While we were cooling down on the posts, both Dan and I were ramping up with the races. The Kowals were on the loose: congrats to Dan with a first place finish at the Hy-Vee 5150 US National Championship. Woot! Also, now with my first tri under my belt (results) I am now looking for the next challenge.
Already I am considering another tri (Trek Women Tri Series) in 2 weeks, but the funds are a little tight. Booo...triathlons are expensive. Regardless...Dan and I are now making it a goal for both of us to make it to the next years Hy-Vee championship together! Maybe a stretch for me, but a good challenge. There is a lot of work to be done.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Post Race Day Focus
I don't think its any surprise that I am now hooked on triathlons. The race was fantastic and already I am thinking about areas in which I can improve. (Oh by the way, I totally blew my expectations and finished first in my division.)
One thing that kept me focused on training was definitely having a goal. I knew that when I signed up for the Lake Meridian tri, that I had about a month to focus. What I am concerned about is not being able to keep up with training when there is no goal. I know there is still time to sign up for another triathlon before the winter comes, but unfortunately, financial funds (before the sponsorships come in..hahaha) is keeping things limited.
I am already signed up for the Bellingham Bay Half Marathon in September, so that will be my focus for the next month. I am going to continue to swim and bike as part of the training, but increasing my road miles is going to be important right now.
Dan, any thoughts on keeping focus when there is no upcoming event? And, you can't say "sign up for another."
One thing that kept me focused on training was definitely having a goal. I knew that when I signed up for the Lake Meridian tri, that I had about a month to focus. What I am concerned about is not being able to keep up with training when there is no goal. I know there is still time to sign up for another triathlon before the winter comes, but unfortunately, financial funds (before the sponsorships come in..hahaha) is keeping things limited.
I am already signed up for the Bellingham Bay Half Marathon in September, so that will be my focus for the next month. I am going to continue to swim and bike as part of the training, but increasing my road miles is going to be important right now.
Dan, any thoughts on keeping focus when there is no upcoming event? And, you can't say "sign up for another."
Dan: Sign up for another race! HAHA
Yes, without signing up for a race, focus on your times. Focus on what needs the most improvement- being a newbie you can probably get better in all aspects. If you want faster splits in swim, bike or run set your goals. Focus on one discipline at a time.
If you ran 8:30's and want to get to 8:00 that goal will keep you motivated. Then once you have reached that time, you can add a bike split before the run and try and maintain the same speed. My goal this year was to get faster on the bike. I did a lot of spinning classes and tons of group rides- all with riders better than myself. I got dropped every ride at the beginning, but now can hold my own against some of the faster riders and have averaged 25 MPH plus in some races. When I push myself in a bike workout, I will then go out and run and see how the legs feel after cause if I am working hard I am pushing big gears. Pictures are also motivation for me. I have used these two pictures on my fridge for the past year and a half. They are ads from Cycleops (indoor trainer) but are great motivation:
The first picture says, "This is where you win races that don't start for six months"- has a guy in his basement on his cycleops
The second picture says, "The guy on the horizon isn't a cyclist, He's a victim"
I will watch Ironman races on http://www.universalsports.com/
Motivation is different for everyone. Write down your goals for next year, races you would like to do. Once you have races planned in your head you can cater your training to these goals.
Winter is a long time (especially for you) so vary your routine as well. Try spinning classes, core workouts, lift some weights as routines can get boring. The biggest thing to do is to write your goals down. post them on your fridge, on your calendars seeing the goals everyday will help you continue to train even when you don't want to.
Then join me in Idaho for Ironman CDA.....
Rev 3 Tri just added two races for 2012
To all fellow triathletes living in the Northeast and hoping for a big name race to come to the area you are in luck! Rev 3 has reached an agreement to bring an Olympic and half distance race to Old Orchard Beach, ME in August of 2012 http://rev3tri.com/news/revolution3-triathlon-announces-new-2012-races-in-maine/. Adding to the excitement of the Rev 3 Series they will also be hosting an event in Wisconsin. Both of these races will open for registration on September 1, 2011.
These races are family oriented and offer spectators a plethora of options to entertain themselves while waiting for their favorite athletes or at the conclusion of the race. This is a fast growing series that has incredible pro fields and huge prize purses ensuring the best pro athletes. Just another way to watch the most incredible athletes compete at the highest level.
One of the best things about these races is that it has live tracking which means you can follow your athlete on course.
These races are family oriented and offer spectators a plethora of options to entertain themselves while waiting for their favorite athletes or at the conclusion of the race. This is a fast growing series that has incredible pro fields and huge prize purses ensuring the best pro athletes. Just another way to watch the most incredible athletes compete at the highest level.
One of the best things about these races is that it has live tracking which means you can follow your athlete on course.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Julie's First Tri: Lake Meridian, WA
Ok, Dan you were right: I'm already thinking about the next race. Is it too early to say I am addicted? I am sitting here, anxiously waiting results of my race...
While I outwardly spoke out that my goal for my first triathlon (sprint at Lake Meridian, WA) was to finish the race. Quietly I knew this wasn't enough I wanted a good showing; its the competitor in me. So I was thrilled when things went smoothly...like not getting a flat tire and no digestive issues. Thanks for getting me prepared for this. Also a big thanks to my friends Schuyler and Tara for showing me the ropes and doing the race with me.
I was a little concerned about how I was going to perform after only an hour's nights rest. The night before a race I can never seem to sleep...we will need to cover this as a topic later on! Luckily the previous night I had slept well. Breakfast consisted of a pb&j, banana, and a Gatorade Prime. Everything stayed down (as opposed to the day of my first half marathon.)
I definitely was pretty intimidated when we arrived at the race and started to set up transition. People have some fancy bikes and some pretty techy gear. I didn't let it get to me thought, I mean my goal was to just finish, right?
This tri started with a deep water start, and with the temperature of the water at 74 degrees (warmer than the air) it was a pretty comfortable and calming pre-start. Of course once everyone started, I definitely felt the "washing machine" effect and at one point just stopped cause there was no where to go. One swimming for about 5 minutes I was able to find my own space and get in the groove. Reviewing the race, the swimming was actually my favorite leg! I think I definitely entered "the zone."
I was definitely worried last night about not being fully prepared for the bike. I had really only been on that particular bike twice! Also, I was doing this race without the proper equipment to change a tire. I was just hoping that I wouldn't have to stop racing if a tire went flat. Phew! Another thing I learned was to take the bike for a little spin after taking it out of the car. When I first jumped on the bike, my gears were not catching and I almost thought I was going to have to get off the bike. I think I should have just double checked everything before I put it on the rack! Another topic we will have to discuss in the future is rules of drafting and passing. While this triathlon was not super strict, for future races it would be nice to know to avoid penalty.
The run was definitely the worst leg. Although going in I was thinking that this would be my strong part, I was not prepared for the tightness and jelly feeling (how contradictory) that I was going to feel. The first mile was definitely the worst as it felt like I was running on new legs. As I continued to run I could feel my legs loosening up a little more which allowed me to increase my stride. I think in my continued training I want to practice more bike/run bricks to help tackle this feeling.
Overall, this was an awesome experience! The weather was ideal and French toast was served for athletes...uh, awesome! I will post my times when they are made available. Really stoked to see how I did...especially when I had no expectations for how fast I would be going in. Will keep you posted.
While I outwardly spoke out that my goal for my first triathlon (sprint at Lake Meridian, WA) was to finish the race. Quietly I knew this wasn't enough I wanted a good showing; its the competitor in me. So I was thrilled when things went smoothly...like not getting a flat tire and no digestive issues. Thanks for getting me prepared for this. Also a big thanks to my friends Schuyler and Tara for showing me the ropes and doing the race with me.
I was a little concerned about how I was going to perform after only an hour's nights rest. The night before a race I can never seem to sleep...we will need to cover this as a topic later on! Luckily the previous night I had slept well. Breakfast consisted of a pb&j, banana, and a Gatorade Prime. Everything stayed down (as opposed to the day of my first half marathon.)
I definitely was pretty intimidated when we arrived at the race and started to set up transition. People have some fancy bikes and some pretty techy gear. I didn't let it get to me thought, I mean my goal was to just finish, right?
This tri started with a deep water start, and with the temperature of the water at 74 degrees (warmer than the air) it was a pretty comfortable and calming pre-start. Of course once everyone started, I definitely felt the "washing machine" effect and at one point just stopped cause there was no where to go. One swimming for about 5 minutes I was able to find my own space and get in the groove. Reviewing the race, the swimming was actually my favorite leg! I think I definitely entered "the zone."
I was definitely worried last night about not being fully prepared for the bike. I had really only been on that particular bike twice! Also, I was doing this race without the proper equipment to change a tire. I was just hoping that I wouldn't have to stop racing if a tire went flat. Phew! Another thing I learned was to take the bike for a little spin after taking it out of the car. When I first jumped on the bike, my gears were not catching and I almost thought I was going to have to get off the bike. I think I should have just double checked everything before I put it on the rack! Another topic we will have to discuss in the future is rules of drafting and passing. While this triathlon was not super strict, for future races it would be nice to know to avoid penalty.
The run was definitely the worst leg. Although going in I was thinking that this would be my strong part, I was not prepared for the tightness and jelly feeling (how contradictory) that I was going to feel. The first mile was definitely the worst as it felt like I was running on new legs. As I continued to run I could feel my legs loosening up a little more which allowed me to increase my stride. I think in my continued training I want to practice more bike/run bricks to help tackle this feeling.
Overall, this was an awesome experience! The weather was ideal and French toast was served for athletes...uh, awesome! I will post my times when they are made available. Really stoked to see how I did...especially when I had no expectations for how fast I would be going in. Will keep you posted.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
I Live for Race Day!
Well, this is the last night before your first race! Jitters, I hope so. If you are not nervous something is wrong with you. This is where your training plan and trust of all that you did leading up to the race pays off. Nutrition, You have that down right? Just don't do anything stupid, like try something new tonight or tomorrow morning.
One note that may be of interest... You might want to bring a small roll of your own toilet paper or pick up a travel size one from a Walgreen's or CVS. I assure you this will come in handy. When you have 300-500+ people using a few port-a-potties (all with race day jitters) TP tends to be valuable. I could probably sell TP for $5.00 a roll 20 minutes before transition closes. Heck, It would be smart for a Charmin or a another TP company to be a sponsor of a tri. (I also always thought that Gillette or Schick razors should be an official sponsor of a longer race (70.3 or 140.6)- most shave their legs and it could be a cool setup at packet pickup (imagine the "Gillette Fusion truck" truck there- testing razors, HA- Yeah you have all seen the commercials... I digress..
Anyway, on race night I always...
1. Put all my numbers on my bike, helmet and race number on my belt.
2. Pack my race bag, you do it the morning of you might forget something
SWIM- (goggles (2 pair), towel, wetsuit, swim cap, anti-chaff cream for under arms if you want. Also good to put on legs and forearms so you can get your wetsuit off a little easier.
BIKE- Bicycle, bike pump, bike bag (for flats), cycling shoes (or sneakers if you do not have clip-in pedals, helmet, race belt with number, sunglasses, water bottles (for sprint 1 bottle is fine), socks
RUN- running shoes, hat or visor (if needed), race belt (if not already on from bike), GU or nutrition if need (100 calories will suffice)
-Attire will differ depending on what you decided to wear on race day (tri suit or changing in T1 and T2).
3. Pump up tires at night and check in the AM to make sure there aren't any slow leaks in the tubes.
4. drink water(want your pee to be light yellow)
5. eat dinner early (eat your carbs)
6. Put your bike rack on your car (if needed).
7. Set out food you will eat in the AM.
8. Charge ipod to listen to pre-race.
9. Pack a set of clothes to wear after the race.
10. Bring a recovery drink (Gatorade Recover or my favorite Chocolate Milk)- you will have to bring a small cooler if bringing this to keep it cold.
11. Try and go to bed at a decent hour.
12. Get up early enough so you are not rushing. It will be early either way so does it really matter whether it is 4 am or 4:30?
*If you are a coffee drinker and use it to start each day (I do) go ahead and drink some coffee. If that is part of your routine then go ahead and pour yourself a cup (I would recommend about 6-8 oz at the most). Not enough to dehydrate you, but enough to give you a good pick me up.
Go ahead and enjoy this moment, tomorrow you will become a triathlete and the addiction will become stronger !
I heard this used as an affirmation at my first 70.3 in Orlando by an individual who had written himself about 30 different notes. The race director saw that he had tossed this one on the ground and read it to everyone over the microphone cause it's good,
"Pain is Weakness leaving the body"
Tomorrow you may be sore, but do your best, whatever that may be and you will enjoy every moment. Stay after the race and enjoy the food and camaraderie. It is all part of the experience. One of many to come.
You are now one of the 2.3 million people (USAT) that participate in a triathlon each year.
One note that may be of interest... You might want to bring a small roll of your own toilet paper or pick up a travel size one from a Walgreen's or CVS. I assure you this will come in handy. When you have 300-500+ people using a few port-a-potties (all with race day jitters) TP tends to be valuable. I could probably sell TP for $5.00 a roll 20 minutes before transition closes. Heck, It would be smart for a Charmin or a another TP company to be a sponsor of a tri. (I also always thought that Gillette or Schick razors should be an official sponsor of a longer race (70.3 or 140.6)- most shave their legs and it could be a cool setup at packet pickup (imagine the "Gillette Fusion truck" truck there- testing razors, HA- Yeah you have all seen the commercials... I digress..
Anyway, on race night I always...
1. Put all my numbers on my bike, helmet and race number on my belt.
2. Pack my race bag, you do it the morning of you might forget something
SWIM- (goggles (2 pair), towel, wetsuit, swim cap, anti-chaff cream for under arms if you want. Also good to put on legs and forearms so you can get your wetsuit off a little easier.
BIKE- Bicycle, bike pump, bike bag (for flats), cycling shoes (or sneakers if you do not have clip-in pedals, helmet, race belt with number, sunglasses, water bottles (for sprint 1 bottle is fine), socks
RUN- running shoes, hat or visor (if needed), race belt (if not already on from bike), GU or nutrition if need (100 calories will suffice)
-Attire will differ depending on what you decided to wear on race day (tri suit or changing in T1 and T2).
3. Pump up tires at night and check in the AM to make sure there aren't any slow leaks in the tubes.
4. drink water(want your pee to be light yellow)
5. eat dinner early (eat your carbs)
6. Put your bike rack on your car (if needed).
7. Set out food you will eat in the AM.
8. Charge ipod to listen to pre-race.
9. Pack a set of clothes to wear after the race.
10. Bring a recovery drink (Gatorade Recover or my favorite Chocolate Milk)- you will have to bring a small cooler if bringing this to keep it cold.
11. Try and go to bed at a decent hour.
12. Get up early enough so you are not rushing. It will be early either way so does it really matter whether it is 4 am or 4:30?
*If you are a coffee drinker and use it to start each day (I do) go ahead and drink some coffee. If that is part of your routine then go ahead and pour yourself a cup (I would recommend about 6-8 oz at the most). Not enough to dehydrate you, but enough to give you a good pick me up.
Go ahead and enjoy this moment, tomorrow you will become a triathlete and the addiction will become stronger !
I heard this used as an affirmation at my first 70.3 in Orlando by an individual who had written himself about 30 different notes. The race director saw that he had tossed this one on the ground and read it to everyone over the microphone cause it's good,
"Pain is Weakness leaving the body"
Tomorrow you may be sore, but do your best, whatever that may be and you will enjoy every moment. Stay after the race and enjoy the food and camaraderie. It is all part of the experience. One of many to come.
You are now one of the 2.3 million people (USAT) that participate in a triathlon each year.
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