2011 was a very eventful year. Lots of a goals were accomplished, the biggest goal being to complete Ironman Wisconsin. I still get emotional when I talk about it, but I can always laugh at the fact that I threw up in front of my mother, of all the people. It is very funny now, she didn't appreciate me laughing about that at the time. I received a true honor at the beginning of Dec. Tri Smart had their annual holiday banquet. After we ate, MJ was giving out the awards people earned. I was awarded the Michelle Chaput award. I did not know Michelle when she was alive. She passed away from breast cancer in 2009. From what I know of Michelle she was a go getter, competed hard in events like road races and triathlons, exhibited sportsmanship at events, and was a battler, she not going to let things get the best of her. So for me to receive this award was very special to me. I am surprised I didn't start to blubber when MJ said my name.
The holidays were spent eating way too much, but enjoying it all the way. I worked at Von Maur for the holidays to be able to afford my goals for 2012.
So what do I plan to do for 2012? Well, yesterday I finally went for something. I have been practicing yoga at Power of Your Om in Naperville for 2 years. I have heard about 40 days revolution. I kept thinking about it for the past couple years, but always found an excuse not to do it. Well, done with that, I signed up for the 40 days revolution for 2012. It is a start to my path of getting my yoga certification for Level 1 Baptiste yoga. My plan is to attend a week long training this upcoming summer.
What else do I plan to do in 2012, well, I am going to North Carolina to get my Level 1 USAT coaching certification. Both certifications are opening a path for me that I would like to pursue and accomplish in the next 10 years. Within the next 10 years I would like to open a studio for running and triathlon coaching, spin classes, and practicing yoga. I have been thinking about this for some time now. Now that I have the idea in my head I need to think of a location. I have a few thoughts in my head.
How about athletically? This year I am going to stick with shorter events ( that is relative I realize). I am currently signed up for the Palos Half Marathon, Soldier Field 10 miler, and Rev 3 Olympic Distance at the Dells. I am planning on signing up for the OakBrook Half Marathon and scoping out more Olympic and sprint distance triathlons. I also plan to be an Ironman groupie this year and watch many of my friends competing. I will sign up for another Ironman, just not this year.
Personally, well, I am working on a a type 75-administrative degree in education. Some may be wondering why I am working on another masters if I wanted to open a studio, why not, it opens doors for me too. I am trying to learn balance and to take life as it comes at me. That requires some patience on my part, another aspect of life I need to continue to work on. I do feel in life, some things are ongoing. I will be attending a few weddings for relatives, I'm standing up in my cousin, Christine's wedding. I'll try to behave. :)
To end, I would like to thank all those who have been a part of this year with me. Your presences in my life is so special and means the world to me. I am so lucky to have such a supportive family and now to have met so many great friends that have been my backbone. I love you all dearly. Happy New Year to all. May your dreams come true in 2012.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Monday, October 10, 2011
Running the Chicago Marathon
So anyone who knows me well enough, knows that sitting still and not working out is not a strong point for me. Just about a month after Ironman Wisconsin was the Chicago Marathon. I had no plans of running in the marathon, just to go down and watch friends. Well me being me this year decided that I would run and for my friend's charity-Miles for McKenna. McKenna's family is friends with my friend Vicki. McKenna was born premature and has had many complications. Please check out this website and if you can, please donate to help little McKenna.
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/lovemckenna
I asked a few friends who I heard may be running as part of training for an upcoming Ironman. Turns out on race day they were going to be there. We met up at the Congress Hotel, but the lines for the bathrooms with crazy. Lucky for me, my friend, Kim had a room at the Hilton. This is another cool note-Kim was chosen for her charity work she has done in the memory of a friend of hers, who was part of SEAL team 6 and killed in the helicopter crash in Afghanistan. So we went back to the room, did what we needed to do and headed to the start line.
To start off the day, Jim Cornelison sang the national anthem. What a great way to get us pumped up. In my opinion there is no one better, especially in the Chicagoland area. I'm thinking the NFL should hire him to sing at the Super Bowl. He at least knows the words ( Christina Aguilera). At 7:20 the wheelchair competitors start, 7:30 for everyone else. It took us about 8 minutes just to get up to the start. I believe I heard that it took about 45 minutes to clear the entire starting area, but there are up to 45,000 people competing. As we are walking to the start we are all in disbelief at the crap people just throw down, like water bottles. Umm yeah, someone could trip over that. Just my thoughts.
So we cross the starting line and we are on our way. The first mile was probably slow because there were so many of us. Since there was three of us, I decided okay, I will hang back and watch as we pass people because it is really hard to run 3 across at that point in the race, actually at any point in the race. So we would just past people, make fun of a few with some of the crazy stuff or apparel they had on. The first 6 miles were not overly interesting, but felt easy, which is what they should feel like. We got to 7.75 miles where I saw the only people of all the people I was looking for. Jenny and Matt were hanging out. I don't know how I spotted them, but I did. After we passed them we ran into Boystown. Boystown is one of the main reasons I wish the marathon was run backwards. The crowd is awesome there. So many people dressed up in anything and everything. This is not to knock the other neighborhoods on the course because each has something unique, but it is a fun part.
Around mile 11 I looked around and realized we lost one of the group. We kept going at our pace, which was awesome. We caught a few more people we knew around the half marathon point that were spectating. Then after 14 miles, we saw a few girls from Luna Chix, each getting a little slap on the rear from us. Just after 16, I started to feel my legs. Before 17, I turned to my running buddy at said, hey if you feel go, go for it, you only have 3 miles left, don't wait on me, I will be fine. She told me remember this doesn't count for anything.
At mile 18 I decided that I was going to run until I got to the aid stations and walk through those. There is a lot of congestion there with all the people and it gave me a little chance to recover. I actually felt better with the small break. Miles 17-23 were a little rough, but I kept reminding myself why I decided to run. I knew it was not going to be a PR day, especially not even being a month removed from an Ironman. I kept telling myself, you're having fun, tell everyone thank you. Once again, that took any pain I was feeling away. We got to mile 23, which is just past the Cell. They had some camera people out there so I smiled and went on. At mile 24 I was told myself, okay, you have 2.2 more miles to go, just keep moving forward. I caught up to a girl I knew from high school and that ran in college with my brother. We chatted a little bit, then I decided okay time to get this puppy done. The crowd got louder as we got closer, signs were out saying 1 mile left. Weird as it was, that mile felt really long, but that is probably because I knew it was coming.
Now the organizers of the Chicago Marathon have a really good sense of humor, maybe in their minds. We turn off Michigan Ave. to head to the finish and before we turn left onto Columbus we have to go up what at that point in the race is a hill, right before mile 26. Now after doing an Ironman and listening to how loud the crowd got as I got closer to the finish, I was expecting the same at the marathon. Nope, I made the left turn for the finish and it was like dead silent. I threw my hands up a few times and was like hey people, get loud, we're finishing. As I was crossing the line, the clock read 4:18 and some change. I was like really, probably around a 4:10. I checked later and my time was 4:10:22 for 9:32 mile pace. I was pretty happy considering I didn't train for this and relied on the fact that I had trained for an Ironman.
The finish area took forever to get through and at that point I only wanted to go back to the hotel and shower. Finally I was able to turn off. As I was coming through to the end, you have to go down stairs to get back towards Michigan Ave. REALLY????? On any other day, those stairs would have been fine. Yesterday, not so much. None the less I got down them and back to the hotel to shower. I hate a great time with 45,000 of my friends yesterday. I keep saying I am not doing any more marathons. I have decided that I am not going to say I won't do this ever or I'll never do that again because I always end up doing whatever this or that is. Oh well, that is just silly me.
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/lovemckenna
I asked a few friends who I heard may be running as part of training for an upcoming Ironman. Turns out on race day they were going to be there. We met up at the Congress Hotel, but the lines for the bathrooms with crazy. Lucky for me, my friend, Kim had a room at the Hilton. This is another cool note-Kim was chosen for her charity work she has done in the memory of a friend of hers, who was part of SEAL team 6 and killed in the helicopter crash in Afghanistan. So we went back to the room, did what we needed to do and headed to the start line.
To start off the day, Jim Cornelison sang the national anthem. What a great way to get us pumped up. In my opinion there is no one better, especially in the Chicagoland area. I'm thinking the NFL should hire him to sing at the Super Bowl. He at least knows the words ( Christina Aguilera). At 7:20 the wheelchair competitors start, 7:30 for everyone else. It took us about 8 minutes just to get up to the start. I believe I heard that it took about 45 minutes to clear the entire starting area, but there are up to 45,000 people competing. As we are walking to the start we are all in disbelief at the crap people just throw down, like water bottles. Umm yeah, someone could trip over that. Just my thoughts.
So we cross the starting line and we are on our way. The first mile was probably slow because there were so many of us. Since there was three of us, I decided okay, I will hang back and watch as we pass people because it is really hard to run 3 across at that point in the race, actually at any point in the race. So we would just past people, make fun of a few with some of the crazy stuff or apparel they had on. The first 6 miles were not overly interesting, but felt easy, which is what they should feel like. We got to 7.75 miles where I saw the only people of all the people I was looking for. Jenny and Matt were hanging out. I don't know how I spotted them, but I did. After we passed them we ran into Boystown. Boystown is one of the main reasons I wish the marathon was run backwards. The crowd is awesome there. So many people dressed up in anything and everything. This is not to knock the other neighborhoods on the course because each has something unique, but it is a fun part.
Around mile 11 I looked around and realized we lost one of the group. We kept going at our pace, which was awesome. We caught a few more people we knew around the half marathon point that were spectating. Then after 14 miles, we saw a few girls from Luna Chix, each getting a little slap on the rear from us. Just after 16, I started to feel my legs. Before 17, I turned to my running buddy at said, hey if you feel go, go for it, you only have 3 miles left, don't wait on me, I will be fine. She told me remember this doesn't count for anything.
At mile 18 I decided that I was going to run until I got to the aid stations and walk through those. There is a lot of congestion there with all the people and it gave me a little chance to recover. I actually felt better with the small break. Miles 17-23 were a little rough, but I kept reminding myself why I decided to run. I knew it was not going to be a PR day, especially not even being a month removed from an Ironman. I kept telling myself, you're having fun, tell everyone thank you. Once again, that took any pain I was feeling away. We got to mile 23, which is just past the Cell. They had some camera people out there so I smiled and went on. At mile 24 I was told myself, okay, you have 2.2 more miles to go, just keep moving forward. I caught up to a girl I knew from high school and that ran in college with my brother. We chatted a little bit, then I decided okay time to get this puppy done. The crowd got louder as we got closer, signs were out saying 1 mile left. Weird as it was, that mile felt really long, but that is probably because I knew it was coming.
Now the organizers of the Chicago Marathon have a really good sense of humor, maybe in their minds. We turn off Michigan Ave. to head to the finish and before we turn left onto Columbus we have to go up what at that point in the race is a hill, right before mile 26. Now after doing an Ironman and listening to how loud the crowd got as I got closer to the finish, I was expecting the same at the marathon. Nope, I made the left turn for the finish and it was like dead silent. I threw my hands up a few times and was like hey people, get loud, we're finishing. As I was crossing the line, the clock read 4:18 and some change. I was like really, probably around a 4:10. I checked later and my time was 4:10:22 for 9:32 mile pace. I was pretty happy considering I didn't train for this and relied on the fact that I had trained for an Ironman.
The finish area took forever to get through and at that point I only wanted to go back to the hotel and shower. Finally I was able to turn off. As I was coming through to the end, you have to go down stairs to get back towards Michigan Ave. REALLY????? On any other day, those stairs would have been fine. Yesterday, not so much. None the less I got down them and back to the hotel to shower. I hate a great time with 45,000 of my friends yesterday. I keep saying I am not doing any more marathons. I have decided that I am not going to say I won't do this ever or I'll never do that again because I always end up doing whatever this or that is. Oh well, that is just silly me.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Two weeks later
It has been about two weeks since I completed my first Ironman in Madison, Wisconsin. I was told that some people feel some post Ironman blues. I have yet to come upon that. I am thinking I will be okay. Those who told me this, also said that people were not sure what would be next for them. I was asked this as well. First and foremost was to get some much needed recovery time. I do have some more goals for the 2012 year. Athletically I would like to compete in Olympic distance triathlons and see if I can get my times down into the 2:20s. I feel that is a reasonable goal, considering that I had a 2:34 and some change finish at Tri Indy with some very interesting road conditions on the bike (they sucked). I would also like to break 1:40 in a half marathon. Career wise I would like to add some certifications to my list, but they are kind of athletically related. I am hoping to be able to get signed up for the USAT level 1 clinic and get my Baptiste yoga certification.
Right now I am enjoying the time and the accomplishment I had completing and Ironman. When I came back to school after the Ironman the students and staff were very interested in my journey. Some of the students asked some funny questions like did I swim in the ocean and see sharks. I did tell the kids I would be in Wisconsin, which is why that was really funny to me. I was able to speak to some of our athletes involved with BALC (Bengal Athletic Leadership Club), but being me I was so excited I left out the most important motivator, people told I couldn't do it and I wouldn't finish ( sorry Meredith and T). I prefer to try to keep a positive attitude about it. I have been telling the kids I saw there afterwards that oh yeah, I did forget that part. I feel honored that the students from the school newspaper interviewed me and that our community relations director put a congratulatory note in the district education partner (thanks to my friend, Beth for emailing my principal and our community relations director).
So now what else to do? I do coach at the school I work at and we have a nice group of kids running cross-country for the boys and the girls. The boys are making a name for themselves as a team and I think they girls will surprise some people. Well, I have started to get a little antsy from taking time off. I started to swim and do yoga this past week, nothing intense, just fun and different workouts. There is no need to be serious right now. Jan. I will get serious again. I think I will start to run again this week. Biking will come soon, just not yet. I know I have a few friends are going to rock at Ironman Florida and yes I can be a training buddy for you all at some point or another. I will likely run a Turkey run on Thanksgiving in Palos. Mainly, I plan to continue to have fun. I had a great time training for the Ironman. I have met so many new friends through training and yoga and many other settings. I have fun, I have met great people, my family most importantly has been such a great support. I was shocked when I got back to my room from the Ironman to see how many Facebook messages I had and how many text message I had. Good thing we are not allowed to have cells phones with on the course. I would have got disqualified for sure. Many more good times to come!!!!!!!!
Right now I am enjoying the time and the accomplishment I had completing and Ironman. When I came back to school after the Ironman the students and staff were very interested in my journey. Some of the students asked some funny questions like did I swim in the ocean and see sharks. I did tell the kids I would be in Wisconsin, which is why that was really funny to me. I was able to speak to some of our athletes involved with BALC (Bengal Athletic Leadership Club), but being me I was so excited I left out the most important motivator, people told I couldn't do it and I wouldn't finish ( sorry Meredith and T). I prefer to try to keep a positive attitude about it. I have been telling the kids I saw there afterwards that oh yeah, I did forget that part. I feel honored that the students from the school newspaper interviewed me and that our community relations director put a congratulatory note in the district education partner (thanks to my friend, Beth for emailing my principal and our community relations director).
So now what else to do? I do coach at the school I work at and we have a nice group of kids running cross-country for the boys and the girls. The boys are making a name for themselves as a team and I think they girls will surprise some people. Well, I have started to get a little antsy from taking time off. I started to swim and do yoga this past week, nothing intense, just fun and different workouts. There is no need to be serious right now. Jan. I will get serious again. I think I will start to run again this week. Biking will come soon, just not yet. I know I have a few friends are going to rock at Ironman Florida and yes I can be a training buddy for you all at some point or another. I will likely run a Turkey run on Thanksgiving in Palos. Mainly, I plan to continue to have fun. I had a great time training for the Ironman. I have met so many new friends through training and yoga and many other settings. I have fun, I have met great people, my family most importantly has been such a great support. I was shocked when I got back to my room from the Ironman to see how many Facebook messages I had and how many text message I had. Good thing we are not allowed to have cells phones with on the course. I would have got disqualified for sure. Many more good times to come!!!!!!!!
Monday, September 12, 2011
Lisa Simon-you are an Ironman
My journey towards becoming an Ironman started a year ago today. I volunteered the day before at the 2010 Ironman Wisconsin to make sure I could sign up early and get into the race, as it tends to fill up really fast. My friend Jenny and I got to the registration at about 5:45 in the morning. Good thing because even though they said it wasn't open until 9, they opened at 7:30. We were registered and had our hotels by 8:15. The next week I spent hyperventilating because I couldn't believe I was going to embark on this journey.
In Nov. I sat down with my friend MJ. She is an accomplished triathlete and has done several Ironman's including Kona, the big one. I wanted to hire MJ because I knew that we were compatible and that she would not beat around the bush with me. She would tell me what I needed and how I needed to hear it. We started our training plan in Jan. Being a teacher, allowed for most of my training. April was a rough month with coaching track and field and state assessments at school, but I got through. I had a great summer of training and even took 2nd place in my age at the Tri Indy Triathlon and 3rd in my age at Leon's. My half Ironman at Door County was a bit of a disappointment as I had to walk most of the run due to not feeling good and throwing up. On the flip side, that made me angry so I was bound and determined to make the most out of my training the rest of the time. In August cross-country started and school started, those were my two weeks where training was at its highest. None, the less, the long stuff was on the weekend and I made it. The weekend of August 20th and 21st was when I did my 20 mile run and 100+ mile bike. Both went great, I felt good and strong. I told MJ I could have run faster, but at what cost? The plan was made, stick to it. The next few weeks were taping down. It was funny to say oh I only had to run 12 miles today. Again it is all relative to what you are doing.
The week of the Ironman I talked to MJ on Tuesday. I was a bit worried about how calm I was and that I was excited to do the Ironman, but didn't feel like grrrrr, I just want it to be over. That was actually a good thing, no need to waste energy. The people I worked with at school were so supportive wishing me luck in the halls and in meetings, asking how I felt. It is nice to know I work with such a great group. Some even wanted to keep track of how I was doing. How cool is that, people want to take time out of their Sunday to see what I am doing. Another group that I am lucky to have in my life is my family and friends. My aunts and cousins and friends were all keeping up with what I was doing. I left for Madison on Friday the 9th because you have to check in on Friday. I went to the expo, checked in, weighed in( yes they weigh you), wandered a little bit (I actually walked in and right back out of the Ironman store), then went to get lunch. I stopped by the hotel to see if I could check in and they let me. For dinner I went to a restaurant called Paisan's and also took carry out from there. It was beautiful seating as I was looking out onto the lake. I then headed to the banquet to listen to stories and the athlete briefing, where I met up with Forest, Scott, and Jen. We listened to some of the stories and laughed a little bit. Mike Riley, the voice of Ironman had a poster with all the pros signatures along with emergency responders, that he auctioned. One man paid $4000 for that poster. All the proceeds went to local emergency responders. That was awesome. He also brought up the youngest and oldest competitors, a 19 year old and a 74 years, and a married couple competing together. After that I went back to the hotel and went to bed.
Saturday morning I got up and went for a swim with John and then put my bike and transition bags in the transition area. The swim was nice and calm, water felt great. I saw my friend Aristotle after were done swimming. I met him at Horrible Hillies, so it was nice to see someone else who I haven't seen making the journey. I did realize that I forgot to put my bib number in my swim to bike transition bag. I was able to put it in my bag race morning. I got lunch and ate, then took a nap. A little later Maxine and Jeff came by to visit, which was awesome. It was nice to see those who were there to spectate. After they left I went to church and then ate dinner. It took me about an hour, but I feel asleep around 9.
Race day, I got up at 4 AM to get ready. I walked to the Starbucks to put my special needs bags for the bike and the run there and then made my way to transition to put my drink bottles on my bike. I sat in the lobby for a little while. Now this was a first for me. I went to the bathroom line and there was no waiting for the women's, but a huge line for the men. I saw Aristotle there and I was like "this a first, what's up with that?" I started to make my way down the helix and I was looking around for people I knew and there were Kurt and Amanda. I was so excited. We took some pictures, the Ironman guy took some videos. Kurt game me some words of wisdom and then sent me on my way.
I got into my wetsuit and made my way towards the water. My plan was to kind of hang in back at the start and work my way up, so I got to a spot where no one was by me. I had about 15 minutes until we started, so I listened to Mike Riley talk about Sept. 11th and how our pain we felt today was minor in consideration. He also stated he thought this would be the highest percent of people finishing in Ironman history. There was to be a fly over around 7:30, which may have been, but I was swimming so I don't know for sure. The pros took off at 6:50, then a triathlete from Oak Park sang the national anthem, and the cannon went off at 7. I got myself into position and just swam. MJ had warned me that at the start of the swim just understand you are going to get hit, just relaxed and keep going because it will spread out. She was right. I got the you know what knocked out of my on that first straightaway of the swim, some guy swam over me, I swam over some other guy, I got kicked in the nose, my ass got grabbed plenty of times, and so on. On the back side of the first loop things started to spread out until you got to the turn buoys. I do remember seeing that the orange buoys had numbers. Second loop I could feel I was moving up and passing people, got to the back side and counted down until I made the turn to the swim finish. It was nice because I could see myself getting closer to it. I got out and knew I swam decent, but didn't know my time until I got back to the hotel. 1:09:28, where the hell did that come from, totally didn't expect that. When you finish you have to run up the helix to the transition area. I heard my friend Elizabeth cheering for me and I sent out a wave. I think my Tri Smart buddies were also there.
As I was going into the transition area MJ was heading to the bike and said hey great swim, Lisa. I was like oh yay, there is someone I know and thank you. I got my bag from the first room and wouldn't luck have it, Maxine was there waiting to take care of someone in the changing area. I saw her and I was like Maxine, Maxine, help me, help me. Sounds like a little lost child. It was good to have someone I knew there. I got my bike stuff on and ready, except for my shoes because the path to the bike was slippery and I would be the one to fall. I gave Maxine a hug and thanked her. I should have asked where Jeff was since he told me he wanted to be in the women's changing area.
I ran down to get my bike and the people there got my bike out the rack and I put my shoes on. I got to the bike mount area where my family was hanging out. To start the bike you go down the other side of the helix onto John Nolen. On one of the turns was my friend, Matt, he had a hard job of pointing. We shared a laugh about that. On the way out, I saw the fighter planes make another fly by, that was cool. I made my way out towards Verona, where we had to 40 mile loops to do there. It was 16 out and back to Verona. I felt great on my first loop and the people I knew out there were spread out nicely along the way. It was quiet for the first part of the loop until I turned onto 92, there was BFF (Jim) to lend some support. I went a little ways further passed Mt. Horeb and to a fun, but very hilly part. At the top of one of the hills were guys standing there with signs in front of them saying they were naked and wanted to know if we wanted chamios butt. Hmm, I'm thinking no on the chamios butt. Of course I was laughing so hard I didn't get a chance to ask the guys to prove to me they were naked. Hey they were well built around the sign covering them. Then the fun part came through the Sauk Hill area. The first really challenging hill there is a guy with a microphone cracking jokes, a girl had a sign saying you paid to do this twice. I was sucking a little air, and there were my Tri Smart friends, Shoemaker, Tom, Bob, Schabel, I think someone else, but I can't remember sorry. They couldn't have been at a better spot. Gave them some high fives and off I went. You go a little ways and there is the Old Sauk Hill. I knew Kurt and Amanda would be there because last year I hung out with Kurt, Nick, and Perry there. All the suddenly I riding up and there is Kurt running next to me with his camera. I'm sure I had a big smile on my face because of his energy. He asked me how I felt and I was like I feel great. Got passed there and the last big hill on that loops by the Frank Lloyd Wright houses and there was BFF again. I got some more words of encouragement and kept going. I went through Verona and there was my family one again. I spotted my brother first because he was wearing a Tri Smart shirt. My mother was too. I know my sister has a Tri Smart shirt, but that is one of those things I don't remember if she was wearing it or not. I know I spotted her by her sunglasses. I gave them a big wave and headed towards the second loop. I stopped at my special needs bag to get some more sports drink and a sandwich, then onto the second loop. Uhh oh, I was not feeling good at all. The wind picked up a little bit and my stomach was starting to turn against me. A little ways into the second loop I saw Forest, we chatted a little bit and then he went on his way. By Mt. Horeb I was feel really bad, anytime I went into the aero position on my bike I felt like I was going to throw up. Around there Jenny came by. We chatted a little bit. I told her I wasn't feeling great, but this would pass. A little while later John came up on the bike. I was like wait, how am I in front of you because John, you are a much better biker, but okay. By this time since there were so many of us from Tri Smart, some of the crew headed back to Madison area. But at the top of the Sauk Hill there was Kurt, taking pictures. He asked how I felt, I told him my stomach is a little out of sorts right now. He said, just relax, keep drinking and eating, the race has not begun yet, you have plenty of time. I had to walk my bike up the hill by the Frank Lloyd Wright homes. I was thinking people were going to give me grief, but no they were great, they kept encouraging me and told me to keep moving. I got up the hill and felt better and starting to ride again. Back in Verona I saw my family again and gave them a wave. Then I made the ride back to Madison. I had to walk up one more hill, but I made it. With what was suppose to be 3 miles left, here came Perry. He had got two flat tires along the way. Way to go Perry for sticking with it and becoming an Ironman again. That is awesome. He told me he couldn't believe he caught. I could, I knew how crappy I felt. I finally got back to the helix and made my way up.
The transition volunteer grabbed my bike. I started to go towards transition when I started to throw up. The lady standing there was like oh here just throw up here. Okay. I walked into the transition area and who is standing there waiting for me, my mom and dad. Of course of all the people I had to throw up in front, my mom. My dad was laughing and said something to the effect of that was cute or that was attractive to me. My mom asked if I was okay (little did I know until later that night I was white as a ghost), and the lady behind them asked if I wanted gum. I walked into the transition bag area and who is at the back door, Maxine. She gave me another big hug and told me how proud of me she was. It was so nice to hear. I went into the changing area and just slowly got myself together. As I walked out to start my run, my mom asked again if I was okay ( I think she knew by now I wasn't going to drop out because I am so stubborn and thick headed). I told her yes and that I was going to walk for a little bit to get my legs back. I went outside and there was my dad cheering me on. I asked the volunteers to put some sunblock on me. The lady tells me oh your skin is cold. Oh is that bad?
I made my way to the timing mat and there was Katie, JC, and Glen. I walked by them and said of all the people I had to puke in front, it was your mother. They laughed. I got onto the street and saw Kurt and Amanda again. Kurt asked how I was and I said I need to walk a little bit, I threw up, and I need to get my legs back under me. He said to run/ walk as you need there is plenty of time. I went around the next corner and there were my Tri Smart buddies. I gave them a wave, went through the aid station and started to run. I was running aid station to aid station. I walked through them to make sure that I got the water in me. I also had my sports drink in my water bottle. At the second aid station was a coach I know from West Chicago. He chatted briefly with me about how good our boys cross-country team is doing. I got to one part of the course and saw Bernie,then MJ. MJ asked if I was okay and go take on the run. Okay. I made my way to the UW-Madison campus where you do a loop on the football field. Their stadium is beautiful. Before I got to the stadium, I ran into my friend Paul from high school. Again how cool is that? After I came out of the stadium BFF was there on his bike. I got a lot of encouragement from him until we got to the back area of the campus loop, where he couldn't go. Now there is only one major hill on this course, by the observatory. I walked up that. They do trick you a little bit because you go down State Street and see the Capital building, but you do a turn around. There was my friend Scott. I was like whoa, where did you come from. The crowd there was awesome. I made my way back for another out and back loop. There by mile 7 was a little crew with music, dancing away. I decided to kind of join them as I was running by waving my hands in the air. Then I started to make my way back to the downtown area. On the path Nick passed me and I told him great job, as I knew he was finishing. Way to go Nick. Maxine and Jeff were hanging out on State Street by the Capital and I stopped to give them a big hug. I made my way back towards the turnaround and I saw Kurt and Amanda again. I told Kurt I felt a little better. I got to the turnaround and walked a little bit back to where Kurt was at. He told me again, you have plenty of time, just stay relaxed and keep drinking. I saw Maxine and Jeff again on State Street. Just around the corner, I threw up again. Now I knew I could have a problem as I was not sweating either. So I made the choice to walk. A guy named Rob came up behind me and then walked with me for about 3 miles. I got back to do the stadium loop and there was BFF again cheering me on. This time the campus loop was really dark. Last year when I was watching the race I was sure that I would never take those glow sticks. Yeah, I was glad when I got one as some bikers were on the path and they turned their light off. I was like uhh, where did you go. I was shocked to see how many people stayed out to cheer us on. State Street where you are a little fooled was still rockin. My dancing buddies were stick rockin (they might be a little sore today). I got to mile 23 and at that station was a lady dressed as a nun. She could have been a nun. Don't know. I got to mile 25 and decided to muster up some pride and run the last 1.2 in. I felt okay. As I was getting closer to the finish, the louder the crowd got. I made a right turn on to Pickney, about a quarter mile from the finish and I knew I was close. I couldn't keep it together anymore, my eyes teared up and I was crying and giving thumbs up to everyone, then I made another turn onto Main Street and started to really blubber, last left turn into the finish. I could see it. The crowd was going wild, I'm blubbering, giving people high fives. I see Jeff, give him a huge hug, see my parents, give them a high five. Jeff told me Maxine was in the finish area waiting for me. I stepped over one mat and made my way down to the chute and Mike Riley says "Lisa Simon-you are an Ironman, this is her first Ironman and she is a teacher in Illinois." I start to blubber even more. Two guys caught me at the finished and walked me down where they take off your chip. They were laughing because I was able to lift my leg. I said that could be a different story tomorrow. Then I got to Maxine and she put my medal on. I really lost it then. We hugged and the camera guy kept taping us (maybe I will be on TV in Oct.) Then Maxine was nice enough to walk me to my mom and dad, gave them a huge hug each. We walked out of the finish area with my medal, shirt, and hat. I talked with Forest, my parents, Maxine, and Jeff.
We got something from the food tent for me to eat, but I didn't eat until 4:30 this morning, along with my diet coke. My parents had to leave since they had to get up and work this morning. Maxine and Jeff were nice enough to help me back to my hotel, put my stuff in my car, and come visit for a little bit in my room. After they left I showered up, took some advil, and put my compression pants on. I managed about 3.5 hours of sleep. That's going to catch up with me later this week.
I can't say enough about this race. It was so awesome. I think another part of what helped me was making a choice to take in the day and enjoy it. I made it a point to smile and thank the volunteers and spectators. Even though I was out there was 15:03:25, I had a blast, even when I felt my worse. I have my Ironman finisher gear.
Lisa Simon-you are an Ironman. Some of the coolest words I have ever heard.
In Nov. I sat down with my friend MJ. She is an accomplished triathlete and has done several Ironman's including Kona, the big one. I wanted to hire MJ because I knew that we were compatible and that she would not beat around the bush with me. She would tell me what I needed and how I needed to hear it. We started our training plan in Jan. Being a teacher, allowed for most of my training. April was a rough month with coaching track and field and state assessments at school, but I got through. I had a great summer of training and even took 2nd place in my age at the Tri Indy Triathlon and 3rd in my age at Leon's. My half Ironman at Door County was a bit of a disappointment as I had to walk most of the run due to not feeling good and throwing up. On the flip side, that made me angry so I was bound and determined to make the most out of my training the rest of the time. In August cross-country started and school started, those were my two weeks where training was at its highest. None, the less, the long stuff was on the weekend and I made it. The weekend of August 20th and 21st was when I did my 20 mile run and 100+ mile bike. Both went great, I felt good and strong. I told MJ I could have run faster, but at what cost? The plan was made, stick to it. The next few weeks were taping down. It was funny to say oh I only had to run 12 miles today. Again it is all relative to what you are doing.
The week of the Ironman I talked to MJ on Tuesday. I was a bit worried about how calm I was and that I was excited to do the Ironman, but didn't feel like grrrrr, I just want it to be over. That was actually a good thing, no need to waste energy. The people I worked with at school were so supportive wishing me luck in the halls and in meetings, asking how I felt. It is nice to know I work with such a great group. Some even wanted to keep track of how I was doing. How cool is that, people want to take time out of their Sunday to see what I am doing. Another group that I am lucky to have in my life is my family and friends. My aunts and cousins and friends were all keeping up with what I was doing. I left for Madison on Friday the 9th because you have to check in on Friday. I went to the expo, checked in, weighed in( yes they weigh you), wandered a little bit (I actually walked in and right back out of the Ironman store), then went to get lunch. I stopped by the hotel to see if I could check in and they let me. For dinner I went to a restaurant called Paisan's and also took carry out from there. It was beautiful seating as I was looking out onto the lake. I then headed to the banquet to listen to stories and the athlete briefing, where I met up with Forest, Scott, and Jen. We listened to some of the stories and laughed a little bit. Mike Riley, the voice of Ironman had a poster with all the pros signatures along with emergency responders, that he auctioned. One man paid $4000 for that poster. All the proceeds went to local emergency responders. That was awesome. He also brought up the youngest and oldest competitors, a 19 year old and a 74 years, and a married couple competing together. After that I went back to the hotel and went to bed.
Saturday morning I got up and went for a swim with John and then put my bike and transition bags in the transition area. The swim was nice and calm, water felt great. I saw my friend Aristotle after were done swimming. I met him at Horrible Hillies, so it was nice to see someone else who I haven't seen making the journey. I did realize that I forgot to put my bib number in my swim to bike transition bag. I was able to put it in my bag race morning. I got lunch and ate, then took a nap. A little later Maxine and Jeff came by to visit, which was awesome. It was nice to see those who were there to spectate. After they left I went to church and then ate dinner. It took me about an hour, but I feel asleep around 9.
Race day, I got up at 4 AM to get ready. I walked to the Starbucks to put my special needs bags for the bike and the run there and then made my way to transition to put my drink bottles on my bike. I sat in the lobby for a little while. Now this was a first for me. I went to the bathroom line and there was no waiting for the women's, but a huge line for the men. I saw Aristotle there and I was like "this a first, what's up with that?" I started to make my way down the helix and I was looking around for people I knew and there were Kurt and Amanda. I was so excited. We took some pictures, the Ironman guy took some videos. Kurt game me some words of wisdom and then sent me on my way.
I got into my wetsuit and made my way towards the water. My plan was to kind of hang in back at the start and work my way up, so I got to a spot where no one was by me. I had about 15 minutes until we started, so I listened to Mike Riley talk about Sept. 11th and how our pain we felt today was minor in consideration. He also stated he thought this would be the highest percent of people finishing in Ironman history. There was to be a fly over around 7:30, which may have been, but I was swimming so I don't know for sure. The pros took off at 6:50, then a triathlete from Oak Park sang the national anthem, and the cannon went off at 7. I got myself into position and just swam. MJ had warned me that at the start of the swim just understand you are going to get hit, just relaxed and keep going because it will spread out. She was right. I got the you know what knocked out of my on that first straightaway of the swim, some guy swam over me, I swam over some other guy, I got kicked in the nose, my ass got grabbed plenty of times, and so on. On the back side of the first loop things started to spread out until you got to the turn buoys. I do remember seeing that the orange buoys had numbers. Second loop I could feel I was moving up and passing people, got to the back side and counted down until I made the turn to the swim finish. It was nice because I could see myself getting closer to it. I got out and knew I swam decent, but didn't know my time until I got back to the hotel. 1:09:28, where the hell did that come from, totally didn't expect that. When you finish you have to run up the helix to the transition area. I heard my friend Elizabeth cheering for me and I sent out a wave. I think my Tri Smart buddies were also there.
As I was going into the transition area MJ was heading to the bike and said hey great swim, Lisa. I was like oh yay, there is someone I know and thank you. I got my bag from the first room and wouldn't luck have it, Maxine was there waiting to take care of someone in the changing area. I saw her and I was like Maxine, Maxine, help me, help me. Sounds like a little lost child. It was good to have someone I knew there. I got my bike stuff on and ready, except for my shoes because the path to the bike was slippery and I would be the one to fall. I gave Maxine a hug and thanked her. I should have asked where Jeff was since he told me he wanted to be in the women's changing area.
I ran down to get my bike and the people there got my bike out the rack and I put my shoes on. I got to the bike mount area where my family was hanging out. To start the bike you go down the other side of the helix onto John Nolen. On one of the turns was my friend, Matt, he had a hard job of pointing. We shared a laugh about that. On the way out, I saw the fighter planes make another fly by, that was cool. I made my way out towards Verona, where we had to 40 mile loops to do there. It was 16 out and back to Verona. I felt great on my first loop and the people I knew out there were spread out nicely along the way. It was quiet for the first part of the loop until I turned onto 92, there was BFF (Jim) to lend some support. I went a little ways further passed Mt. Horeb and to a fun, but very hilly part. At the top of one of the hills were guys standing there with signs in front of them saying they were naked and wanted to know if we wanted chamios butt. Hmm, I'm thinking no on the chamios butt. Of course I was laughing so hard I didn't get a chance to ask the guys to prove to me they were naked. Hey they were well built around the sign covering them. Then the fun part came through the Sauk Hill area. The first really challenging hill there is a guy with a microphone cracking jokes, a girl had a sign saying you paid to do this twice. I was sucking a little air, and there were my Tri Smart friends, Shoemaker, Tom, Bob, Schabel, I think someone else, but I can't remember sorry. They couldn't have been at a better spot. Gave them some high fives and off I went. You go a little ways and there is the Old Sauk Hill. I knew Kurt and Amanda would be there because last year I hung out with Kurt, Nick, and Perry there. All the suddenly I riding up and there is Kurt running next to me with his camera. I'm sure I had a big smile on my face because of his energy. He asked me how I felt and I was like I feel great. Got passed there and the last big hill on that loops by the Frank Lloyd Wright houses and there was BFF again. I got some more words of encouragement and kept going. I went through Verona and there was my family one again. I spotted my brother first because he was wearing a Tri Smart shirt. My mother was too. I know my sister has a Tri Smart shirt, but that is one of those things I don't remember if she was wearing it or not. I know I spotted her by her sunglasses. I gave them a big wave and headed towards the second loop. I stopped at my special needs bag to get some more sports drink and a sandwich, then onto the second loop. Uhh oh, I was not feeling good at all. The wind picked up a little bit and my stomach was starting to turn against me. A little ways into the second loop I saw Forest, we chatted a little bit and then he went on his way. By Mt. Horeb I was feel really bad, anytime I went into the aero position on my bike I felt like I was going to throw up. Around there Jenny came by. We chatted a little bit. I told her I wasn't feeling great, but this would pass. A little while later John came up on the bike. I was like wait, how am I in front of you because John, you are a much better biker, but okay. By this time since there were so many of us from Tri Smart, some of the crew headed back to Madison area. But at the top of the Sauk Hill there was Kurt, taking pictures. He asked how I felt, I told him my stomach is a little out of sorts right now. He said, just relax, keep drinking and eating, the race has not begun yet, you have plenty of time. I had to walk my bike up the hill by the Frank Lloyd Wright homes. I was thinking people were going to give me grief, but no they were great, they kept encouraging me and told me to keep moving. I got up the hill and felt better and starting to ride again. Back in Verona I saw my family again and gave them a wave. Then I made the ride back to Madison. I had to walk up one more hill, but I made it. With what was suppose to be 3 miles left, here came Perry. He had got two flat tires along the way. Way to go Perry for sticking with it and becoming an Ironman again. That is awesome. He told me he couldn't believe he caught. I could, I knew how crappy I felt. I finally got back to the helix and made my way up.
The transition volunteer grabbed my bike. I started to go towards transition when I started to throw up. The lady standing there was like oh here just throw up here. Okay. I walked into the transition area and who is standing there waiting for me, my mom and dad. Of course of all the people I had to throw up in front, my mom. My dad was laughing and said something to the effect of that was cute or that was attractive to me. My mom asked if I was okay (little did I know until later that night I was white as a ghost), and the lady behind them asked if I wanted gum. I walked into the transition bag area and who is at the back door, Maxine. She gave me another big hug and told me how proud of me she was. It was so nice to hear. I went into the changing area and just slowly got myself together. As I walked out to start my run, my mom asked again if I was okay ( I think she knew by now I wasn't going to drop out because I am so stubborn and thick headed). I told her yes and that I was going to walk for a little bit to get my legs back. I went outside and there was my dad cheering me on. I asked the volunteers to put some sunblock on me. The lady tells me oh your skin is cold. Oh is that bad?
I made my way to the timing mat and there was Katie, JC, and Glen. I walked by them and said of all the people I had to puke in front, it was your mother. They laughed. I got onto the street and saw Kurt and Amanda again. Kurt asked how I was and I said I need to walk a little bit, I threw up, and I need to get my legs back under me. He said to run/ walk as you need there is plenty of time. I went around the next corner and there were my Tri Smart buddies. I gave them a wave, went through the aid station and started to run. I was running aid station to aid station. I walked through them to make sure that I got the water in me. I also had my sports drink in my water bottle. At the second aid station was a coach I know from West Chicago. He chatted briefly with me about how good our boys cross-country team is doing. I got to one part of the course and saw Bernie,then MJ. MJ asked if I was okay and go take on the run. Okay. I made my way to the UW-Madison campus where you do a loop on the football field. Their stadium is beautiful. Before I got to the stadium, I ran into my friend Paul from high school. Again how cool is that? After I came out of the stadium BFF was there on his bike. I got a lot of encouragement from him until we got to the back area of the campus loop, where he couldn't go. Now there is only one major hill on this course, by the observatory. I walked up that. They do trick you a little bit because you go down State Street and see the Capital building, but you do a turn around. There was my friend Scott. I was like whoa, where did you come from. The crowd there was awesome. I made my way back for another out and back loop. There by mile 7 was a little crew with music, dancing away. I decided to kind of join them as I was running by waving my hands in the air. Then I started to make my way back to the downtown area. On the path Nick passed me and I told him great job, as I knew he was finishing. Way to go Nick. Maxine and Jeff were hanging out on State Street by the Capital and I stopped to give them a big hug. I made my way back towards the turnaround and I saw Kurt and Amanda again. I told Kurt I felt a little better. I got to the turnaround and walked a little bit back to where Kurt was at. He told me again, you have plenty of time, just stay relaxed and keep drinking. I saw Maxine and Jeff again on State Street. Just around the corner, I threw up again. Now I knew I could have a problem as I was not sweating either. So I made the choice to walk. A guy named Rob came up behind me and then walked with me for about 3 miles. I got back to do the stadium loop and there was BFF again cheering me on. This time the campus loop was really dark. Last year when I was watching the race I was sure that I would never take those glow sticks. Yeah, I was glad when I got one as some bikers were on the path and they turned their light off. I was like uhh, where did you go. I was shocked to see how many people stayed out to cheer us on. State Street where you are a little fooled was still rockin. My dancing buddies were stick rockin (they might be a little sore today). I got to mile 23 and at that station was a lady dressed as a nun. She could have been a nun. Don't know. I got to mile 25 and decided to muster up some pride and run the last 1.2 in. I felt okay. As I was getting closer to the finish, the louder the crowd got. I made a right turn on to Pickney, about a quarter mile from the finish and I knew I was close. I couldn't keep it together anymore, my eyes teared up and I was crying and giving thumbs up to everyone, then I made another turn onto Main Street and started to really blubber, last left turn into the finish. I could see it. The crowd was going wild, I'm blubbering, giving people high fives. I see Jeff, give him a huge hug, see my parents, give them a high five. Jeff told me Maxine was in the finish area waiting for me. I stepped over one mat and made my way down to the chute and Mike Riley says "Lisa Simon-you are an Ironman, this is her first Ironman and she is a teacher in Illinois." I start to blubber even more. Two guys caught me at the finished and walked me down where they take off your chip. They were laughing because I was able to lift my leg. I said that could be a different story tomorrow. Then I got to Maxine and she put my medal on. I really lost it then. We hugged and the camera guy kept taping us (maybe I will be on TV in Oct.) Then Maxine was nice enough to walk me to my mom and dad, gave them a huge hug each. We walked out of the finish area with my medal, shirt, and hat. I talked with Forest, my parents, Maxine, and Jeff.
We got something from the food tent for me to eat, but I didn't eat until 4:30 this morning, along with my diet coke. My parents had to leave since they had to get up and work this morning. Maxine and Jeff were nice enough to help me back to my hotel, put my stuff in my car, and come visit for a little bit in my room. After they left I showered up, took some advil, and put my compression pants on. I managed about 3.5 hours of sleep. That's going to catch up with me later this week.
I can't say enough about this race. It was so awesome. I think another part of what helped me was making a choice to take in the day and enjoy it. I made it a point to smile and thank the volunteers and spectators. Even though I was out there was 15:03:25, I had a blast, even when I felt my worse. I have my Ironman finisher gear.
Lisa Simon-you are an Ironman. Some of the coolest words I have ever heard.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Tri Indy Olympic Distance
On Saturday August 6th I met up with my friends Melanie and Liz. We were traveling together to the Tri Indy Triathlon in Indianapolis. It has been such a long time since I have been in Indianapolis. I think the last time I was there was when my aunt and uncle lived there, like when I was in junior high. We chatted about many topics on the way down and back. One thing that was cool, no drama amongst the three of us, loved that.
So we arrive in Indianapolis and head to the venue to pick up our packets. In this event, they allowed 1500 athletes total for a duathon (run, bike, run ), sprint triathlon 9 500 swim, 12.5 bike, 5k run ), and Olympic distance triathlon (1500 swim, 24.9 bike, 10 K run). Nice size. The packet pick-up was small, which was fine, less chance for me to see something I want spend too much money. At packet pick-up we ran into a colleague of Melanie's. She told him that I was going to beat him, in a joking manner. I am sure that I turned beat red and just smiled. No pressure or anything. During packet pick-up we tried to find out when transition opened, we got a few different answers. I was like oh boy, especially since I like to get to transition early, get my stuff put up, and sit down and relax.
Then we decided to head to our hotel, which was about 15 minutes from the venue. We got there, got ourselves settled, and then headed back into town to meet up with our other friends at Buca Di Peppo. On the way into town we understood why every hotel in downtown was book, Gaming convention. By that I mean video games and man some of those people were out there. They dress in costume and all. Dinner was very good and relaxing. We were heading back to the car when I noticed this gentlemen. At first I was like oh my he has a REALLY bad sunburn, then I noticed the devil tail attached to his rear end. If only I had my camera out. All I have on him is oh dear.
We decided that we were going to leave the hotel at 5 and drive to the venue. We parked and pumped our bikes with air, then headed to transition and got set up. At about 7 Melanie and I headed towards the start of the swim, which was about a 20 minute walk. We swam in a canal, which was about up to my hip. The start was a time trial start, which is good if people are honest with themselves. Of course some are not. I started the swim about 11 minutes into the race. You have to go down a ramp, which I think I granny walked because I thought I was going to slip. The race director also let us know there was no driving or cannonballs, I was like come on, no cannonballs, what fun are you? So I get in and go. When I would sight, I would check to see where people were at and try to catch them. Again problem with the time trial start, I must have caught about 20 or people in swim. I am a good swimmer, but I don't think I should have caught that many people. The nice part was that the canal was so wide that it was easy to get around them. I am sure that some people put themselves higher on the swim, so they do get a good advantage on the bike and are probably decent cyclists. On this swim I liked how the course directors put buoys up so that no one hit the nice statues in the canal. I am one that would do something clutzy like that. I made the last turn for the swim out. As I was making my way up the stairs a gentleman with a baby jogger looked like he was going to step in front of me, but he stopped. I told him thank you. I got to transition and got my bike stuff on. As I was making my way out there were a bunch of guys screwing around in the aisle. I yelled excuse me, the volunteer yelled move out of her way. I was like thank you and better you than me. They did run the risk of me just plowing them over.
Onto the bike. One thing that needs to be fixed. We were heading out and first thing we do to get onto the road is go over a curb with plywood. My back wheel got stuck briefly going over the curb. I had a moment of panic, thinking, oh I am going to fall, but got over and off I was going. The bike course was a two loop course. This course has the potential to be a speedy course, but a lot of the roads needed to be repaved. There were a lot of blind 90 degree turns. Regardless I made it through. On my second loop I had everything I could do not to laugh. Down one street, there was a bike lane, but eventually there was not enough space for all of us. I see and car and I hear the police officer yelling at the guy in the car to get out of the way. Then I hear the guy yelling hey cop, what the F.... do you want me to go, why you yelling at me and he had this really high pitch squeaky voice. I was like I got to get out of here because I was laughing so hard. The laugh was a nice break from the amount of swearing going on in my head over all the huge bumps and potholes. Finally back into transition and get my running stuff on.
Now, most people who know me, know the run is my favorite part. I came out of transition and grabbed a quick drink of water. The run was also a two loop course. I actually enjoyed that because at the end I didn't know who was on what loop, so I was motivated to go get some more people. I came around the first loop and was feeling great. We made the turn to start the second loop and had to go down like 5 stairs. As I am gingerly going down I was like really. To start the second loop is a water station. I went for water and the girl dropped the cup. This guy behind me tells me "you didn't want that anyway." I was like no, good thing there is another station in a mile. I continued to feel great and got to the next station. Unfortunately, there was only 3 people working the station. I was able to speed up around a few people and grab a cup of water off the table and went. I made my way around a few more people before I hit the bridge, which would have been hard to pass people. Just after mile 5 I saw the gentleman my friend Melanie told I would beat him. I was ahead of him coming out of the swim, he passed me on the bike, and I passed him back on the run. At that moment we were crossing a street and one of the volunteers says go 150 (my bib number), which was a huge motivator as well. I got ahead of him. I was like okay, I'm holding up my end of the bargain here. Phew!!!!. As I was coming to the split again I could see the finish area. I saw the clock and it said 2:44 and some change. I knew that I had start about 11 minutes in and bolted up the last bridged and into the finish. I got some water and went back into the transition to grab my recovery drink and camera.
After I finished I made my way to an area before that last bridge so I could see my friends and get pictures of them. I later learned that when Melanie and Brian were passing me, one guy running with Melanie told her there is you ( meaning me because we have the same uniform). I was able to get some pictures. I stayed around that area for a while and then I thought awards were going on so I made my way back towards the finish area. They weren't doing awards, but I saw an area for results. I went and found mine. I was thrilled, 2:34:12, 2nd in my age. Here was the last bad part, I asked when the awards ceremony was. She told me there was no awards ceremony and that I would have to call the race management because they ran out of awards. OKAY, how does that happen? Not a big deal, but still like oh.
I didn't know my splits until I got home. MJ, my coach asked me where she thought I improved the most. I was like well, let me get back to you on that one, don't know splits. I didn't start my watch purposely today because I didn't want to know or spend my whole race looking at it. Great thing about the race, results were up when I went to look for them. I am on cloud 109, forget 9. Swim 28:58, bike 1:13:26 (average 20 mph), and run 48:13 ( average 7:45 per mile). So very excited. 5 weeks for now I will be at Ironman Wisconsin. I am very excited. Let the fun begin!!!!!!!!!!!!
So we arrive in Indianapolis and head to the venue to pick up our packets. In this event, they allowed 1500 athletes total for a duathon (run, bike, run ), sprint triathlon 9 500 swim, 12.5 bike, 5k run ), and Olympic distance triathlon (1500 swim, 24.9 bike, 10 K run). Nice size. The packet pick-up was small, which was fine, less chance for me to see something I want spend too much money. At packet pick-up we ran into a colleague of Melanie's. She told him that I was going to beat him, in a joking manner. I am sure that I turned beat red and just smiled. No pressure or anything. During packet pick-up we tried to find out when transition opened, we got a few different answers. I was like oh boy, especially since I like to get to transition early, get my stuff put up, and sit down and relax.
Then we decided to head to our hotel, which was about 15 minutes from the venue. We got there, got ourselves settled, and then headed back into town to meet up with our other friends at Buca Di Peppo. On the way into town we understood why every hotel in downtown was book, Gaming convention. By that I mean video games and man some of those people were out there. They dress in costume and all. Dinner was very good and relaxing. We were heading back to the car when I noticed this gentlemen. At first I was like oh my he has a REALLY bad sunburn, then I noticed the devil tail attached to his rear end. If only I had my camera out. All I have on him is oh dear.
We decided that we were going to leave the hotel at 5 and drive to the venue. We parked and pumped our bikes with air, then headed to transition and got set up. At about 7 Melanie and I headed towards the start of the swim, which was about a 20 minute walk. We swam in a canal, which was about up to my hip. The start was a time trial start, which is good if people are honest with themselves. Of course some are not. I started the swim about 11 minutes into the race. You have to go down a ramp, which I think I granny walked because I thought I was going to slip. The race director also let us know there was no driving or cannonballs, I was like come on, no cannonballs, what fun are you? So I get in and go. When I would sight, I would check to see where people were at and try to catch them. Again problem with the time trial start, I must have caught about 20 or people in swim. I am a good swimmer, but I don't think I should have caught that many people. The nice part was that the canal was so wide that it was easy to get around them. I am sure that some people put themselves higher on the swim, so they do get a good advantage on the bike and are probably decent cyclists. On this swim I liked how the course directors put buoys up so that no one hit the nice statues in the canal. I am one that would do something clutzy like that. I made the last turn for the swim out. As I was making my way up the stairs a gentleman with a baby jogger looked like he was going to step in front of me, but he stopped. I told him thank you. I got to transition and got my bike stuff on. As I was making my way out there were a bunch of guys screwing around in the aisle. I yelled excuse me, the volunteer yelled move out of her way. I was like thank you and better you than me. They did run the risk of me just plowing them over.
Onto the bike. One thing that needs to be fixed. We were heading out and first thing we do to get onto the road is go over a curb with plywood. My back wheel got stuck briefly going over the curb. I had a moment of panic, thinking, oh I am going to fall, but got over and off I was going. The bike course was a two loop course. This course has the potential to be a speedy course, but a lot of the roads needed to be repaved. There were a lot of blind 90 degree turns. Regardless I made it through. On my second loop I had everything I could do not to laugh. Down one street, there was a bike lane, but eventually there was not enough space for all of us. I see and car and I hear the police officer yelling at the guy in the car to get out of the way. Then I hear the guy yelling hey cop, what the F.... do you want me to go, why you yelling at me and he had this really high pitch squeaky voice. I was like I got to get out of here because I was laughing so hard. The laugh was a nice break from the amount of swearing going on in my head over all the huge bumps and potholes. Finally back into transition and get my running stuff on.
Now, most people who know me, know the run is my favorite part. I came out of transition and grabbed a quick drink of water. The run was also a two loop course. I actually enjoyed that because at the end I didn't know who was on what loop, so I was motivated to go get some more people. I came around the first loop and was feeling great. We made the turn to start the second loop and had to go down like 5 stairs. As I am gingerly going down I was like really. To start the second loop is a water station. I went for water and the girl dropped the cup. This guy behind me tells me "you didn't want that anyway." I was like no, good thing there is another station in a mile. I continued to feel great and got to the next station. Unfortunately, there was only 3 people working the station. I was able to speed up around a few people and grab a cup of water off the table and went. I made my way around a few more people before I hit the bridge, which would have been hard to pass people. Just after mile 5 I saw the gentleman my friend Melanie told I would beat him. I was ahead of him coming out of the swim, he passed me on the bike, and I passed him back on the run. At that moment we were crossing a street and one of the volunteers says go 150 (my bib number), which was a huge motivator as well. I got ahead of him. I was like okay, I'm holding up my end of the bargain here. Phew!!!!. As I was coming to the split again I could see the finish area. I saw the clock and it said 2:44 and some change. I knew that I had start about 11 minutes in and bolted up the last bridged and into the finish. I got some water and went back into the transition to grab my recovery drink and camera.
After I finished I made my way to an area before that last bridge so I could see my friends and get pictures of them. I later learned that when Melanie and Brian were passing me, one guy running with Melanie told her there is you ( meaning me because we have the same uniform). I was able to get some pictures. I stayed around that area for a while and then I thought awards were going on so I made my way back towards the finish area. They weren't doing awards, but I saw an area for results. I went and found mine. I was thrilled, 2:34:12, 2nd in my age. Here was the last bad part, I asked when the awards ceremony was. She told me there was no awards ceremony and that I would have to call the race management because they ran out of awards. OKAY, how does that happen? Not a big deal, but still like oh.
I didn't know my splits until I got home. MJ, my coach asked me where she thought I improved the most. I was like well, let me get back to you on that one, don't know splits. I didn't start my watch purposely today because I didn't want to know or spend my whole race looking at it. Great thing about the race, results were up when I went to look for them. I am on cloud 109, forget 9. Swim 28:58, bike 1:13:26 (average 20 mph), and run 48:13 ( average 7:45 per mile). So very excited. 5 weeks for now I will be at Ironman Wisconsin. I am very excited. Let the fun begin!!!!!!!!!!!!
Monday, July 18, 2011
Door County Half Ironman
I left for Door County on Friday. I started off my day by finishing packing up and then got lunch with a friend. Before I got on the road I decided to make a stop at Urban Tri Gear to pick up a water cage for the back of my bike. I'd been watching the weather reports all week and needless to say it looked like it was going to be hot the day of the Half Ironman. It took me a little less than 5 hours to get to Egg Harbor, Wisconsin where I was staying. The resort I stayed at was only 3 miles from the start of the race. It was right off the lake and I was able to take some great pictures. I did have to laugh as I was checking in and the lady told me that I was not allowed to take my bike into my room, but I had to keep it in a storage garage. I did that for the first night and then the night before my race I kept it in my car. I didn't want the hassle in the morning of getting my bike out of storage. I ate dinner at the resort and then decided to venture out back. I was able to get a lot of pictures of sail boats and then later the sunset. Before I went to sleep I sat on the closed in porch with some of the owners and we talked about the races. One lady sitting there was doing the sprint on Saturday. It was funny how to me, this was just another race for me and how they thought wow, such a long way.
Saturday morning I got up and did my pre-race workout. I thought my face was going to be frostbit from the water. It was so cold. After working out, I got breakfast and then hung out on the porch for a little bit. I took a little nap before heading over to the race venue to get my packet. Not a whole lot of excitement on Saturday. I listened to the course talk and then returned to hotel to sit around and eat dinner.
Race morning I got up around 4:45, the first wave of athletes didn't start until 8. I got to the park around 5:30 and starting putting my stuff in transition. I was pretty set around 6, but still just sat in there because that it what I do. I started to talk to a few of the girls around me, as I was looking for my sister because she drove up to watch the race. At 7:45 they kicked us out of transition and then I headed over to the start of the race. The sun now came out and I was like I should have just moved into the elite wave, even though I really don't have any business being there. I would have started 45 minutes earlier. I don't know if they would have helped or not by the end of the day. The race director went over final instructions and then a local high school girl sang the national anthem. With that, the race began, 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run.
At about 8:15 I decided I wanted to go get use to the water, since I was freezing the day before. Turns out the water, was actually not to bad. At first I tried to walk my way over the rocks. I gave up on that and floated out a little ways. I stayed in the water just with my head sticking out until it was almost time for my wave to take off.
At about 8:45 my wave was set to go. I did have to laugh at all these girls fighting to get their way to the front. The plan for me was to take the swim aerobically and I did. I let them fight with each other through the first turn, where we went through two yellow buoys. The nice part about the swim was the buoys for sighting were all orange and numbered. We basically had to get to 40 and we were on our way in. So all those girls fighting for position, well, I started to pass them around the 5th buoy. I was swimming easy, but still felt like I was moving and me being me, couldn't figure out why. Well, then we made a 180 and oh I realized I was swimming with the current on the way out. We swam against the current from about the 15th buoy to the 34th buoy. Then we made another left turn for towards the finish and we had the current with us again. At some point heading into the finish, I got a nice slap on the rear end. I was like really, legs I get, rear, not so much. I'll take it. I finished the swim and at the end they had wet suit strippers ( for those who don't know these people help with getting the wetsuit we wear off of us). A lady point to me and I went her way. That is the fastest I have got a wetsuit off, so kudos to her. I looked at my watch I an was pretty happy with my time. My watch and my official time were slightly off. I looked at my watch as I got out of the water, my actually transition was about 30 seconds later.
On to the bike I went. I had some issues getting my helmet on as I have too much hair, oh well, not cutting it. The plan on the bike was to stay at a zone three or one-two sentence conversation pace. I felt good about that pace as I was able to thank the volunteers and spectators as I was going along. I was told this course was hilly, the beginning and end, not so much and really only parts of the middle. Of course having rode the Horrible Hillies course and Ironman Wisconsin course, my perception might be skewed. A little ways in to the bike I see this guy crossing the street. He did have plenty of time to get across before myself and the bikers behind me got to him. So what does this dude decide to, stop right in the middle. In my head I was like dude get the hell out of the way, but my filter was working and I just told him excuse me. A few miles later I was making a turn to start to go out into the country parts more. Thankfully a lady was standing there and told us watch out for the snake in the road, split decision was to go right, good move on my part. Sorry no new boots for anyone. About halfway through the bike I noticed that my right aero bar was leading all the way to the right. I tried to fix it and put it back to the middle, didn't work. I actually spent most of the last half of the bike riding kind of lopsided, I am sure the picture of that will look just stunning. None the less, learning experience. The one thing I really hated about the bike course was that they marked every mile. I thought when I saw mile 1, they were being funny. WRONG. I drank water as I needed it and tried to have my nutrition about every 30 minutes on the bike. Once again, I am at a race where the distance was long. Maybe the plus of having all the miles. I get to the mile sign for mile 56, however I was not at the transition area yet. I am guessing that the actual mileage was between 56 1/2 to just under 57 miles, not terribly long, but still long. For the race director making fun of Ironman trademarked races, I will say, the ones I have competed and been to, the distances were right. Overall, pretty solid bike ride, I was happy with my swim and bike. I got into transition and I was hot. I took some extra time to grab a bottle of water to drink and pour on myself.
Finally onto the run. This is suppose to be my strength. I was in for a rude awaking. The plan was to start off at 9 minute mile pace, which for me should be a cakewalk. Not to day, mile 1-9:46. About 3 miles into the run they had a dunk take. The one thing I have not mentioned is that even though the race director was making fun of Ironman trademarked races, they took extra care of us having dunk tanks and extra water along with extra personnel on the course. I went over to the dunk take and say back and went in, basically everything except my shoes. That felt great. I hate the cold, but it was welcomed. I saw a guy, named Dave, who I met the week before riding the Ironman Wisconsin course with my friends Jenny and Matt. He said I'll see you at the finish, I told him umm yeah I'm just heading out. I ran most of the first 6 miles, only stopping at the water stations to make sure I was getting hydrated or keeping hydrated. I knew there was a big hill after mile 9, didn't know about the teaser at mile 6. I had to walk up it and to make matters worse I got sickly. When I finally started to walk again a guy behind me ask :Hey 807, are you okay?" I was yes, probably drank too much water. Finally up the hill and I started to run again. Mile 8 was where the dunk tank was the first time around, took another bath in there and the paramedics were laughing because they said they cooled it off since my first go around. I appreciate their efforts, but at this point I was so overheated that as soon as I got out of the tank I was hot again. Just after mile 9 was the big hill. It was so ridiculous, even the overall winners had to walk up it. The race director puts funny signed and they have music like the Fabulous Thunderbirds "Ain't that Tuff Enough." I think that is the title of the song, anyway most of you know what I am talking about. Well, the race director can add another sign, me getting sick again. Some very nice guys asked if they should send medical help to me. Well, at this point I had my mind made up that I was finish come hell or high water. As much as I didn't mean it, I believe the Exorcist came out with my resounding NO. Miles 10-12.5 were really sunny. The run course was not shaded to begin with, but it was really sunny here, go figure. I walked/ran to the water station just before 11 miles. The people working there were related to one of the ladies I workout with. We chatted briefly before I saw another dunk tank. I decided to go in there twice. Along the way I'd continue to met up with people and we would encourage each other along the way. It was more common to see people walking than running. Brutal only sort defines it. I am sure my friends that competed in Racine understand what I am talking about. There was a girl that caught me after the big hill riding her bike. She asked if I was okay and I told her yes, no Exorcist this time. She rode by again just after mile 12 and asked how things were going. I told her I wanted to ride her bike and she said, now that would defeat the purpose. She did tell me she wanted to see me get sick again. I told her she just missed the three time. With around an half mile left in the race, the road goes downhill. Like many others, I decided to salvage some pride and run in. At the finish was my sister. As I was coming in I told her I was sorry, but I didn't feel good, but don't tell Mom that. I got to the finish, got my medal, took another bath in the dunk tank and then decided I wanted to go back into the lake. My sister was nice enough to take a picture and boy I must say I look pathetic, but funny none the less.
I was telling her how I was nauseated and how I got sick during the run, which was one of the worse half marathons of my life (the one I ran at the end of Steelhead just barely beats it). She said she would have liked to see me get sick or something to that effect. Well, ask and you shall receive. On the way back to get my bike and stuff out transition, one more time. We talked about me staying with her for the night at her hotel. I followed her back and in the car was where I lost it. Overall I was happy with the first 2/3 of my race, just really disappointed on how badly the run went. I was bad and texting while driving, a good friend gave me good advice, shake it off and think big picture, very much appreciated and needed that. I went back and showered at my sister's hotel and talked to another good friend and much more experienced triathlete than me before I made my way home. She also had some advice and we got some ideas of what we want to do. A good point she made was that if the Ironman is like this weather, I at least have the experience, but I really hope not.
Well, anyone who knows me knows that I am stubborn and thick headed, so I drove home. It took me about 4 hours and 40 minutes. I think I was on the phone talking to people for about 3 of those hours. It made the time go by and kept me awake, so thanks to all that listened to me. I did get an email from my dad this morning telling me that he would prefer if I just stayed overnight next time. Well, when asked today I do feel that maybe mid-July Half Ironmans will not be my thing since this year and last year have both been really hot- SHOCKER there. We will see. Overall I feel that I had a very solid swim and bike, just need to close out on the run. I am happy that I had the determination to finish, anyone who was outside at all yesterday knows how brutal it was. I am very lucky to have the support system I have as well. Without family and friends, none of this would be possible.
I do have to say one last thing, I wasn't sure how long it was going to last, but I got my appetite back at lunch. YAY!!!!!! Feeling normal again.
Saturday morning I got up and did my pre-race workout. I thought my face was going to be frostbit from the water. It was so cold. After working out, I got breakfast and then hung out on the porch for a little bit. I took a little nap before heading over to the race venue to get my packet. Not a whole lot of excitement on Saturday. I listened to the course talk and then returned to hotel to sit around and eat dinner.
Race morning I got up around 4:45, the first wave of athletes didn't start until 8. I got to the park around 5:30 and starting putting my stuff in transition. I was pretty set around 6, but still just sat in there because that it what I do. I started to talk to a few of the girls around me, as I was looking for my sister because she drove up to watch the race. At 7:45 they kicked us out of transition and then I headed over to the start of the race. The sun now came out and I was like I should have just moved into the elite wave, even though I really don't have any business being there. I would have started 45 minutes earlier. I don't know if they would have helped or not by the end of the day. The race director went over final instructions and then a local high school girl sang the national anthem. With that, the race began, 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run.
At about 8:15 I decided I wanted to go get use to the water, since I was freezing the day before. Turns out the water, was actually not to bad. At first I tried to walk my way over the rocks. I gave up on that and floated out a little ways. I stayed in the water just with my head sticking out until it was almost time for my wave to take off.
At about 8:45 my wave was set to go. I did have to laugh at all these girls fighting to get their way to the front. The plan for me was to take the swim aerobically and I did. I let them fight with each other through the first turn, where we went through two yellow buoys. The nice part about the swim was the buoys for sighting were all orange and numbered. We basically had to get to 40 and we were on our way in. So all those girls fighting for position, well, I started to pass them around the 5th buoy. I was swimming easy, but still felt like I was moving and me being me, couldn't figure out why. Well, then we made a 180 and oh I realized I was swimming with the current on the way out. We swam against the current from about the 15th buoy to the 34th buoy. Then we made another left turn for towards the finish and we had the current with us again. At some point heading into the finish, I got a nice slap on the rear end. I was like really, legs I get, rear, not so much. I'll take it. I finished the swim and at the end they had wet suit strippers ( for those who don't know these people help with getting the wetsuit we wear off of us). A lady point to me and I went her way. That is the fastest I have got a wetsuit off, so kudos to her. I looked at my watch I an was pretty happy with my time. My watch and my official time were slightly off. I looked at my watch as I got out of the water, my actually transition was about 30 seconds later.
On to the bike I went. I had some issues getting my helmet on as I have too much hair, oh well, not cutting it. The plan on the bike was to stay at a zone three or one-two sentence conversation pace. I felt good about that pace as I was able to thank the volunteers and spectators as I was going along. I was told this course was hilly, the beginning and end, not so much and really only parts of the middle. Of course having rode the Horrible Hillies course and Ironman Wisconsin course, my perception might be skewed. A little ways in to the bike I see this guy crossing the street. He did have plenty of time to get across before myself and the bikers behind me got to him. So what does this dude decide to, stop right in the middle. In my head I was like dude get the hell out of the way, but my filter was working and I just told him excuse me. A few miles later I was making a turn to start to go out into the country parts more. Thankfully a lady was standing there and told us watch out for the snake in the road, split decision was to go right, good move on my part. Sorry no new boots for anyone. About halfway through the bike I noticed that my right aero bar was leading all the way to the right. I tried to fix it and put it back to the middle, didn't work. I actually spent most of the last half of the bike riding kind of lopsided, I am sure the picture of that will look just stunning. None the less, learning experience. The one thing I really hated about the bike course was that they marked every mile. I thought when I saw mile 1, they were being funny. WRONG. I drank water as I needed it and tried to have my nutrition about every 30 minutes on the bike. Once again, I am at a race where the distance was long. Maybe the plus of having all the miles. I get to the mile sign for mile 56, however I was not at the transition area yet. I am guessing that the actual mileage was between 56 1/2 to just under 57 miles, not terribly long, but still long. For the race director making fun of Ironman trademarked races, I will say, the ones I have competed and been to, the distances were right. Overall, pretty solid bike ride, I was happy with my swim and bike. I got into transition and I was hot. I took some extra time to grab a bottle of water to drink and pour on myself.
Finally onto the run. This is suppose to be my strength. I was in for a rude awaking. The plan was to start off at 9 minute mile pace, which for me should be a cakewalk. Not to day, mile 1-9:46. About 3 miles into the run they had a dunk take. The one thing I have not mentioned is that even though the race director was making fun of Ironman trademarked races, they took extra care of us having dunk tanks and extra water along with extra personnel on the course. I went over to the dunk take and say back and went in, basically everything except my shoes. That felt great. I hate the cold, but it was welcomed. I saw a guy, named Dave, who I met the week before riding the Ironman Wisconsin course with my friends Jenny and Matt. He said I'll see you at the finish, I told him umm yeah I'm just heading out. I ran most of the first 6 miles, only stopping at the water stations to make sure I was getting hydrated or keeping hydrated. I knew there was a big hill after mile 9, didn't know about the teaser at mile 6. I had to walk up it and to make matters worse I got sickly. When I finally started to walk again a guy behind me ask :Hey 807, are you okay?" I was yes, probably drank too much water. Finally up the hill and I started to run again. Mile 8 was where the dunk tank was the first time around, took another bath in there and the paramedics were laughing because they said they cooled it off since my first go around. I appreciate their efforts, but at this point I was so overheated that as soon as I got out of the tank I was hot again. Just after mile 9 was the big hill. It was so ridiculous, even the overall winners had to walk up it. The race director puts funny signed and they have music like the Fabulous Thunderbirds "Ain't that Tuff Enough." I think that is the title of the song, anyway most of you know what I am talking about. Well, the race director can add another sign, me getting sick again. Some very nice guys asked if they should send medical help to me. Well, at this point I had my mind made up that I was finish come hell or high water. As much as I didn't mean it, I believe the Exorcist came out with my resounding NO. Miles 10-12.5 were really sunny. The run course was not shaded to begin with, but it was really sunny here, go figure. I walked/ran to the water station just before 11 miles. The people working there were related to one of the ladies I workout with. We chatted briefly before I saw another dunk tank. I decided to go in there twice. Along the way I'd continue to met up with people and we would encourage each other along the way. It was more common to see people walking than running. Brutal only sort defines it. I am sure my friends that competed in Racine understand what I am talking about. There was a girl that caught me after the big hill riding her bike. She asked if I was okay and I told her yes, no Exorcist this time. She rode by again just after mile 12 and asked how things were going. I told her I wanted to ride her bike and she said, now that would defeat the purpose. She did tell me she wanted to see me get sick again. I told her she just missed the three time. With around an half mile left in the race, the road goes downhill. Like many others, I decided to salvage some pride and run in. At the finish was my sister. As I was coming in I told her I was sorry, but I didn't feel good, but don't tell Mom that. I got to the finish, got my medal, took another bath in the dunk tank and then decided I wanted to go back into the lake. My sister was nice enough to take a picture and boy I must say I look pathetic, but funny none the less.
I was telling her how I was nauseated and how I got sick during the run, which was one of the worse half marathons of my life (the one I ran at the end of Steelhead just barely beats it). She said she would have liked to see me get sick or something to that effect. Well, ask and you shall receive. On the way back to get my bike and stuff out transition, one more time. We talked about me staying with her for the night at her hotel. I followed her back and in the car was where I lost it. Overall I was happy with the first 2/3 of my race, just really disappointed on how badly the run went. I was bad and texting while driving, a good friend gave me good advice, shake it off and think big picture, very much appreciated and needed that. I went back and showered at my sister's hotel and talked to another good friend and much more experienced triathlete than me before I made my way home. She also had some advice and we got some ideas of what we want to do. A good point she made was that if the Ironman is like this weather, I at least have the experience, but I really hope not.
Well, anyone who knows me knows that I am stubborn and thick headed, so I drove home. It took me about 4 hours and 40 minutes. I think I was on the phone talking to people for about 3 of those hours. It made the time go by and kept me awake, so thanks to all that listened to me. I did get an email from my dad this morning telling me that he would prefer if I just stayed overnight next time. Well, when asked today I do feel that maybe mid-July Half Ironmans will not be my thing since this year and last year have both been really hot- SHOCKER there. We will see. Overall I feel that I had a very solid swim and bike, just need to close out on the run. I am happy that I had the determination to finish, anyone who was outside at all yesterday knows how brutal it was. I am very lucky to have the support system I have as well. Without family and friends, none of this would be possible.
I do have to say one last thing, I wasn't sure how long it was going to last, but I got my appetite back at lunch. YAY!!!!!! Feeling normal again.
Friday, July 8, 2011
My journey up until now
I was running a few weeks ago with a good friend and we got to talking about different subjects, blogging was one of them. She suggested that I start a blog since I am into social media ( I am a Facebook snob). I finally decided to sit down and do this. So this entry may be a little long, but I feel it will tell how I have made choices about events I am doing this season.
I was a runner through high school and college. My best event in high school was the 3200 run where I took 10th in 1994 and 4th in 1995. Sadly my times would not even place in the top 10 in the state now. These high school girls are really running strong, but that is a great for the sport. I was 10K runner in college and placed at the conference level my sophomore through my senior years. In 2000 after my college eligibility was done I decided to compete in my first marathon. I ran the Chicago Marathon. Being naive I didn't realize what I was getting into and thought, I can manage 7:00 mile pace. I just may have, but I got a little excited at the start and went out at 6:00. WHOOPS. It didn't hit me until later in the race that I was about a minute back from the actual start and that when the clock said 7:00, it was really 6:00 for me. Lesson learned and I still ran 3:31:52. I ran the Lakefront Marathon in Milwaukee in 2001 and then Boston in 2003. After Boston I hated running. I was bored with it and it was more like "I have to run" vs. "I am so excited for my run today." I knew I wanted to keep in good physical shape, but what could I do. I decided to take up triathlons.
My first triathlon was not really official and I am sure I made a complete fool of myself. Again being naive. First problem for me was the swim was in the ocean in a bay. Well, anyone who knows me, knows that I don't like swimming in oceans, JAWS might eat me. I did get through the swim and got on the bike. Oh I should also add that after the swim I decided to change tops in front of everyone stand there. WHOOPS again. My friend Kim had friends that were kind enough to lend me a bike. It was a mountain bike. As I got on the bike I now understood why some guy before the race asked if I was trying to work super hard. The run was much better for me. The first official one I did was in Naperville. I did have to borrow my cousin's bike, which again lesson learned, make sure you are on a bike that fits you. My cousin is a few inches taller than me. I did a few Olympic distances with Team in Training over the next couple years along with some sprints.
In 2007 a lot changed for me. On July 5th I was feeling awful, but went through my day. I finally decided to go to the doctor at the Urgent care that night. She suggested I go to the hospital, even offered me an ambulance, but me being me I drove myself to Edwards in Naperville. After a test the doctor came back to my room on the ER to tell me that I had acute appendicitis and I need surgery like now. It was about quarter to midnight. At that point I figured I better call my parents. I woke my mom up and told her that I was at the hospital and needed surgery. Both her and my dad got there as there wheeling me up to the operating room. First question, why didn't you call us when you were coming here. Well, I just thought I had a stomach ache from stress and they would give me something to calm me down. The surgery was suppose to be 45 minutes to an hour. NOPE, 4 hours later I came out. The appendix burst and wrapped around my small intestine. A few days later the surgeon came in and told my mom and I had that after the lap tests it was discovered that I have Crohn's Disease. I was actually relieved that I knew what was going on. Needless to say that triathlon season was scraped.
The next year I decided I would do Steelhead Half Ironman with Team in Training and the Chicago Marathon. Of course that is the year it went from a swim, bike, run to run, bike, run. I had to walk the last 2.5 miles of the half marathon. It was miserable. The Chicago Marathon was worse. I had to drop out at mile 19 with stomach issues. I have been using that to help me ever since. I had also packed on about 45 pounds since the surgery. In Nov. of 2008 I decided I needed to make some changes. I started to work with a nutritionist at the healthclub I was a member of. I lost the weight. I had some issues in races in 2009 because I was not fueling properly during races.
In 2010 I worked with a nutritionist a friend from swim recommended. Finally back to normal. I decided to complete in Ironman Racine 70.3 as a challenge and test for me. I really wanted to do an Ironman someday. I had a pretty good day at Racine. It was hot and I did have to walk through some of the water stations, but I now knew that I could do an Ironman. I went to watch Ironman Wisconsin ( perfect location, perfect timing for me). After several panic attacks I signed up for Ironman Wisconsin 2011.
That leads me to where I am now. I decided I would have someone coach me. I chose MJ because I had got to know her last year, like her philosophy, and I knew that she would tell it like it is. I started to train in Jan.. April was a tough month between coaching track and field at school, gearing up for state testing at school, some crazy education meetings I had with parents. Training was my outlet. My first race of the season was the Palos Half Marathon. My goal was to break 1:40. That didn't happen. I was so bummed that day. BFF did sent me a text that cheered me up and after talking with a friend at work who also ran, I realized two things,1. the Palos Half Marathon was not the big picture-Ironman Wisconsin was, 2. It was only May 1st. A few weeks later I ran the Soldier Field 10 miler, it went much smoother. A week after that was my first triathlon of the season at Leon's. Despite the bike being a few miles long, I still had a PR, which would have been a bigger PR if the bike course was the correct distance. I know Leon will fix that. After the race I decided to hang out with my Tri Smart pals for awards. They get to my age group and my name was called. I couldn't believe it. I was like really, me. That made my day. Since Leon's I have been training and helping out at races where Tri Smart has been. I did ride the Horrible Hillies course on June 17th. That title and what everyone tells you still does not do that bike course justice, you must experience it for yourself. It did help me with my fear of riding down hills. I felt much better on my second journey on the Verona loop of the Ironman course than the first time. Next Sunday the 17th, I will be doing my first and only half Ironman of the season in Door County. I plan to blog my experience and I am sure it will not be as long as this one.
I was a runner through high school and college. My best event in high school was the 3200 run where I took 10th in 1994 and 4th in 1995. Sadly my times would not even place in the top 10 in the state now. These high school girls are really running strong, but that is a great for the sport. I was 10K runner in college and placed at the conference level my sophomore through my senior years. In 2000 after my college eligibility was done I decided to compete in my first marathon. I ran the Chicago Marathon. Being naive I didn't realize what I was getting into and thought, I can manage 7:00 mile pace. I just may have, but I got a little excited at the start and went out at 6:00. WHOOPS. It didn't hit me until later in the race that I was about a minute back from the actual start and that when the clock said 7:00, it was really 6:00 for me. Lesson learned and I still ran 3:31:52. I ran the Lakefront Marathon in Milwaukee in 2001 and then Boston in 2003. After Boston I hated running. I was bored with it and it was more like "I have to run" vs. "I am so excited for my run today." I knew I wanted to keep in good physical shape, but what could I do. I decided to take up triathlons.
My first triathlon was not really official and I am sure I made a complete fool of myself. Again being naive. First problem for me was the swim was in the ocean in a bay. Well, anyone who knows me, knows that I don't like swimming in oceans, JAWS might eat me. I did get through the swim and got on the bike. Oh I should also add that after the swim I decided to change tops in front of everyone stand there. WHOOPS again. My friend Kim had friends that were kind enough to lend me a bike. It was a mountain bike. As I got on the bike I now understood why some guy before the race asked if I was trying to work super hard. The run was much better for me. The first official one I did was in Naperville. I did have to borrow my cousin's bike, which again lesson learned, make sure you are on a bike that fits you. My cousin is a few inches taller than me. I did a few Olympic distances with Team in Training over the next couple years along with some sprints.
In 2007 a lot changed for me. On July 5th I was feeling awful, but went through my day. I finally decided to go to the doctor at the Urgent care that night. She suggested I go to the hospital, even offered me an ambulance, but me being me I drove myself to Edwards in Naperville. After a test the doctor came back to my room on the ER to tell me that I had acute appendicitis and I need surgery like now. It was about quarter to midnight. At that point I figured I better call my parents. I woke my mom up and told her that I was at the hospital and needed surgery. Both her and my dad got there as there wheeling me up to the operating room. First question, why didn't you call us when you were coming here. Well, I just thought I had a stomach ache from stress and they would give me something to calm me down. The surgery was suppose to be 45 minutes to an hour. NOPE, 4 hours later I came out. The appendix burst and wrapped around my small intestine. A few days later the surgeon came in and told my mom and I had that after the lap tests it was discovered that I have Crohn's Disease. I was actually relieved that I knew what was going on. Needless to say that triathlon season was scraped.
The next year I decided I would do Steelhead Half Ironman with Team in Training and the Chicago Marathon. Of course that is the year it went from a swim, bike, run to run, bike, run. I had to walk the last 2.5 miles of the half marathon. It was miserable. The Chicago Marathon was worse. I had to drop out at mile 19 with stomach issues. I have been using that to help me ever since. I had also packed on about 45 pounds since the surgery. In Nov. of 2008 I decided I needed to make some changes. I started to work with a nutritionist at the healthclub I was a member of. I lost the weight. I had some issues in races in 2009 because I was not fueling properly during races.
In 2010 I worked with a nutritionist a friend from swim recommended. Finally back to normal. I decided to complete in Ironman Racine 70.3 as a challenge and test for me. I really wanted to do an Ironman someday. I had a pretty good day at Racine. It was hot and I did have to walk through some of the water stations, but I now knew that I could do an Ironman. I went to watch Ironman Wisconsin ( perfect location, perfect timing for me). After several panic attacks I signed up for Ironman Wisconsin 2011.
That leads me to where I am now. I decided I would have someone coach me. I chose MJ because I had got to know her last year, like her philosophy, and I knew that she would tell it like it is. I started to train in Jan.. April was a tough month between coaching track and field at school, gearing up for state testing at school, some crazy education meetings I had with parents. Training was my outlet. My first race of the season was the Palos Half Marathon. My goal was to break 1:40. That didn't happen. I was so bummed that day. BFF did sent me a text that cheered me up and after talking with a friend at work who also ran, I realized two things,1. the Palos Half Marathon was not the big picture-Ironman Wisconsin was, 2. It was only May 1st. A few weeks later I ran the Soldier Field 10 miler, it went much smoother. A week after that was my first triathlon of the season at Leon's. Despite the bike being a few miles long, I still had a PR, which would have been a bigger PR if the bike course was the correct distance. I know Leon will fix that. After the race I decided to hang out with my Tri Smart pals for awards. They get to my age group and my name was called. I couldn't believe it. I was like really, me. That made my day. Since Leon's I have been training and helping out at races where Tri Smart has been. I did ride the Horrible Hillies course on June 17th. That title and what everyone tells you still does not do that bike course justice, you must experience it for yourself. It did help me with my fear of riding down hills. I felt much better on my second journey on the Verona loop of the Ironman course than the first time. Next Sunday the 17th, I will be doing my first and only half Ironman of the season in Door County. I plan to blog my experience and I am sure it will not be as long as this one.
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