ironman competitions. Just keep moving towards the mark. We will always keep an eye on the big picture to make sure we are within reach of the final goal.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Family and work are important. But like you said, you've got to take care of yourself first. This race is all about you. Don't let anyone distract you, including yourself.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Get some rest and hit it again tomorrow.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Coach</span></div>
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</span></span><br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-33155850821737527972014-03-15T16:37:00.000-04:002014-03-15T16:37:53.633-04:00It Takes a Village: Rock and Roll DC Marathon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I completed my second marathon today. My training wasn't where it needed to be, so I called on the help of friends to get me through. <a href="http://www.onpointfitness.com/" target="_blank">My Coach</a> laid out a great training plan, but I didn't follow it as I should have. Heather and I completed some of our long runs together, but my long runs were never as long as they should have been, so I was worried. I called up Tracy and Angie and asked them to run with me and they didn't hesitate for one second. I got through the first 16 miles alone, but with lots of doubt about going the full distance. It wasn't until I saw Ieesha and she told me, "You're going to finish" that I knew that I would not bow out at the half. It was mental, as nothing really hurt besides my Achilles in the first mile. I was just tired and not up for the challenge, since I didn't get conditioned as well as I should have. This was an emotional race for me. I cried when I saw Ieesha, I cried when I saw Gladys and I cried a couple of other times. I realized that quitting was not an option and that I need to have mind control over Deebo (the devil that sits on my shoulder sometimes). I thought about my upcoming Ironman Chattanooga triathlon and asked myself, "How are you going to become an Ironman if you start quitting now?".<br />
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I pushed past the those crazy thoughts and started to count down the miles before I saw Tracy. I hesitated at the point where I could go left to the 1/2 marathon finish or right to stay on the marathon course. Tracy was exactly where she said she would be at mile 16 and we got to stepping. I started to fade in mile 18 because I needed salt, so she bummed some pretzels from a spectator. Francy was out there and gave me a hug. Angie was right before the 20 mile mark, as promised, so Tracy handed me off to her. I had no pain, but was just getting tired. Angie decided that we would start running 3:1 intervals, but we quickly had to change it to 2:1 intervals. She was <i>relentless</i> with sticking to the intervals, even on the hills of that <i>wicked</i> Minnesota Avenue. Before long, we saw Gladys and she had my Coke and Peanut M&M's as promised. Angie made me some salt water and we brought it in to the finish line.<br />
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This was truly a group effort. I know that the last 10 miles would have been even more of a challenge without those ladies. I will eternally be grateful to them and vow to follow my training plan moving forward. My Coach and Heather were waiting for me at the finish line. MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oisc4xeFgkk/UyS4IF-oDxI/AAAAAAAACQc/_XbLNwpSJ3A/s1600/expo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oisc4xeFgkk/UyS4IF-oDxI/AAAAAAAACQc/_XbLNwpSJ3A/s1600/expo.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Expo</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Heather</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X881F1YNdkg/UyS4ARXkKLI/AAAAAAAACQM/0mHgsiPNyCE/s1600/shayla.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X881F1YNdkg/UyS4ARXkKLI/AAAAAAAACQM/0mHgsiPNyCE/s1600/shayla.jpg" height="292" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shayla: Chance meeting at the start line!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running Angels: Tracy and Angie!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Gladys: The Coke and M&M's got me to the finish line!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_eq3GUJuJ2k/UyS38iGRzuI/AAAAAAAACQE/svU279zYkw8/s1600/done.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_eq3GUJuJ2k/UyS38iGRzuI/AAAAAAAACQE/svU279zYkw8/s1600/done.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mission Complete!</td></tr>
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There is always going to be something: cold weather, hot weather, family issues, busy days at the job, injuries, illness, etc. We can't escape it. We can either use the issue as an excuse or find a way to work towards our goals, despite the current issue(s). Lately, I have been having a difficult time working towards my goals despite the issues. I wish there was a playbook to tell me what's really just an excuse versus what I can push and train through. Sometimes I tell myself to "just listen to your body", but often times, I can't tell if it's my mind or my body giving me the answer.<br />
<br />The weather has made it tough to get outside to run on days when there's ice and below freezing wind chills. Well, I went to Miami to run a 1/2 marathon and the heat and humidity (along with a personal physical challenge) made it hard to run there too. It's true that if we always waited for the perfect conditions, we would rarely do anything, especially train for an Ironman. So, I just have to find a way to push through and work around the challenges that I'm facing and make it happen. My body and mind have to equally get tougher in order for me to overcome and win on this journey to Ironman Chattanooga. Game ON!<br />
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Since I last wrote a post, I have started a <a href="http://www.spin90.com/" target="_blank">Spin90</a> class one day per week, started a <a href="http://www.onpointfitness.com/" target="_blank">Total Immersion Stroke Development</a> class twice per week, <i>tried </i>to remain consistent with running 3 days per week to train for a mid-March marathon and have inconsistently done weights and core work. I may have to drop down to the 1/2 marathon or nix the whole race depending on my surgery schedule and recovery. I'm very glad that I got a head start on building a stronger base and still have plenty of time to prepare for Ironman Chattanooga. This surgery will just be a little bump in the road. I will do my best to work on my mind game and be more consistent once I am all better.<br />
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I WILL give every workout my very best! I WILL be more consistent! I WILL be an Ironman!<br />
Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-36921208131802138332013-12-01T14:17:00.000-05:002013-12-02T00:09:12.945-05:00One month down...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am in the building phase of training for Ironman Chattanooga. The actual 16 week Ironman training doesn't start until June. The plan is to focus on running alone in Nov/Dec then add swimming (re-tuning my stroke) in Jan/Feb and start cycling in March. I can do anything that I like to build strength and agility in addition to that between now and March 1st. So, if I am going to do anything to trim down, now is the time. As I prepare to head out for a long run today, I decided to take stock of where I am/how I'm doing. If I had to give myself a grade at this point, it would be a D. <br />
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The month of November was a challenge due to mental demons. I think I've discovered the source of the mental demons coming out. It was my plan to take the month of November off to just do whatever I wanted to do fitness wise. I didn't want to be committed to a plan that brings on the mental stress of <i>having </i>to do something. However, my dream of having a coach to get me ready for Ironman Chattanooga came true and his plan was to start base building in November, so I rolled with it. Perhaps I should have pushed back and shared what I needed mentally. Another thing is that I have come to the realization that I am more race focused/motivated and not as committed to fitness as I should be. When I have something on the calendar and the goal is to cross the finish line, I have no problem doing what it takes to get there. However, if there isn't something to get ready for or if I feel like have time to prepare, I am lazy. If I was more committed to fitness, despite what events are on the calendar, I would be in better physical shape. I must change this way of thinking/being. <br />
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I have stepped on the scale monthly to check out my weight, muscle mass, body fat and water %, etc. since January 2012, but fell off in September 2013. Consequently, the numbers on the scale are worse than they have ever been since I started this. I have had some events (job change, dealing with my Mother's illness/aging, etc) this year that have really worn me down. I feel like I have gotten a hold on things and feel optimistic about handling everything moving forward. I have identified the true source of the things and behavior that are not serving me and have a plan in place to combat that.<br />
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So, one month down and 10 to go until race day (September 28th). I hope to be able to give myself a better grade on January 1. Let's GOOOOOOO!<br />
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<br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-17045910485746690102013-11-04T22:30:00.000-05:002013-12-02T00:09:26.174-05:00My 1st Marathon!<style>
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</style><b>Mile 0.5:</b> His IT band is hurting. “This is going to be a
long… day!”<br />
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<b>Mile 2:</b> Bertha!! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-citY2Ps9PcY/UnhewYpeaPI/AAAAAAAACMo/BLpKUsTlBKw/s1600/bertha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-citY2Ps9PcY/UnhewYpeaPI/AAAAAAAACMo/BLpKUsTlBKw/s320/bertha.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Mile 4 (Rock Creek Park): </b>Mahasin and a drunk girl. I was standing on the side of the road waiting for my friend to use the bathroom and she stopped and asked if I was peeing (yes, you read that correctly). She then asked if I needed some vodka to get me going again and then said, "WAIT, do I have vodka or tequila today?". She explained that she can only run marathons with vodka or tequila and that she went out drinking last night and <i>only</i> spent $42. Her eyes were glazed over, her speech was slurred, she told me bye and ran along... Yes. That happened.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kBBnQNoNIBI/UnhgL5h8i8I/AAAAAAAACNo/8VOAdi8uHFA/s1600/mahasin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kBBnQNoNIBI/UnhgL5h8i8I/AAAAAAAACNo/8VOAdi8uHFA/s320/mahasin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VwkriPN0NCg/UnhfVGgZckI/AAAAAAAACNY/CnKn4lYjjLU/s1600/drunk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VwkriPN0NCg/UnhfVGgZckI/AAAAAAAACNY/CnKn4lYjjLU/s320/drunk.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<b>Mile 8 (Rock Creek Park):</b> “Oops, I waited too long to eat my Bonk Breaker. I hope this doesn’t ruin my day! Where is Teresa with those
peanut M&M’s??!!” For some reason, if I eat something by an hour and a half of running, I am good for the rest of the race, if not I bonk.</div>
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<b>Mile 9( Rock Creek Park):</b> “I needed that hug from Teresa and
those peanut M&M’s and coke were <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">life-saving!</i>
Thank God for great friends!”</div>
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<b>Mile 9.5 (Kennedy Center):</b> “Oh yeah! I’m feeling good again!”
I saw Sissy and Erin and took this photo like I was having <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">way </i>too much fun for this to be a marathon! </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KvVQcmXOlP8/UnhezZdgkyI/AAAAAAAACMw/5iQmECi-WSc/s1600/mile+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KvVQcmXOlP8/UnhezZdgkyI/AAAAAAAACMw/5iQmECi-WSc/s320/mile+9.jpg" width="96" /></a></div>
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<b>Mile 12 (Hains Point):</b> “This is stupid and boring. Who
thought of this?! I prefer the mix of triathlons. This continuous running is
for the birds! Wait, is he stopping for so many pee breaks because he is hurting
and/or tired?”. The pictures of the fallen soldiers and the people holding the
American flags brought me to tears and a major attitude adjustment.</div>
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<b>Mile 14 (Hains Point):</b> “Okay, I have to focus. I’m not even
1/2way there. I’m not tired… I’m NOT tired”</div>
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<b>Mile 15(leaving Hains Point):</b> "Okay, my plan to run 2 miles
and walk the water station is working. Pick up the pace. Run to the third tree and then just a short walk break. Angie is supposed to
be at mile 16 by Lincoln. Just run to Angie!"</div>
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<b>Mile 16 (Lincoln):</b> No Angie, but I saw Ericka!! She was
walking and complaining that her uterus felt like it was about to fall out. I
gave her a hug and some Aleeve then kept it moving. He was really hurting and
needed to walk. We stopped to use the bathroom and after stepping off the curb, he was in major pain. Done. “Uh oh, this may not have been a good idea!”.
I didn’t want to leave him, as he is only out here to support me. "What’s a
girl to do???” I know... I am too kind.</div>
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<b>Mile 17 (14<sup>th</sup> and Madison):</b> Erin and Sissy were
there and the entire Moshiman cheer crew with signs too! They were SO loud and
all gave me high fives. I was feeling the love!!.... and then, I was so
surprised to see Edwidge and Gladys there that I think I was feeling the love a
little <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">too </i>much. I came to a screeching
halt, put my hands over my face and started to cry. I just felt overwhelmed by
the love and support. They pretty much told me to just suck it up and keep it moving… and I
did. Ha! </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j-xCdLgVJww/UnheppKxKBI/AAAAAAAACMY/GeM-DXCmOQ8/s1600/the+cheer+crew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j-xCdLgVJww/UnheppKxKBI/AAAAAAAACMY/GeM-DXCmOQ8/s320/the+cheer+crew.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BV-7eZ6EF2M/UnhesZ349PI/AAAAAAAACMg/5D_fxNuPYjk/s1600/Moshiman+cheer+crew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BV-7eZ6EF2M/UnhesZ349PI/AAAAAAAACMg/5D_fxNuPYjk/s320/Moshiman+cheer+crew.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Mile 18 (National Mall):</b> Terri and Cass!! </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D1KSAqWA17I/Unhel5YpSOI/AAAAAAAACMQ/25fu-GslNUA/s1600/cass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D1KSAqWA17I/Unhel5YpSOI/AAAAAAAACMQ/25fu-GslNUA/s320/cass.jpg" width="294" /></a></div>
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<b>Mile 19.5 (The turn to Beat the Bridge):</b> Megan, Edwige,
Gladys, Sissy and Erin!! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jF8uSoOSLzE/UnhfDU31kiI/AAAAAAAACNA/alEPo-jMRrk/s1600/beat+the+bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jF8uSoOSLzE/UnhfDU31kiI/AAAAAAAACNA/alEPo-jMRrk/s320/beat+the+bridge.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>Mile 20(14<sup>th</sup> St bridge):</b> Lisa!! We chatted for a
few and I kept it moving. My feet were hurting when I walked and his IT band
and calf hurt to run. “What’s a girl to do? I’m ready to finish this thing. I
would hate to leave him!”</div>
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<b>Mile 22 (Crystal City):</b> Ieesha!!! She tried to run with us,
but he couldn’t run and my bladder felt like it was about to fall out. We found
a porta potty and walked a bit more. She took off and by mile 22.5, I could no
longer walk and he could no longer run, so I took off and left him.</div>
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<b>Mile 24:</b> My watch died and I missed him singing cadence
songs to me, so I made up my own…out LOUD . I tried to keep it moving to try to
get my mind off my dang feet hurting so bad! I had never had my feet to hurt
like that! I walked, ran, skipped, made up songs, danced, made friends and finally... I
heard the announcers at the finish line!</div>
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<b>Mile 26.1:</b> Gladys, Edwidge, Sissy and Erin <i>again</i>!! These
ladies were making their way around the course like professional spectathletes!
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gladys ran out and gave me a big ‘ol hug
and I ran to the finish line!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SIflyMXyzUw/UnhfKGmx99I/AAAAAAAACNI/75Bd7q3Qlww/s1600/26.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SIflyMXyzUw/UnhfKGmx99I/AAAAAAAACNI/75Bd7q3Qlww/s320/26.1.jpg" width="241" /></a></div>
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<b>Finish line fiasco:</b> I DID IT!! I never had any doubt that I
would, but I was SO very proud! I snapped a photo and headed off to have a Marine
place a medal around my neck… only to be told that they ran out of medals. Big, hot, crocodile tears immediately started to roll down my face. I never knew that
getting a medal meant so much to me, but I was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">so </i>very disappointed. I had dreamed of running up to the Iwo Jima
and having a Marine say, “Good job, Ma’am” while donning me with my well-deserved
medal… but that dream was shattered. I had questions, I refused a 10k medal, I
called bullshit on the two stories that they told me and pretty much made a
big scene. I was so hurt. A staff member walked up to me and gave me a medal. That simmered me
down. I stayed there for an hour to let other finishers take an official
finisher photo with my medal.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sZNNXdjLT8c/UnhfP9owsOI/AAAAAAAACNQ/QIjh_W6npmM/s1600/done.....jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sZNNXdjLT8c/UnhfP9owsOI/AAAAAAAACNQ/QIjh_W6npmM/s320/done.....jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<b>Post-race:</b> I took an ice bath and walked the stairs a few
times that evening. Other than some quad pain and being sleepy all week, I felt
fine. My ankle never bothered me. In the week after I sprained it, I had
acupuncture twice, electrical stimulation 3 times and plenty of RICE. On race
day, a popped a prescribed pain pill and slapped a lidocaine patch on it, so the
ankle was in lala land.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will run
another marathon during training for Ironman Chattanooga. My greatest lesson is
to not accept the offer from someone to run with me for support again. It was
an extremely kind thing for him to do, but he was untrained and injured and
should have realized that he could jeopardize my race. My predicted finish time was
5-5.5 hours, but it took me an hour longer. I never hit a wall or had any pain.
Looking on the bright side, my marathon in March will be a PR of over an hour!!
</div>
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Special thanks to James for running with me and trying to
hang in there through the pain, Brook for doing Physical Therapy on the ankle,
all of the FB folks and friends who gave me 1st timer tips and suggestions on how to get the ankle
race ready. I am eternally grateful for all those who cheered me on virtually and in person. Please know
that without you, my accomplishment would have been tougher. I am extremely
proud to add a marathon to my list of accomplishments! </div>
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<b>Next up:</b> March marathon and whatever else my
Coach tells me to do in preparation for Ironman Chattanooga! <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>I will be an Ironman on September 28, 2014.</i></span> I'm writing it down and will make it happen. I hope you come along for the journey...</div>
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Love,</div>
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Tri Becca</div>
Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-11296530980796024552013-10-02T23:17:00.002-04:002013-12-02T00:09:46.608-05:00Ironman Augusta 70.3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Du1ognLN-fQ/UkyhwBdmPRI/AAAAAAAACLg/kk0wyCo-Cv8/s1600/ima.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Du1ognLN-fQ/UkyhwBdmPRI/AAAAAAAACLg/kk0wyCo-Cv8/s1600/ima.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I signed up for the Ironman 70.3 Augusta triathlon as a
birthday present to myself. At the time, I was experiencing some financial
difficulties and had to cut back on races this year, but I needed to have
something big on my calendar to help keep me sane. My first two Ironman 70.3 triathlons had its challenges and I just didn’t feel like I
did my best. I wanted to race this distance one more time and race it faster and without
the mistakes made in the past. I can't say that I accomplished that goal. My friend Tania signed up to race with me and
the plan was to drive down and spend an extra night in Augusta. I got a new job
and later learned that race day was the same day that I needed to fly out for
sales training, so it drastically affected our plans. However, in true fashion
of Tania being the absolute <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">best </i>friend,
we made it work. Due to work schedules, we couldn’t leave before 5pm on Friday,
but thank goodness Tania’s wife came with us so we were able to take the HOV
lane to get out of crazy Friday evening DC traffic! The drive was uneventful.
Tania drove us the entire way, arriving in Augusta after 3am at a Bed and
Breakfast that was right on the run course and walking distance to
everything. This place was old with creaky wood floors and would have been a
nice place if it wasn’t for the stench of 100 years of dust with all of the
windows nailed shut. It reminded us of an old haunted house. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We planned to do a practice swim on Saturday, but that plan
got nixed after spending the day walking through a cute little street market,
spending some time at the race expo, a couple hours at the bar and then walking
back to the hotel taking random photo’s along the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We still had to get to the store, get some
dinner and try to rest up for the big day. Despite a rough start to Tania's day, she ended up with a 9 minute PR! The highlight
of my day was seeing my friend Brigitte’s sister and kids that drove down to
cheer me on from Atlanta. They had some time to kill while I was on the bike, so
they went to the library and made a sign for me. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It was the cutest thing to see
6 year old Josiah holding it upside down as I rode by on my bike!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-345q8fXv3EU/Ukx72cBOAbI/AAAAAAAACLQ/e4h4BtTtyX4/s1600/me+and+t.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-345q8fXv3EU/Ukx72cBOAbI/AAAAAAAACLQ/e4h4BtTtyX4/s1600/me+and+t.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Swim: 1.2 miles</span></b></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">As Meghan put it, “Current is Love”. The Savannah River has
a current that makes any swimmer look like a rock star! The water was 69
degrees this morning, which is much colder than I have probably ever swum in.
It took me a few minutes to get acclimated. Against my better judgment and
plans, I did not swim in the river prior to the swim. Had I done so, I would
have possibly noted the seaweed that could get caught around your dang foot.
After getting used to the water temperature and having to summon a kayak over
so I could free myself of seaweed and calm down from my <i>complete panic attack,</i> I started to
notice how the buoys were coming up rather fast. I didn’t feel the current, but
noticed that I was swimming 100 meters at a time much faster than I ever did! No Sunday morning swimming for this chic today! I was a victim of the current’s love
and got that swim done faster than ever! The Augusta Chronicle captured me
exiting the water with a bright smile on my face! <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Lesson:</b> Preparation prevents panic<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">. Time: 39:10 </b>(I probably lost 5 minutes freaking out about the
seaweed with the kayak guy)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n6If0HhgtJg/Ukx6xFBXw9I/AAAAAAAACLI/mrrOQaNHcVA/s1600/after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n6If0HhgtJg/Ukx6xFBXw9I/AAAAAAAACLI/mrrOQaNHcVA/s1600/after.jpg" /></a></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bike: 56 miles<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Perception is reality and most definitely varies from person
to person. What one person thinks is slightly hilly with rolling hills; another
person may see it as long slow climbs, false flats and the occasional downhill
that abruptly ends with a stop and turn. I think to be good on a course; it
takes training on a similar course. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Granted, the courses that I trained on have
been harder and there were no insurmountable hills on the Augusta Tri course,
however it was not at all what I expected. I didn’t train on slow climbs, so
when I was on a climb that was freaking continuous like the one at mile 32.8,
which had me to drop my speed down to 9.5mph, it was hard for <i>me</i>. This course
only had the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">occasional</i> rolling hill
to <i>me</i>. This course was challenging with some fast flats, a few rolling hills
with fast descends and long slow climbs/false flats to <i>me</i>. My perception of
this bike course was different and not at all what I expected. I am sad that it
took me much longer than expected. I thought that I was prepared by riding in
Columbia, Southern Maryland and Reston, but I wasn’t. This is very
disappointing, because I really wanted a 3:00-3:30 finish time. Nevertheless, I
finished... and conquering 56 miles on a bike is no small feat, so I won’t beat
myself up about it. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Lesson: </b>It is
foolish to set time goals for something that I have not previously experienced,
as one person’s perception may not be <i>my</i> reality. I really need to work on my
cadence on rides to prepare for next year. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Time:
3:51</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GbFzI3E7Drg/Ukx6b1Zy-HI/AAAAAAAACLA/9Ss4FDKIY7Y/s1600/upside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GbFzI3E7Drg/Ukx6b1Zy-HI/AAAAAAAACLA/9Ss4FDKIY7Y/s320/upside.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Run: 13.1 miles<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The run was just as expected. It was flat and the crowd
support was amazing in some spots. I expected to have a tough 1<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup>
mile and expected that my Achilles may tighten up until I got it stretched out really good.
What I did not expect was the side of my right foot to hurt so much. Plus, I
was so fatigued that I considered just running to the finish line instead of
going on my 2<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">nd</span></sup> loop.... but, I fought the urge/crazy thought. I would
have felt terrible if I had cheated and quit, so I fought back the tears and
pushed on for another 7.1 miles. I was really hoping to finish the run much
faster since I have been running more to prepare for the Marine Corp Marathon,
but my time was only a few minutes faster than the run on my previous two
Ironman 70.3 triathlon races. So, I am disappointed in my run time too. Staying with the whole "look on the brighter side" theme: I will just remind myself that just being able to physically and
mentally complete this is a blessing. I crossed the finish line, grabbed my medal, said hello to Margo and sped walked to the hotel to get showered up for a flight that was leaving in 2 hours. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Lesson: </b>Get aches and pains checked
out while in training and not wait until it causes me to lose time on
race day. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Time: 3:09<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My swim to run transition time was 7:39 and my bike to run
transition time was 10:38. My total race time was 7:58. Not quite the pipe dream
of less than 6 hours or my worse day expected time of 7:15, but I finished and
FINISHING IS WINNING.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2gCzD879Hhg/Ukx6VBAR-ZI/AAAAAAAACK0/lNr-usuQN8k/s1600/medal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2gCzD879Hhg/Ukx6VBAR-ZI/AAAAAAAACK0/lNr-usuQN8k/s1600/medal.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">All in all, it was a challenging day and I did not meet my
time goals. I am still very happy that I was able to compete at this distance
again and feel that I gave it all that I could, given my preparation. I don't want to make excuses for myself, but I have had a lot going on (new job, family and personal stuff) which impacted my training and mental game a bit. Since 2010, I have followed
training plans that were not specifically made for me. I really want to get
stronger and faster. This race confirmed that it is time for me to get a coach
that will tailor a plan for me with my goals in mind. This was my 12<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
triathlon and I could not be more proud of myself! This journey has not been a
solo one, as my friends and many people that I don’t know have been great
supporters. They really keep me going on race day when I know that they are
tracking, thinking of and praying for me. I am one blessed girl.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Next up</b>: My very
first marathon! I will tackle 26.2 miles of running in the Marine Corp Marathon
in 4 weeks. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In 1 year, I will double the distance of this race and tackle my very first full Ironman Triathlon in Chattanooga, TN! I
know if you are reading this, then you will be along for the journey. Thank
you!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Tri Becca</span>Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-63861778834047672382013-09-17T21:05:00.001-04:002013-09-17T21:20:00.139-04:00A good day, a challenging day and a flat out PIPE DREAM<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
The day of a traveling salesperson makes it hard on a triathlon and marathon training schedule! I had to admit to a friend today that my Superwoman cape doesn't always fit. I had good training intentions today, but life happens. I pray that I get a chance to wake up tomorrow and make it a more productive training day than today.<br />
<br />
I had a lot of time to think while driving for SEVEN hours today. I came up with what a good day, a bad day and a flat out pipe dream would be for my upcoming Augusta Ironman 70.3 triathlon on September 29th.<br />
<br />
<b>A good day</b> would be if there is a really strong current, all of my hilly bike rides pay off and my marathon training has made me a stronger runner. It would look something like this:<br />
<br />
<b>Swim 1.2 miles:</b> 30 minutes<br />
<b>Bike 56 miles:</b> 3 hours<br />
<b>Run 13.1 miles:</b> 2:30<br />
<b>T1/T2 (transitions):</b> less than 10 minutes total<br />
<b>Total time:</b> 6 hours 10 minutes<br />
<br />
<b>A challenging day</b> would be if there is no current, the course is more hilly than expected and I am just hot and exhausted on the run. It would look something like this:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<b>Swim 1.2 miles:</b> 45 minutes +</div>
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<b>Bike 56 miles:</b> 3:30 +</div>
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<b>Run 13.1 miles:</b> 2:45 +</div>
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<b>T1/T2 (transitions):</b> 12 minutes +</div>
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<b>Total time:</b> 7+ hours <i>(the cut off is 8 hours)</i></div>
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<b>A flat out PIPE DREAM</b> would be if I had followed my training plan with the consistency and intensity that it takes to be where I want to be as a triathlete <i>(it's time to get a coach!).</i> It would look something like this:</div>
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<b>Swim 1.2 miles:</b> less than 30 minutes</div>
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<b>Bike 56 miles:</b> 2 hours 45 minutes</div>
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<b>Run 13.1 miles:</b> 2:15</div>
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<b>T1/T2 (transitions):</b> less than 8 minutes total</div>
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<b>Total time: </b>5:38</div>
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No matter <i>what </i>happens out there, I will remember that I am blessed just to be able to compete. I recall not being able to climb a flight of stairs without being short of breath and not being able to make it across the pool without stopping. That was just a few short years ago. This race was my birthday present to myself, so I will enjoy it! I hope to have a good day. Prayers, thoughts and virtual cheers are welcomed. However, there is <i>no </i>need for anybody to be out there to be twerking in my honor! LOL</div>
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<br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-34691967240906750922013-09-04T10:35:00.003-04:002013-12-02T00:09:54.167-05:00The ULTIMATE challenge!<br />
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It all started in January 2010 when I was recovering from an abdominal surgery and post surgical double pneumonia. 80% of both of my lungs were filled with pneumonia. I could barely climb a flight of stairs or take a shower without becoming extremely winded and fatigued. I started to run the year before and had learned about Triathlons. At the time, I quickly dismissed the idea of doing a Triathlon, as I could not swim, did not own a bike and was a new runner. However, when I was recovering from surgery and pneumonia, the idea of doing a Triathlon appealed to me. The inability to do anything made me want to do everything! I wanted to complete a triathlon! My initial goal was just to be able to walk around the block. My next goal was to walk 4 blocks to my friend Jolie's house. Once I was able to do that, I prayed that if God allowed my lungs to get back to normal, I would learn to swim and complete a triathlon. I called my friend Dawn and told her that there was an inaugural Triathlon in DC in June and I was going to complete it. I'm sure she thought that I was crazy, but she promised to do it with me. <br />
<br />
Training to complete my 1st triathlon was no small feat. I took my first swim lesson in January 2010. It was March before I could make it across the pool without stopping. I still had a touch of pneumonia, so running was challenging. I didn't purchase a bike until mid March and my greatest challenge was staying vertical. It was WORK. However, on June 20, 2010, I completed my first Triathlon with my friend Dawn at my side & my running coach and mentor at the finish line along with a whole cheer squad of friends!<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=3666774519610254241#editor/target=post;postID=8379788033648709612;onPublishedMenu=allposts;onClosedMenu=allposts;postNum=1;src=postname" target="_blank"> My First Triathlon</a><br />
<br />
In 2010, I completed 3 triathlons, 5 triathlons in 2011, 2 in 2012 and I will be completing my 2nd one this year. 4 Sprints, 5 Olympics and 3 Ironman 70.3 (half Ironman) triathlons. Now, I am ready for the ULTIMATE Challenge. A full Ironman! Ironman Chattanooga!<br />
<br />
Ironman Chattanooga will be on September 28th, 2014. The swim is 2.4 miles in the Tennessee River, 112 miles of cycling the rolling hills of North Georgia and a 26.2 mile marathon run through downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee. That's a total of 140.6 miles that I must complete in 17 hours. It will take a village to get me to the start/finish line healthy and sane. If you are a runner, cyclist, swimmer, masseuse or yogi, I will need your help! If you are none of these, I will need your positive vibes, thoughts, prayers and an occasional outing to help me to have some balance. I will start training for this after taking the month of November off from training. I'm going to be an Ironman!! What a journey.....<br />
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TriBecca</div>
<br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-70493711271660677252013-08-23T15:43:00.002-04:002013-08-23T17:11:03.182-04:00Tough, lazy, exuses or big bite?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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More often than not these days, I find myself thinking, "<i>Am I not being tough enough? Am I being lazy? Am I just making excuses? Have I bitten off more than I can chew</i>?".<br />
<br />
Training for an Ironman 70.3 triathlon is tough. I have completed 2 of
these races (Eagleman and Cozumel in 2012), so I know what it takes and
what to expect. However, when you combine that with training for your very first
marathon, it's a whole different beast. I have learned a lot so far, but
something tells me that my learning curve will soon skyrocket, as my
run mileage is about to increase. I just don't know how my body will respond to running more than 14 miles. On top of training, I recently started
a new job and we all know how challenging getting acclimated to a new
company can be. Plus, my Mother/Sister are starting to need more help
and helping from a distance creates a challenge all on it's own. I feel
like I have the world on my shoulders most days and like I'm on an
island all alone. Many folks just can't seem to relate and even if
they can, they really can't help. Stress is one of the things that causes my skin condition to act
up and training puts stress on the body. So on many days, I feel like
my skin is raw and is about to peel off or it's itchy like I have a
million fire ants eating me up. The way that I have been coping with it
all, is by channeling all of my energy to myself: "<i>No, I can't help
you do XYZ or volunteer or meet you for drinks to hear about your
problems or take your call if you don't have anything positive to
say/ask. Just no. Leave me alone while I try to get a handle on all this stuff</i>."
I need a true vacation, especially since the week of mandatory vacation for the
new job was spent taking care of my Mother in Georgia. It's a lot. I do
plan to spend some time with friends soon. I really really need that. I need to laugh and dance and relax on a beach and explore a different country too.<br />
<br />
The
lessons in all of this have been plentiful. Some of them have been
about digging deep and discovering who I really am when stress takes a hold. I have learned:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I really don't need anyone
to run 14 miles with me. I thought I did. I even went out with a group.
However, when I stopped to adjust my hydration belt and then to stretch
my Achilles, I lost them. I had a cue sheet and in hindsight, I
probably <i>really</i> didn't loose them. One of my phobias just took over. The path curves in Rock Creek Park so they were probably just right ahead of me,
however, my phobia of running alone in parks (because of the Chandra
Levy case) caused me to wig out and exit park left. I exited the park
way too early and got off course. I managed to get back on course all
alone, but at mile 7, the route took me back into the park. So, I turned
around and retraced my steps, minus going back into the park. I have
run 13 miles before (4 times, actually) and I have run 12 miles alone in
the past. So, I was just wigging out. This experience taught me
that sometimes when we think we need others, we really don't. Often
times "we already have what we are searching for inside of us". My friend
Monnie told me that back in 2003. I didn't know what she meant, but now I
know. That run turned out to be just what I needed to clear my head, think through some things, pay attention to my form and asses why I stop so much while running. It was a perfect run to figure out some things about myself. I needed alone time with just me and my thoughts. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>If my skin is feeling raw (due to my condition
or a crazy chemical burn.... long story), I am not making excuses or
being lazy about going for a swim. It just doesn't make sense to get
into a public pool with chlorinated water that could possibly aggravate my raw skin even more.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Pacing myself while cycling hills, especially
when I don't know the course, is really the smart thing to do. I tend to
get all excited and want to CHARGE up the hills and then I burn out
later in the ride. Pacing is key to endurance! Pacing is important in life. I need to take things slower and figure it out instead of just jumping in sometimes.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> It's
true that I have not conditioned myself enough for some of the
distances that I have run and that is probably one of the reasons why I
fall apart on <i>every single</i> triathlon run. However, my diet is
probably a very strong contributing factor as well. I have been reading
more on nutrition for distance runners and it's not just a good idea to
get enough carbs and energizing foods the day before a long run, but
what you eat during the week leading up to the long run is just as
important. Also, eating something sweet before a long run is not a good
idea, because although, I will burn it off, that sugar high usually
turns in a "crash and burn" feeling. So, I will not have desert the
night before my long runs. There is no such thing as "I earned this
desert" or "I will burn this desert off, so it's okay". If I want
desert, I will have it, but not if I will pay for it during my training.
I don't need to make training any harder for myself than it already is. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> Sometimes I just really need more sleep. Our bodies repair itself when we rest and with all the extra mental and physical stress, sometimes I just need a little extra. If I can get it, then why not? It does not mean that I am being lazy. I may just need an extra hour or two to get recharged so I can continue to deal with everything effectively.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Dehydration can make you feel exhausted and ill. I previously thought that the only symptoms were thirst, dry lips or cramping. Sometimes water alone is just not enough for me. I really should make sure I stay hydrated with coconut water or an electrolyte drink while training throughout the week and not just for the long runs and long bike rides. </li>
</ul>
<br />
There
have been many lessons learned from training this season. The answer to
all of my questions are all, "No". No, it's not that I am not being
tough enough. No, I am not being lazy. No, I am not just making excuses?
No, I have not bitten off more than I can chew. <i>{I am sure all of
those double negatives drove someone reading this crazy}...</i> It's
just that I have a lot of stressful things going on all at once. My
approach of not extending myself too much, working on remaining "whole"
and eliminating the stressful people/things/articles/television shows,
etc., that weigh on me, is probably a good and permanent approach. If something/someone doesn't serve me in some way, I can't give any energy to it.
I just simply don't have the energy to give. All I want to do is focus
on my job, my training, my family and spend some times with friends who
actually care about me... Unfortunately, the beach and exploring another country will have to wait awhile.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>5 weeks until Augusta Ironman 70.3! </b><br />
<br />
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<br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-40328898599208236312013-08-08T13:11:00.002-04:002013-08-08T13:13:20.409-04:00Sunday Morning Swimming<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm in Georgia this week and need to get some work outs in, as time is rapidly passing by and Augusta Ironman 70.3 and the Marine Corp Marathon will be here before we know it! I reached out to a few nationwide triathlon groups on FB about places to swim and Ann-Marie responded. I was excited that Ann-Marie not only gave me some suggestions of places to swim but offered to swim with me. Game ON.... or so I thought. <br />
<br />
Ann-Marie and I first met at the track at Piedmont Park to get some speed work in. The workout was hard, as expected, but the humidity made it tough on the lungs which made the rain much welcomed. I was a little pressed for time, so we had to cut our time at the track short and head to the pool. Yeah... Ann-Marie neglected to tell me beforehand that she swam <i>competitively </i>back in the day. I knew that she gave swim lessons earlier that morning and that she probably wanted to get a swim in herself, instead of coaching me, but urra uhm... that is what ended up happening after she saw me swim.<br />
<br />
She just had this "look" on her face and so I decided to welcome any tips or suggestions.... and then it began. Ann-Marie first told me about a few things I was doing wrong and suggested that I do this and that... Then, she pretty much just let me have it, with a big old Georgia smile. All I could do was laugh. This chick basically told me "You ain't going NO where fast if you keep up that SUNDAY MORNING SWIMMING!". I was so focused on my swim form and trying to <i>gliiiiiiide</i> through the water and swim <i>prrretttty</i> and not disturb the water, but basically she told me to pick up the pace and do the dang thang! She told me to say this in my head as I swam, "1-2-1-2-1-2-1-2-1-2" and stroke each time I said it. I decided to say "1-PULL-1-PULL-1-PULL", because she had told me that I wasn't really PULLING ( This is when your arm is underwater and you are stroking back. You are supposed to really PULL yourself through the water). So, I guess I have been lollygagging as I swim and taking it easy like Sunday morning. Okay.<br />
<br />
I tried the "1-PULL-1-PULL" tempo in my head for a lap and was breathing HARD at the end of the lane. She said, now THAT is how you swim when you are trying to go somewhere. She pointed out that for my cool-down, I could go back to my "Sunday morning swimming", but if I Sunday morning swam the whole time, my cool down would just be to <i>stop</i> swimming. Ha! She then told me of a lady she coached for an Ironman that was a "Sunday morning swimmer". She said in 2 weeks, this lady had gotten dramatically faster. Well, damn. I got it!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
No more Sunday morning swimming for me! Thanks Ann-Marie!! </div>
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7 weeks until Augusta! YIKES......<br />
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<br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-67329972679284253102013-06-24T22:55:00.001-04:002013-06-25T19:33:48.990-04:00Tri Rock Philadelphia Triathlon: Olympic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
On Sunday I completed the Tri Rock Philly Olympic distance Triathlon. I have been training since the beginning of the year, but if I'm completely honest, my training has not been as intense nor consistent as it needed to be. I knew that I could complete the distances since this was my 5th Olympic distance triathlon. As the race got closer, I just started to think of it as a training day and as the jump start of my Augusta Ironman 70.3 Triathlon and Marine Corp Marathon training. What I didn't expect was to get my azz handed to me on a platter. That was one TOUGH race!<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>The swim: 1500 meters</b><br />
<br />
It seemed like it took <i>forever </i>to get to each buoy. I swear I thought they forgot to put out the 500m buoy, as I don't recall seeing it. It felt like I was swimming at a stand still between the 700m buoy and the 800m buoy. It appeared I would <i>never</i> get to 800m buoy! Once I reached the 1000m buoy, Philly Joe was swimming next to me screaming "Rebecca, YOU GOT THIS!". I had no doubts, but that was not what I was trying to hear from Philly Joe, as he started 2 waves behind me. I started to see more and more red and orange swim caps from groups that started behind me, so I knew I was taking a long time. I just kept swimming my race and eventually I was done. <b>Time: 38:59</b><br />
<br />
<b>The bike: 24.9 miles</b><br />
<br />
Philly Joe made me cuss him out <strike>a few</strike><b><strike> </strike></b>several times on this course. He initially said that there was only 1 or 2 hard hills... then he changed the story and said there were a few, but they weren't bad... then he started to really be truthful when we got to Philly and told us about all the hills we had waiting for us. Great. Yeah, I had been on the hills of Howard County and I rode in the mountains of Virginia, but these hills were long and winding and had a second part to them. I had to stop twice at the landing before attempting the second part of 2 of the hills. I have never stopped on the bike course before, but this time, I stopped twice on each loop. It wasn't because my legs couldn't take me up, but because my heart was pounding so hard that I had to give my ticker a little break. I will just chalk it up as not being conditioned enough for the bike course. My bad. When friends tell me there are only 1-2 hard hills, I now know to not trust them and expect like 6 long, winding hills with 2 parts. THANKS PHILLY JOE! <i>(*insert evil side eye here*)</i>. There will be hills on the Augusta Ironman 70.3 course, so between now and then, I will start to ride with the guys and get my azz kicked in training, so I will never feel like a bike course kicked my butt like that again. <b>Time: 1:45</b><br />
<br />
<b>The run: 6.2 miles</b><br />
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The weather was <i>absolutely perfect</i> on Friday and Saturday, but by the time I made it to the run on Sunday, it felt like I was running through hell! Man, it was hotter than Hades out there! The temps had reached 90 degrees. NINETY DEGREES!! There was shade and music for the first 3 miles, then we ran across the grass by transition, the music stopped and it felt like Satan started to breathe fiery dragon breath on me. OMG! It was SO HOT! I started to talk to people on the course, as I always do, to motivate them and myself. I started to want to jack someone running in the opposite direction out of their cold, wet towel. The thought crossed my mind to just turn around and head in the opposite direction. I was tired, don't get me wrong, but the heat was what made it bad. I felt sun whipped! I put ice in my sports bra, poured cold water on myself every chance I got, finally got a cold towel for my neck. I just suffered through. I met a guy named Steve who was celebrating his 40th birthday, in grad school, was racing with his older sister that always beats him during races, it was his 4th Triathlon, he has not had much luck on match. com...... I got to know everything about Steve as we ran past 2 poles and walked past one. It was survival of the fittest out there! Finally, Edwige and her Mom came out to the course as we were approaching the finish line, but I had already committed to Steve and our new friend Maggie that we would cross the finish line together. As soon as I crossed, I saw Philly Joe and Rosalind, who both told me the hills weren't bad. If my eyeballs were a knife, they would have been stabbed! <b>Time: 1:24</b><br />
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Anyway. I finished and got my medal, right along with the triathlon azz whupping that I probably needed to kick me into full blown triathlon and marathon training. At least I wasn't last! I finished 1232 out of 1333 and 43 out of 47 in the F35-39 class. I would be concerned if I was competitive. To me, finishing really is winning and I know that I did more than more than 1/2 of the country's population before noon on Sunday. Once again:<i> <span style="color: blue;"><b>I am a Triathlete!!</b></span></i><br />
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Next Up:<br />
Annapolis 10 miler<br />
Augusta Ironman 70.3 triathlon<br />
Army 10 miler<br />
Marine Corp Marathon <br />
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<br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4894912958185774398.post-59531828473575876122013-06-03T22:22:00.002-04:002013-06-03T22:22:27.642-04:00Everything ain't for everybody<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Some people need to realize that everything ain't for everybody and instead of putting in their two cents about something, they just need to shut the hell up. I realize that a small percentage of people do triathlons and to many people, it is a foreign concept. What I don't understand is why someone would tell me that, "You're 39. You're getting old and your body is slowing down. You need to rest. You are always running, biking or swimming or something. You're doing too much". Now, if this person understood that in the last week, I ran twice, cycled twice and swam once and that is not nearly doing too much, he would not be winning my STFU award today, but he is. 39 is "getting old"?? GTFOOHWTBS. I hate when people open their mouth and say stupid stuff. If you think that you are old, then deal with it, but don't try to project that shyt on me. This dude is 40 years old. FORTY! Maybe it's a military mindset or something. I'm not sure. But, 39 is NOT too old to compete in triathlons. Actually, the largest percentage of Triathletes are 30-39 and that's growing. Folks must realize that they can't push their stupid azz way of thinking on others. It's always some loser that doesn't believe that they can do something that tries to tell you that you can't do it. It's just projecting, I know. But he still wins the STFU award today for being an ignorant idiot. Moving on.... How was your day?<br />
<br />Tri Beccahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11456355744034635794noreply@blogger.com1