It has been about a month since I started my break and it is getting old fast. It doesn't help that one of the funnest races of the season is coming up this weekend and I am not racing.
I have spent the month running slow and biking slow. The only reason I am not swimming slow is because the only swimming I am doing is at Masters and she won't let me!! I have now done 4 or 5 of the 12 P90X workouts. Just working them in as I feel like it.
I did get a solo ride in this morning at a decent pace. I got chased 4 times by dogs so that threw in some sprints (speed work??).
I don't know if I can wait until August 29th to race, might go check out the Team Magic schedule again.
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Summer
On December 19, 1992, I graduated with my BS in Civil Engineering and swore I would never go back to school. Little did I know at the time that once I had kids in school I would also be back in school. And at our school 3rd grade is the worst. I have done two years back to back of third grade and am so glad to be done!!!! Bring on summer!
On a training front (can I still call it training even on while on this break), I almost didn't get up this morning. I was sleeping so good and must have hit snooze without even knowing it. I finally drug my butt out of bed, went to the bathroom and thought about getting back in bed. I ran my options through my head and decided I better get it out of the way. So off to the Rec Center I went. I got in a great leg workout and made plans with Eric to ride in the morning. yeah!!
Then tonight, I did not want to go to swim class. It was beautiful out. I wanted to sit on my patio with a glass of wine and my new kindle. But I put on my suit and forced myself out the door. Once at class, I was glad to be there. We had an awesome workout. 2600 yards withlots of sprint kicks and sprint pulls. Ouch.
I got home and still got my glass of wine and about to curl up with my Kindle. It's all good.
On a training front (can I still call it training even on while on this break), I almost didn't get up this morning. I was sleeping so good and must have hit snooze without even knowing it. I finally drug my butt out of bed, went to the bathroom and thought about getting back in bed. I ran my options through my head and decided I better get it out of the way. So off to the Rec Center I went. I got in a great leg workout and made plans with Eric to ride in the morning. yeah!!
Then tonight, I did not want to go to swim class. It was beautiful out. I wanted to sit on my patio with a glass of wine and my new kindle. But I put on my suit and forced myself out the door. Once at class, I was glad to be there. We had an awesome workout. 2600 yards withlots of sprint kicks and sprint pulls. Ouch.
I got home and still got my glass of wine and about to curl up with my Kindle. It's all good.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Can't Facebook Everything
I just don't seem to have the time to blog. I know part of the problem is the ease of facebook. Slapping up a couple of sentences is so easy. I was able to shout out my excitement that The Middle Half happens to fall on a day that my training plan will call for a 13 miler. I could admit how bad I suck at push ups and pull ups P90X style. I was even able to fess up to my total slackerness when I skipped both my run and swim class on Monday. But facebook doesn't work for everything, some things just need more detail.
Sunday is just one of many examples.
Jill came down from the big city for an early morning ride in the country. I picked a 30 mile route that I hoped would give a good county experience, and it did not disappoint. We saw goats, almost ran into a buzzard eating road kill, got chased by LOTS of dogs and had a deer run across the road in front of us...just to name a few. It was unseasonably cold and we ended with a pretty strong head wind. I really enjoyed showing Jill around and having a social ride where we never even thought about mph. It reminded me how much I love to ride my bike. And now that daylight is coming early, I hope to start getting some early morning rides in. It just needs to warm back up again.
I am also enjoying working in some P90X workouts. I am not going to commit to the 90 days or all the workouts. So far I have just done the shoulders and arms DVD 3 times and the chest and back DVD once. I might try some of the others as I feel like it.
Tomorrow I hope to get up early and go to the Rec Center and lift legs again. Friday it kicked my butt and I was sore for a couple of days. Maybe I can finally get rid of this cottage cheese on my thighs/butt.
Sunday is just one of many examples.
Jill came down from the big city for an early morning ride in the country. I picked a 30 mile route that I hoped would give a good county experience, and it did not disappoint. We saw goats, almost ran into a buzzard eating road kill, got chased by LOTS of dogs and had a deer run across the road in front of us...just to name a few. It was unseasonably cold and we ended with a pretty strong head wind. I really enjoyed showing Jill around and having a social ride where we never even thought about mph. It reminded me how much I love to ride my bike. And now that daylight is coming early, I hope to start getting some early morning rides in. It just needs to warm back up again.
I am also enjoying working in some P90X workouts. I am not going to commit to the 90 days or all the workouts. So far I have just done the shoulders and arms DVD 3 times and the chest and back DVD once. I might try some of the others as I feel like it.
Tomorrow I hope to get up early and go to the Rec Center and lift legs again. Friday it kicked my butt and I was sore for a couple of days. Maybe I can finally get rid of this cottage cheese on my thighs/butt.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Offical
I made my break official this morning by canceling my room in Augusta. It was hard, but I really do believe necessary.
I am having a good week of training at "normal" people levels.
Sunday I did the P90X shoulders and arms.
Monday morning it was raining so I waited and ran that afternoon at 3:30. My Garmin wouldn't turn on or reset, I had to run naked. I ran for about 40 minutes. I tried to use Map My Run to figure out how far I ran but one of the roads was new and the program won't let me run over land. I went to swim class at 6:00 for 2550 yards.
Tuesday I slept in again then did chest and back while watching Biggest Loser.
Wednesday I got up at 4, ran 6 miles and went to toning class. Then another 2500 yards at swim class that evening.
Today I slept in and did P90X shoulders and arms again tonight. Upped the weight a little and my arms are TOAST.
If it's not raining in the morning I will run 6 before work. Rain = sleeping in
I am having a good week of training at "normal" people levels.
Sunday I did the P90X shoulders and arms.
Monday morning it was raining so I waited and ran that afternoon at 3:30. My Garmin wouldn't turn on or reset, I had to run naked. I ran for about 40 minutes. I tried to use Map My Run to figure out how far I ran but one of the roads was new and the program won't let me run over land. I went to swim class at 6:00 for 2550 yards.
Tuesday I slept in again then did chest and back while watching Biggest Loser.
Wednesday I got up at 4, ran 6 miles and went to toning class. Then another 2500 yards at swim class that evening.
Today I slept in and did P90X shoulders and arms again tonight. Upped the weight a little and my arms are TOAST.
If it's not raining in the morning I will run 6 before work. Rain = sleeping in
Friday, May 08, 2009
The Break
At about mile 25 of Sunday's race I made a promise to my body. I will take a break.
I have been pushing and pushing with very little recovery time.
So I haven taken everything off my race calender except a sprint distance tri in McMinnville in August and the Vegas marathon in December. Both of those races are already paid for. My goal is to BQ in Vegas.
Until then, I am taking a step back. There will be no training program and there will be No racing.
I hope I can do this, I don't operate well without a schedule. I get in a rut easily.
It is also going to be very hard for me to not race. I love racing. Tri season is just starting and I won't be out there doing what I love to do. Pouring it all out on the course, pushing my body as hard as it will let me, the feeling of accomplishment crossing that finish line, the pride of a new PR...
But I am going to keep the promise I made to my body Sunday and give it a break.
And I have done good this week. Of course part of that was simply because I couldn't walk so was forced to rest.
Monday and Wednesday I did swim class.
Thursday I "ran" 3 miles. It was very slow but made my legs feel 100% better.
Today I went to the Rec Center and did a 12 minute warm up on the arc climber followed by chest and back weights and some abs.
I don't know what I will do this weekend. Part of it depends on the weather, which has been quite gloomy lately, and part depends on how I feel.
I have been pushing and pushing with very little recovery time.
So I haven taken everything off my race calender except a sprint distance tri in McMinnville in August and the Vegas marathon in December. Both of those races are already paid for. My goal is to BQ in Vegas.
Until then, I am taking a step back. There will be no training program and there will be No racing.
I hope I can do this, I don't operate well without a schedule. I get in a rut easily.
It is also going to be very hard for me to not race. I love racing. Tri season is just starting and I won't be out there doing what I love to do. Pouring it all out on the course, pushing my body as hard as it will let me, the feeling of accomplishment crossing that finish line, the pride of a new PR...
But I am going to keep the promise I made to my body Sunday and give it a break.
And I have done good this week. Of course part of that was simply because I couldn't walk so was forced to rest.
Monday and Wednesday I did swim class.
Thursday I "ran" 3 miles. It was very slow but made my legs feel 100% better.
Today I went to the Rec Center and did a 12 minute warm up on the arc climber followed by chest and back weights and some abs.
I don't know what I will do this weekend. Part of it depends on the weather, which has been quite gloomy lately, and part depends on how I feel.
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
Flying Pig Marathon
It was pouring rain here Saturday morning so I ended up leaving for Cincinnati a little earlier then I originally planned in case the rain delayed me. The drive was easy and I arrived at about 1:00. I checked into my hotel and walked over to the expo. David had already picked my packet up for me but I wanted to check out the expo.
The expo was good. They had posters set up with descriptions and pictures of each mile of the marathon.
After the expo I meet up with David and Gayle. We drove the course to get a real idea of the hills, went shopping, and out for pasta.
I got up Sunday morning at 4:15. I ate breakfast and got dressed. Then I met David and Jeff in the lobby. We walked over to the start in the rain. Jeff forgot his timing chip and decided to try to rush back to the hotel and get it while David and I found a little dry spot under a tiny tree to sit in.
At about 6:15, David and I found the 3:50 group. It was a large group and I couldn't get close enough to say anything to E-Speed.
The gun sounded and the race was on. The first mile was slow due to the crowd. David and I were in the back of the 3:50 group but kept the sign in sight. My Garmin hasn't been holding a charge so I went with my watch and depended on David to keep us in check. The 3:50 sign kept getting father and father ahead and I was getting nervous but David told me his Garmin had us at an overall pace of 8:47, exactly where we needed to be.
Since we had driven the course, we knew what to expect. It didn't make that LONG hill at 6 any easier bt at least we knew we would be climbing for a mile.
The downhills didn't seem signifiate but my quads were feeling them. We were still holding pace.
I took a gu at 5 and 10. At 15 I couldn't get it down. I was sick of sweet and wanted some pretzels. My stomach was hurting. I needed to potty but didn't want to take the time. I tried some Twizzlers someone was handing out but couldn't get those down either. All I could think about was pretzels.
Just past 18 David said "Go get your BQ. I'll see ya at the finish". Then he slowed down. We had picked up another girl just before David dropped off, so I ran with her.
We got to 20 and a BQ was very questionable at that point but a PR was still very much in reach. My stomach was feeling worse.
At 21 I walked through the water stop and checked the port-a-potties. They were all full and I didn't want to wait in line. Because I walked, I lost my running partner and was on my own.
Mile 22 I HAD to stop at the port-a-potty. My stomach felt a lot better after the stop but my legs were worse.
I ran most of 22 and 23 but by 24 it hurt so much to run I had to walk. I wanted so bad to run but it was just so painful. My quads were killing me. My calfs felt great thanks to my super sexy compression socks.
I finally saw the finish swine and managed some semblance of running to get across it.
4:05:05, not a BQ, not a PR, not even sub 4. total bust!!!
I collected my metal, blanket, water bottles and finally some chips and Cheese Its. I wondered out of the recovery area and found a curb to sit on. I had to ask a stranger to help me down to the ground where I sat and waited for David.
I found David and Gayle at the same time and we walked back to the hotel.
I showered, packed up, then made the 5 hour drive home.
The expo was good. They had posters set up with descriptions and pictures of each mile of the marathon.
After the expo I meet up with David and Gayle. We drove the course to get a real idea of the hills, went shopping, and out for pasta.
I got up Sunday morning at 4:15. I ate breakfast and got dressed. Then I met David and Jeff in the lobby. We walked over to the start in the rain. Jeff forgot his timing chip and decided to try to rush back to the hotel and get it while David and I found a little dry spot under a tiny tree to sit in.
At about 6:15, David and I found the 3:50 group. It was a large group and I couldn't get close enough to say anything to E-Speed.
The gun sounded and the race was on. The first mile was slow due to the crowd. David and I were in the back of the 3:50 group but kept the sign in sight. My Garmin hasn't been holding a charge so I went with my watch and depended on David to keep us in check. The 3:50 sign kept getting father and father ahead and I was getting nervous but David told me his Garmin had us at an overall pace of 8:47, exactly where we needed to be.
Since we had driven the course, we knew what to expect. It didn't make that LONG hill at 6 any easier bt at least we knew we would be climbing for a mile.
The downhills didn't seem signifiate but my quads were feeling them. We were still holding pace.
I took a gu at 5 and 10. At 15 I couldn't get it down. I was sick of sweet and wanted some pretzels. My stomach was hurting. I needed to potty but didn't want to take the time. I tried some Twizzlers someone was handing out but couldn't get those down either. All I could think about was pretzels.
Just past 18 David said "Go get your BQ. I'll see ya at the finish". Then he slowed down. We had picked up another girl just before David dropped off, so I ran with her.
We got to 20 and a BQ was very questionable at that point but a PR was still very much in reach. My stomach was feeling worse.
At 21 I walked through the water stop and checked the port-a-potties. They were all full and I didn't want to wait in line. Because I walked, I lost my running partner and was on my own.
Mile 22 I HAD to stop at the port-a-potty. My stomach felt a lot better after the stop but my legs were worse.
I ran most of 22 and 23 but by 24 it hurt so much to run I had to walk. I wanted so bad to run but it was just so painful. My quads were killing me. My calfs felt great thanks to my super sexy compression socks.
I finally saw the finish swine and managed some semblance of running to get across it.
4:05:05, not a BQ, not a PR, not even sub 4. total bust!!!
I collected my metal, blanket, water bottles and finally some chips and Cheese Its. I wondered out of the recovery area and found a curb to sit on. I had to ask a stranger to help me down to the ground where I sat and waited for David.
I found David and Gayle at the same time and we walked back to the hotel.
I showered, packed up, then made the 5 hour drive home.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Pop T-30
I have never been a fan of the Pop Quiz. Then in my freshman year of college I had a Calculus 1 teacher that loved them, so began to HATE pop quizzes. But I have been out of school for many years so haven't given them much thought that is until last night...
We started swim class with a warm up 500 of swim, kick pull. After we finished Shawn, the coach, announces we will be doing a T-30. NO!!!! I was reminded of that feeling so many years ago when that Calc 1 teacher would say "OK, everyone close your books and lets see who understood last nights assignment". A sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach telling me this was not going to be pretty. I counted first and swam second. I already voiced all my excuses...I had a temporary crown and a filling done that morning so my mouth was still hurting, I am in taper and racing Sunday I don't need to be doing a max effort workout, I hadn't been able to eat much due to the dental work...
But then it was my turn and I just had to suck it up and swim. I told myself 1500 was my goal, 3 sets of 20. So I just counted and swam. My cap started slipping off and I finally had to just reach up and pull the stupid thing off. So I had hair in my face for the second half of the swim. I got my 1500 but wasn't told to stop so just kept swimming. I ended up with 1650 yards. I skipped the last T-30 so I have nothing to compare it to. Glad to have one in the book now but truth be told had she warned us before hand, I would have skipped again.
This morning was my final run, 3 miles at PMP. I beat Garmin guy and ran the final mile way too fast, but I am blaming Ronnie for that. He was out running to and I saw him when I had about half mile left. He turned around and ran with me. We talked and I guess sped up too much. So much for getting a good feeling for what marathon pace is. But then when I logged on here I saw a post from E-Speed and she is pacing at the pig this weekend. And guess what group she has...3:50.
Now, I just wish I had some good news to report about the weather forecast
We started swim class with a warm up 500 of swim, kick pull. After we finished Shawn, the coach, announces we will be doing a T-30. NO!!!! I was reminded of that feeling so many years ago when that Calc 1 teacher would say "OK, everyone close your books and lets see who understood last nights assignment". A sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach telling me this was not going to be pretty. I counted first and swam second. I already voiced all my excuses...I had a temporary crown and a filling done that morning so my mouth was still hurting, I am in taper and racing Sunday I don't need to be doing a max effort workout, I hadn't been able to eat much due to the dental work...
But then it was my turn and I just had to suck it up and swim. I told myself 1500 was my goal, 3 sets of 20. So I just counted and swam. My cap started slipping off and I finally had to just reach up and pull the stupid thing off. So I had hair in my face for the second half of the swim. I got my 1500 but wasn't told to stop so just kept swimming. I ended up with 1650 yards. I skipped the last T-30 so I have nothing to compare it to. Glad to have one in the book now but truth be told had she warned us before hand, I would have skipped again.
This morning was my final run, 3 miles at PMP. I beat Garmin guy and ran the final mile way too fast, but I am blaming Ronnie for that. He was out running to and I saw him when I had about half mile left. He turned around and ran with me. We talked and I guess sped up too much. So much for getting a good feeling for what marathon pace is. But then when I logged on here I saw a post from E-Speed and she is pacing at the pig this weekend. And guess what group she has...3:50.
Now, I just wish I had some good news to report about the weather forecast
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Race Number and Weather
The weather report has changed everytime I have checked it but here is the lastest:
others have shown rain or t-storms. I am VERY happy with this forecast and would like for this one to stick. Okay???
I also got my race number this week. 1032. Sounds very lucky doesn't it??
I did my last speed work out this morning, 6 x 400 with 400 rest interval. I was super lazy and walked the RI. So my overall pace sucked but my actual 400s were spot on.
I only have a cross training day on Wednesday and a 3 mile PMP run on Thursday then I am "trained". Ready to see what I can do on Sunday!
others have shown rain or t-storms. I am VERY happy with this forecast and would like for this one to stick. Okay???
I also got my race number this week. 1032. Sounds very lucky doesn't it??
I did my last speed work out this morning, 6 x 400 with 400 rest interval. I was super lazy and walked the RI. So my overall pace sucked but my actual 400s were spot on.
I only have a cross training day on Wednesday and a 3 mile PMP run on Thursday then I am "trained". Ready to see what I can do on Sunday!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Over Weight and Under Trained
When I first started training for the Pig I said I wasn't sure what my goal was, BQ or just a fun run. But I went ahead and used my BQ time of 3:50 to determine long run paces. I did pretty good hitting PMP + whatever each week. I also had a half marathon PR and a 10K PR. I was feeling pretty good about shooting for the BQ. But I missed 2 of the 5 20 milers. One I ran the Tom King half instead not a big deal. I usually only run 4 of the 5 anyway and I had a great race. But the other fell the week after New Orleans 70.3 and was pouring rain. I used the rain as an excuses and quit after 6 miles. That is not Boston runner attitude.
Missing those long runs was bad and made me question just how ready I am for a marathon. Then I looked back in my training log to see what my weight was the Friday before Country Music. Ugggg...I am almost 10 pounds heavier then I was a year ago. I know the cookie dough and huge ass beers have not helped the cause but I have really been struggling with my weight latley. I eat right and exercise but I seem to stay right here in this same range. Last year for CMM I was at an all time low and only maintained that weight for a few months. I blamed vacation and Ironman for the gain but have not been able to re shed the pounds.
Then last Friday I was suppose to run 13 miles at PMP. I failed, Gamin Guy beat me. I think my pace was 8:53 vs 8:47 required.
Over weight and under trained, I am not seeing a BQ for me on May 3.
Missing those long runs was bad and made me question just how ready I am for a marathon. Then I looked back in my training log to see what my weight was the Friday before Country Music. Ugggg...I am almost 10 pounds heavier then I was a year ago. I know the cookie dough and huge ass beers have not helped the cause but I have really been struggling with my weight latley. I eat right and exercise but I seem to stay right here in this same range. Last year for CMM I was at an all time low and only maintained that weight for a few months. I blamed vacation and Ironman for the gain but have not been able to re shed the pounds.
Then last Friday I was suppose to run 13 miles at PMP. I failed, Gamin Guy beat me. I think my pace was 8:53 vs 8:47 required.
Over weight and under trained, I am not seeing a BQ for me on May 3.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Looking at the Numbers
TriSaraTops' Race Report for New Orleans made me take another look at my numbers.
# of finishers 2321
female finishers 649
male finishers 1672
average time 6:23:17 (my time 5:56:17)
I finished 822 overall (top 35%)
25 of 106 females 40-44 (top 24%)
175 of 649 females (top 27%)
Makes me feel a LOT better about my race. Sometimes I get too hung up on a time goal and forget that I have to deal with what the day brings. Sunday it brought heat and wind (and lack of fluids and ice). I had to deal with it but so did everyone else out there. I will get a sub 5:30. Maybe September 27, maybe not. I will have to see what that day brings.
Mean while, I have a marathon coming up in 22 days. I know this because they are sending me a daily email counting down the days.
Wednesday morning I attempted to do my 10 mile tempo run. Failed. My heel started bleeding and my shoe was killing my foot. I threw in the towel just before 5. Wednesday evening was a tough swim class. 3600 yards. My kick is a MESS. I am praying Shawn can get me fixed before my next tri.
This morning was my last 20 miler. I got up at 3:45 knowing I would be running in the rain. I ate a Clif bar and a banana and headed out. It was just a light rain at this point but the thunder and lightening where putting on quite a show. The downpour started at about mile 2. It let up for about half a mile but started right back up again. At mile 6 I was at my driveway, the rain was coming down in buckets, the wind was blowing, the thunder was loud and the lightening was lighting up the sky. I ran up my driveway into my garage. Call me a wimp, quitter, whatever. If the shoe fits...
I am not making up that run either. I am officially in taper now. My body NEEDS a break.
# of finishers 2321
female finishers 649
male finishers 1672
average time 6:23:17 (my time 5:56:17)
I finished 822 overall (top 35%)
25 of 106 females 40-44 (top 24%)
175 of 649 females (top 27%)
Makes me feel a LOT better about my race. Sometimes I get too hung up on a time goal and forget that I have to deal with what the day brings. Sunday it brought heat and wind (and lack of fluids and ice). I had to deal with it but so did everyone else out there. I will get a sub 5:30. Maybe September 27, maybe not. I will have to see what that day brings.
Mean while, I have a marathon coming up in 22 days. I know this because they are sending me a daily email counting down the days.
Wednesday morning I attempted to do my 10 mile tempo run. Failed. My heel started bleeding and my shoe was killing my foot. I threw in the towel just before 5. Wednesday evening was a tough swim class. 3600 yards. My kick is a MESS. I am praying Shawn can get me fixed before my next tri.
This morning was my last 20 miler. I got up at 3:45 knowing I would be running in the rain. I ate a Clif bar and a banana and headed out. It was just a light rain at this point but the thunder and lightening where putting on quite a show. The downpour started at about mile 2. It let up for about half a mile but started right back up again. At mile 6 I was at my driveway, the rain was coming down in buckets, the wind was blowing, the thunder was loud and the lightening was lighting up the sky. I ran up my driveway into my garage. Call me a wimp, quitter, whatever. If the shoe fits...
I am not making up that run either. I am officially in taper now. My body NEEDS a break.
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
New Orleans 70.3 Race Report
Pre Race:
Friday
This was pretty much the theme for Friday:
I met Toni and Angela at the hotel as soon as I landed. From there we went in search of food and beer. Neither were hard to find. The expo was next. I got to met TriSaraTops, attend the required pre race meeting, and pick up my packet. Then it was more liquid carbs. Dawn showed up later for more food, dancing and of course drinks.
Saturday
A much more low key day. I wasn't feeling great Saturday morning. A combination of too much beer, female issues, and nerves were all wrecking havoc on my stomach. I just had a quite morning in my room then I met Wil from Acme to pick up my bike at 2. I checked my bike into transition and found out transition was HUGE and that I was racked all the way in the far back corner. Lots of ground to cover running in those bike shoes! I left my bike and my friends and I went out for pre race carbs. Pasta this time, no beer for me. I went back to my room and had a quite evening trying to get ready to race.
Sunday
I didn't sleep well and just gave up at 4:13. Dawn, Angela and Toni came to my room to see me off at 5:15. I took a cab to transition and got myself all set up. It was already quite warm and drizzling. I took the bus to the swim start. They didn't ave enough buses running and people were in a panic and rushing to get to the start in time. I had PLENTY of time since my wave didn't go out until 8:28. I stood in line for a port-a-potty, borrowed some body glide since I forgot to do my neck and didn't want a repeat of Florida, met lots of people, and just killed time. I went to the port-a-potty again, realize I still had on my shoes so dropped them at gear check, then FINALLY made my way to the swim start. I still had to wait for two groups before they had us purple cap girls enter the chute and then the water. It was COLD. It took my breath when my foot hit the first step into the water. I waded into the water and waited.
The Race
The Swim
The gun sounded and we were off. I dove under water and the cold took my breath again. I tried to get a rhythm but I couldn't. I started to think "I can't do this, I am going to have to stop, This is going to be my first DNF". I did a few strokes then went to breast stroke then back to free and back to breast. Finally I talked myself down and got my rhythm. The sea wall was to the right and the buoys were to the left. I am a left side breather so I just kept an eye on the buoys. There was TONS of room to swim. It was nothing like any other race. The water was so muddy though I couldn't even see my hands as they entered the water. One time I was swimming along and crashed into something. I thought it was the sea wall but it was just another swimmer. We were told before we started there was a red buoy at the half way point. I saw it and thought I was feeling good maybe this would be a good swim after all. I made the turn to the swim exit, stood, took off my goggles and cap, and saw my watch. 42 something!!!! What??? That can't be right. My swim could not have been that bad. I jogged over to the strippers who had to tell me to sit and they pulled off my wetsuit and handed it to me. I ran across the mat into transition.
swim time 44:03
T1
I was confused when I got into transition. It didn't look the same. Another girl yells we are this way. I ran in that direction and found my rack. I put on my helmet, shoes, bib, grabbed my bike and ran for the exit. It was a LONG run. Other people were not in as big of a hurry and got in the way. I finally made it to the mount line.
T1 3:11
The Bike
I felt great right from the start on the bike. I drank my Nuun and ate some pretzels and shot bloks. I was making good time. I got to the first water drop and THEY WERE OUT OF WATER!! What the heck??? I had just thrown my bottle with the last inch of fluids so that I could pick up a fresh bottle. So now I had to do with out fluids til I could make it to the next drop. I was happy to see that drop and see that they still had water. It was a little crazy but I managed to get a water bottle and move on. The wind really picked up and my speed dropped. I wasn't getting passed so I knew that it wasn't just me. Third water stop was out of water too thankfully I still had some from drop #2. As I got close to the end of the ride, I dumped the little bit of water over my shoulders. It was hot and sunny and my arms were burnt. I reached down and undid my shoes, pulled me feet out and got ready to dismount. I got to the line and jumped off my bike.
Bike Time 2:57:37
T2
I ran all the way across transition again having to say excuse me more then once to get by slower people. I racked my bike and changed shoes and hats. The run exit was closer and I was outta there.
T2 Time 2:56
The Run
I missed the water stop inside transition so it was a mile and a half until I could get water. A guy ran up next to me and asked "You going to keep this pace for the whole run?" I told him not likely. We ran together for a while then I lost him at the first water stop. I found my running friend again shortly, turns out he made a port-a-potty stop. We ran together for a little while again. Then, I saw my girls cheering their heads off in their yellow boas and that gave me a huge lift. I did the short out and back and saw my girls again.
I was drinking and walking and they walked with me for a few feet and told me how much fun they were having. At about mile 6 I realized my shoe had rubbed a huge raw spot on my foot, nothing I could do about it so I tried real hard to just ignore it. I dumped ice in my bra whenever they had it and water over my head at each stop. It was HOT. I talked to a lot of other runners unlike on the bike where it was just to windy to try to even speak to anyone. We finally got some shade but by then I had already seen 5:30 and 5:48 go by. Plan A and B were gone all I could was finish now.
I made the final turn and was told "Just 6 more blocks". I prayed they were right and picked up the pace a little. Then I saw my girls. I yelled to them and headed for the chute. I heard my name and I crossed the finish line.
Run Time 2:08:30
Total 5:56:17
Post Race
I got my medal and found my friends. I couldn't wait to get my shoes off so we went looking for the gear check trucks. On the way, I grabbed a beer. They were out of pizza so I had to wait for that.
We went back to the hotel so I could take a quick shower then got a taxi to go back to transition so I could met Wil and give him my bike to bring home.
After getting my bike all taken care of, we went to Bourbon Street where we ate, drank and had some more fun.
So all in all it was a great weekend. I didn't have the race I hoped for but I had a ton of fun.
Friday
This was pretty much the theme for Friday:
I met Toni and Angela at the hotel as soon as I landed. From there we went in search of food and beer. Neither were hard to find. The expo was next. I got to met TriSaraTops, attend the required pre race meeting, and pick up my packet. Then it was more liquid carbs. Dawn showed up later for more food, dancing and of course drinks.Saturday
A much more low key day. I wasn't feeling great Saturday morning. A combination of too much beer, female issues, and nerves were all wrecking havoc on my stomach. I just had a quite morning in my room then I met Wil from Acme to pick up my bike at 2. I checked my bike into transition and found out transition was HUGE and that I was racked all the way in the far back corner. Lots of ground to cover running in those bike shoes! I left my bike and my friends and I went out for pre race carbs. Pasta this time, no beer for me. I went back to my room and had a quite evening trying to get ready to race.
Sunday
I didn't sleep well and just gave up at 4:13. Dawn, Angela and Toni came to my room to see me off at 5:15. I took a cab to transition and got myself all set up. It was already quite warm and drizzling. I took the bus to the swim start. They didn't ave enough buses running and people were in a panic and rushing to get to the start in time. I had PLENTY of time since my wave didn't go out until 8:28. I stood in line for a port-a-potty, borrowed some body glide since I forgot to do my neck and didn't want a repeat of Florida, met lots of people, and just killed time. I went to the port-a-potty again, realize I still had on my shoes so dropped them at gear check, then FINALLY made my way to the swim start. I still had to wait for two groups before they had us purple cap girls enter the chute and then the water. It was COLD. It took my breath when my foot hit the first step into the water. I waded into the water and waited.
The Race
The Swim
The gun sounded and we were off. I dove under water and the cold took my breath again. I tried to get a rhythm but I couldn't. I started to think "I can't do this, I am going to have to stop, This is going to be my first DNF". I did a few strokes then went to breast stroke then back to free and back to breast. Finally I talked myself down and got my rhythm. The sea wall was to the right and the buoys were to the left. I am a left side breather so I just kept an eye on the buoys. There was TONS of room to swim. It was nothing like any other race. The water was so muddy though I couldn't even see my hands as they entered the water. One time I was swimming along and crashed into something. I thought it was the sea wall but it was just another swimmer. We were told before we started there was a red buoy at the half way point. I saw it and thought I was feeling good maybe this would be a good swim after all. I made the turn to the swim exit, stood, took off my goggles and cap, and saw my watch. 42 something!!!! What??? That can't be right. My swim could not have been that bad. I jogged over to the strippers who had to tell me to sit and they pulled off my wetsuit and handed it to me. I ran across the mat into transition.
swim time 44:03
T1
I was confused when I got into transition. It didn't look the same. Another girl yells we are this way. I ran in that direction and found my rack. I put on my helmet, shoes, bib, grabbed my bike and ran for the exit. It was a LONG run. Other people were not in as big of a hurry and got in the way. I finally made it to the mount line.
T1 3:11
The Bike
I felt great right from the start on the bike. I drank my Nuun and ate some pretzels and shot bloks. I was making good time. I got to the first water drop and THEY WERE OUT OF WATER!! What the heck??? I had just thrown my bottle with the last inch of fluids so that I could pick up a fresh bottle. So now I had to do with out fluids til I could make it to the next drop. I was happy to see that drop and see that they still had water. It was a little crazy but I managed to get a water bottle and move on. The wind really picked up and my speed dropped. I wasn't getting passed so I knew that it wasn't just me. Third water stop was out of water too thankfully I still had some from drop #2. As I got close to the end of the ride, I dumped the little bit of water over my shoulders. It was hot and sunny and my arms were burnt. I reached down and undid my shoes, pulled me feet out and got ready to dismount. I got to the line and jumped off my bike.
Bike Time 2:57:37
T2
I ran all the way across transition again having to say excuse me more then once to get by slower people. I racked my bike and changed shoes and hats. The run exit was closer and I was outta there.
T2 Time 2:56
The Run
I missed the water stop inside transition so it was a mile and a half until I could get water. A guy ran up next to me and asked "You going to keep this pace for the whole run?" I told him not likely. We ran together for a while then I lost him at the first water stop. I found my running friend again shortly, turns out he made a port-a-potty stop. We ran together for a little while again. Then, I saw my girls cheering their heads off in their yellow boas and that gave me a huge lift. I did the short out and back and saw my girls again.
I was drinking and walking and they walked with me for a few feet and told me how much fun they were having. At about mile 6 I realized my shoe had rubbed a huge raw spot on my foot, nothing I could do about it so I tried real hard to just ignore it. I dumped ice in my bra whenever they had it and water over my head at each stop. It was HOT. I talked to a lot of other runners unlike on the bike where it was just to windy to try to even speak to anyone. We finally got some shade but by then I had already seen 5:30 and 5:48 go by. Plan A and B were gone all I could was finish now.
I made the final turn and was told "Just 6 more blocks". I prayed they were right and picked up the pace a little. Then I saw my girls. I yelled to them and headed for the chute. I heard my name and I crossed the finish line.Run Time 2:08:30
Total 5:56:17
Post Race
I got my medal and found my friends. I couldn't wait to get my shoes off so we went looking for the gear check trucks. On the way, I grabbed a beer. They were out of pizza so I had to wait for that.
We went back to the hotel so I could take a quick shower then got a taxi to go back to transition so I could met Wil and give him my bike to bring home.
After getting my bike all taken care of, we went to Bourbon Street where we ate, drank and had some more fun.
So all in all it was a great weekend. I didn't have the race I hoped for but I had a ton of fun.
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Only the Race is Left
Well, I have finished my training. I skipped more workouts then I would have liked and training for a marathon at the same time has required some shifting and juggling. But I feel good about what I did get done and as ready as I have ever been.
I have high hope for New Orleans. It will be my third Half Iron and I am just coming off Ironman Florida. I have already gotten a half marathon PR and 10K PR this year. I am hoping for a new 70.3 PR as well.
The half irons I have done have been in mid and late May and hotter then HE**! Maybe New Orleans in early April won't be quite as hot. The forecast has changed a million times, like I knew it would. But it does look like we will have some nice weather at least most of the weekend.
I am not looking for a big improvement in my swim time.
07 was 41:28
08 was 40:00
I do, however, hope to improve on both the bike and run.
07 bike 3:03:27
08 bike 2:58:53
07 run 2:19:07
08 run 2:06:26
I go out in the last wave at 8:27. And given a perfect day, I hope to finish at 1:57. But anything before 2:15 is a PR and will make me a happy girl.
I am looking forward to meeting some bloggy peeps. I am wearing my yellow tri top with red flowers on it and black shorts, so if you see me say Hi!
That's it til New Orleans.
I have high hope for New Orleans. It will be my third Half Iron and I am just coming off Ironman Florida. I have already gotten a half marathon PR and 10K PR this year. I am hoping for a new 70.3 PR as well.
The half irons I have done have been in mid and late May and hotter then HE**! Maybe New Orleans in early April won't be quite as hot. The forecast has changed a million times, like I knew it would. But it does look like we will have some nice weather at least most of the weekend.
I am not looking for a big improvement in my swim time.
07 was 41:28
08 was 40:00
I do, however, hope to improve on both the bike and run.
07 bike 3:03:27
08 bike 2:58:53
07 run 2:19:07
08 run 2:06:26
I go out in the last wave at 8:27. And given a perfect day, I hope to finish at 1:57. But anything before 2:15 is a PR and will make me a happy girl.
I am looking forward to meeting some bloggy peeps. I am wearing my yellow tri top with red flowers on it and black shorts, so if you see me say Hi!
That's it til New Orleans.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Cookies
A month or two ago, my kids sold cookie dough as a fund raiser for school. For once there was a really cool prize...Each kid that sold $200 worth of dough got to go on a limo ride to Pizza Hut for lunch.Well, selling cookie dough isn't so easy with every kid in town doing one fund raiser or another. I sold what I could and bought the rest.
The cookie dough was delivered yesterday. And since I have 11 boxes, I ate dough til my tummy hurt last night! Never even ate dinner, I was so sick.
Yesterday was just an easy 2000 yard swim and this morning I was just going to do an easy 3 or 4 mile run. But after all the cookies I ate, I figured I needed to burn more calories (are there less calories eating them without baking???). I did my normal 6 mile route. I still took it easy, since it is taper.
Only one more swim and one more run til New Orleans!!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Last Ride
We have been getting a LOT of rain this week. Therefore I have had to do some workouts inside, squeezed some in between showers, and got wet doing others.
Yesterday I got soaked on my 20 mile run, rained for all but the first 4 miles. And today's forecast looked like I was going to get just as wet on my ride. At 7:30 I let the dog out and saw it wasn't raining so I quickly put my Zipps on my bike and took off. I did the whole 1:45 and never got wet. Funny since the forecast called for rain ALL day.
The good news it these are the same forecasters who have called for rain in New Orleans next weekend.
I hope they are just as wrong as they were today!!
Today was my last ride befor race day. I dropped my bike off at Acme for transporting down to New Orleans. I have never done a race that I didn't take my bike with me. They promised to take good care of her.
Yesterday I got soaked on my 20 mile run, rained for all but the first 4 miles. And today's forecast looked like I was going to get just as wet on my ride. At 7:30 I let the dog out and saw it wasn't raining so I quickly put my Zipps on my bike and took off. I did the whole 1:45 and never got wet. Funny since the forecast called for rain ALL day.
The good news it these are the same forecasters who have called for rain in New Orleans next weekend.
I hope they are just as wrong as they were today!!Today was my last ride befor race day. I dropped my bike off at Acme for transporting down to New Orleans. I have never done a race that I didn't take my bike with me. They promised to take good care of her.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
St. Patricks Day 10K
I decided not to run this race this year. Ronnie said he was going to run so I thought I would just stay home with the kids then get my long ride in later in the day. I went about my normal training for the week.
Monday I did a 2200 yard swim in the morning and a 4.72 mile run that evening. My legs were sore from the half marathon on Saturday so I didn't even attempt the speed work on my schedule.
Tuesday I waited until almost 6pm and then I rode 20 one mile loops of my neighborhood. It was too pretty to be inside on the trainer but Ronnie was at Scouts with Bryce. So Casey played basketball in the driveway and waved each time I rode past.
Wednesday I got up at 3:30 for a 10 mile run at PMP. I did it in 1:27:20, a 8:44 pace (8:47 was goal). Then I went to Cindy's toning class. Wednesday evening was swim class where we did 3000 yards.
Thursday was REST DAY and boy was I ready for that.
Friday I ran 15 miles. Plan said PMP+20 seconds. I squeaked it out with an overall pace of 9:06. I did ab ripper after that for the first time in a while. Boy did that HURT!
So last night Ronnie tells me he decided to golf today. There went my plans for a long ride. I thought about the 10K and decided to make a game day decision.
I woke up at about 7 this morning and decided that since I had sufficiently carb loaded on Shock Top last night I better go run. I got the kids up and took them to Donut Palace to get them some breakfast. We got to the Rec Center about 7:45. I signed up for the the race then left the kids in the car to read, watch TV and eat donuts.
I didn't have big goals for this race, I wasn't even suppose to be there. I lined up in the middle of the pack. I took off on the "GO".
This course is rolling to hilly. The Rec Center sits in a hole so no matter which direction you run it is up hill right away. From there it was rolling until we got to Jail Hill, which we had to run up. Just as I was making the turn to head up the hill I heard one the the police that was directing traffic tell someone that he stopped that "We have a little marathon going on". I laughed to myself. 10K, marathon guess they are about the same right??? After making it up the hill, it was through town and around to the park where we had to run up another good size hill. We got to finish by running down Jail Hill and around back to the Rec Center.
Splits: 8:03, 8:02, 8:10, 8:03, 8:17, 7:32 and 7:11 for the last 0.2. Guess which miles the two big hills were at.
Total time 49:33, a new PR and good enough for 1st place age group (40-49).
After the race they had a kids one mile run. Casey decided she wanted to run it and Bryce decided not to. Casey did great and got 4th place but her and another girl complained afterward that the little boy that got second cheated by cutting the course short. Casey did get a medal and then Bryce was mad that he didn't run too.
Monday I did a 2200 yard swim in the morning and a 4.72 mile run that evening. My legs were sore from the half marathon on Saturday so I didn't even attempt the speed work on my schedule.
Tuesday I waited until almost 6pm and then I rode 20 one mile loops of my neighborhood. It was too pretty to be inside on the trainer but Ronnie was at Scouts with Bryce. So Casey played basketball in the driveway and waved each time I rode past.
Wednesday I got up at 3:30 for a 10 mile run at PMP. I did it in 1:27:20, a 8:44 pace (8:47 was goal). Then I went to Cindy's toning class. Wednesday evening was swim class where we did 3000 yards.
Thursday was REST DAY and boy was I ready for that.
Friday I ran 15 miles. Plan said PMP+20 seconds. I squeaked it out with an overall pace of 9:06. I did ab ripper after that for the first time in a while. Boy did that HURT!
So last night Ronnie tells me he decided to golf today. There went my plans for a long ride. I thought about the 10K and decided to make a game day decision.
I woke up at about 7 this morning and decided that since I had sufficiently carb loaded on Shock Top last night I better go run. I got the kids up and took them to Donut Palace to get them some breakfast. We got to the Rec Center about 7:45. I signed up for the the race then left the kids in the car to read, watch TV and eat donuts.
I didn't have big goals for this race, I wasn't even suppose to be there. I lined up in the middle of the pack. I took off on the "GO".
This course is rolling to hilly. The Rec Center sits in a hole so no matter which direction you run it is up hill right away. From there it was rolling until we got to Jail Hill, which we had to run up. Just as I was making the turn to head up the hill I heard one the the police that was directing traffic tell someone that he stopped that "We have a little marathon going on". I laughed to myself. 10K, marathon guess they are about the same right??? After making it up the hill, it was through town and around to the park where we had to run up another good size hill. We got to finish by running down Jail Hill and around back to the Rec Center.
Splits: 8:03, 8:02, 8:10, 8:03, 8:17, 7:32 and 7:11 for the last 0.2. Guess which miles the two big hills were at.
Total time 49:33, a new PR and good enough for 1st place age group (40-49).
After the race they had a kids one mile run. Casey decided she wanted to run it and Bryce decided not to. Casey did great and got 4th place but her and another girl complained afterward that the little boy that got second cheated by cutting the course short. Casey did get a medal and then Bryce was mad that he didn't run too.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Tom King Half Marathon
Earlier this week Ronnie told me "I don't know about you but I am not running Saturday in the rain." I just looked at him and said, "I did it last year, will do it again this year." He ended up changing his mind and Saturday morning we drove up to LP Field in the rain. It wasn't raining as hard as last year but it was colder.
We put on ponchos and made our way to the stadium. Got chips and shirts, went potty, and then found David.
They had an early start at 8:00 for walkers. We started at 8:30. I tossed my poncho just as the start gun fired. My hands were freezing for the first several miles, wish I would have worn my toss off gloves.
I was runing with David and Ronnie was just behind us. David and I stopped for water at about the 2 or 3 mile mark. Then we were running along and spot ronnie just ahead. I asked him what he was doing. His goal was a sub 2 (9:09 pace). We ran the first three miles at 8:34, 8:22, and 8:31. He said he lost us at the water stop and didn't know how fast he was running. He let us in front of him so he coul pace off us.
It was still raining. We made it over the bouncey bridge and then to the turn around. Miles 4, 5, and 6 were run at 8:11, 8:17, 8:11.
I was getting warm and wishing I hadn't worn the vest. At mile 7 I told myself "Ok, only 5 to go". Boy was I disappointed when at mile 8 I realized Now I had 5 to go. 7 and 8 were both run at 8:16.
At this point David told me he was really feeling the four weeks of no running. I was still feeling strong. I made a move to pass a group of runners and David stayed behind. So now I was on my own. It started raining harder. I started picking out runers ahead to catch. First the girl in the red shirt, then the guy in the garbage bag, the girl in the blue hat...
Mile 9, 10, 11 and 12 were run in 7:51, 8:04, 8:02, and 7:54.
I could see the jumbo tron inside the stadium. I made the left turn and had 2 minutes to make 1:45. There was NO way. But I still had a shot at a PR. I pushed on. A right turn, then another right down into the staduim. I ran out on the field and made my way around the field to the finishline at an 8:02 pace.
I finished with an offical time of 1:48:37. I new PR.
I watched David cross the line at 1:51 .
and then Ronnie smashing his sub 2 hour goal with a 1:53:43.
We cheered Jill to her finish just missing her sub 2 goal by 8 seconds.
Then we went back to the car and changed into dry clothes. It felt wonderful to have on dry socks.
We enjoyed some carbs in the staduim club and then made the drive home.
We celebrated our PR's at Wingers with more carbs. I think I am recovered and ready to focus on New Orelans in 3 weeks.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Behind
I am behind on my blogging, behind on my training, behind on my house cleaning, behind on my sleep...
So in an attempt to catch up on one thing, here is a quick recap of what I have been up to.
I paid for the weekend of too much food and beer on Monday's early run with stomach troubles again. I got through the warm up, the 1 mile interval, and the 2 mile interval. At that point I was near home and knew I could not run a step more without messing up my pants. So I called it a day, skipping my swim too.
Tuesday, still not use to day light savings time, I decided to sleep in and do my trainer ride that evening. It was beautiful out and I was really wishing I could ride outside but no one to keep kids so trainer riding it was. Nothing impressive. I think it was 1:20 while watching TV.
Wednesday morning it was up at 4am for a 6 mile tempo run that I didn't even come close to making pace on and an hour of toning class. And then I skipped swim class Wednesday evening. So my swim total for the week is a big fat ZERO!!!
Yesterday and today are "taper" days getting ready for my first race of the year, the Tom King 1/2 marathon. The forecast is not looking good, might be a repeat of last year only colder. Today is actually suppose to be my 3rd 20 miler so I have to figure out how to get some extra miles in tomorrow.
So in an attempt to catch up on one thing, here is a quick recap of what I have been up to.
I paid for the weekend of too much food and beer on Monday's early run with stomach troubles again. I got through the warm up, the 1 mile interval, and the 2 mile interval. At that point I was near home and knew I could not run a step more without messing up my pants. So I called it a day, skipping my swim too.
Tuesday, still not use to day light savings time, I decided to sleep in and do my trainer ride that evening. It was beautiful out and I was really wishing I could ride outside but no one to keep kids so trainer riding it was. Nothing impressive. I think it was 1:20 while watching TV.
Wednesday morning it was up at 4am for a 6 mile tempo run that I didn't even come close to making pace on and an hour of toning class. And then I skipped swim class Wednesday evening. So my swim total for the week is a big fat ZERO!!!
Yesterday and today are "taper" days getting ready for my first race of the year, the Tom King 1/2 marathon. The forecast is not looking good, might be a repeat of last year only colder. Today is actually suppose to be my 3rd 20 miler so I have to figure out how to get some extra miles in tomorrow.
Sunday, March 08, 2009
Not My Best Effort
I have not had the best week of training.
Sunday I ended up skipping my trainer ride. I sat on the couch watching Top Model reruns and stuffing my face instead.
Then Monday morning I put off my run as long as possible. School was canceled because of the snow so I was off work. I finally got around to running around 11. I did a one mile warm up around the neighborhood, then did 12 x 400 running back and forth in front of my house in case the kids needed me. My goal pace for the 400's is 7:08. I ran them at 7:00, 6:59, 6:38, 7:02, 6:55, 7:07, 7:09, 7:06, 7:07, 7:15, 7:11, and 7:24. I though I was going to die by that last one. I did the 10 minute cool down around the neighborhood then fixed lunch.
Tuesday was another snow day so I rode my trainer about 10. 25 miles in an hour and a half.
Wednesday the kids finally went back to school so I got up early and ran a 6 mile tempo run. I missed pace on the three tempo miles. Then I went to 5:30 toning class. Wednesday night was swim class. She tried to kill me doing 100's. We did 2500 yards for class but my plan called for 2900 yards. So Tim convinced me to finish out the remaining 400 yards.
Thursday was thankfully a rest day.
Friday was a long run. 18 miles at PMP + 30 seconds (9:17 goal pace). It was warm but windy. I wore shorts, just days after the biggest snow fall in years. I ran a hilly route and ended up missing goal pace by 3 seconds per mile. 2:48:07, 9:20 pace.
Saturday Ronnie claimed golf so I put off my long ride til Sunday and just rode 1:15:16 when he got home. Got in 22.31 miles outside. It was windy and there were lots of dogs but I was so happy just to be riding outside nothing could bring me down.
Today was a different story. I set out for a 4 hour ride at 9:45. The wind was brutal. It was a fight just to stay on the road. The final straw came when my max speed down hill was 20 mph. I headed for home and called the ride after 1:58 and 33.54 miles.
Sunday I ended up skipping my trainer ride. I sat on the couch watching Top Model reruns and stuffing my face instead.
Then Monday morning I put off my run as long as possible. School was canceled because of the snow so I was off work. I finally got around to running around 11. I did a one mile warm up around the neighborhood, then did 12 x 400 running back and forth in front of my house in case the kids needed me. My goal pace for the 400's is 7:08. I ran them at 7:00, 6:59, 6:38, 7:02, 6:55, 7:07, 7:09, 7:06, 7:07, 7:15, 7:11, and 7:24. I though I was going to die by that last one. I did the 10 minute cool down around the neighborhood then fixed lunch.
Tuesday was another snow day so I rode my trainer about 10. 25 miles in an hour and a half.
Wednesday the kids finally went back to school so I got up early and ran a 6 mile tempo run. I missed pace on the three tempo miles. Then I went to 5:30 toning class. Wednesday night was swim class. She tried to kill me doing 100's. We did 2500 yards for class but my plan called for 2900 yards. So Tim convinced me to finish out the remaining 400 yards.
Thursday was thankfully a rest day.
Friday was a long run. 18 miles at PMP + 30 seconds (9:17 goal pace). It was warm but windy. I wore shorts, just days after the biggest snow fall in years. I ran a hilly route and ended up missing goal pace by 3 seconds per mile. 2:48:07, 9:20 pace.
Saturday Ronnie claimed golf so I put off my long ride til Sunday and just rode 1:15:16 when he got home. Got in 22.31 miles outside. It was windy and there were lots of dogs but I was so happy just to be riding outside nothing could bring me down.
Today was a different story. I set out for a 4 hour ride at 9:45. The wind was brutal. It was a fight just to stay on the road. The final straw came when my max speed down hill was 20 mph. I headed for home and called the ride after 1:58 and 33.54 miles.
Sunday, March 01, 2009
In Like a Lion
March sure came "in like a lion". This is the scene that greeted me when I went to let the dog out this morning.
And since the threat of snow pretty much brings us southerns to our knees, I don't guess we will be going anywhere for a while.
I am glad all I have on my training plan is an hour and a half trainer ride. Ronnie has a two hour run. Looks like he is in for some FUN!!!
Yesterday I got up early. Each of my kids had a friend spend the night and the dog woke one of them up. So since I was up I got started on painting the kitchen. The old color does not match the new tile. I painted for a while the set up my trainer for another LONG ride. I did 50.7 miles in 3 hours, not a good as last week. After the ride I threw on a fleece shirt, hat and gloves and did my 30 minute run off, 3.25 miles. It was cold and wet. Then I finished painting. Well, I painted until I ran out of paint. Now with this snow, I don't know when I will be able to get out and get the paint so I can finish.
Everyone is still sleeping but I am sure as soon as the kids wake up and look out the window we will be getting bundled up for a snow ball fight, snow men, and snow angles.
And since the threat of snow pretty much brings us southerns to our knees, I don't guess we will be going anywhere for a while.I am glad all I have on my training plan is an hour and a half trainer ride. Ronnie has a two hour run. Looks like he is in for some FUN!!!
Yesterday I got up early. Each of my kids had a friend spend the night and the dog woke one of them up. So since I was up I got started on painting the kitchen. The old color does not match the new tile. I painted for a while the set up my trainer for another LONG ride. I did 50.7 miles in 3 hours, not a good as last week. After the ride I threw on a fleece shirt, hat and gloves and did my 30 minute run off, 3.25 miles. It was cold and wet. Then I finished painting. Well, I painted until I ran out of paint. Now with this snow, I don't know when I will be able to get out and get the paint so I can finish.
Everyone is still sleeping but I am sure as soon as the kids wake up and look out the window we will be getting bundled up for a snow ball fight, snow men, and snow angles.
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