tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60803781573999548312024-02-20T14:22:48.910-07:00Build The MachineChristiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.comBlogger100125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-53345200617663133922015-10-18T10:10:00.000-06:002015-10-18T10:10:00.236-06:00Ironman Kona, Onipa'a<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSZivcaLa-l0My06G85GWepSESF3P2-HeJ1rbFlOB8ch6nNKTXV4OSPNzyuuN6XLVJeVKg50uBiZpW9H8fSih9yKOh5Cf9BlFC-6mGk9R0ibr-C7FJQttNbtn-3WVaMW-KxCvULxWQZU/s1600/12072749_642014008494_3793449553315343989_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSZivcaLa-l0My06G85GWepSESF3P2-HeJ1rbFlOB8ch6nNKTXV4OSPNzyuuN6XLVJeVKg50uBiZpW9H8fSih9yKOh5Cf9BlFC-6mGk9R0ibr-C7FJQttNbtn-3WVaMW-KxCvULxWQZU/s400/12072749_642014008494_3793449553315343989_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i><b>Onipa'a - </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><i><b>the strength to remain steadfast, resilient and
resolute. </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Ironman World Championship theme this year </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">to remain
unwavering in your quest to triumph.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">To <b><span style="color: lime;">remain resilient</span></b> has been the theme to my year. Both athletically and personally,
life has been throwing me some curve balls.
Naturally, it carried over to this race. This course was absolutely
humbling. Ironman is hard. But Kona was a different kind of hard.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Prior to race day, Coach T and Mark provided me with as much
support, analysis, and course recommendations I could ask for. My dad made up my own '5 commandments ' to focus on. Clyde helped me stay calm and in the moment. I took in every word they said. I didn't
realize what a learning experience Kona would really be. You do not understand the tough conditions people try to prepare you for unless you are experiencing them in person. I didn't realize how deep I was really going to have to dig on race day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Checking in was unlike any other event I have been to.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> The atmosphere is absolutely electrifying and hard to put into words. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Full of energy, fit athletes, and red carpet
treatment. You get personally tattooed, weighed in, and off to transition.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Prior to the race start I tried to stay calm and
focused. My cousin Ember sent me a text
before I left for Kona...<i><span style="color: lime;"> <b>'Take in every single moment. Make sure that, between the focus and any
jitters you take 5 minutes to breath deep, let the beauty of Kona inspire you,
and recognize how far you've come in just a few short years.'</b></span> </i> I had been doing this all week. The morning of the race, after my bike was
racked and ready, I put my feet in the water and did as she had said 1 last
time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>I was ready.</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>-make sure to keep drinking pre-race-</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>-use the bathrooms in the changing tents, no lines-</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Swim</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I decided to line up about 3 rows back. I was supposed to have lined up closer but I
got nervous... salty sea water, kicking girls, back I went. Treading water in Kailua Bay took about 15 minutes before the
canon went off unexpectedly:<b><span style="color: lime;"> Game ON</span></b>. Going out I
felt awesome. I found a girl swimming my pace just to my left and we <b><span style="color: lime;">cruised to
the turnaround feeling great</span></b>. As soon as
we looped the barge, the punching and kicking started. I could feel the swells at
this point. Every time I would look up to site I would get a <b><span style="color: lime;">mouth full of salt
water.</span></b> That last half of the swim was hard.
Coach T told me to mix in some fast strokes if I felt like I was getting
'stuck' in the water. I did that. Every time I'd feel someone tugging on my
feet I'd kick as HARD as I could. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Seeing those exiting steps was amazeballs. No more gross
water to swallow :) I did, what I thought was, I great job of washing all the
salt off me, got my bike gear on, and out to my bike. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">The nice thing with being a slow swimmer is you can find
your bike in transition easily! lol. I didn't let this effect me, It is a LONG day. <b><span style="color: lime;">Race your own race.</span></b></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">-</span>Practice<span style="font-family: inherit;"> swimming with people-</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>-I should have got more sun screen on before heading out
onto the bike -</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>-Took more time getting the salt off of me-</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>-Put the zipper string back on my wetsuit to take off easier-</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Bike</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The first 9 miles I was told to take it really easy. So I spun my legs, smiled, drank, and got my
HR back down. With my power meter not working, the goal was to start at the
low HR end and slowly build throughout the ride;<b><span style="color: lime;"> finishing strong. </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Heading out on the Queen K, I felt great. This section of Hawaii is not
pretty. You think Hawaii and you think
green and tropical... no. Think highway
and desert Lava Fields. Perfect for
those who can <b><span style="color: lime;">zone out and focus! :)</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Climbing up to Hawi the <b><span style="color: lime;">cross winds</span></b> were
pretty dang scary. Add in the<span style="color: lime;"><b> downpour</b></span> towards the top and my hands were not
leaving the bars. Descending back down
after the turn around, the first few miles were wet, but the rain disappeared
and <b><span style="color: lime;">sun </span></b>came out in full force. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">From the turnaround back home, I had a<b><span style="color: lime;"> head wind.</span></b> The entire
way. Initially I was watching my HR, making sure it was staying in the correct
zone and plugged away. The last 20 miles
the wind was starting to get to me. Other than the run, this was one of the lowest
points of the race. I was hot and when
I would pour water over my body to cool down, the salt that I did not get all
the way off had formed blisters and would <b><span style="color: lime;">STING </span></b>as the water touched it. The
back of my neck felt like it was on fire from the<span style="color: lime;"><b> sun burn.</b></span> Gatorade did not
taste good. My two big toe nails were
killing. And I was just so over the <b><span style="color: lime;">wind</span></b>. I had to remind myself over and over to smile, you are in Kona, enjoy this! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>-Get my toe nail issue figured out- </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>-I did make it a point to slow down at every Aid Station to
grab water to pour over myself but I wasn't drinking enough gatorade-</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>-Make sure to take all of Salt Tabs (After the race I realized I did not take any of my salt tabs)-</i></span></div>
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<i>-I did not have my normal Bike Computer which has an alert ever 15min. to drink. This is a must going forward-</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Run</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The second I got off my bike I took my shoes off. My toes were aching so bad that I could not wait. The tent
was crowded and difficult to find a empty spot to switch
gear. Did my best to get in and get out of there as fast as I
could.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As I started running, things <b><span style="color: lime;">just didn't feel right</span></b>. It was a different feeling than just needing to get my legs
warmed up. My stomach was not happy and
leg turnover was not there. I saw Clyde immediately
out of transition and tried to smile letting him know I felt great.. Trick the mind, right? :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I quickly made it to aid station #1, took in some Gatorade and immediately
threw it up. Eck! My game plan at this point was run to each aid station, walk
through and try to get something down.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Everything I tried, it would come back up.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ali drive I remember being filled with
people, tons of energy, Teresa was there!( can not remember what we talked
about), but other than that it was pretty much a blur.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My
father and Clyde was at the top of the famous Palini hill.
It was so nice to see their smiling faces. I told
them I wasn't able to keep anything down and this marathon was going to take me
a lot longer than I had planned. They gave me some encouraging words and told
me<b><span style="color: lime;"> all I had to do was to finish</span></b>! It was off on the Queen K I went. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">As soon as I turned on the Queen K I spotted Meredith Kessler walking.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">WALKING. I was getting
so upset with myself until I saw this.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> I had trained to RUN this marathon. Not walk it. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sure, there were others walking, but to see a Pro doing whatever she
could do to get to that finish line gave me so much encouragement.<b><span style="color: lime;"> Resilient! </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After I made it down the first short hill on the Queen K, I
HAD to walk. I walked that entire mile. At this point I told myself walking is
going to take forever! Honestly, if I could have made my body at least jog I
would have taken that. Walking for over
1/2 of the marathon just does not sound fun.
Sometimes my heart rate was up as high as it is running, just walking. Legs felt like they were going to buckle. No energy and still throwing up. Just a <b><span style="color: lime;">hot
mess</span></b> at this point. I decided on running
.25 and walking .10. That is what I did
until the finishing 2 miles. I
remember an aid station handing out the glow sticks to wear. Another humbling moment - never thought I'd
need these. Prior in the week I had ran the Energy Lab with Mark and envisioned
myself so focused and getting through that tough section of the course. Focused I was, running at my envisioned pace
I was not. The sunburn on my neck and arms was
making me shiver and the blisters on my quads if I even touched them stung so
bad! It was dig deep time. At this point I was on auto </span>pilot: Run .25, Walk .10, <span style="color: lime;"><b>Get to the finish</b></span>!</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After the Energy Lab I stopped throwing up and was able to keep down water and chicken broth. That made things a little better at this point. The last climb before heading down to the finish line I
spotted an Instagram friend. She was like a breath of fresh air, happy, and
got me up that last hill. Down Palini I
saw my dad and Clyde at the bottom. High-fived them and heard people say only a mile to go.
Me and a girl I was running next to both made the comment 'a mile is
still a freaking long way!'</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As soon as I rounded the corner onto Ali Drive the tears
started and did not stop until the finish line. You go through a lot of emotions when racing an Ironman, all of which are worth that<b><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;"> finish line JOY</span></b>. The KONA finish line was amazing.
Lined with people. </span>Encouragement<span style="font-family: inherit;">. Love. Celebrating never </span>quitting<span style="font-family: inherit;">, being resilient in finishing, and never giving up </span>believing<span style="font-family: inherit;">. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Crossing the line of a huge accomplishment!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuHPGyqpUbviz_lAv9GJkzESdhwrmHx2DmnYAgoKwW_xyFIQX2VXQDNSXrVSRIE80Z1wIBXJbOyietPyVdJFwi5LYcC5K3NO2kchlH3gjfvQaAuQ0e_3_0kpVpxPJvTLTC2X_mqPIUwuY/s1600/10297569_642014387734_8728091054506564051_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuHPGyqpUbviz_lAv9GJkzESdhwrmHx2DmnYAgoKwW_xyFIQX2VXQDNSXrVSRIE80Z1wIBXJbOyietPyVdJFwi5LYcC5K3NO2kchlH3gjfvQaAuQ0e_3_0kpVpxPJvTLTC2X_mqPIUwuY/s320/10297569_642014387734_8728091054506564051_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After I had finished, I had 2 nice volunteers walk with me to the
area they give you your shirt, hat, and finishers medal. I was feeling very out of it. Dizzy and couldn't really think. Sat down in a chair and a lady came up to
me. Until she told me, I did not realize
it was Teresa's Mom! I don't know how but I ended up in the medical tent from here. They
weighed me and from where I started at the first of the day, I was down down 14 lbs. yikes!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The medic said he was going to give me an IV with
fluids. When he put the IV in, my hands
went numb and I saw blood. With my state of mind at this point I got totally freaked out and I started to bawl! lol. After the first bag
of fluids were put in my body I was feeling SO much better. They let me leave to go find my dad and
Clyde. </span>As soon as I found my family, gave them hugs, we decided to go home and call it a night.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ0DKfMCj4jkvt1mjU1htpvr4G6KX8j-zHD9zdy23LtjRq-QrIkcg3TArCCcxbCA_69fxwC22ZjH_7miXEbEIbB9lbqnPljbl6pmPtfgpcIzRx8usXN6UtlHLdzl_bnUCkHaQbZ1veWWg/s1600/12065498_642014522464_5086730467553007149_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ0DKfMCj4jkvt1mjU1htpvr4G6KX8j-zHD9zdy23LtjRq-QrIkcg3TArCCcxbCA_69fxwC22ZjH_7miXEbEIbB9lbqnPljbl6pmPtfgpcIzRx8usXN6UtlHLdzl_bnUCkHaQbZ1veWWg/s320/12065498_642014522464_5086730467553007149_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The next day :)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I've now finished 3 Ironman's.
The first 2 I was exhausted but never not functioning. This one was a different story. I literally left everything I had out on that course to make it to my Kona Finish! "Anything Is Possible"</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifP6YExzuJzKizzhy2V_NMNzeYu2XIWgiLh-kePr_FpqKvM5vgwtPHWONkLQ2paNIv9UY8iICv1UO3jZ2XLBBDyzIUNkMJ60NuvW2rE9xjNCPu3t3e9YCitWETGm6jp7pZWbT8yOqZRQc/s1600/12112017_642014452604_7918316980580716459_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifP6YExzuJzKizzhy2V_NMNzeYu2XIWgiLh-kePr_FpqKvM5vgwtPHWONkLQ2paNIv9UY8iICv1UO3jZ2XLBBDyzIUNkMJ60NuvW2rE9xjNCPu3t3e9YCitWETGm6jp7pZWbT8yOqZRQc/s320/12112017_642014452604_7918316980580716459_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Just getting to Kona is a journey! It is a process! </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">One that requires a lot of dedication with which comes sacrifice! </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">And although triathlon is an individual sport, it takes a village. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">I would like to thank mine for allowing me and helping me to chase my dreams. My father and I were talking in Kona and he said you have come so far. I look at it as WE have come so far. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">NO WAY would I be where I am today </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">without my support team. </span></div>
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Words can not explain the love I have for my <a href="http://tnmultisports.com/" target="_blank">Coach Teresa</a>. She has been there with me from the very start. She has my best interest at heart and I can fully trust her. She believes in my goals and helps me see the bigger processes to obtain them. She has been an angel in my life and I am SO lucky to have her.</div>
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Melissa and Monica...two ladies that have helped me tremendously this year. Thank you for helping me get to and continue down the path to a healthy Christie. </div>
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My cousin Ember does not and will not ever realize what a true blessing she is to me. She is the sister I never had. She brings me such strength and encouragement. She brings perspective and genuine support that I am so thankful for. </div>
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I am such a lucky girl to have amazing community support. From my local community, fellow Team Zooters, and Social Media friends... you all freaking ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!</div>
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I love getting to represent<a href="http://zootsports.com/" target="_blank"> Zoot Sports</a> and am thankful for their support. They are an amazing company and lets be honest - hottest looking triathlon products on the market! </div>
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Clyde came into my life at just the right time and has helped me more than words can describe. It is nice to know you have someones unconditional love and support. He puts up with my crazy athlete brain, messes, training schedule, etc. etc. etc. Thankful to have him as my partner and believing in me. xo</div>
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Last but not least my father. I am so lucky to have such a special father, daughter relationship. Not many people have that. We have been through A LOT the past years. He is always cheering for me on the course and off. Thank you, thank you, thank you.. and love you dad. </div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Dear Kona, </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">WE WILL BE BACK FOR MORE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>XOXO</b></span></div>
Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-90626488016514711402015-09-25T15:51:00.002-06:002015-09-25T15:51:57.757-06:00i just want to ride<i>When it comes to all the gear, gadgets, and gizmo's of bikes I (use to) no nothing. And really, I didn't care to know. I just liked to RIDE :) I've always had the theory that you should put the time and money in training your legs in order to become fast; not spending time and money on the next best get-fast-product. </i><br />
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<i>The problem with not geeking-out on all things bike is when your bike breaks. </i><br />
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I attempted The Ultimate Challenge the first part of August as a great training ride for Kona.<a href="http://buildthemachine1.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-ultimate-challenge-tour-of-utah-ride.html" target="_blank"> Last year</a> I had an absolute blast! This year I was not able to finish. At the time I thought 1) i lost my biking legs 2) i gained too much weight 3) i was not recovered from CDA 4) i lost a TON of confidence 5) i was not fit.<br />
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In actuality, Rocky was just a few bike rides away from retiring :/<br />
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A week after the Ultimate Challenge, I was 10 minutes into a ride when I wasn't able to turn my pedals. Got off. Walked home. Finished the long ride on a stationary bike at the gym and then took my bike into the shop.<br />
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Here is where I want to give some of those like ME some information to avoid my series of unfortunate bike events.<br />
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<b>1- <u>Take your bike into shops that know what they are doing: </u></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguawjOA2SVT2aF0Jf8KKN_hYGcwyXV19Tsbdi-1HH3BeJUhgEddYRukkK0bFJKnRxHuMqBx2VD-C-2SLnn_sAz5mN4kWeRkyDkyA4lo4AueIWEJ_LxbgZxdpxZuJ1JQaLlWNtruMd0GP4/s1600/image1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguawjOA2SVT2aF0Jf8KKN_hYGcwyXV19Tsbdi-1HH3BeJUhgEddYRukkK0bFJKnRxHuMqBx2VD-C-2SLnn_sAz5mN4kWeRkyDkyA4lo4AueIWEJ_LxbgZxdpxZuJ1JQaLlWNtruMd0GP4/s320/image1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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That is a bottom bracket. Pedals connect there. Bearings go in that hole as well. When you sweat, ride in dirty conditions, etc those bearing need to be replaced.<br />
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See that groove? It has a 'C' clamp. Shops that are not aware of that clamp, will have a hard time getting to the bearings when changing them out. Instead of using the appropriate tool, they will use a screw driver and crack your frame.<br />
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When assembling it back together, they will throw a bunch of grease in and add parts that do not belong on your Tri Bike so the pedals will turn and send you on your way. Nice temporary fix until you are pedaling along and it becomes harder and harder to pedal. Essentially creating a forever breaking bottom bracket.<br />
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2-<b> <u>Race Wheels Indoors & Second Opinions </u></b><br />
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When you have race wheels and you ride inside on the trainer, MAKE SURE you use the trainer skewer. If not you will do what I did and ruin what is called the HUB.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGmp3yuxehgxVvbWKYrZ0fzIR36ioNozAUzgKI9Sn89Ot726RqFLnPuHIGvJ168CvJqJCO6DCOs6vgXfxW1pNjRrHmsW8ZioJE1Ke8NCpxd0AXjyNw2PfT9EefjL7Ggbqhdr5Dvus5Y28/s1600/02_zipp30hub.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGmp3yuxehgxVvbWKYrZ0fzIR36ioNozAUzgKI9Sn89Ot726RqFLnPuHIGvJ168CvJqJCO6DCOs6vgXfxW1pNjRrHmsW8ZioJE1Ke8NCpxd0AXjyNw2PfT9EefjL7Ggbqhdr5Dvus5Y28/s320/02_zipp30hub.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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If that hub is on Zipp wheels, your shop will likely tell you<i> 'this will cost about the same to fix as it would be to purchase a new rim.'</i> $$$$$ This would be where second opinions come in. Luckily I have an awesome coach who found out <b>Zipp</b> has an awesome<b> Crash Warranty Program</b> and got this wheel replaced. </div>
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Before we continue onto the process of getting a new bike - lets finish with wheels</div>
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-Make sure you specify you <b>want your cassette, tube and tire back</b>. Zipp sent me a refurbished rim, but no cassette, tube or tire. </div>
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-After you get a new cassette, tube and tire, make sure there is<b> tape in the rim</b>. Or you will go through about 5 tubes and wonder why they keep popping. </div>
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-After you finally get a full wheel set ready to be put on your bike make sure that<b> wheel is compatible </b>with your new bike. </div>
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<i>FYI: Cervelo p5's with Magura Hydraulic Breaks are NOT compatible with any rim with a width larger than 25. The Magura breaks will not open wide enough to work with my 27 Zipp wheels. </i></div>
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... Now I have an awesome pair of 404's with no bike to use them on. </div>
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-Another wheel FYI: <b>Wheels are cassette specific</b>! I was going to put my original training tires (10 specific) back on Rocky with the new 11 cassette I had gotten. Shop let me know 11 cassettes can only go on a 11 specific wheel. </div>
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...Another pair of good wheels with no use for. </div>
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3- <u><b>Bikes..... Go with what brand you know and try to purchase at a local shop.</b> </u></div>
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When I found out I was going to need a new bike, I had to make a decision fast because I had Kona quickly approaching. I ended up deciding on a Cervelo which I would get in California; about 5 hour drive away. </div>
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1-<b> Building a bike takes TIME</b>. Make sure you clarify with the shop when your bike will actually be ready. The shop had said the bike would be done, but we ended up spending the entire day at the shop while they rushed to get the bike together.</div>
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2- If you go with <b>hydraulic breaks</b> (as of 9/25/2015) <b>you can not have duel shifting</b>. This was disappointing news we found out when we arrived. </div>
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3- Power Meter: If you change your power meter make sure you change your bike computer: I still do not have this new power meter figured out. I went from a Quarq to a Pioneer and I still can not get it to read correctly. The pioneer is also not compatible with my Garmin bike computer that I love. Pioneer with Cervelo's don't work smoothly together. The magnets that are provided do not fit inside the crank arms without rubbing. My dad was able to jimmy-rig the magnets to the inside box that covers some of the wires. Hopefully we can get this sorted out. </div>
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4- DI2: Di2 is AWESOME. Di2 with a battery that will not charge is not. Before you leave the shop make sure<b> your charger is working</b>! I found out that I was given a new charger with an old battery so they were not compatible with each other. Shimano was great to quickly (3 days later) get new battery out to me. </div>
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5- I really wish I would have purchased at a <b>local shop </b>that could help me with all these adjustments when purchasing a new bike. Red Rock in St George has been great to help me, but now I have to pay them in addition because they were not the original shop of purchase. I also wish I would have known to make sure ALL BIKE COMPONENTS were compatible. I would highly suggest you go through EVERY piece of your bike before switching over.</div>
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It's been over a month now without a functioning bike. I am trying to be positive but it has been a very frustrating process. Especially with such an important race coming up. As frustrating as it has been, I do feel incredibly lucky to even have the option to get another bike. TODAY is 2 weeks out from Kona. I am hopefully going to go pick up a functioning bike this afternoon.</div>
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She is pretty damn fast looking!! still needing a name for her... :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7fGYJeMj5mK3KhRqghObpJqVr4rnydvVKSz9gZ7rlNf4Hk-9AX93aHeHykahyg4iO1quothhbinuBuV7xg2ZFdhbg8zIT2T_ylGAVm758a5oyNnXg_NOZktTHg61ldBHVsNjXcfBvkaA/s1600/IMG_2642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7fGYJeMj5mK3KhRqghObpJqVr4rnydvVKSz9gZ7rlNf4Hk-9AX93aHeHykahyg4iO1quothhbinuBuV7xg2ZFdhbg8zIT2T_ylGAVm758a5oyNnXg_NOZktTHg61ldBHVsNjXcfBvkaA/s320/IMG_2642.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Keeping my fingers crossed that tomorrow I just get to RIDE!</b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Akhilandeshvari</i></span></b></div>
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Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-12787724472896138622015-07-20T13:30:00.000-06:002015-07-20T14:37:37.066-06:00Ironman CDA!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background: white; color: #444444;">i</span><span style="background: white; color: #333333;"> liked this
surprise...</span><span style="background: white; color: #444444;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsN_BJ0_FxVaEqwCs_ItFsY7nMnBQXSCXJxttGn61vIQ3hVFviWqw3sYO-agJzcaWWHZb9iOsLgQyBU5C71-31bWGU_XmidTFJykvhDjeYr1qNe0919teCt6Odun08S-LXqwSC7Adkh1w/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsN_BJ0_FxVaEqwCs_ItFsY7nMnBQXSCXJxttGn61vIQ3hVFviWqw3sYO-agJzcaWWHZb9iOsLgQyBU5C71-31bWGU_XmidTFJykvhDjeYr1qNe0919teCt6Odun08S-LXqwSC7Adkh1w/s320/Picture1.png" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">'life if full of
surprises.challenges.emotions. all of
which can be confusing in even the most straight forward situations.' what would appear as a simple solution is to
remove as many variables from these uncomfortable situation as possible;
restrict diets, limit relationships, laser focus on triathlon, cut out
feelings, etc. by controlling as many
variables as possible we increase our chances to control LIFE. simple solution,
right? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">i'm finding out it is not that easy. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">even if you do strip down your life... build yourself into this little, single
dimension box where every single move is done with the utmost intention... controlled...
fully analyzed... you still can not keep the messiness of 'life' out. in that controlled, stripped
down world you can create for yourself, LIFE finds its way to get in. injury, opportunity, disaster, love, hurt,
will eventually get in. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white;"><span style="color: lime; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">▲</span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">prior to this year i thought i had my box to
the perfect size i wanted. sealed off. controlled. restricted. simple. no
unknown surprises. exactly how i (thought) i wanted. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">prior to this year, as i started triathlon, things just seemed to fall
into place. i went into races
undernourished and over trained (not because of my coach) and always seemed to
pull off a solid race. all of which lead
me to believe this boxed in 'life' i was living was working. living this way was dedication. living this way was comfortable.healthy. the
only way to achieve my dreams.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">▼ </span><span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">then
life started to leaking in. so the first of this year i committed to testing a new path. one in which allows
life in. allows balance. allows stepping out of that box of old rules. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">as i started to allow myself to relax, stop
forcing control and obsessions, allowing 'distractions' to be a
part of my life, and letting myself have fun:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>i unintentionally gave myself a chance at one of my dream
goals. <span style="font-size: large;">Kona.</span></i></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></span>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">leading up to Ironman Coeur d'Alene, i had several people talk to me about taking so much focus off qualifying for Kona. put the focus on enjoying the experience. i remembered back to the absolute joy i felt crossing my first Ironman last year. feeling that JOY was what i wanted my goal to be for Ironman CDA.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">RACE:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvh-U4333fN6z5e31cjtbyK7JXB0CgA7tBMcfh5Spp_Nl7NiYIbnOMI2EdxMU052-nrOWoSKd4r9kt0TG9gdQrEdwr-aokWEneRKUOdRHQscilMhoHabp1LCJH3xpO5FvsZQl6I483V2s/s1600/mdMH__yttEbNpOJCZLfGzjHzw-LtcfZrkn1LOWq3zQY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvh-U4333fN6z5e31cjtbyK7JXB0CgA7tBMcfh5Spp_Nl7NiYIbnOMI2EdxMU052-nrOWoSKd4r9kt0TG9gdQrEdwr-aokWEneRKUOdRHQscilMhoHabp1LCJH3xpO5FvsZQl6I483V2s/s320/mdMH__yttEbNpOJCZLfGzjHzw-LtcfZrkn1LOWq3zQY.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The heat forecast contined to get hotter and hotter leading up to race day. i chose CDA because it was a 'cold' ironman. i keep my house temp under 70... me and heat are not friends. so m</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">y dad came up with this brilliant idea to wear a long sleeved shirt and a silly hat to keep me cool. practiced the set up a few times, with mock aid stations, and it seemed like this was going to have a huge impact on me having a good race. silly looking or not :)</span></div>
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we arrived in CDA a few days <span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">prior to the event to get settled in and rested. those few days of doing nothing and taking a break from the stress of work help me a lot. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">the chatter of the race still happening because of the heat filled the air. i tried to ignore it the best i could. took in all the encouragement Clyde and my dad continued to repeat to me :) ♥ :) the night before the race Teresa, Mark, and Dior came over. so wonderful. it was nice to chat.. review the game plan.. and finally meet that darling little girl. LOVEHER! as i was heading to bed that night, T called to tell me game day was ON - all 140.6<span style="font-size: x-large;"> ☺</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> i set my alarm at 2:07am. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">woke up </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">to no race day nerves. which was weird. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">clyde helped me make breakfast, then we went back to bed for another hour. before we left the house my garmin stopped working! got it fixed, got in the car, and off to the race start. race morning went smooth. still no nerves. i was just ready to RACE.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: center;"><u>SWIM</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">after Chattanooga last year,
Teresa and i really wanted to put a focus on my swim. the time and volume were definitely put
in. for some reason it did not today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">COACH T!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">i estimated i'd hit around a
1:15-17. wrong! as soon as i ran and dove in, there were people on every end of
me. the first loop went by okay... not great though. getting out on
the first loop, there were so many people just standing on the beach. taking
photos. waving at the crowd. that was a bit frustrating where i just
wanted to make that a quick transition. second loop was not pretty. sighting was off on the way out leading to me swimming far off to the
right. people would stop in front of me, forcing me to stop to get around
them. the further out we got the more clustered it was = drinking water! the
entire last loop i just told myself to breath calm and get to
Rocky! figuring out what is going on with my stroke will be a
priority going forward! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>T1</u><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">quick! in and out of there.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>BIKE</u><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">i've learned a lot from my races
leading up to CDA this year.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 specific things:
1) i can't push the bike crazy hard like i always get carried away with doing.
2) i HAVE to hydrate. ESPECIALLY where it was going to be a very hot day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">the
entire 112 miles of CDA i told myself this should feel REALLY easy and drink.drink.drink!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">the plan was to keep things
feeling silly easy until the turn around point on the second loop. this was SO hard for me. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> felt like </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> was just spinning on a casual
ride. especially at first when people were passing me. patience
Christie! NO heart rate spikes. NO
standing on hills. no racing
people. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> had to keep reminding myself
that </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> want to have a good run so taking it easy on the bike was important! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">usually i don't slow down for
aid stations. if i happen to grab and
keep a hold of the aid great, if not, there is always another. CDA i slowed down for EVERY aid station. grabbing 3 bottles (1 gatorade, 1
water, and another water to drench myself). i made sure i was
getting in a constant flow of food, hydration, and salt.√ nutrition felt
spot on.√ never was hungry.√ never bonked.√ was peeing
consistently.√ felt good.☺<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkh1SJoRfBdwg9qKCyD3ZKkl39bfpzf5efdrHKdDWGYzXXtIH4-PC-Ud3K9_-vEuY0iOgWBRt2c3umddiQwl-FrNrBAKbp0N1zA7x29y4TLmsJxCNaa9le7vZ_hnvSlN5edr5AegNkx4U/s1600/9UiNpmpks0S1SSPaAdKwb2CokE0h1jPxMmhsFv5pU0g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkh1SJoRfBdwg9qKCyD3ZKkl39bfpzf5efdrHKdDWGYzXXtIH4-PC-Ud3K9_-vEuY0iOgWBRt2c3umddiQwl-FrNrBAKbp0N1zA7x29y4TLmsJxCNaa9le7vZ_hnvSlN5edr5AegNkx4U/s320/9UiNpmpks0S1SSPaAdKwb2CokE0h1jPxMmhsFv5pU0g.jpg" width="288" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">i really enjoyed this course.
(other than that dang no pass zone... got behind slow people every single time!) it was all very pretty, had climbing which I
love, the 2 loops help split the race up mentally... all in all, great!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">rolled into T2 feeling
fantastic! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u><br /></u></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>RUN</u><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u><br /></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">i knew getting off the bike i
was ready to run. pacing the bike like i did left my legs feeling fresh with no
real fatigue. saw Rick and Clyde right out of transition and they told me
Teresa was right up ahead. it's nice seeing family/friends on the bike
but the run you actually can SEE them :) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">having my support team on the
course meant the WORLD to me!!!!!!!!!!! T wasn't sure my placing... but thought around 6-7th. typical Christie would have let this really effect my race. i didn't this time. onward, chase down the girls.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">first out and back was not
bad. the entire time i ran with a huge smile on my face. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">it was HOT though!!!!!!!</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">around
mile 2 i saw Clyde again and he told me just nice and steady - don't push it! so that's exactly what i did. 26 miles is a long way so those first 20 need to
feel easy! there were lots of familiar faces out there pushing through that heat! today was not about speed... it was about not falling apart and melting :) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">along the course whenever i had the chance i would completely drenching myself. saw my dad and T again on the second loop...high fives and smiles to see them both!!! i did not feel a real low point until the flat stretch on the second loop right before the climb. so i counted
my steps over and over until i was up and over that dang hill. ready to head back to
the finish! at that point i made a deal with myself to make it to each
aid station running, once i got there i could walk through getting in hydration
and soaking myself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">before i knew it, mile 24 hit. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> turned the corner to see Clyde! he believes in me when i don't even believe in myself...and that gave me tons of energy!! he told me he thought i was close to the third place girl and </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> had to move if </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">wanted it. this was a huge surprise to me. after T2, i never saw any girls so </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> assumed </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> was still around 7th! as soon as he left, i saw her. orange kit. same girl that
passed me in St George!!!!! (good think this was a full marathon... i need those miles to catch up to the fast swimmers!) as i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> came up on her </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">wondered if </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> should
go for the pass or wait closer to the finish line. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> did not want to make
the same mistake </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> did last year in St George 70.3. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> could tell she was
hurting though and </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> was feeling stronger and stronger so </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> went for it and did
not look back. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">the end of mile 25 </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> saw Clyde again and asked if she was
there. he told me to JUST RUN!!! i was doing it!! </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> took off my silly cooling shirt
and hat, and got ready to enjoy the best part of the Ironman - that home
stretch.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">as </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> got to the top of Sherman Avenue there was Coach T telling me no one is behind you, enjoy this, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> am proud. Tears!!!!!!! it amazes me how all the pain, fear,
insecurities, and doubts just vanish. regardless of the place </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> ended up, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> was happy that </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">i</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> did not give up. not as in not
finishing. i knew i would finish. but i did not give up fighting and just settle
for 7th. ended up </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">exited the water in 36th and finished in 3rd. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">the entire day i kept moving forward to finishing the race with
JOY. </span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">GOAL ACCOMPLISHED!</span></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">awards came the
following day and surprise... KONA!!!! still on cloud 9 over it. so thankful and grateful to get to go race at Worlds
in October. freaking WORLDS!!!! sharing that moment with <u><i><b>my</b></i></u> people was amazing. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">you bet i already have some goals
for that race - at the same time, i plan to go with the main goal of experience that
finish line JOY! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-----</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">after the race several people
made comments to me that all my hard work paid off. and yes, i agree, at CDA, the hard work did
'pay off.' BUT hard work is not what earned
me that Kona slot. not letting struggles, set back after set back, under-performing at races, bad training sessions, and the uncomfort of this new way of 'life' break me down enough to just give
up. hard work is actually the easy part. especially when you are excelling. but it is during the times when you seem to
be up against a wall, working your ass off going nowhere that you have to find
some other gear to not throw in the towel.
a lot of times, for me, that other gear is my amazing support team reminding me to KEEP GOING. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Since the race, i am really
trying to make myself recognize the goal i achieved. it's so easy for me to devalue my own accomplishments,
unsatisfied with my current level wanting to quickly move to the next 'big'
goal. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">so right now: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">..i am reflecting back and
being proud of the progress I have made since starting triathlon in 2012.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">..remembering that progress =
patience and patience requires trusting the uncomfortable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">..realizing uncomfortable
situations is where growth and new possibilities lay. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">..trying to trust my
training, my support team, my 'new' path outside of my old box. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">c</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">ontinuing down this
uncomfortable, scary, unstable, uncontrolled path that every day i have more
and more trust is exactly the road in which i need to be traveling down.</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Oh... and right now: some swim/bike/run'ing is going
down. <span style="font-size: large;">KONABOUND!!!</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">xoxo</span></span></div>
</div>
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<br />Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-86374985322018338332015-05-19T11:16:00.000-06:002015-05-19T11:19:25.066-06:00#10<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Ironman St George 70.3</u></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: lime;"><b><u><span style="font-size: large;">1.</span> </u></b></span><br />
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My <span style="color: lime;"><b><i>#<span style="font-size: large;">1</span></i></b></span> favorite bike course in 70.3's. Gorgeous. Challenging. Fun! Rode a bike course PR today. The bike felt strong and effortless and awesome.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #674ea7; font-size: large;">2. </span><br />
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I typically pee<span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><i> <span style="font-size: large;">2</span></i></b></span> times on the bike in a 70.3. Today... 0. Possible hydration issue? (tmi <span style="font-size: large;">☺</span>). I drank according to my race plan. I don't know if I drank enough for the higher temp's.<br />
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<span style="background-color: lime; font-size: large;">3.</span><br />
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<b><u><span style="color: magenta;"><a href="http://zootsports.com/" target="_blank">Zoot!</a></span></u></b> <a href="http://www.e-rudy.com/en/" target="_blank">Rudy Project!</a> <a href="http://www.garmin.com/en-US" target="_blank">Garmin!</a> <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;"><b><i>3</i></b></span> amazing companies that I'm so lucky to be apart of.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #674ea7; font-size: large;">4.</span><br />
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Wake up time: 3:<i style="color: #674ea7; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: large;">4</span></i>7 a.m. Time Goal: <i style="color: #674ea7; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: large;">4</span></i><i style="font-weight: bold;">:XX</i>. Finishing Temp: 9<b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #674ea7;">4</span> :(</span></i></b><br />
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<span style="background-color: lime; font-size: large;">5.</span><br />
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The # of gels taken throughout the day. 1: pre-swim 4: bike 0: run = <b><i><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">5</span></i></b> My stomach wanted nothing to do with any nutrition after the bike.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #674ea7; font-size: large;">6.</span><br />
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Mile <b><i><span style="color: lime;"> </span><span style="color: #674ea7; font-size: large;">6</span></i></b> on the run was the worst. To be honest, the run was a bit of a <i>shit show</i> from mile 2 to finish. As much as I tried to push, the '<span style="color: lime;">I</span><span style="color: #674ea7;">am</span><span style="color: magenta;">so</span><span style="color: lime;">freaking</span><span style="color: yellow;">hot</span><span style="color: #674ea7;">kill</span><span style="color: magenta;">me</span><span style="color: lime;">now</span>' voice in my head seemed to be on repeat! Getting off the bike I knew all I had to do was hit a 1:45 to dip under 5 hours. Was not in the cards today...Disappointing run. <br />
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<span style="background-color: lime; font-size: large;">7.</span><br />
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My placing = <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">7</span>th.... 6 spots off of my goal.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #674ea7; font-size: large;">8.</span><br />
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After the initial swim as fast as you can to find some clear water start... <b><i><span style="color: #674ea7; font-size: large;">8</span></i></b> is the number of strokes I took between each sighting. Happy to report I finally managed to stay in line with all of the buoys!<br />
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I recently switched to <a href="http://www.rokasports.com/products/x1-goggle" target="_blank">Roka F2 goggles</a>. Amazeballs. Large, no leaking, and my favorite part is the various lens colors help accentuate buoy colors. (big deal for my bad eyesight!) I went with the Dark Vermilion Mirror and had no issues with the sun. <br />
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<span style="background-color: lime; font-size: large;">9.</span><br />
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I saw my amazing support crew throughout the race <b><i><span style="color: lime;"><span style="font-size: large;">9</span> </span>times<span style="color: lime;">!!!</span></i></b> My dad, Clyde and Bob drove me out to the race start. Right before I got in the water, Bob gave me - The Best motivation/get-your-ass-in-gear/bring-out-the-beast speech! Then they were able to get to spots on the bike/run course. Means so much to me.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #674ea7; font-size: large;">10.</span><br />
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This was my <span style="color: #674ea7; font-size: large;"><b>10<i>th</i></b></span> 70.3. <a href="http://www.buildthemachine1.blogspot.com/2012/07/lake-stevens-70.html" target="_blank">First one</a> being in 2012. <a href="http://buildthemachine1.blogspot.com/2014/06/ironman-kansas-703-race-report.html" target="_blank">Fastest</a> being in 2014. <b><i><u>oh</u></i></b> the journey...<br />
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<i>I allowed myself a few days to be upset over this race. All the pieces are not there yet. I still have many more hours of work to do; both athletically and mentally. But thanks to my support crew, I can put this race into perspective. </i><i>I am nowhere near where I want to be. But this is my journey Building My Machine and </i></div>
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<i><u><b>I KNOW</b></u> that my best is yet to come!!!!!!! </i></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">xoxo</span></b></div>
<br />Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-13419114717699645172015-03-27T11:20:00.000-06:002015-03-27T11:20:59.610-06:00TT & Icebreaker SprintRapid Cycling in St George hosted a Crit Series this year. One of the stages being a<b><span style="color: #b4a7d6; font-size: x-large;"> <a href="http://www.rapidcyclingracing.com/events-1/2015/3/7/desert-city-crit-series-time-trial-southern-parkway" target="_blank">Time Trail </a></span></b>which I had to get in on! What would be more fun than 10 <span style="font-size: large;">uncomfortable</span> miles at balls-to-the-wall effort??<br />
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I was a little nervous jumping into an event full of hard-core cyclists. Clyde arrange to have his good friends help me get ready at the start which was <span style="font-size: large;">aaaaaa</span>mazing! They helped me get the trainer set up to get my warm up in, gave me the perfect get ready to suffer motivation speech, and to top it off were out there during the ride! SO dang nice!!!<br />
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<span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">Success # 1</span> of the day was not tipping over while I was being held at the start line before I was sent off! I was probably most worried about this :)<br />
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From the first pedal stroke I went into suffer mode and was able to <b><span style="font-size: large;">stay focused</span></b> throughout the 10 miles. We had drove the course prior, but those hills were felt in the legs a little more than I had anticipated. The last two miles really hurt - which they should! I just put my head down and hammered.<br />
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***Note to all you newbies... when you hear 'put your head down and hammer,' you do NOT literally put your head down! First of all, you can not see where you are going. Second, putting your head down literally creates a wall out of your aero helmet #lessonlearned Keep your head up :) :)<br />
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When you can find an emotion that sets something off within yourself, it can be super useful in a race setting. <i><span style="font-size: large;">Find what triggers you</span></i> and use it to your advantage! Came across the finish line and headed out to finish off the rest of my workout. Thanks <a href="http://teresanelson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Coach T</a>! <br />
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<a href="https://www.usacycling.org/results/?permit=2015-137" target="_blank">Finished 1st in my Cat</a> and <span style="color: lime;"><u><b>7th</b></u></span> including the boys ---► Rocky was most excited about that part :)<br />
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<b><u>ICEBREAKER SPRINT TRI</u></b><br />
<i>1:00.58</i><br />
<i>1st AG</i><br />
<i>2nd Overall</i><br />
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I also raced in the <a href="http://www.racetri.com/ice-breaker/" target="_blank">IceBreaker Sprint Tri</a> on March 21st. I've done this race the past two years and it is hands down my <i>favorite Sprint</i>! RaceTri knows how to put on a solid race.<br />
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Going into this race I had written down my goal of breaking my course time (0:59.57) and take the overall win. Guess what?! In life, things don't always go the way you plan. <br />
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We drove up north early enough to pick my packet up, set up transition, and get in my warm up. This year we brought the trainer. I probably looked like an idiot with it. Seriously loved having it though. It was pretty dang cold first thing in the morning so it was nice to warm up on the trainer without that wind chill. </div>
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I don't have too many details to share. I felt really good throughout the race, my body just did not respond like I had thought it was going to. Other than the bike split, I don't think that the times are indicative of what I am <span style="font-size: large;"><b>capable</b></span> of. </div>
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So with that being said <span style="color: lime; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>ONWARD! </u></b></span><br />
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<i>trusting in MY plan.</i><br />
<i><b>#</b>BUILDINGMYMACHINE</i><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">XOXO!</span></div>
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<br />Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-78804088577833431762015-02-24T13:30:00.000-07:002015-02-27T08:24:11.365-07:00Dogtown Half<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Dogtown Half Marathon was my first of the year, 'dust the cobwebs off the race legs' race.<br />
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About 30 minutes before the race was to start, it was explained to me that the first mile of the course was to start different than I expected. Up a hill... Giddy Up time! :) I warmed up nice and easy, did some drills, strides, and then lined up with just a few minutes to go.<br />
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First 0.6 was the climb, and then up until mile 9 was rolling/downhill. A portion, around mile 5, had a pretty rocky/trail portion that I am happy to report I did not trip on.<br />
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The last miles of this course are pretty dang tough. Your legs are already fatigued so the climbing at the end is not exactly something to be desired... especially Majestic Hill! <br />
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I knew going into this race it was not going to be a PR course - BUT, I have never run a stand-alone half where I did not lose focus in those last few miles. That was my main goal. Stay focused. And I did :)<br />
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1:32:08. 8th Female. 1st AG<br />
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This race decided to 'go green' and not have cups at the aid stations. so dumb IMO. I was very lucky to have Clyde meet me in spots throughout the race to run with me for a minute to give me my Water/Gu's. (Gu'd at 4.7 and 9 - H20 at 4.7, 9, 11).<br />
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After, I ran a little cool down, awards, and then headed for a recovery swim. I CAN NOT pass up swimming in the lap pools when I am in St George. We then decided to go check out the new Crit Series<a href="http://www.rapidcyclingracing.com/events-1/" target="_blank"> Rapid Cycling</a> is starting up this year. <br />
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Holy. Fun!<br />
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The entire time I wanted to be racing with Rocky!! TT bikes are not allowed at the stage we watched BUT, in a few weeks, the next race is a 10 mile time trial that may need to be add into my schedule :) :):)<br />
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Sunday before heading home, I had a long ride on my schedule. Weather did not look promising but decided to tough it out.<br />
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<i><b>preride...</b></i></div>
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Lets just say b<a href="http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/" target="_blank">adass status was EARNED on Sunday :)</a><br />
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<a class="vm_rule_count rule identity" href="http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/#9" style="background: rgb(239, 238, 234); border: 0px; color: #555555; display: block; float: left; font-family: MuseoSans-900; line-height: 22.5px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Rule #</a><a class="vm_rule_number rule identity" href="http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/#9" style="background: rgb(239, 238, 234); border: 0px; color: #555555; display: block; float: left; font-family: MuseoSans-900; line-height: 22.5px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">9</a><br />
<div class="rule identity vm_rule_title" style="background: rgb(239, 238, 234); border: 0px; color: #4b4b4b; float: left; font-family: MuseoSans-900; line-height: 22.5px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span class="raquo identity" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; color: #dd4814; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px 0px 2px; outline: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3px !important; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">// </span>If you are out riding in bad weather, it means you are a <a href="http://velominati.com/content/Reader%20Galleries/21308512876/training.jpg" rel="lightbox[gallery-tZh6]" style="background: transparent; border: 0px; color: #555555; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">badass</a>. Period.</div>
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<b><u>postride..</u></b></div>
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I can not wait for my tri's to start up!!! First one will be the usual Ice Breaker Sprint Tri in March!<br />
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xoxo</div>
<br />Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-63670049193519482062015-01-12T16:24:00.000-07:002015-01-12T16:26:08.000-07:00loving.a few <span style="color: lime; font-size: x-large;">♥'s</span><br />
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<b><u><span style="color: lime;">♥</span>Elite Minds & Train To Win</u></b><br />
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must reads. i keep one of them on the dash of my car. quick motivation.</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: lime;">♥</span>Winter Cycling</u></b><br />
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amazing how much warmth you get from shoe covers and a robbers mask.</div>
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<a href="http://www.velominati.com/the-rules/" target="_blank">Velominati Rules</a> #5 & #9 </div>
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while reading those↑ rules... check out #20. it's a good one.<span style="font-size: large;">☺</span><br />
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(the shoe covers I got are<a href="http://www.artscyclery.com/Pearl_Izumi_PRO_Barrier_WxB_Shoecover/descpage-PI4PBWC.html" target="_blank"> these</a>. water proof & fleece = warm toes)<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: lime;">♥</span>Soft HR Monitor</u></b><br />
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just pay the extra money for the soft HR monitor. besides the hard one always breaking, it hurts to wear... meaning i often would 'forget' to wear it. <a href="https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/shop-by-accessories/fitness-sensors/soft-strap-premium-heart-rate-monitor/prod15490.html" target="_blank"> this </a>soft one is worth the $$</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: lime;">♥</span>Swim Toys & Long Sets</u></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.metroswimshop.com/product.1.05.052_Yellow.htm?utm_source=PLA%27s&utm_medium=cpc&gdftrk=gdfV25409_a_7c3098_a_7c11784_a_7c1.05.052_Yellow&gclid=CjwKEAiAlb6lBRCBw4jC-bb3uykSJAB55Ti9B9d9NlM1lAJYvi_z9pq1Mn8dlOrc4mJ0K3Rj8alMfhoCZsDw_wcB#.VLBPTyvF-So" target="_blank">this</a> band! <a href="http://www.swimoutlet.com/p/finis-freestyler-hand-paddles-1287/?color=10804" target="_blank">these</a> paddles. loving my swim sets lately... up to 8000!</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: lime;">♥</span>Closet Organizers</u></b><br />
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not just for closets! </div>
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i basically live out of my car so these keep me <i>somewhat</i> less messy.</div>
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speaking of <span style="color: lime;">♥</span><b style="text-decoration: underline;">Shoes</b><br />
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Solanas:<a href="http://zootsports.com/womens/shoes/w-solana-f14" target="_blank"> Zoot</a> was on point with this one. perfect everyday trainer.</div>
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<a href="http://zootsports.com/womens/shoes/w-ultra-race-4-s13" target="_blank">Ultra Race</a>: my go to speed-work shoe.</div>
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<a href="http://zootsports.com/womens/shoes/w-ultra-tt-7-s14" target="_blank">Ultra TT's:</a> best race shoe.</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: lime;">♥</span>Reminders</u></b><br />
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bathroom.office.car.bedroom.kitchen.gym. filled with little daily reminders & symbols ...</div>
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<i><a href="http://buildthemachine1.blogspot.com/2015/01/its-that-time-of-year.html" target="_blank">My Goals</a><span style="color: lime;">♦</span>Say Yes<span style="color: lime;">♦</span>Breathe<span style="color: lime;">♦</span>Habits<span style="color: lime;">♦</span>FuelTheMachine </i></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: lime;">♥</span>Onesie</u></b><br />
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onsie for the win! found this in the kids section for 4.99!!! </div>
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perfect for post-freezing cold workouts. and... i mean the Grinch, awesome<span style="font-size: large;">☺☻☺</span></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: lime;">♥</span>Fuel!!!!!</u></b><br />
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i am <u>determined</u> to continue moving forward with my nutrition. MoreFuel<span style="color: #8e7cc3;">•</span>LessFearFoods<span style="color: #8e7cc3;">•</span>EnhancedRecovery<span style="color: #8e7cc3;">•</span>Energyyyy<span style="color: #8e7cc3;">•</span>STRONGATHLETE </div>
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<b><u><span style="color: lime;">♥</span>Getting ready</u></b></div>
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longer swim sets in the AM = less get ready time. a few products that i've found to help speed up the process. </div>
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Loreal BB Cream. this BB cream hides my post-swim goggle lines, apply just with your fingers and doesn't need a powder. add some mascara and you are good to go. super quick and easy! my skin has been clearer not wearing foundation every day too. </div>
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between the chlorine water, running, and the wind from biking my hair is always a tangly mess! about a month ago i started using Bed Head After Party & Loreal Serum and it's been 100 times better. </div>
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<b><u>NOT LOVING.</u></b></div>
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mean, disloyal people.</div>
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creating a positive environment is not only key for progress in sport, but life.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">rid</span> all negativity.</div>
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loving <b>MY</b> <span style="color: lime;">♥♥♥</span><b><u>Support Crew</u><span style="color: lime;">♥♥♥</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">XOXO!!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">christie</span></div>
<br />Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-39696167859932487892015-01-09T14:24:00.002-07:002015-01-09T14:24:45.622-07:00its that time of year...<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">i want to put out into the universe my goals for 2015. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">my</span><br />
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>B</b></span><br />
<span style="color: lime; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>I</i></span><br />
<span style="color: lime; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>G</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">GOALS.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">share them to make them 'real.'</span><br />
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b> <span style="color: lime;">◄</span> KONA <span style="color: lime;">►</span></b></i></div>
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="color: lime;">◄</span> AG win STG 70.3 <span style="color: lime;">►</span></b></i></div>
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="color: lime;">◄</span> Umeke Bowl <span style="color: lime;">►</span></b></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Swim<span style="color: lime;">.</span>Bike<span style="color: lime;">.</span>Run HEREWEGO!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">xoxo</span></div>
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<br />Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-41784511265733614762014-12-15T15:43:00.000-07:002014-12-15T15:43:18.633-07:00Off Season.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFs2jSMivETyjHIiKFG8jy7LAATj9UV1WwH3WYFEkomRMuLgE1tF4phWCpB5BLFYejNCiu24b6uF0cfA20JSx1m2AfFOmh7g_ltiZ6uZcNcxoCb0_c6l1jkZfN9aDOXX-FMaresZLtWnc/s1600/2014-11-29+18.47.58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFs2jSMivETyjHIiKFG8jy7LAATj9UV1WwH3WYFEkomRMuLgE1tF4phWCpB5BLFYejNCiu24b6uF0cfA20JSx1m2AfFOmh7g_ltiZ6uZcNcxoCb0_c6l1jkZfN9aDOXX-FMaresZLtWnc/s1600/2014-11-29+18.47.58.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></span></a><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Off Season.</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Last year <span style="font-size: large;">my kind</span> of Off Season was sneaking in runs. Adding on, say... 25 extra miles to an already strenuous venture through the <a href="http://buildthemachine1.blogspot.com/2013/12/grand-canyon-rim2rim2rim.html" target="_blank">Grand Canyon</a>. An occasional 'oh whoops, I have no idea how I ended up biking that many extra miles.' <u><i>Guilty! </i></u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This year, as hard as it is for a stubborn-always-on-the-go-do-not-want-to-slow-down-hard-headed-do-it-my-way-girl, I truly took time<span style="font-size: large;"><b> OFF</b></span>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Like off off. Like absolutely nothing. ZERO. and guess what...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I <strike>liked it ></strike> HA!,<u> HATED</u> every second. But I did survive :) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://teresanelson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">T</a> continues to help me see... </span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">'T</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">raining hard is easy; recovery takes courage and <span style="font-size: large;">confidence</span>.' </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">↑ Maybe that is why I have such a tough time with the whole recovery thing. Confidence is hard to be had. It is for me anyways. I was reading on <a href="http://thetrialofmilesmilesoftrials.blogspot.com/2014/11/off-season.html" target="_blank">another blog</a> that said many people see 'training hard as a sacrifice.. but for me that is where I thrive. Sacrifice comes when I'm asked to not do the things I love and RELAX.'</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Relax. Recover. Rest. Really, it is pretty damn simple. This whole process is actually pretty dang easy when you have the <b><span style="font-size: large;">confidence </span></b>to follow the rules. </span><br />
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">♦</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><u>Step 1. </u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Work your ass off. Build your body up! GO GO GO. Harder harder harder. Push the body past your limits... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> (side effect→ broke down)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><u>Step 2. </u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Rest. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Heal.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">RECOVER.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><u>Step 3.</u></b> Repeat. <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>akhilandeshvari </i></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">♦</span><br />
<span style="color: lime; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">♦</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">... you know what is not included in THIS chain of events? Injury. I plan to keep it that way too. Anyways: </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Fitness was lost. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Weight was gained. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My mental sanity was tested.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Body rejuvenated, rested, and ready. BACK TO <b><u>STEP 1!</u></b> </span><br />
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<b><i>Few things I've been up to</i></b></div>
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<a href="http://milliseconds.com/participants/final_list/overall/149267" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">T-3 Turkey 5K</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.moabhalfmarathon.com/pdfs/WomenOverall.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Winter Sun 10K</span></a><br />
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Some good things to come in 2015!!</div>
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<b><span style="color: lime; font-size: x-large;">xoxox</span></b></div>
Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-19450679560863986672014-10-21T13:48:00.001-06:002014-10-21T13:48:07.114-06:00Carving my path: Mt Nebo - Triple Summit Report<div>
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">“As a</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;"> single footstep </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">will not make a path on
the earth, so a single thought will not make a pathway in the mind. To make a
deep physical path, we walk again and again. To make a deep mental path, we
must think over and over the kind of thoughts we wish to dominate our lives.”</span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="color: #181818; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #181818;"><span style="background: white;">―<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/10264.Henry_David_Thoreau"><span style="background: white; color: #666600; text-decoration: none;">Henry David Thoreau</span></a></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The past couple weeks I have found myself in a funky mood. I think between <a href="http://buildthemachine1.blogspot.com/2014/10/ironman-tahoe-chattanooga-and-one-happy.html" target="_blank">post</a> 'Ironman Blues' (yes, it is for REAL) and some unexpected changes with friendships, I've been having a hard to being the positive Christie that I usually am.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So- </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Being 'off-season' I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to take Sr. Thoreau's repeated '<span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">single footsteps</span>' advice and revisit </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">the highest peak on the Wasatch Front. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2bcepXDt8__5OcpXNSFPidDMbo9cvsjlKYYDTzsAFVT_XjDZTw5TZrC2PpF7VWrf0c2hugptrRe-ljpsC67uJlPaq9KTFY29zTPIhAuYki6YyKxJkar8RFSPegmx2VL8RN6lVxUycRTY/s1600/IMG_3108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2bcepXDt8__5OcpXNSFPidDMbo9cvsjlKYYDTzsAFVT_XjDZTw5TZrC2PpF7VWrf0c2hugptrRe-ljpsC67uJlPaq9KTFY29zTPIhAuYki6YyKxJkar8RFSPegmx2VL8RN6lVxUycRTY/s1600/IMG_3108.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">Mt Nebo</span> is comprised of 3 main peaks. In order to complete the <span style="color: lime;">'Triple Crown,</span>' you need to summit each one. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Elevation range 6500-11,900, 7700 gain, ~19 miles </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzkwYMYJCS6ynC0ELherpwxk6dMBQnvh7x07JjkoXAQmMY5KODz9OigHW18mSLVrdVp-Q2gSIIhpeWoOfPm_Bxk4XB2tieHRCmGC7vcoTyLRl5xFih95mPjkH2KfsC3VpSmFDnqTNhZ7k/s1600/IMG_3057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzkwYMYJCS6ynC0ELherpwxk6dMBQnvh7x07JjkoXAQmMY5KODz9OigHW18mSLVrdVp-Q2gSIIhpeWoOfPm_Bxk4XB2tieHRCmGC7vcoTyLRl5xFih95mPjkH2KfsC3VpSmFDnqTNhZ7k/s1600/IMG_3057.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a><u style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">'South to North Route'</u></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We started</span><strike style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> bright</strike><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> dark and early at Andrew's Ridge trailhead. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The trail leading up to the south peak immediately starts out steep. We were with headlamps for the first few miles and managed to wonder off the trail for ~.5 mile. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This meant hacking through some scrub trees and thorny bushes. (Hate that!!!)</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes I am still sporting my IM Wristband :D</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">Once we worked our way up the switchbacks to the ridgeline, all three peaks were in clear view. Summiting the south peak is not technical whatsoever but it is steep and you can feel the lack of oxygen. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">Signed our names in the book at the top and headed for #2. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">We traversed along the west side of the ridgeline. This area had a few scree-covered slopes to ascend/descend... nothing too bad. A little bit of snow here and there as well. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">I remember back in 2012 being pretty dang scared of falling down the cliff on this section. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">This time I was nowhere near as nervous.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> At the top of #2, </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">we spotted a group of massive mountain goats. Sweet!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Last year, we took the west trail to reach the final summit. Today, we decided to make our way to the top of North Peak staying right on top the Ridge/slight East side. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It felt great making it to the top of the final climb!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> Highest point on the Wasatch Mountains</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">After having a lunch break, we started our descent. It is a little rocky. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Nothing difficult enough to be called 'scrambling' though. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> Once down that initial drop off, all the hard work was done. It was just clicking off the miles back to the car...<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="color: lime;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">step after</span> step after <span style="font-size: large;">step</span></span>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">After we hit the Monument Trailhead, we walked under a mile on the road before dropping down (more bush beatings to the body, yikes!) to the river bottom where there is a well defined trail (Salt Creek). This area along the river is freaking gorgeous! Full tree coverage, saw several deer, quiet and peaceful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Really great day</b>! Finished off with a huge high five with my dad!! </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I think it is funny how drained you can be after something like today but also recharged at the same time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">..I approached the bottom of this massive mountain feeling small and down. After<b><i><u> several</u></i></b> <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">steps</span> forward and <b><u><i>several</i></u></b> <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">positive</span> thoughts, I left feeling optimistic and higher than Mt Nebo!</span></div>
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>xoxo </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b>Ironman # 1</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b>Chattanooga</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b>10:45:24</b></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">... I had just finished putting on my wetsuit when I heard
the announcement, '<span style="font-size: large;">today's event has been <span style="color: lime;">cancelled</span></span>.'</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Nothing like sending thousands of athletes into an emotional
frenzy.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Now typing this I feel very selfish. In the moment it did not feel so trivial. I focused my entire season on <span style="font-size: large;">this </span>day. Not just completing any Ironman, but
succeeding IN <span style="font-size: large;">Tahoe</span>. I felt fit and
ready. All the extra climbing on the
bike, altitude swim/bike/run's, course plotting, mental prep, details on my
competition, months and months of training simply <span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: lime;">smothered in smoke. </span></span> It left me feeling angry... so god damn
angry, and upset, and sad, and initially with the 'all that training for
nothing' outlook. I choose Tahoe because
it was known for being <span style="font-size: large;">The</span> Challenging Ironman.
I wanted Tahoe and I felt cheated of it. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>I read an article on the cancellation that said 'a
triathletes disappointment may be compounded because of the feeling of loss of
control - a challenge for a sport whose athletes are typically very meticulous
and control so many aspects of their environment.' Lack of control was exactly it. <span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;">This fire</span> flared up unhealthy comping mechanisms...
when we got back to our condo, I immediately isolated. Went for a very hard run. In the smoke.
No eating. etc etc etc. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Good thing I have some great people in my life to <span style="font-size: large;"><u>smack me
back into reality</u></span>! My dad asked me... '<span style="color: lime;">are you going to let this wall keep you
out</span>?'. That was all it took. Pity party over. Accepted the fact that the Ironman Dream was
going to have to wait until 2015.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><u>But that was only the start of the adventure...</u></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Driving home from Tahoe I had a quick decision to make about the opportunity to jump into <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">IM Chattanooga.</span>
Teresa was game for Chattanooga... she ensured me I was fit and ready, I
just had to believe and trust in my training! I
talked with my Zoot Team Captain and he gave me the added confidence that I've trained
my ass off and was ready to be competitive... that if my heart was in it, go
with my gut and<b><span style="color: #674ea7; font-size: large;"> race!</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">So... </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnbksUv45x3CoZmnEovz2rt3tplC9WnA9sWwT3hs_KLjws9uN45pAV5OcSYHMDEzUEBMYJlsMT8s0ZPxq1tvDMNPNthDbZoDiWDT5Cl8KT4aaRbAajNxPp1sIN2SyGH5N1eSCXpZr2BPw/s1600/20140926_113140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnbksUv45x3CoZmnEovz2rt3tplC9WnA9sWwT3hs_KLjws9uN45pAV5OcSYHMDEzUEBMYJlsMT8s0ZPxq1tvDMNPNthDbZoDiWDT5Cl8KT4aaRbAajNxPp1sIN2SyGH5N1eSCXpZr2BPw/s1600/20140926_113140.jpg" height="201" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We got home from Tahoe on Monday night. I tried to catch up at work, completed a few last minute workouts Tuesday/Wed and then Wednesday night, we were back on the road. 30 hours later we arrived in Chattanooga, <span style="font-size: large;">Tennessee</span>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Pre Race</span></u></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Teresa REALLY wanted me to concentrated on<span style="font-size: large;"> rest.</span> The emotional roller coaster of Tahoe and
lots of travel takes a lot out of the body. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8W_4-D1Hk0VKM-xklnjhFK92utjf1gfGkteDzbpvSq6CuyMyxx2e4SvKSiauNH_0wvZwuli7X_H5e8sdRthuUjK5A_SzOgFUhXaEh68vKo2_RcGb0KlsEKa1lGywhomuGkBqcOTv2VAg/s1600/IMG_2939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8W_4-D1Hk0VKM-xklnjhFK92utjf1gfGkteDzbpvSq6CuyMyxx2e4SvKSiauNH_0wvZwuli7X_H5e8sdRthuUjK5A_SzOgFUhXaEh68vKo2_RcGb0KlsEKa1lGywhomuGkBqcOTv2VAg/s1600/IMG_2939.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Athlete check in, few workouts, some yummy food, rest rest rest rest and
before I knew it, it was race day! This Sunday, I
would become an <span style="font-size: large;">Ironman</span>! I had no
nerves. Sounds lame, but emotionally I
had exhausted all the nervous/ excited/ pissed/ happy/ sad feelings </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">and was just
<span style="font-size: large;">ready to</span> <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: lime;">freaking race</span>.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u>RACE DAY!!!!</u></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkyQApkqCz0BNFRKmxZud0-dCw8C_qdTFpMkCBNc5lq4qwlc-ksEsIg-FBpZH7Cuuzw7E5ycJ7dvPkGuUHi_UczIPecZ7L0kGzDZMguL8BLnszbxr4s9EhYluPsqxarrsWhN8s9NSkUl8/s1600/IMG_2945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkyQApkqCz0BNFRKmxZud0-dCw8C_qdTFpMkCBNc5lq4qwlc-ksEsIg-FBpZH7Cuuzw7E5ycJ7dvPkGuUHi_UczIPecZ7L0kGzDZMguL8BLnszbxr4s9EhYluPsqxarrsWhN8s9NSkUl8/s1600/IMG_2945.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFoLBN1q3bTrYVRkCV9JSF4689h9ERjTJB6AJFkm6T3hXZfeBj1zMfTNWMlW9bTNrEsoXvsxd7TZxL7XLAuBxeDQfS53pfgbKStr0NVzNNE4rBUdb-XmTtiJgeiZEuzuX_9BacG01tzzQ/s1600/IMG_2941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFoLBN1q3bTrYVRkCV9JSF4689h9ERjTJB6AJFkm6T3hXZfeBj1zMfTNWMlW9bTNrEsoXvsxd7TZxL7XLAuBxeDQfS53pfgbKStr0NVzNNE4rBUdb-XmTtiJgeiZEuzuX_9BacG01tzzQ/s1600/IMG_2941.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Fearless Acorn'</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Swim 59:35, 22nd<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">While setting up transition they announced this would be a <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: lime;">non wetsuit</span> </span>swim. I need every advantage I can get in the water, so I was a little bummed but knew it was still going to be FAST ---> Hello Tennessee River! :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Unusual swim start. They had us line up in the order we arrived. As the race started, we would walk out onto the dock, jump in and work our way through the point to point course. This method moved quickly and I was pretty excited I did not have to experience a mass start. I do think they should have had us self-seed in that line... I know a few super fast swimmers did not arrive early and ended up at the very back!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Wes had told me to <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">be aggressive</span> in the swim. That was my only focus for the swim portion. My dad gave me a little pep talk to not let people push me around right before I entered. Usually I let people trample over me and just move out of their way. Not today. Today,<span style="color: #8e7cc3;"> I did the trampling.</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">First half I took comfortably hard and then the last portion I made it feel like 70.3 effort. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Ticked off the buoys which I stayed nicely in line with. With 3 buoys to go, I was feeling my arms<span style="font-size: large;"> starting to burn</span> so I knew I had to concentrate on keeping that <span style="color: lime;">turnover quick</span>! As soon as I saw the finishing arch, I focused on that, climbed up the stairs and was off to T1.</span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">T1 3:43<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Because of the late Tahoe transfer, I got the 'left over' transition spots. Everything still<span style="color: lime; font-size: large;"> went smooth</span>
though. I think people forget about <i><u>rehearsing</u></i>
transitions. They are still very much
part of the race. It amazes me seeing super
long T times... wonder what people do in there? :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Anyways, pushed my way through people walking up the ramp. As I entered I counted </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">1st - </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2nd -3rd pole
which was where my bag was located - perfect!</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Grabbed the bag and ran into the tent to the <b>very end</b>.</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Dumped everything out.</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As I put on my shoes, I asked the volunteer
to put my Gu's in my back pocket.</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Grabbed my helmet and put that on as I ran to my bike!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Counted 1...2...3...4...5...6....7th pole and there was ROCKY!!</span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Bike 5:40, 5th<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">My main concern this entire day was pushing the bike <span style="font-size: large;">too
</span>hard! <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">(Rocky is hard to hold back
sometimes :D) </span></span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Teresa set me up a solid plan with my watts,
HR, cadence, nutrition, etc etc etc.</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">All I had
to do was<span style="font-size: large;"> execute</span>.</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The first 30 miles, I guess I was so caught up in the race
that I was not controlling myself -<b><u> shit</u><span style="color: #674ea7; font-size: large;">!</span></b> 30 mile marker I made myself<span style="color: lime;"> dial it
back</span>. I think I said out loud 'Rocky, slow it down.' (Now looking back at my overall numbers, I
think I pulled back too much!) </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy3RUcEsI5UdGhz83yynGCOhLG45YJBdw0AwcCM065bYL3uBFrtSU3Mr1d91TX50o9LN0Lw9Z0-aAJFgN1j8_R0VcZHPwhwWceLrX9MFG3HAO3mRaCmEJQSxfKjk3MMAJ673B2_ef6z9E/s1600/Picture10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy3RUcEsI5UdGhz83yynGCOhLG45YJBdw0AwcCM065bYL3uBFrtSU3Mr1d91TX50o9LN0Lw9Z0-aAJFgN1j8_R0VcZHPwhwWceLrX9MFG3HAO3mRaCmEJQSxfKjk3MMAJ673B2_ef6z9E/s1600/Picture10.jpg" height="320" width="216" /></a><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Being prepared for Tahoe, I found this course to be <span style="color: #8e7cc3;">super
fast</span>! It consisted of rolling hills, no long straightaways (which I prefer). You ride out of town 10 miles, then do 2, ~50 mile loops, and then head back. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The
first 10 miles through town do not have the best roads and quite a few
turns. Once you get out into the loops
through Georgia, roads were great.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />Second loop the drafting got bad. I could care less when I
see the men drafting together, but when I see ladies right smack in the center
of the draft packs that really pisses me off. I mean come on ladies... you have
to know something is up when you are easily cruising that fast. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">When I would see someone sucking on my tire, I
might have spit to the right of me... just sayin', if you are so close that it
hits you <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">Not My Fault </span><span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: x-large;">:)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The bike course was <span style="color: lime; font-size: x-large;">116 </span>instead of the typical 112. Many bitched about this. Especially the great swimmers. Any extra time on the bike is a <b><span style="font-size: large;">huge benefit</span></b>
for me though so I took those extra 4 miles with a <span style="color: #8e7cc3;">smile!</span> And smiling was the common theme of the
entire bike ride. No real low
points. My only 'issue' was towards the
end, my stomach did not want anything to do with another GU. Grabbed a bonk breaker which did the trick!!</span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">T-2 2:15<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Another seamless transition. 1-2-3-4th tree was right by my
bag. Into the tent, I went to the very
end again. As I put on my socks/shoes,
the awesome volunteers put on my race belt and shoved salt pills in my kit. As I ran out I put on my visor/sweat bands
and was off to run a marathon with a huge ass <b><span style="color: lime; font-size: x-large;">smile</span></b> on my face!</span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Run 3:59, 4th</span></u></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">'Just keep moving
forward'</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>Miles 1-4 </u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">First mile there is a climb out of transition. Between being happy to be off the bike and
all the crowd support, you do not even notice that climb. The rest of this section is flat along the
parkway trail and I was <span style="font-size: large;">feeling good</span>. Even
holding back - I kept saying (out loud), keep the pace back Christie, you have
a <span style="color: lime;">long ways to go!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Also want to note what a brilliant idea my dad had to use
<span style="font-size: large;">sweat bands</span>. Every aid station I would
use the last of my ice water to soak them... it was keeping my core temp down
perfectly!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This section is along the highway. Rolling/false flat and boring. I was still feeling relatively good
and spirits were up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>Miles 10-13 </u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;">MY LOW </span>of the day! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I saw my dad around mile 10 and then as soon as I approached
the bridge to cross over to the North side, my legs <span style="font-size: large;">felt like lead</span>! Slowed down
big time but concentrated on <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">moving forward</span>.
These miles are at the end of the first loop and it is <b><span style="font-size: x-large;">hilly</span></b>. I'd compare it to the climb at mile 3 of the
St George 70.3 course that takes you up to Red Hills Parkway. You get the pleasure of doing that <u>3 times</u> per loop. Up down, Up down, Up down, then back up over the bridge to start loop 2! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSJf2v8EHdU1tvexkyf9fLyGd8ZXCLvnslObCyESyDbKP60_5oN6F-NYCUpz59bHKupcjnueaO7TmCoLqmhtgm1IzJzZYl3TRPphJVc16PD7zr67f0jzFa7zOhI_0dvyWGT5I_AeBFPs8/s1600/IMG_2994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSJf2v8EHdU1tvexkyf9fLyGd8ZXCLvnslObCyESyDbKP60_5oN6F-NYCUpz59bHKupcjnueaO7TmCoLqmhtgm1IzJzZYl3TRPphJVc16PD7zr67f0jzFa7zOhI_0dvyWGT5I_AeBFPs8/s1600/IMG_2994.JPG" height="304" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>Miles 14-18 </u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Saw my dad again around mile 14. He started running with me for about 30 seconds which made me<span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="color: #674ea7; font-size: large;">smile</span><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;"> </span>big time! He shared words from Teresa and gave me some encouragement! Body started
getting life back into it during this section. Although my pace was so much
slower than I expected it to be, the time was passing by quickly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>Miles 18-21 </u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I wanted to walk so many times during these miles. I felt like I was bi-polar... about every quarter of a mile my mood would
change. I kept hearing Shane say, <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">keep
moving forward... </span>that helped, A TON.
At aid stations, when I would slow down to grab whatever my body was
craving, I made a point to at least 'shuffle' along instead of stop/walk. <b><u>NO</u>
STOPPING.</b> Also this was when the rain started... I LOVE running in the rain so I did not mind this one bit.<b> </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>Miles 22-26.2 </u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;">Hilly Hell </span>section again. :) Up down. Up down. Up (I'll admit I walked for a minute here) and then the final down. You'd think those downs would be a relief but
by this point in the race, they just served as<span style="font-size: large;"> quad punishment - <span style="color: lime;">ouch!</span></span> Then I saw the Mile 25 Marker. I remember thinking, holy shit... this is
happening... Ironman is happening. <span style="color: lime;">Energy</span> was zapped into my body. There was a <span style="background-color: lime; color: #8e7cc3; font-size: x-large;">Zoot</span> cheer section there that
helped a lot too. I gave everything I
had that last 1.2. <b><i><u>Everything</u></i></b>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I don't even have words to describe the finishers shoot. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I
never ever, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">ever </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">ever</span> ever <span style="font-size: large;">ever </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">EVER</span><span style="font-size: large;"> cry.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">and when I saw the finishing shoot ... <span style="color: lime;">#ALLTHETEARS</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">So many emotions and joy and ... I don't know how to describe it but
it felt <span style="color: lime; font-size: x-large;">incredible!</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpy6SWKgOyMvVRZDEbBb6vXAhK3GklhKJ_xt6IPcPjPlwZGCxeR5Ba-Co2BCrSi4vRwtf7G9yV5ycJweNRAaBqGFkRe6vV7NBaP3QJRfZ45H-bI7XJrPVVZJ2huLHsVPWa_3FuMhyVqFE/s1600/Picture4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpy6SWKgOyMvVRZDEbBb6vXAhK3GklhKJ_xt6IPcPjPlwZGCxeR5Ba-Co2BCrSi4vRwtf7G9yV5ycJweNRAaBqGFkRe6vV7NBaP3QJRfZ45H-bI7XJrPVVZJ2huLHsVPWa_3FuMhyVqFE/s1600/Picture4.jpg" height="320" width="207" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">As I approached the finishers arch, I heard Mike Reilly say </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: lime; color: #674ea7; font-size: x-large;">'</span>Christie Krompel from Price Utah, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">A <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">VERY HAPPY GIRL</span>, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">you are an <b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Ironman<span style="color: #674ea7;">!<span style="background-color: lime;">'</span></span></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxvqlU_cuc_rnPvQXAhSiuPLt5__9Vx2SitTvhI9DSjeIDI4GS8BFtah52RSJIAUQLSwdibKUKpg5by-8u3rg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Post Race<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Volunteers were exceptional at this race. The lady let me basically hang on her while
she got me food and to my dad. Gave him the biggest hug!!!! We enjoyed our post-race sashimi tradition... and I just might have allowed myself an ENTIRE PINT of Ice cream :)</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfPYtNbSlozU49RuToEoIETmLqyE0tF4unpV_ZULCfCB_ok4o8fag8qF7vejeep0wy6oFSpjAFvV-YZfH8rD3swe8BNy52cwCdGUYVib8yG9yIctcm4ryWYV1oVUaFPPeWblAthoHsF8I/s1600/IMG_3044.JPG" height="145" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>AWARDS</b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfPYtNbSlozU49RuToEoIETmLqyE0tF4unpV_ZULCfCB_ok4o8fag8qF7vejeep0wy6oFSpjAFvV-YZfH8rD3swe8BNy52cwCdGUYVib8yG9yIctcm4ryWYV1oVUaFPPeWblAthoHsF8I/s1600/IMG_3044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHOY_4vXdi1soDpwUs810EYlHHYoLCBenEDJYl90tn_3Sak85ddWRA3GktVPz-EQo_vmwtU1JIzbQL38W5K5gDRvrAtexAePz9ziqEufRkWzIyph9Q0_3VzoWUM4LiBdIbgDWVi5tlVVs/s1600/Picture3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHOY_4vXdi1soDpwUs810EYlHHYoLCBenEDJYl90tn_3Sak85ddWRA3GktVPz-EQo_vmwtU1JIzbQL38W5K5gDRvrAtexAePz9ziqEufRkWzIyph9Q0_3VzoWUM4LiBdIbgDWVi5tlVVs/s1600/Picture3.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Still sporting a huge smile. <span style="font-size: large;">Definitely one happy girl!!!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;">xoxoxo</span></div>
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-->Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-43543117174137527012014-09-16T16:02:00.001-06:002014-09-16T16:02:50.010-06:00Mont Tremblant Worlds 70.3 Race Report<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVHRNfdPIWzhnGc5pR5_r30LksHobl2JJugds3dtQG-ql8uw1pDFkctofCLc0bxXkEkvP5qgtVuCu4vErAf4KMM0qFSA3MdHORoTtZHPQts_ujnrfCu6rWSJwigYU9pRLyMLKWR9K8o34/s1600/meandrick.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVHRNfdPIWzhnGc5pR5_r30LksHobl2JJugds3dtQG-ql8uw1pDFkctofCLc0bxXkEkvP5qgtVuCu4vErAf4KMM0qFSA3MdHORoTtZHPQts_ujnrfCu6rWSJwigYU9pRLyMLKWR9K8o34/s1600/meandrick.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>Ironman 70.3 Mont Tremblant</b></div>
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<b><u>Worlds Championship</u></b></div>
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5:05:12</div>
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Ever since my race in <a href="http://buildthemachine1.blogspot.com/2014/06/ironman-kansas-703-race-report.html" target="_blank">Kansas</a>, focus switched from half to full distance training - so, going into <span style="color: lime;">Worlds</span> I knew this was not my 'A' Race. I did still have high performance expectations - duh :) - BUT I really wanted to just <span style="font-size: large;">enjoy the <span style="color: lime;">experience</span></span><span style="color: lime;">.</span> Which I did!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqr9sLj0X5RjcjoKEITN9rNpKba-6sMbLd8WXfgMZnoTdljAkj74RBU77wz243N_QCI2u42t2ujY4FuTCDFiqvExlNKGJMVCh9X6PcK0kjreQoVHvySGT4WcZ17ohNWvuybyjFm_up7fs/s1600/IMG_2766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqr9sLj0X5RjcjoKEITN9rNpKba-6sMbLd8WXfgMZnoTdljAkj74RBU77wz243N_QCI2u42t2ujY4FuTCDFiqvExlNKGJMVCh9X6PcK0kjreQoVHvySGT4WcZ17ohNWvuybyjFm_up7fs/s1600/IMG_2766.JPG" height="194" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Mont Tremblant was a fantastic venue and the community as a whole put on a <span style="color: #8e7cc3;">freaking awesome</span> event! </span><span style="text-align: left;">The village itself is gorgeous... had a small, quaint feel. Reminded me of Europe.</span></div>
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Being the championships, the air was filled with excitement from people all around the world. I do not remember there being so many from outside of the U.S. last year at Vegas. Speaking of Vegas, Mont Tremblant outdid Vegas hands down! From the moment we arrived at the airport, you could tell the that entire community fully embraced Ironman.</div>
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Pre-race fun....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJhiIGb8CiaZ7OQS8tlJEOBLrn_WJu0kUg-CgEcKkKxZxtvKKkqdp_v7TSANmlSkBfmh238nT3Hxv4pWD8BzaQpqslLq1NGeFOBlKaNSxXH6BA9RR9moq2YLcZqQ8yI8dzXZ56NJy304/s1600/20140904_181834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJhiIGb8CiaZ7OQS8tlJEOBLrn_WJu0kUg-CgEcKkKxZxtvKKkqdp_v7TSANmlSkBfmh238nT3Hxv4pWD8BzaQpqslLq1NGeFOBlKaNSxXH6BA9RR9moq2YLcZqQ8yI8dzXZ56NJy304/s1600/20140904_181834.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0V4BbML7CyMPmQgNGxqUflKyThRXBxBjW3Z4qqw8xHqY55i5l9fO0z9lfs5D2HtDpE-pc80WkQ6cWOaot0CdNzQdrf4WxQ1iba2JkW8A-hyVec_i3iYF8k-SwlNL6OW_v1dubuoE_IE/s1600/20140905_093902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0V4BbML7CyMPmQgNGxqUflKyThRXBxBjW3Z4qqw8xHqY55i5l9fO0z9lfs5D2HtDpE-pc80WkQ6cWOaot0CdNzQdrf4WxQ1iba2JkW8A-hyVec_i3iYF8k-SwlNL6OW_v1dubuoE_IE/s1600/20140905_093902.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhylZotZoizhpvwhDyUGv6qDdu8h4IHUAAx4OuR_960MaVEyKJ5NQG5rmSrcb0HNlDc7kIpnwD4KirbbFupUf24Xl15wFLxpEWdfwonziw6I4bxQ8pw3lCwS3wl7fIOVzBWM42H0HPKCHA/s1600/h20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhylZotZoizhpvwhDyUGv6qDdu8h4IHUAAx4OuR_960MaVEyKJ5NQG5rmSrcb0HNlDc7kIpnwD4KirbbFupUf24Xl15wFLxpEWdfwonziw6I4bxQ8pw3lCwS3wl7fIOVzBWM42H0HPKCHA/s1600/h20.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">RACE:</span></u></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpV9v0drV8H-huCSLAYme-R48UFQBEoTOVLkY5nwzx3K5eCD5NgzPfu3Mw29_GtnLZrV5Y9rHXC4TiIArRhWiGOLOCjBd2ks187XYFdCHPGuBANpA9AnMD6cMIjR2G_fa-pmSGahyTEYU/s1600/tattoos.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpV9v0drV8H-huCSLAYme-R48UFQBEoTOVLkY5nwzx3K5eCD5NgzPfu3Mw29_GtnLZrV5Y9rHXC4TiIArRhWiGOLOCjBd2ks187XYFdCHPGuBANpA9AnMD6cMIjR2G_fa-pmSGahyTEYU/s1600/tattoos.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
Well... I didn't execute the race that <span style="color: lime;">I know</span> I could have. Trying to analyze why I fell apart on the run, I immediately thought I pushed the bike too hard. The 'numbers' say I stayed within my 'limits.' - I know what numbers I have been producing in training, so together <a href="http://teresanelson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">T</a> and I put together a race plan that <i>should have </i>allowed me to run a solid 13.1 off the bike. <br />
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All the analyzing (because I can not make my brain resist) has been done. Lessons have been learned. And now, a reflection on the <span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: large;">good</span> stuff <span style="color: lime;">:)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuNDkqS_E4fYh0zJWtyKM4IsItg-joqOvyyIFDm8pTdrHXr7Co9NdE0vlEmjDecMF8FCx2UXt72C0IMeVd1OFvEsuuRrSK56HFlu-JXsvFtkzJRlkAgXeb93B_rZcSCgAkBgkuED9iKyI/s1600/2506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuNDkqS_E4fYh0zJWtyKM4IsItg-joqOvyyIFDm8pTdrHXr7Co9NdE0vlEmjDecMF8FCx2UXt72C0IMeVd1OFvEsuuRrSK56HFlu-JXsvFtkzJRlkAgXeb93B_rZcSCgAkBgkuED9iKyI/s1600/2506.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b><u>Morning</u></b></span><br />
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Woke up early, had my first breakfast. They gave us tattoos for this race... felt pretty cool :) :) :)</div>
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We drove to the start early to get a
good parking spot then rested for about an hour in the car. This worked out perfect. It was nice to have a warm vehicle to sit in
close to the race start.</div>
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Seamless transition set-up, then walked our way to the swim
start. Everything was<span style="color: lime; font-size: large;"> insanely
beautiful</span>! </div>
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They had an opening ceremony with <b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">F</span>ighter Jets</span></b> and <b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">f</span>ireworks</span></b> sending off each wave... pretty impressive!! <br />
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My dad
and I stood by the water edge until it was about 20 minutes before my go time. I got in and did my warm up, had my GU, then jumped in line. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSfkqgqTqViWRUOUJUUbrBiI5klG_Yt2u1-_Bk7UdTtjymrLFwflhkWJv29JJ-4RFZuwS9t7LnOfDnJakDRqieH0fEUHuVB6DwCONw_asLpnivm4Qmt96dG9i5eiqAw8uJfI9ukMutLgs/s1600/fireworks.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSfkqgqTqViWRUOUJUUbrBiI5klG_Yt2u1-_Bk7UdTtjymrLFwflhkWJv29JJ-4RFZuwS9t7LnOfDnJakDRqieH0fEUHuVB6DwCONw_asLpnivm4Qmt96dG9i5eiqAw8uJfI9ukMutLgs/s1600/fireworks.PNG" height="320" width="305" /></a></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">Swim</span></u></b><br />
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<br />Best swim I have had this year. Still quite a bit slower than I expected. The girls were very aggressive!!! The entire swim was a boxing match. I need to <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">find my inner tiger</span> during the swim.<br />
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Exited in 64th place... feeling good and ready to catch me some ladies!!<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">Transition 1</span></u></b><br />
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1/2 mile jaunt to the bike gear tent, then off to find Rocky. This went smooth and I was happy they had a carpet out for us to run on.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">Bike</span></u></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMaXuctdhhndRVrgn-xNq_IIsl5BYdlRgRuH8TNvaCe7_fIIo3xRoByQ77FZElCB98RFoTSt1j89w-zP_GkAo2a7ui_dTyXFQqqkbE3b2d1mS8GVBknTInw_g7xZMjKXIfMYSZL6lHVbg/s1600/IMG_2829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMaXuctdhhndRVrgn-xNq_IIsl5BYdlRgRuH8TNvaCe7_fIIo3xRoByQ77FZElCB98RFoTSt1j89w-zP_GkAo2a7ui_dTyXFQqqkbE3b2d1mS8GVBknTInw_g7xZMjKXIfMYSZL6lHVbg/s1600/IMG_2829.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">Favorite</span> part of the day! Temperature was nice and cool. Course was<span style="color: lime;"> challenging</span> and included some good <span style="color: lime;">climbing </span>sections. There were several officials out today but that did not seem to stop the crazy drafting going on. Especially the men... huge groups of pelotons.<br />
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Headwind on our way out towards the first turn around. After the first turn around things seemed to clear up and not as much back-and-forth to stay out of the red card zone.<br />
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The last section of this course is a nice climb! I felt <b><span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><span style="font-size: large;">s</span>olid</span>, <span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="font-size: large;">f</span>ocused</span></b>, and in the<b> <span style="color: #351c75;"><span style="font-size: large;">z</span>one</span></b>. I ended up <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">catching </span><b><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">37</span> </b>women, moving my way up to 27th. </div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">Transition 2</span></u></b> </div>
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Bike catchers are awesome! Quick change of shoes and I was off. Ready to do my thing! </div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">Run</span></u></b></div>
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<i>HillyHellOfARun</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCT94P71odZI9Dd9Bs650Qmqn8ZUyasB1eJJ029YJg4cFmp1nYMqsF7jvzG8RHw6WlolbToyl-Okr-b1BmwyN_wN-NdAg_kaaDSrq42qL0jN9Rg2vJXwmCaP9kpHorIkIPMLmInG0SYFI/s1600/IMG_2850.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCT94P71odZI9Dd9Bs650Qmqn8ZUyasB1eJJ029YJg4cFmp1nYMqsF7jvzG8RHw6WlolbToyl-Okr-b1BmwyN_wN-NdAg_kaaDSrq42qL0jN9Rg2vJXwmCaP9kpHorIkIPMLmInG0SYFI/s1600/IMG_2850.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The 2-loop course consisted of short, punchy <span style="color: lime;">ups and downs</span> making it tough for me to find a groove. On the second loop my pace continued to slow... and I sorta lost it. I've never had stomach issues during a 70.3 before and they showed up today. So unexpected that I did not even wait for a portapotty... A shrub was good enough!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-rRHJb2fjgWZ-HS3WJMFggH4YF-zmooglr_ZbUs4KFh3qvLBISWGEun8pCkyJxck0qyKdqv4tWHSjfCQ6nTipRAvw8PpdhmZlDaD_afqBjh0KoxvbE644DYHDUSNMoJiNVJWxvag1XrM/s1600/hill.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-rRHJb2fjgWZ-HS3WJMFggH4YF-zmooglr_ZbUs4KFh3qvLBISWGEun8pCkyJxck0qyKdqv4tWHSjfCQ6nTipRAvw8PpdhmZlDaD_afqBjh0KoxvbE644DYHDUSNMoJiNVJWxvag1XrM/s1600/hill.png" height="320" width="212" /></a><br />
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Could not get my pace to pick up during that second loop and was getting super defeated getting passed. <br />
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(Australian ladies, you totally rocked the run today!!!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW6UB1h-NEnwFBomGaMxSPy7jSpFl3dEANyjvBi91ver19AMj8-YFCj0ibU9U4GjmqKtQOzbGpOyRkA_jcbHHrZOvdbzymUSEKBEJrqB2nCgTXKZ7lRnX4rYD5_lQUh-K3eJZ62Z4H8Bc/s1600/finish.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW6UB1h-NEnwFBomGaMxSPy7jSpFl3dEANyjvBi91ver19AMj8-YFCj0ibU9U4GjmqKtQOzbGpOyRkA_jcbHHrZOvdbzymUSEKBEJrqB2nCgTXKZ7lRnX4rYD5_lQUh-K3eJZ62Z4H8Bc/s1600/finish.png" height="320" width="211" /></a><br />
The last climb up the cobblestone in the village is brutally mean. I refused... like HELL NO Christie You will NOT walk up this bad boy. It helped that there were TONS of spectators lining each side. <br />
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I saw 2 girls up ahead and made it my goal to catch them... which I did. (one<span style="color: lime; font-size: large;"> positive </span>of my run :D)</div>
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So much talent out there today. </div>
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Top girls in my age group killed it. I finished this race completely inspired by the strong athletes I had the opportunity to race with!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigIbIzBGREV6iACR8hNRbtX7FShL-sqBn5wRL_wUINL8fyEkF-BEHgyEbYJi5wjHQWBosHCC9WGgdZDRDLhQmf4ysBDN4DfQk-e7MF07CQiq569Kx93iNtfmELEk1kMSuvhoYSInGTO_k/s1600/IMG_2761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigIbIzBGREV6iACR8hNRbtX7FShL-sqBn5wRL_wUINL8fyEkF-BEHgyEbYJi5wjHQWBosHCC9WGgdZDRDLhQmf4ysBDN4DfQk-e7MF07CQiq569Kx93iNtfmELEk1kMSuvhoYSInGTO_k/s1600/IMG_2761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Er8cySsKnZERG5P7Y_ZfINTI-7IJ_Yee_wQbgHV0HxaabRxWOZK9fwkbJaxMmyu88gCAhnUvhk5lOhf8Sfodr8tXqrNUG6-U8TJ07mo7lC77VgYjYqyA9f7I53IoS2DXKBgM7fkexn8/s1600/IMG_2862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Er8cySsKnZERG5P7Y_ZfINTI-7IJ_Yee_wQbgHV0HxaabRxWOZK9fwkbJaxMmyu88gCAhnUvhk5lOhf8Sfodr8tXqrNUG6-U8TJ07mo7lC77VgYjYqyA9f7I53IoS2DXKBgM7fkexn8/s1600/IMG_2862.JPG" height="320" width="304" /></a></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">Post Race</span></u></b><br />
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The next morning I woke up to this...</div>
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Easy swim in complete silence as the sun rose. Perfect!</div>
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...Side note for those traveling internationally<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI_ykrvRCEVRxNubko65WbcjCUrKw56RqnhfCpyeY4QJ404ckHF7VHKjGL4qYM7RJ6UWx2wwuyRTXFx9j9gYsAtmbieXgnWIpv1gOQdmovwP7a54PpTVvdKJgzOXsF0LeH-BU6T6kPVlA/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI_ykrvRCEVRxNubko65WbcjCUrKw56RqnhfCpyeY4QJ404ckHF7VHKjGL4qYM7RJ6UWx2wwuyRTXFx9j9gYsAtmbieXgnWIpv1gOQdmovwP7a54PpTVvdKJgzOXsF0LeH-BU6T6kPVlA/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="320" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Report to Passport Control'</td></tr>
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Apparently Boarder Control does not think it is funny to make silly faces in the immigration/customs photo line. And what they do not like even more is traveling on a passport that I guess I reported lost a few years ago! :):)<br />
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We made it home safe though!<br />
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<i>... <b><u><span style="color: lime;">IRONMAN Tahoe</span></u></b> is on deck for this weekend. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>BIG GOAL</i><br />
<i>RACING <b><u>FEARLESS</u></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">xoxo<b><i>!!!!!!!!</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The<a href="http://www.rideuc.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"> Ultimate Challenge</span></a> gives an opportunity for us amateurs to experience the same course that the pro's race during the Tour of Utah - </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Stage 6 "Queen Stage."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Starting at Eccles Stadium in downtown Salt Lake you ride 110 miles, finishing up Little Cottonwood Canyon with over 10K of climbing!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This year, there were around 750 riders, 73 of those female - and with the 'OK' to sign up from <a href="http://teresanelson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">T</a>, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was one of those</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> 73!!! :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I thrive off of challenges, so this event was right up my alley!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Incredible day!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">I was very nervous going into this ride. First, I cycle alone. I can count a handful
of times I have rode with other people, let alone hundreds. Second, I was warned about 77.777 times that
I was going to get made fun of for riding a TT bike (which I did... stopped
counting at 40 people). With all the nerves, I was to just focus on this as a long training day for Worlds/Tahoe. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><u>Onto the race... </u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Slowly they had us roll out and immediately ascend Emigration Canyon. I had
never been up this canyon and was loving the gorgeous scenery - which lasted
the entire day! Having that many riders
around me was freaking me out. Focused
on doing my own thing and the nerves were gone by the time we started climbing
up Little Mountain. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Key to completing this ride was nutrition and pacing - both
of which I started and kept up on from the very start. I just stayed in the moment that I was in,
sippin' on my Powerbar Perform and swallowing down my GU's. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><i>Interesting side note: Men discuss some X-rated,
off-the-wall stuff when they are 'with the guys.' Kept me very entertained. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Worked my to the summits of both Little and Big Mountain
when the course drops into Wasatch County.
FROZE MY ASS OFF!!! I was so cold. About half way down I
started to feel more comfortable, got into aero and started working. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">The entire day I rode solo other than a 10'ish mile stretch
in Wasatch County when I came up on the 'Blue Boys.' (I think they were Precision
Cycling?). Feisty older dude (who I later
became friends with at the finish line) in this group quickly informed me to
not **** up their line. 'Yes Sir!' I don't know the correct terminology, but
they let me work in their 'line' and I kept pace, AND didn't wreck. Score :) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">At the third aid station we all stopped... I
had to pee so bad, like a gallon of water bad.
The Blue Boys ended up taking off and the rest of the ride I was at it solo again. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Uneventful miles into Park City. There I stopped and fueled up as I was listening to
all the nervous chatter about the climb ahead.
All that nervous chatter was certainly </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><u>valid</u></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">I've never climbed for that long, at that
altitude, with that grade before. I was
in my smallest gear and just mashing. I
thought I had reached the top, let out a 'heck yeah', shifted to my biggest
gear to get ready for a massive descend. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Yea, short lived. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD0hfDWcdv8YZKB_-MGcZx6w1_ca6Jtvzcp1xoF3dwOoPH9I2NdeB2PTft6UQm8weXWuONwMUeo8EU4KhlQ5wNm07_NHNUbGN6Pxtt6EAfSKuU61h7fxGM82WT4XojMPfAEsxyksYH0Dc/s1600/479e05_8fc471780ac24682ac9879971a2aa1a8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD0hfDWcdv8YZKB_-MGcZx6w1_ca6Jtvzcp1xoF3dwOoPH9I2NdeB2PTft6UQm8weXWuONwMUeo8EU4KhlQ5wNm07_NHNUbGN6Pxtt6EAfSKuU61h7fxGM82WT4XojMPfAEsxyksYH0Dc/s1600/479e05_8fc471780ac24682ac9879971a2aa1a8.jpg" height="195" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmP2Q2x-koYNgLhZJWcDxJskVGEqZNBOq3x6vLNIg1KfrUFTuwJhdMN6tdwh98vEKAUeMnjG5oS6Lha4L5tEp4bk8s2cxmbmonOVKkie7X21XwsYyDzhftvKHQ63shC_U4i6Qa4TjhiAo/s1600/image001-728974.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmP2Q2x-koYNgLhZJWcDxJskVGEqZNBOq3x6vLNIg1KfrUFTuwJhdMN6tdwh98vEKAUeMnjG5oS6Lha4L5tEp4bk8s2cxmbmonOVKkie7X21XwsYyDzhftvKHQ63shC_U4i6Qa4TjhiAo/s1600/image001-728974.jpg" height="200" width="180" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">The actual Gaurdsman climb had not even begun.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">The terrain quickly changed and it was too
late.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">I knew if I shifted I'd drop my
chain.. so I just tipped over. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">SO </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">embarrassing.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">As I was getting going again this ass goes, "I knew you wouldn't be
able to climb on that bike."</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Got
back going and worked my way on the chipped-potholed-rocky road to the real top
(and road past the above ass in the process :D)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Getting to the top of that beast felt amazing! That section
was the toughest part of the ride for me.
I stopped for a second to just catch my breath before the decent into
Big Cottonwood Canyon. By this time in the ride, my lower
back and shoulders were talking to me in a big way. Same with the palms of my hands… I am so used
to riding in aero that being up in the bars hurt. An ambulance was taking a rider away as I was
summiting, adding to my descending nerves.
Initially going down, I took it overly cautious (ie SLOW) until I hit the sharp
right turn by Solitude. Then got down in aero
and had some fun!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">The leg fatigue set in for me right outside of Big
Cottonwood when I felt a drag during the first climb on Wasatch Blvd. (mile
100) There was a dude in yellow I was
focused on about 20 meters up, we ended up going off course ~1 mile. Honestly it didn’t annoy me at all. It was a flat area and nice to spin for a
minute before climbing LCC. Approaching
LCC they have the final aid station.
Stopped, bathroom, ate, and shoved a ton of ice down my bra and
shorts. The sun was out and making
things hot!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><u><i>Final climb time!</i></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">In my head, I saw myself just cruising up that canyon. Which
did not happen. I was so dang hot and
starting to feel dizzy. Many people were
off their bikes walking...I wanted to stop too and take a break but refused to
until I saw the finish line. I couldn't even really think... just counted to 7
over and over to get in a rhythm. I was
passing people which was encouraging and now instead of rude comments, I got
YOU GO TT GIRL shouts. :):):) The crowd support was insane! Lots of people waiting for the Pro Top Of Utah riders right behind us!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">As soon as I saw the 5K countdown signs I got this surge of
energy. Who knew where that came
from? Found another gear in my legs and
my cadence picked up. Dumped water all
over myself every time a spectator would offer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">And then... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">the awesome downhill finish!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Biked back to my car, changed out of my wet clothes, run
shoes on, and headed for the trails. Surprisingly, my legs felt good. My breath was completely labored. Running at
9K is hard.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">This was definitely harder than any race I’ve done thus
far. Finishing things like this is what
fuels that fire in me. Today was a good freaking day! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Next up -- IM WORLDS 70.3</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">xoxo</span></div>
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<b><u>DIVE IN AND GO!</u></b></div>
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<i>Racine 70.3</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMd2O3TLmQbg-BEIBz1R20B8UCRAZgqTQuc6_8MELC-nD0eHPBvlOB4JcL8T3UMGZM2YFMpVN0Tz78O0k7HvSyz3Qnvx7D51YSV5uh9uIARtZJqoqAQQ9Rm-gJ6ldVDtqjUKtY78q6iUQ/s1600/bike2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMd2O3TLmQbg-BEIBz1R20B8UCRAZgqTQuc6_8MELC-nD0eHPBvlOB4JcL8T3UMGZM2YFMpVN0Tz78O0k7HvSyz3Qnvx7D51YSV5uh9uIARtZJqoqAQQ9Rm-gJ6ldVDtqjUKtY78q6iUQ/s1600/bike2.png" height="320" width="217" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLDuqk7xSG5ep5ywq6BL8xOqCBTDwzhxHk1TCZ5R5rApPoQ-0ZfQdNPSDmaPzANZeqliP7WpFZsdH7XqjdruD3WE5JxigDT_mLeY33DKoLTijG85fVZCUd4-SGtW7yHtg3vYcTUb4sx6w/s1600/water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLDuqk7xSG5ep5ywq6BL8xOqCBTDwzhxHk1TCZ5R5rApPoQ-0ZfQdNPSDmaPzANZeqliP7WpFZsdH7XqjdruD3WE5JxigDT_mLeY33DKoLTijG85fVZCUd4-SGtW7yHtg3vYcTUb4sx6w/s1600/water.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WHERE IS THE LAKE???</td></tr>
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My father and I made the 24-hour road trip to Wisconsin.<br />
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When we first got into town, we drove straight to the race start to see Lake Michigan. Which should be called Ocean Michigan. It's huge. And unlike a typical lake, there are 'ocean' waves. Which made me freaking nervous and text <a href="http://teresanelson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Teresa</a> instantly. WTH is this?? How do I swim in this?? and her response...<br />
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<span style="color: lime; font-size: large;"><b>DIVE IN AND <u><i>GO!!</i></u> </b></span><br />
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One of the things I love about Teresa is she has the perfect balance of caring AND<u><i><b> toughness</b></i>.</u> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWRL2AlZ445v7BoVPc-L0JOy3Unge7ogJtZMUmq991fF26N9D_MOzKgU-ZyZliQLLypH2iTMeV83M9gxUoWEviONNEC839E7yAxtO9yt1loepgz9WFchonvVd90PwU3dd_e32G_X_Iz-Q/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWRL2AlZ445v7BoVPc-L0JOy3Unge7ogJtZMUmq991fF26N9D_MOzKgU-ZyZliQLLypH2iTMeV83M9gxUoWEviONNEC839E7yAxtO9yt1loepgz9WFchonvVd90PwU3dd_e32G_X_Iz-Q/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="320" width="187" /></a><br />
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We ended up staying at the Radisson. Location was awesome. Hotel not so much. Next time I'd probably choose somewhere else to stay. <br />
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Friday and Saturday were filled with pre-race swim/ride/runs, driving the course, pack-pickup, met-up with some IG friends, and taking it easy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggL6gLKS1t6-Hf_93DSzN1ZHKAsUqAXaFPm84m_4xqY1Gf6hE5iTy_HUR2ZHQo5TCoXuIjOYmnROse5Po-Dj9jm_e6R7-rucDMSDKS14AayA5i4lI8K5eTB4MUFx5ufvuI8T8tJQq6YuM/s1600/rickandi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggL6gLKS1t6-Hf_93DSzN1ZHKAsUqAXaFPm84m_4xqY1Gf6hE5iTy_HUR2ZHQo5TCoXuIjOYmnROse5Po-Dj9jm_e6R7-rucDMSDKS14AayA5i4lI8K5eTB4MUFx5ufvuI8T8tJQq6YuM/s1600/rickandi.jpg" height="320" width="188" /></a>OH - and hydrating. I was to<br />
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<i><span style="color: #674ea7;">'hydrate like it was my job</span>.'</i> <br />
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<<<<Water bottle in hand at all times :)<br />
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The morning started off with an amazing sunrise over Lake Michigan. The reflection made the lake look like it had a shadow of fire across it. Perfect weather. Quick transition set up. </div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="color: #674ea7;">SWIM</span></u></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_K6SIKVN7Cm_7p-mbVIKPc3yiuFtJEdAgWMq522NTCvP7j63_6QqN3HzBCGhSfbPTst-fuvqPg07Qoj2XmVoY3DnSZwsQEJ7kQBIOxyYLxbe0eDQ7Q4ACurzlc-P9H8uU7oqJXFT18hM/s1600/swimout.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_K6SIKVN7Cm_7p-mbVIKPc3yiuFtJEdAgWMq522NTCvP7j63_6QqN3HzBCGhSfbPTst-fuvqPg07Qoj2XmVoY3DnSZwsQEJ7kQBIOxyYLxbe0eDQ7Q4ACurzlc-P9H8uU7oqJXFT18hM/s1600/swimout.jpg" height="200" width="131" /></a><span style="text-align: center;">You walk 1 mile to the swim start. Amateurs were allowed to warm up, so I took advantage of this. The water was sub 60 so it was nice to get that initial shock out of the way. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">I have been seeing improvements in the lap pool. They did not translate today. Kicked off goggles started the series of 'road bumps' I would have throughout this race. I refused to let these ruin my race. You can not change what has happened, <span style="color: #674ea7;">don't make excuses,</span> just keep moving forward...<b><span style="font-size: large;"> JUST <span style="color: lime;">GO</span>!</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Point to point swim followed by a longer than normal run up the beach to transition. <i> (Practice running in/out of about knee deep water to prep for this race)</i></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Transition 1 went smooth. My glasses got moved, but other than that I grabbed Rocky and we were off!</span></div>
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<b><u>BIKE</u></b></div>
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During my pre/post race rides, the less than ideal road conditions were super annoying... they have road seams about every 15 feet. During the race, I do not remember being bothered by this at all.</div>
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This is a fast bike course. Flat with a few rollers. The first and last 30ish minutes of the ride have several turns that slow you down a bit. I rode a new bike PR today which I am super excited about.</div>
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Right out of transition you have to mount on a hill. I made sure to be in my easiest gear so I could spin right up it. As soon as I got to the top, I fixed my watch (accidentally had it on Auto Powerdown mode) and then started focusing on nutrition.</div>
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Time to put my head down and <span style="color: #674ea7; font-size: large;"><b>hammer</b></span>!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyTSoWt63YiczQvRObXZGxD-ffQiLKYQxi7-dh4r936fV6TpZg7eb8BialCq_YLLMJVJGoIXB3ky0P-CBeEh-iTj3nMi354QZDnp-9EA3Bd6zLCdimhQDjaj3xzECU0iihct_qIquiX3Y/s1600/bike3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyTSoWt63YiczQvRObXZGxD-ffQiLKYQxi7-dh4r936fV6TpZg7eb8BialCq_YLLMJVJGoIXB3ky0P-CBeEh-iTj3nMi354QZDnp-9EA3Bd6zLCdimhQDjaj3xzECU0iihct_qIquiX3Y/s1600/bike3.png" height="320" width="210" /></a>The series of unfortunate events followed me to the bike with some flats... chain drop... water bottle flying off. HELL NO was I throwing in the towel. You can not change what happened - <b><span style="font-size: large;">JUST <span style="background-color: lime;">GO</span></span></b>!</div>
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>>>>>>>>>> Missing water bottle (I think i was more mad I was going to have to buy a new Profile Design water bottle)>>>>></div>
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The miles flew by and I was back to transition.</div>
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Jumping off my bike I thought I was in for a solid run. Leading up to this race I have had a few niggles in my calf but I was feeling fresh and ready to GO!! </div>
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My legs on the other hand...</div>
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were not ready to go like I would have preferred :)</div>
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The run is a 2 loop course. Flat with a significant climb that you hit at mile 1 and 7. Now that I am getting more courses under my belt I can compare a little better - I'd say this one is similar to Lake Stevens.</div>
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<i>My rating so far (St George > Lake Stevens/Racine > Kansas > Boise)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiadf-WERpfyXzAFUHC37Sdn-u4huKS6-qWwUtS7WVwg4DIDEdAHgzAZQDzmDcG2FBd6bbf8Bt4O9Q_vdc_40PmY4igzDMnprBq3IdtF7EZH4y5-Op05Njyx0359N6LF4COsuSVakt_xCE/s1600/run1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiadf-WERpfyXzAFUHC37Sdn-u4huKS6-qWwUtS7WVwg4DIDEdAHgzAZQDzmDcG2FBd6bbf8Bt4O9Q_vdc_40PmY4igzDMnprBq3IdtF7EZH4y5-Op05Njyx0359N6LF4COsuSVakt_xCE/s1600/run1.png" height="320" width="209" /></a>So back to the race - I did not have 1 mile that felt good. </div>
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<u>I kept thinking...</u></div>
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1 more mile and my running legs will show up.</div>
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Take a GU! How about some cola?</div>
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I repeated every dang mantra I have.</div>
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Counted steps... tired to work off other ladies...</div>
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Add in the heat and my legs just would not respond. I stopped looking at my slowing pace and told myself just.freaking.<b><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">GO</span></b></div>
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AND - <span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><i><u>Do not walk!</u></i></b></span> I wanted to walk so bad. But in the back of my head I knew the 'tough T & my dad would kick my ass... :) There were quite a few other <a href="http://zootsports.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">Team Zoot'ers</span></b></a> out on the course that helped as well. </div>
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Ended up finishing in the top 5 of my AG. Thumbs up to that! :) </div>
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Racing is my favorite aspect of Triathlon.</div>
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You can not replicate the feeling of it in training. Pushing your body. Testing limits. Responding to the unknowns. Truly seeing how you respond under pressure. And learning. Not so stellar races serve as huge learning opportunities. Gaining knowledge for your Big Picture goals. </div>
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Of all I learned today, most important is to not allow your mind to make excuses. </div>
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Make up your mind to </div>
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<b><u><span style="color: lime; font-size: x-large;">JUST.FREAKING.GO!!!!</span></u></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Most awesome dad award goes to this guy!</td></tr>
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<b>Racine... I will be back for you next year!!! </b><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Ironman Kansas 70.3</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4:54:47, 2nd AG, 3rd Amateur, 17th Female</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We stayed about 20 minutes from the race start in Topeka. </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The weekend accommodations were pretty dang awesome. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Renting homes instead of hotel rooms is the way to go!</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bedandbreakfast.com/kansas-topeka-the-woodward.html?gclid=CjgKEAjwq_qcBRDZ-PeZ7NGQiVwSJAATT7q265s2-c8JASmjJGSqWMkuoeQRD9R29BN_bn-6F4SsSfD_BwE" target="_blank">The Woodward Inn</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Restored mansion. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fabulous owner. Quite, home-like feel. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We arrive Thursday evening. Spent Friday/Saturday going through packet pick-up, getting wheels on Rocky, final pre-race rides/runs, and most importantly<span style="color: purple;"> VISUALIZING</span> my race plan!</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Race Day</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We arrived at Clinton State Park right around 5am.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The start of this race is a little clustered so GO EARLY.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There is about a 2 mile walk from where you park to the race start, so I would suggest not checking your bike in the day before so you can ride it to the start. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dad got me that new Rudy helmet! LOVE.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: purple;">Calmest</span></b> I have been pre-race.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I felt <span style="color: purple;">ready</span>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Quickly got T-1 set up</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gels Taped.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Powerbar Perform In.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>GO TIME</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><b><u><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Swim 36:29</span></u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lets just wrap this section up with <i><span style="color: purple;">more swim time</span></i> for Christie is needed :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Relatively calm water. Heading out I felt pretty good... coming back I guess I decided I wanted to swim some extra and got out of line about 777.77 times!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Transition 1 went smooth... BIKE TIME!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First - Kansas is not flat.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I definitely underestimated that :) That being said, this bike course is my <span style="color: purple;">new favorite</span> of the 70.3's I have done so far. Pretty, rolling countryside with short, challenging climbs. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">70.3 bike PR for me :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>Perceived Effort.</b></span> That was how I rode this course. Initially, my watch was messed up and my HR/Watts were not where they were supposed to be. I had no clue of my mph. distance. time. Just Rocky and I <span style="color: purple;">grinding it out</span>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pulling into T2 I was told I was in 6th place - Time to get my RUNNING on!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>RUN 1:34:37</u></b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://teresanelson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Teresa</a> told me... first 2 miles EASY then descend. I use to be a balls-to-the-wall kind of girl which = blowing up at the end of every race. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">NOW - I practice<span style="color: purple;"> patience</span> and get to finish <b><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">strong</span></b>! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I loved this 2-loop run course (another 70.3 favorite). It is not Boise 70.3 FLAT but nowhere near St George hilly. Crowd suppord is amazing. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You run through little ups and downs with the only significant climbs being at miles 3/10.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Downhill I focused my vision down. Leaned forward. Picked up my turnover.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Uphill I got up on my toes, calmed my breath and pumped my arms.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The REAL hurt came around mile 9. Somehow, my mind went into a<span style="color: purple;"> trance</span>, I <span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">focused</span>, and everything around me seemed quite as I <span style="color: purple;">pounded out</span> those last miles.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Crossing the line I had NO clue of my time until my dad told me my new PR and 2nd in my AG. </span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Incredible Day.</u></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know all races can not and will not be like today in Kansas... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">so this excitement I feel, I am really appreciating.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u><b>Progress feels GOOD! </b></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I say this after every race but REALLY, I am SO dang lucky to have some incredible people in my life. It has been a fun, new experience getting to race on the <a href="http://zootsports.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">Zoot Team</span></a> this year! <a href="http://www.tnmultisports.com/about/teresa-nelson" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Teresa</span></a> continues to teach me so much about this sport... which somehow always has a way of translating to day-to-day life. Constant support from <b>Ember </b>means the world to me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and... who wouldn't be jealous of this <u><span style="font-size: large;">dad</span>????</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wouldn't be where I am without him!</span></div>
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<i><u>....Racine, Worlds 70.3, and Tahoe are on deck! </u></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">5:00:23, 33 Female, 8th Amateur, 3rd AG and a PR </span><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">:) </span></span><span style="color: lime; font-size: large;"> </span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Leading up to my first HIM of <b><span style="font-size: large;">2014</span></b> did not go exactly... smooth. The first few months of the year I was injured, which does not translate to an ideal race build up. Good thing I have an awesome coach who helped me <b><span style="font-size: large;">focus</span></b> on the things I <span style="font-size: large;"><b>could do</b></span> and once healed, we were able to get in some <b><span style="font-size: large;">solid training</span></b>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I was able to spend a few weekends doing some <b><span style="font-size: large;">course specific</span></b> training</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I ran up and down some <b><span style="font-size: large;">hills</span></b> a time or two</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9wg1KuLqsPaaR0VtnRsrq1andzxnWtBjrqvzq5PZpLhyuA2PwI9yq6JYlRTAPo5p7-c6BnO3pDP6VNXCzltNjHGoRZCY4PlTJXevyf1ckvUbJKV_tf-TNkpltOFL5RE9uBJ6fuUeYzU/s1600/10013090_1473219199557060_829620246_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9wg1KuLqsPaaR0VtnRsrq1andzxnWtBjrqvzq5PZpLhyuA2PwI9yq6JYlRTAPo5p7-c6BnO3pDP6VNXCzltNjHGoRZCY4PlTJXevyf1ckvUbJKV_tf-TNkpltOFL5RE9uBJ6fuUeYzU/s1600/10013090_1473219199557060_829620246_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Added in some <b><span style="font-size: large;">heat</span></b> acclimatization</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTwRh0c4ggz-vj8PlgGc5hdTeMTghKcIoLvx2GJKLodCVhFsBGqe3iNc9c-OjsTc5SZR1xmeFRUK_sAfdgQN3va0OmefrESO5aL3kqE3qkKjxQ6w92hQ5gd_Dee0glOX3oODIwxwMTePQ/s1600/photo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTwRh0c4ggz-vj8PlgGc5hdTeMTghKcIoLvx2GJKLodCVhFsBGqe3iNc9c-OjsTc5SZR1xmeFRUK_sAfdgQN3va0OmefrESO5aL3kqE3qkKjxQ6w92hQ5gd_Dee0glOX3oODIwxwMTePQ/s1600/photo.png" height="200" width="149" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3O0soRgYCClKHOQgZ97CtCM1Z30lhARgmJYfKPybKg9uM8cdzo5vJCCi8Sne_u29QqO6onSsmDo2TwIE6W2L9K6cXckZp16U5VaVvthsk-8ZnuSQOKs30SxiheHsdSkj5713ry2XFPF4/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3O0soRgYCClKHOQgZ97CtCM1Z30lhARgmJYfKPybKg9uM8cdzo5vJCCi8Sne_u29QqO6onSsmDo2TwIE6W2L9K6cXckZp16U5VaVvthsk-8ZnuSQOKs30SxiheHsdSkj5713ry2XFPF4/s1600/photo.JPG" height="200" width="148" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">and quickly... MAY 3rd was here!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg398_qOgfz6miinZ0tkpsbQ2Fjsx0jdXRysydNDSFhQv4RIYm0dG-6Z8n0naFTynbnYf9owef-ySzJ-s5q6IJDYiLi95HAcfUVOIFOczOFmDnh4FBxmvRwyuIQsu1_aX3SjVVwm7ac3mM/s1600/20140503_074414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg398_qOgfz6miinZ0tkpsbQ2Fjsx0jdXRysydNDSFhQv4RIYm0dG-6Z8n0naFTynbnYf9owef-ySzJ-s5q6IJDYiLi95HAcfUVOIFOczOFmDnh4FBxmvRwyuIQsu1_aX3SjVVwm7ac3mM/s1600/20140503_074414.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><span style="color: lime; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i><u>RACE DAY!</u></i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="color: purple;">35:02 Swim</span></b> <b><span style="font-size: large;">Sand Hollow</span></b> was beautiful race morning. Mother Nature was playing nice and held off on the crazy winds. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Typical Christie tripped over a rock getting into the lake which added in some 'fun' for the day :) My little trip threw me off a bit at the start, but I was not about to let that ruin <span style="font-size: large;"><b>my race</b></span>!</span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>2:43 ROCKY TIME!</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As soon as I put on my cycling shoes I felt my foot and <i>negative thoughts</i> filled my head... 'maybe this was not going to be my day.' I was already bummed about my swim time BUT I had a little <i><span style="font-size: large;">MAN the freak UP</span></i> talk with myself and with that I was back in <span style="font-size: large;"><b>the zone</b></span>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I love this bike course. <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Hilly</b></span>. Fun <b><span style="font-size: large;">D</span></b>escends. Not many sharp turns. I was able to see my Dad and Janice 6 times!!! <u>Best part</u> = Snow Canyon.... Gorgeous & <span style="font-size: xx-small;">up</span>up<span style="font-size: large;">UP</span>'<span style="font-size: x-small;">ness</span>! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="color: purple;">Run 1:37</span></b> I REALLY wanted to hit this<span style="font-size: large;"> run smart</span>. Last year after mile 3, the entire run flat out sucked and I did not want that to happen again. Goal was to take it easy climbing up to the top of mile 3, then <span style="font-size: large;">progressively pick it up</span>. Climbing up to the top of mile 3, after hammering it out on the bike just flat out HURTS fyi :)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1-xXinio-tqXtJ1vrdcqH3OsDZ5uHmV3LuUdD8nHNsA7GHcZcLz83CBTEF4X5M948cN0DBg_O3UZb3Zi5BVbZgUHXlPbEHx-1y6aytyYh6VacHaq_Wsmii24_d8gfywJwb6D80WmqYCI/s1600/2bb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1-xXinio-tqXtJ1vrdcqH3OsDZ5uHmV3LuUdD8nHNsA7GHcZcLz83CBTEF4X5M948cN0DBg_O3UZb3Zi5BVbZgUHXlPbEHx-1y6aytyYh6VacHaq_Wsmii24_d8gfywJwb6D80WmqYCI/s1600/2bb.jpg" height="320" width="204" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_RX4OWhPf1rkuSu_4YziD52-wTw7LCpOfQulldC4TtVwKsF3aWHyCcqJWT_i0A4RugHSUAACsJYVo4-5finNU89SdPe57ESoCQ2mLtzMYEnuJDomHNM_JXuLVey9_nXmAKo6MGcqGB4/s1600/DSC00440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_RX4OWhPf1rkuSu_4YziD52-wTw7LCpOfQulldC4TtVwKsF3aWHyCcqJWT_i0A4RugHSUAACsJYVo4-5finNU89SdPe57ESoCQ2mLtzMYEnuJDomHNM_JXuLVey9_nXmAKo6MGcqGB4/s1600/DSC00440.JPG" height="251" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Once I hit the top of mile three, I let my leg turn over pick up, I started <b><span style="font-size: large;">focusing</span></b> in on individual people to pass and consciously keep the effort 'comfortably hard' until I got back to the top of mile 8. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I had several out-loud conversations</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> with myself when the </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">heat</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, or the</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"> foot</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, or </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">fatigue</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> started to get to me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The last 3 miles was a super close race with the #2 girl who ended up finishing 15 seconds ahead! </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mile 11, a guy named Lech, came up super supportive and we ended up running stride for stride together until the finish line. Those last two miles hurt, but at the same time I felt good.... I was SO happy to be finishing this race<span style="font-size: large;"><b> strong </b></span>and fast!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I had a realization after this race. The past year'ish, I have really found myself disappointed in my racing and pretty frustrated in myself with results. It is a huge goal of mine to race on the elite level in triathlon. It is my 'BIG' goal and I have allowed my mindset to be solely focused on achieving it. Typically, that disappointment would have followed this race. I wouldn't have let myself enjoy that I PR'd, on a tough course, in hot weather, with a broken toe, by almost 5 minutes!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUWuuH7GLKohWONssQXwk6fIo-__PsA9DBEwK6tJn4RgYfq9VDy5-iP3xxJ_ENMK9qyfGL7JWmq06O2_SqsTOzyzmUnzxPZLdRf_PB1xF7WbxG61OHnMuO0QmGFQlVSj29hAFXm9OsO0/s1600/finish.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUWuuH7GLKohWONssQXwk6fIo-__PsA9DBEwK6tJn4RgYfq9VDy5-iP3xxJ_ENMK9qyfGL7JWmq06O2_SqsTOzyzmUnzxPZLdRf_PB1xF7WbxG61OHnMuO0QmGFQlVSj29hAFXm9OsO0/s1600/finish.png" height="191" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So the realization - working your ass off, and being dedicated, and driven, and focused is all necessary if you want to achieve big things. But just because you are a hard worker, just because you are dedicated and driven and focused does not exempt you from being <u><b>PATIENT TO THE PROCESS.</b></u> I think too often we get SO focused in on our big dreams that we forget things happen in stages. We forget that those stages include both failures AND victories. I think it is important to stay focused...relentless...have that inner fire burning - BUT take a minute to recognize those small steps. <b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: lime;">Throw your hands up in the air</span> </span></b>and appreciate and celebrate the small victories and the fact that you are progressing! So... all that rambling said, before I get all Gung-ho on my 'BIG' goal again, I am allowing myself to celebrate and be proud of this small victory.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">...and that feels good! :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">SO <b><span style="font-size: large;">freaking thankful</span></b> for the supportive people I have in my life!! Especially that Dad of mine... he kind-of rocks! I couldn't be more grateful to work with the most <a href="http://teresanelson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">awesome coach</a>! And to top it off, I feel so lucky to be on a a team representing <b><span style="font-size: large;">ZOOT</span></b> this year. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Next up.... KANSAS --->>> I am coming for you! </span><br />
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<br />Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-11704029231281230122014-03-31T09:32:00.000-06:002014-03-31T09:34:12.943-06:00Starting 2014, Icebreaker Triathlon<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOyJENmbdKP07-22-MkWQm6dxHw55Gii4snIGh79guhH7Bc7SDBhlbqitDrqLmaXSgLOhdsODXrJyER1heSHIzSElHvENo6uxCv8QZycBG5NpZq39ul2ZXdQRpaAVod0OLv6F4A2dQk7k/s1600/IMG_0425.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOyJENmbdKP07-22-MkWQm6dxHw55Gii4snIGh79guhH7Bc7SDBhlbqitDrqLmaXSgLOhdsODXrJyER1heSHIzSElHvENo6uxCv8QZycBG5NpZq39ul2ZXdQRpaAVod0OLv6F4A2dQk7k/s1600/IMG_0425.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a><span style="background-color: black; font-family: Helvetica;"><b><u><span style="color: white; font-size: x-large;">THIS...</span></u></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: 18.3pt;">was how my <span style="font-size: large;">2014</span>
started. The time when fresh starts, goal making, motivated and eager to start
working athletes are ready to get going again after 'off season'... my body told me to </span><span style="font-size: large;"><b style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: 18.3pt;"><u>STOP!</u></b><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: 18.3pt;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="line-height: 18.3pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Injuries
suck.</span> Being held back by our own bodies is never fun. Life has a funny way of breaking you down just when you think you have figured things out... <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">akhilandeshvari! T</span></i>he first two’ish weeks when I </span><span style="line-height: 24.399999618530273px;">couldn't</span><span style="line-height: 18.3pt;"> do anything (even swim) I was not the
happiest camper </span></span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; line-height: 18.3pt;">J</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: 18.3pt;">
It took those weeks for me to realize this 'IS WHAT IT IS' – what I needed to do was <span style="font-size: large;">focus</span> on the things<span style="font-size: large;"> I COULD do</span> while injured. So that being said, t</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; line-height: 18.3pt;">he first quarter of the year I definitely missed out on some initial season build
up, specifically my run training has suffered, BUT what I chose to spend my time focusing on was my swim, being a stronger biker, and strength training. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: 18.3pt;"><span style="color: white; font-size: large;"><u><b>ICEBREAKER SPRINT TRIATHLON</b></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: white; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="background-color: black;"><span style="line-height: 24.399999618530273px;">Now back and </span><span style="font-size: large; line-height: 24.399999618530273px;">gearing up for St George 70.3</span><span style="line-height: 24.399999618530273px;">, Teresa and I decided the Icebreaker Sprint Triathlon would be a great way to <span style="font-size: large;"><i>kick off</i></span> the 2014 season. I raced this event </span><a href="http://www.buildthemachine1.blogspot.com/2013/03/ice-breaker-triathlon.html" style="line-height: 24.399999618530273px;" target="_blank">last year</a><span style="line-height: 24.399999618530273px;"> and although I finished a little slower this go-around, I am happy with how I raced!</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: 24.399999618530273px;"><span style="color: white;">My father and I drove to American Fork the morning of the race. After I picked up my packet, I did a <span style="font-size: large;">quick warm up</span>, set my transition area up, and headed to the indoor pool. Warm up included a ride checking gears with a few surges and a easy jog with strides.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: 24.399999618530273px;"><b><u><span style="color: white;">Swim: 300M</span></u></b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: 24.399999618530273px;"><span style="color: white;">The swim start is self seeded and last year I noted that I started too far back in the line. Based on the ladies registered, I knew there were 3 very fast female swimmers so my plan was to line up right behind those three. I ended up getting right behind the 3 and the BAM/SLC Tri guys which worked out perfect! Exited the pool feeling good and my heart rate was not super high like it usually is. Hit the wall in 5:34 - Huge <span style="font-size: large;">improvement</span> from last year!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: white; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="background-color: black; line-height: 24.399999618530273px;">Quick T1</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRUrqpJjcBEyvbfC1AP-Wb9wZrUCUF7iSxtkaEQahk_Kj9r4FTCxpZf7v3973X_sLOkePjCfRsRYJITqKINYK3YTV1XdKp6WwIAVRt8XAHy6IENOyDLgobEWXBPDLUQQtuDJFiLKFCNe8/s1600/bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white;"></span></a><span style="background-color: black; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: 24.399999618530273px;"><b><u><span style="color: white;"></span></u></b></span><br />
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<b><u><span style="color: white;">Bike: 12Miles</span></u></b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRUrqpJjcBEyvbfC1AP-Wb9wZrUCUF7iSxtkaEQahk_Kj9r4FTCxpZf7v3973X_sLOkePjCfRsRYJITqKINYK3YTV1XdKp6WwIAVRt8XAHy6IENOyDLgobEWXBPDLUQQtuDJFiLKFCNe8/s1600/bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRUrqpJjcBEyvbfC1AP-Wb9wZrUCUF7iSxtkaEQahk_Kj9r4FTCxpZf7v3973X_sLOkePjCfRsRYJITqKINYK3YTV1XdKp6WwIAVRt8XAHy6IENOyDLgobEWXBPDLUQQtuDJFiLKFCNe8/s1600/bike.jpg" height="132" width="200" /></a><span style="background-color: black; font-family: Helvetica; line-height: 24.399999618530273px;"><span style="color: white;">Double loop course basically uphill, downhill X 2. I felt really <span style="font-size: large;">strong on the bike</span> and dismounted at 31:42 so about the same as last year (31:56). Colder this year and wind... my toes were pretty dang cold starting the run. I clearly do not pay attention to things going on around me because I guess I almost got his by a car going into T2 and do no remember it at all, <span style="font-size: large;">Yikes</span>!:) Here is a clip... </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwL4PY73MRWBK6PTeE50xHjxk0j6DJomShvh5GbN3IAeDSXuAaOWHhZtKGhaXAIiyvi1aApqUTRRe5rxk9S6g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></span></div>
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<span style="color: white; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="background-color: black; line-height: 24.399999618530273px;">Quickly in and out of T2 <span style="font-size: large;">ready to run</span>! The course is up a nice hill mile 1, flat, then back down to the finish.(21:08) I definitely felt the lack of speed work during this run and is where I lost the minute from last year (20:08). Crossing the finish line, Amanda was finished before me and I thought she had won because of my slow run time... turned out the bike saved me and took first <span style="font-size: large;">overall female</span>. 1:01:11 </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: white; font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="background-color: black; line-height: 24.399999618530273px;">The race directer of <a href="http://www.racetri.com/ice-breaker/" target="_blank">this event</a> is a super nice guy and takes care of all his athletes participating! Always awesome to have my dad there to support me out on the course. Love this event and was the perfect way to start off the 2014 race season! </span></span><br />
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<i><span style="color: purple; font-size: x-small;"><b>BRING ON ST GEORGE</b></span></i></div>
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<span style="color: lime; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><u><b style="background-color: black;">RELENTLESS DETERMINATION</b></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2014...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Stop Fearing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Start Leaping.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Leap <b><span style="font-size: x-large;">BIG</span></b>. Leap <b>CONFIDENT</b>. Leap as <b>CHRISTIE.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>"And the day came for the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>was more painful than the risk it took to blossom" -Anais Nin</i></span></div>
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<b><i>So. Dang. Excited. to be apart of <span style="color: lime; font-size: large;">Team Zoot</span> for the 2014 race season!</i></b></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Building My Machine - </span></b><b>Giddy-up!!!!!!!!! </b></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">*going to find that inner lion*</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><u>Relentless Determination</u></b></span></i></div>
<br />Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-40942014984587230912013-12-04T09:17:00.000-07:002013-12-05T12:43:32.322-07:00Grand Canyon Rim2Rim2Rim<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicZW3POjtATMJOR9vYplcqx2NdefCz0JyRbuAi-P8O8bZd_BL7n63GRCMlbH5H-m6en0M8-4DezxSfysBYnUI8HmcDrGSm4A2L_X_9UhzoTGBWO6JSnWkLle8udtilxsAZycAAmTyRUFc/s1600/1488183_577030181604_1533535361_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicZW3POjtATMJOR9vYplcqx2NdefCz0JyRbuAi-P8O8bZd_BL7n63GRCMlbH5H-m6en0M8-4DezxSfysBYnUI8HmcDrGSm4A2L_X_9UhzoTGBWO6JSnWkLle8udtilxsAZycAAmTyRUFc/s320/1488183_577030181604_1533535361_n.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I sit here, still on a <b>complete high</b> from such an incredible experience I had last weekend in the Grand Canyon. What ended up being the entire Rim 2 Rim 2 Rim loop, was so much more than saying I completed this Ultra. It was so much more than the run or the miles or just finishing... This experience was <span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>one of the best days of my life</i></b>.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">In 2009 my father and I hiked half the loop, Rim 2 Rim, it took us all day, and I barely made it to the top of the South Rim alive. When a good friend, Walter Brown, invited me to join in on a group him and Steve Anderson were organizing, I knew this was something I had to do… I had a <b>vendetta with that canyon</b>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The Friday after Thanksgiving, our group, which ended up being 12 people (8 finished), got into our Fun Bus RV and traveled down South. Road trips are not road trips without some obstacles... few blown tires made it interesting. The group I was with was great through. Everyone was easy going, willing to jump in and help out, and Steve, being the awesome person he is, ended up forgoing his R2R2R trip to fix the RV for the group - amazing guy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Going into this I knew I could handle the distance and had the mental focus it would take to complete this trip. <u>Truth though</u> - I was still nervous as shit!</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Fact - I am the Queen of Tripping </span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Fact - I've never 'run' any real trails</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Fact - No Ultra Training</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Fact - Head lamp? What's that... Camelbak? What's that...</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Fact - I am determined so all above I needed to just <span style="font-size: large;">Man UP</span> and <b>go.for.it</b>.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I didn't get much sleep that night and was ready to go just before <b>5am</b> at the top of the <b>North Rim</b>, 8,300ft, 17 degrees. We started in some snow and I found myself at the very back – scared of slipping. 'Seriously?... already falling behind?' The snow only lasted about a quarter of a mile and we were in the clear. Descending down into the canyon was amazing. I remember just tuning everyone out, looking at the bright stars, feeling one with the canyon, and just wanting to <b>scream with excitement</b>... it was <span style="font-size: x-large;">surreal.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">By the time we reached the ranger station we were split into our groups that would pretty much remain for the remainder of the day - I found myself with <i>Walter and Clyde</i>. Talking with a friend whose tackled this in the 8 hour range gave me pointers, one being - this is a long day, <u><b>pace yourself</b></u>. So, that being said, I made Walter and Clyde let me run in front so I could pace at my speed to not totally crash at the end. I probably held them back because both of them are super strong runners.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCoWJye-VG_AbsV_HbAIt_hqyPOC2zeq02oc5RS-sBdUlQJV4NxNKcpXEiSyEKvbO_kgA5HrC1FV6FiOuoE57gajPyVv1XCVLV5QdvIimnPhzYsYaESrjbv6kOx6_RGGtTENm0lS3HHcw/s1600/1488670_577030421124_109591865_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCoWJye-VG_AbsV_HbAIt_hqyPOC2zeq02oc5RS-sBdUlQJV4NxNKcpXEiSyEKvbO_kgA5HrC1FV6FiOuoE57gajPyVv1XCVLV5QdvIimnPhzYsYaESrjbv6kOx6_RGGtTENm0lS3HHcw/s320/1488670_577030421124_109591865_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Within the first two hours, I had stripped down to shorts and a tank; the weather was perfect and we were at <b>Phantom Ranch</b> before I knew it. This was our first real break, enough time to eat (PB&J for me which was freaking delicious), refill water, and head back out for the first real ‘work’ to be done going up South Kaibab. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Heading up <b>Kaibab was hard</b>, and freaking cold/windy! </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Like... </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I want to </span><u style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>punch someone in the face <b><span style="font-size: large;">cold</span></b></i></u><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. Run/power-hike method with a mini sprint to the top (Clyde won... I took 2nd), got us to the South Rim in </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">4:29:19</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">.</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> People kept saying 'good morning,' which was throwing me off. It felt like it was afternoon but it was barely 10am! We were WAY ahead of my anticipated schedule. We took the shuttle, refilled water, ate a little something, and got ready to finish our trek back. – I used the hand dryers in the bathroom to dry my sports bra and shirt… </span><u style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">best.idea.ever</u><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">. It was so much colder than I had expected because of the fog and later, we would learn that the fog trapped in the Canyon was a </span><a href="http://www.weather.com/news/science/rare-sight-grand-canyon-20131202" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">rare weather </a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">occurrence. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Heading back down the South Rim via <b>Bright Angel</b> was fun! Walter took off, I knew he would right here, and I could tell he was loving this section. A lot of travelers clapped, made some you are insane comments, we ran into the rest of our group who were heading up, and I kept telling Clyde<b> I feel so good</b> still – <i><span style="font-size: large;">‘bottle it up for the North Rim assent</span>.’</i> - <i>yes sir!</i> You could really let yourself get carried away on this section, but we made sure to hold back so our quads were not completely beat up. Once we hit the river I started to mentally prepare myself that after Phantom Ranch <b><u>the suck</u> </b>was going to start.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">At Phantom Ranch, again we refilled water, ate, and got ready to do work. This sounds so lame, but while at Phantom Ranch, in my head I repeated some of my <b>mantras</b> that I use in races over and over until we left…<a href="http://teresanelson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Teresa</a> has taught me how important the <span style="font-size: x-large;">mental</span><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span>aspect of endurance racing</b> is, so no reason not to use it today. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Clyde decided we would run at a nice,<b> steady pace</b> to the ranger station, then power hike the rest of the way up. This section was nice because it was runable (ie didn’t have those mini logs that prevent erosion) From Phantom to Cottonwood was the only section that I had a series of <b>mini <span style="font-size: large;">mental</span> battles</b>. I’d look at my watch and we’d be running 9-10 pace and I’d think why the hell does this feel so dang hard! Every time a negative thought would creep in, I’d use some vulgarity to push it back out and <i><span style="font-size: large;">carry on</span></i> <b>:)</b> This section is where Walter’s legs were starting to give him some issues and he started to struggle - I got <u>worried</u>. I think he didn't take in enough calories and then the 5 hour energy drink he took just pushed him over the edge.We got him my compression socks on and continued.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Just after the ranger station I saw Steve and he looked like he was just skipping down the canyon having the <b><u>time of his life</u></b>! He had all of our warm clothes we had shed and some more nutrition. I took Walters backpack for him, and Clyde and I headed up for the <b><u><span style="font-size: large;">final miles</span></u></b> while Steve and Walter stuck together.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I don’t really remember these last miles but this section was hands down my <i><u><span style="font-size: x-large;">FAVORITE</span></u></i>. Clyde and I could have really <b><i>hammered</i> </b>out this last section, but instead we power hiked most of it and mini jogged some sections.... just really <u>enjoying</u> and taking in what we were about to <span style="font-size: large;"><i>accomplish</i></span>. There was an <b><u>amazing view</u></b> when we hit just above the cloud cover and finished just as the sun was setting. I kept thinking the last mile, HOLY crap we are really doing this.…under 10 hours... NO bonking… <span style="font-size: large;">holy crap</span> why do I feel good? When we came around the corner and saw that North Rim sign, it was a <u>flood of emotions</u>… I felt such a <b>sense of accomplishment</b> and all I wanted to do was call my father and tell him I freaking did it… <span style="font-size: x-large;">healthy</span>… and<b> <span style="font-size: large;">strong</span></b>! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Finishing this still feels <b><u><span style="font-size: large;">surreal</span></u></b>… I needed this day in so many ways. Seeing everyone’s faces and senses of accomplish that night in the buss was the best... you are capable of so much more than you can ever think! So thankful to have had the opportunity to join this group. THANKS GUYS!!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Nutrition: I think my nutrition was KEY to me not bonking this trip. Oatmeal and a banana for breakfast. I made sure I was taking in ~120 calories an hour from the very start consisting of GU/ Chomps/ PB&J/ Powerbar, and sipping on my PowerBar Perform Water mix all day long. 2 caffeine pills (1 at Phantom Ranch and 1 at the ranger station all on the way back). Took a total of 12 hammer electrolites pills throughout the day. Increased carbs 3 days prior</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">**For those reading looking for suggestions/advice a few things:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Recommended route would be Down South kaibab, Up North Rim, then loop back going up Bright Angel</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Do this early/late in the year. It WAS cold but I can not imagine doing this in the heat</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Stay on top of your nutrition from the very first hour</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">If I were to 'train for time', VERTICAL training would be top priority </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Have some Zoot Compression pants to put on the second you get done - Legs will thank you :D</span></li>
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Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-35311729172599616942013-11-06T14:12:00.000-07:002013-11-06T14:12:41.204-07:00Snow Canyon Half Marathon Race Report<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ17Ce7Jpy91mti30KrG4Npv30g2rQhvDIbcl_L_u9il-8uGj-_GFYt5nCNYMfw9ZTJXMjoOh0gSN8ChF17KTKAzdNKT_yHNVZ1B8hHjfA0uNpjfg9f1mGilpAB8I4oXTRhz7ucdZjnFM/s1600/finishlinesnow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ17Ce7Jpy91mti30KrG4Npv30g2rQhvDIbcl_L_u9il-8uGj-_GFYt5nCNYMfw9ZTJXMjoOh0gSN8ChF17KTKAzdNKT_yHNVZ1B8hHjfA0uNpjfg9f1mGilpAB8I4oXTRhz7ucdZjnFM/s320/finishlinesnow.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Snow Canyon Half Marathon 1:26.46</u></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">5/176 AG, 14/717 F, 69/1912 OA... PR :D</span></div>
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Spent the weekend in St George for work and raced the Snow Canyon Half. Rachelle's boyfriend was nice enough to drive us up to the start and it was freezing... perfect race weather! We had just enough time for a quick warm-up with Josse were off.<br />
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<u><b>Miles 1-3:</b></u> Plan was to take the first 2 miles at a set hr zone then progress from there. Josse and I didn't make it up to the front in time so we had to do a bit of weaving in and out of people during mile 1. Noticed a head wind through this section but everything felt comfortable.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpnhSJTpTNLSohp2oOyyv30Ue-yeIB5aR50BQhdk0u3v8KTV0Mk6dMxWcGo9bJ9aXl6V4-h8Nf3yUF8fXmcMYa8oihbNfZCOnhkzM3oKY3-fxJsFrp7tdImWRiErulnJg4SXd9OY01taQ/s1600/canyon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpnhSJTpTNLSohp2oOyyv30Ue-yeIB5aR50BQhdk0u3v8KTV0Mk6dMxWcGo9bJ9aXl6V4-h8Nf3yUF8fXmcMYa8oihbNfZCOnhkzM3oKY3-fxJsFrp7tdImWRiErulnJg4SXd9OY01taQ/s320/canyon.jpg" width="320" /></a><b><u>Miles 4-8:</u></b> Beautiful section of the course through Snow Canyon. There was a younger kid named Spencer who was running the tangents very well so I stuck with him and we ended up running together until the end. Took a gel at mile 7. After 7 is when the rollers start and I was still feeling very good all the way up to the end of mile 9. </div>
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<b><u>Miles 9-13.1:</u></b> Running through the Entrada neighborhood was harder than I expected it to be. I would pull us up the inclines and Spencer would pull us fast down the descends. Working with him helped a lot. Saw my awesome dad at mile 9 and I remember mile 11 being the toughest for me so when I noticed the pace start to drop here I took gel #2. </div>
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I love that this race finishes on a track. The track always gets me fired up and I was able to out kick 2 girls in the last 50 meters. Huge shout out to <a href="http://runningfortrevor.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Rachelle</a> with a 1:17 finish ->she is on fire!! <br />
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Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-63406486945514044422013-10-23T06:57:00.000-06:002013-10-23T06:57:52.081-06:00Off Season and Fall Fun<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lets just start this post saying coming down from your peak... simply sucks. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Post-race depression is for real. <a href="http://teresanelson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Teresa</a> prescribed a schedule to kick off the 'OFF' season that left me with some major training withdrawals... antsy, annoyed, bored, cranky... IN A MAJOR FUNK. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It took <u>a lot</u> of trust in her to listen. I didn't like it one bit (Hello Christie Control Freak) </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">but I got through the rest phase that in all reality, my body NEEDED. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://elizabethfedofsky.blogspot.com/2012/10/taking-break.html" target="_blank"><i>(Do yourself a favor and go read this post over and over for a reminder of the importance of rest) </i></a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">and now...we are back to base building for a whole new level of racing in 2014!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">In the mean time... some off season Fall fun </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><u><b><span style="background-color: #b4a7d6;">Supporting friends</span> </b></u></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">St George Marathon</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Absolutely fantastic day!! <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">T</span>he St George Marathon snapped me right out of that funk and rejuvenated my spirit. Rachelle and I had so much fun pacing people throughout the day. Watching the leaders pass at mile 23 with such focus was crazy
inspiring! Walter, Janice, and Julia let me share in the last few miles of their races which was incredible. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">I ran (and screamed) the last 3 miles with Walter who finished with a 2:36... NBD, right?! Janice was flying when I found her and finished so dang strong earning herself a nice PR. And Julia PR'd and BQ'd. SO PROUD.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: #b4a7d6;"><u><b>Park City 5K Pink Series</b></u></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://boodersblog.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Laura</a> was nice enough to let me spend the night with her before the race in Park City. It is absolutely stunning up there this time of year! Fun race... but a whole lot of ‘girlieness!’ When they say PINK they are not kidding! :) Got a fun prize for 2nd overall. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><u><b>2 products </b></u>I am <b><u><i>OB</i></u></b><span style="color: purple;">sessing</span> over right now... <b> </b>both from Zoot </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">There are no words to describe how AWESOME these <a href="http://zootsports.com/womens/apparel/w-recovery-2-0-crx-tight-s13" target="_blank">recovery tights </a>are. Seriously. After you eventually get them squeezed on, the lower half of your body is in pure bliss. For a week<b> </b> <a href="http://buildthemachine1.blogspot.com/2013/09/big-cottonwood-marathon-race-report.html" target="_blank">post Worlds/Big Cottonwood weekend</a>, I may have only taken them off to shower :) <i><u><b>Worth.Every.Cent.</b></u></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZ7kFkcvehMPFi89RumXuwoXGn6IrCnw67RT1hD1LnsV0r0rMtayYgEcNxxaylmWrlQ0vcDbA0a-UQkTJPeuuZMpW86R8IvYKBKk275pxtUDsXXmVHfTvsGGY41nZpvEVfwSnjBPbNf4/s1600/zootc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZ7kFkcvehMPFi89RumXuwoXGn6IrCnw67RT1hD1LnsV0r0rMtayYgEcNxxaylmWrlQ0vcDbA0a-UQkTJPeuuZMpW86R8IvYKBKk275pxtUDsXXmVHfTvsGGY41nZpvEVfwSnjBPbNf4/s400/zootc.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://zootsports.com/womens/shoes/w-kiawe-2-f13" target="_blank">Kiawe's</a> - Mad crushing over these shoes lately. I love my Brooks Pure Connects for road racing, but after Boise 70.3, I decided to look for an alternative triathlon specific racer because of all the blisters I was getting. Major score. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><u><b>Race Pacing - Moab Other Half</b></u></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">This past weekend I went with the American Flyers Race Pacers to help pace the Moab Other Half. I had the biggest group I have ever had in a race stick with me. It feels so great at the end of the race when you are able to help people achieve there goals. Almost all of them came in under goal time too!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">While we were down in Moab, had to take advantage of the beautiful scenery and did a short hike up to Delicate Arch before heading back home... </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDy6StgrTgzYt-NWXssUPZ2y3yorroZ_1DPIcDweUXKD_G8yolnClb99IhNjo2aatqFa3tA7H5ZCYtOecSwqAKQIRYkEbaLewaqEvFAnnvs7aUSSeRYqtaUhJy7g-iN40Y7wvAS3axD4c/s1600/archescollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDy6StgrTgzYt-NWXssUPZ2y3yorroZ_1DPIcDweUXKD_G8yolnClb99IhNjo2aatqFa3tA7H5ZCYtOecSwqAKQIRYkEbaLewaqEvFAnnvs7aUSSeRYqtaUhJy7g-iN40Y7wvAS3axD4c/s400/archescollage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-6273363839913621032013-09-16T15:41:00.003-06:002013-09-16T15:41:45.220-06:00Big Cottonwood Marathon Race Report<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKASPrKaFiqvrilR9cxVRlFYBEqpE2Fhx5LIezVK3zP4ndzWSkNbeHC9hokROX62I8hNGe7tiIIQuVR2cgqixz9XSVg1SMSbULzgKcdYl0eMSXVdAuFo-rC3iErL5S4smLGYa4DTxEmw/s1600/bcw2013+1268.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKASPrKaFiqvrilR9cxVRlFYBEqpE2Fhx5LIezVK3zP4ndzWSkNbeHC9hokROX62I8hNGe7tiIIQuVR2cgqixz9XSVg1SMSbULzgKcdYl0eMSXVdAuFo-rC3iErL5S4smLGYa4DTxEmw/s200/bcw2013+1268.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Back to Back Race Weekends... </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Marathon #4</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguxbBIL4md-P4IAY53mv3MdE6il3ERNx0c4-nMSsT0UUzR0xSfp-J_PPVrwfeg_xu-zGj_KRVrXXfwAzUifdXkzQ76_HeO_peRljit6vXDEOZt39nlePCgFGyhUkOrQA848rRIPv7LnlA/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">The day before The Big Cottonwood Canyon Marathon, I decided to run it. I was able to get an entry in, my body was feeling incredibly well from <a href="http://buildthemachine1.blogspot.com/2013/09/world-championships-703.html" target="_blank">the prior weeks 70.3</a>, and I really wanted to spend some time with friends I rarely get to see - So, the Big 26.2 it was.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgKJdQi9f11yk0j7jZyEJZmhjMdxXLOhx7Hhyphenhyphen9hTnkOTY1Vbg3XhR8__w98LwmG7P41I1C4tf8sGnt5MDWIo_zQmOGh1nwWtJaWlogS6t5qS2rk_N53r9HjZfZDMxgX1ot4rJcY0hmcWI/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgKJdQi9f11yk0j7jZyEJZmhjMdxXLOhx7Hhyphenhyphen9hTnkOTY1Vbg3XhR8__w98LwmG7P41I1C4tf8sGnt5MDWIo_zQmOGh1nwWtJaWlogS6t5qS2rk_N53r9HjZfZDMxgX1ot4rJcY0hmcWI/s320/6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhMvPe_GJsIMTDuMoIKcNB1N7_drtjZ6Y0mk3G6gfTBV0rslR9jlDcw_ipHff8i-E722hZh1fFzAoPEO2W91oZ0iZ3fqmadRNUeuM2KeJJtPCpbhJ3BUvC1ayDSZqOEv2VF64rUP4Riy8/s1600/1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhMvPe_GJsIMTDuMoIKcNB1N7_drtjZ6Y0mk3G6gfTBV0rslR9jlDcw_ipHff8i-E722hZh1fFzAoPEO2W91oZ0iZ3fqmadRNUeuM2KeJJtPCpbhJ3BUvC1ayDSZqOEv2VF64rUP4Riy8/s320/1a.jpg" width="253" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">It was so nice going into a race with absolutely no pressure. Even at the start line I had no nerves at all! 6 days prior goal race in Vegas was complete, so this was pure, spontaneous fun! At the start line, I chatted with friends, met some new nice people, and enjoyed myself. I
thought it would be fantastic if I could pull out a PR (I am a goal person, ya know?), but honestly, I had no real expectations on the day other than to have fun. Walter and I decided to run together and our plan was to take it super comfortable (basically walking for his speedy self) until we were out of
the canyon then he’d push me. I also promised myself that if I started to feel ANY sort of 'injury' pain that I would drop out. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrIfkXnF0QLjf402tjI-NUCA0QGVTFSsx9bYf7irggLTrqZagCVnqYWQ_IssBWcy8kTFFMdCZm2MBB1S4V5_9DKD-TZFmatUab-QeCw44M1X8PwXtkntXT7eFxBMmkItYZHm12z9EpCXE/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrIfkXnF0QLjf402tjI-NUCA0QGVTFSsx9bYf7irggLTrqZagCVnqYWQ_IssBWcy8kTFFMdCZm2MBB1S4V5_9DKD-TZFmatUab-QeCw44M1X8PwXtkntXT7eFxBMmkItYZHm12z9EpCXE/s320/3.jpg" width="212" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrIfkXnF0QLjf402tjI-NUCA0QGVTFSsx9bYf7irggLTrqZagCVnqYWQ_IssBWcy8kTFFMdCZm2MBB1S4V5_9DKD-TZFmatUab-QeCw44M1X8PwXtkntXT7eFxBMmkItYZHm12z9EpCXE/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: small;">First of all, can I just say how amazing it felt to start a race on
fresh, non-biking legs AND in actual cool weather… Yeehaw my legs were
so happy! When the miles would click, I kept thinking we were going too quick. I felt good though and my HR was staying in a good range so I
just let my legs do their thing through the canyon and stayed relaxed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Walter provided the entertainment for this section by teaching me his speedy race secrets. I
think we were at about a 6:40-:45 avg coming out of the canyon. </span><br />
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</span><span style="font-size: small;">6:22, 6:28, 6:30, 6:36, 6:35, 7:05 (GI issue/ bathroom stop!), 6:47, 7:15, 7:03, 7:15, 6:48, 6:38, 6:25, 6:54, 6:30, 6:56</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-size: small;">I felt really good up until about mile 18ish. Going from all that
pounding to flat killed my hamstrings/feet... Your legs are wondering WTH you just put them through. I haven’t run over 17 miles
at all this year and I think I let that and last weekends race get to me
more mentally that it was hurting me physically. I am a little mad at myself for letting that happen. I preach
'mind of matter' so much and I didn't follow my own motto. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXT8Hl5VjMXO_iw4pVhytRY477efE4mTcF8hRxVTxYZbNArHe6iTe4ECsybLewpc4_6oydgHFnWu_M6X1LwKwwNZzPEbtFenPeReUWEhEQntOgmDihQ0nEI9y7MLopG_a1jv9h3JzD5Fk/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXT8Hl5VjMXO_iw4pVhytRY477efE4mTcF8hRxVTxYZbNArHe6iTe4ECsybLewpc4_6oydgHFnWu_M6X1LwKwwNZzPEbtFenPeReUWEhEQntOgmDihQ0nEI9y7MLopG_a1jv9h3JzD5Fk/s320/5.jpg" width="212" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">Coming out of the canyon, some quick math put a sub 3 in my head so I was trying
so hard to keep a pace to earn under the 3 hour mark but today was not the day for that. That last 5K hurt - a lot. The back of my
legs were cramping so bad but I refused to walk. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Walter was basically
switching from running form tips to screaming profanities at me the last 30 minutes. I wanted to punch him in the
face that entire time... until we crossed the finish line Haha :D :D Lucky to have had him there with me. </span><br />
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</span><span style="font-size: small;">6:57, 7:01, 7:24, 7:44, 8:13, 8:24, 7:57, 9:05>>>whoops, 8:41, 7:56, </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">So there it is. An aided 15min. PR… 3:09:41</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">1st ag, 8th female, 59 overall </span></div>
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<span style="color: #fff2cc;"><span style="background-color: #b4a7d6;"><span style="font-size: small;">I do a really good job of isolating myself and I am the queen of 'Walls Up' to just about everyone - </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #fff2cc;"><span style="background-color: #b4a7d6;"><span style="font-size: small;">SO, weekends like these are good reminders that it is ok to let people in... </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #fff2cc;"><span style="background-color: #b4a7d6;"><span style="font-size: small;">it actually makes life a whole hell of a lot more meaningful and fun. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #fff2cc;"><span style="background-color: #b4a7d6;"><span style="font-size: small;">There are good people out there - </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #fff2cc;"><span style="background-color: #b4a7d6;"><span style="font-size: small;">but you never know without letting down those walls to give them a chance.<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> <span style="color: black;">:)</span></span> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Side note on the race: </span><em><span style="font-size: small;">***This is probably one of the best ran races I’ve participated in. Organization and attention to detail was spot on. The race directors really went out of their way to make sure us runners were very happy.</span></em>Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-65133546498161907492013-09-11T09:53:00.001-06:002013-09-11T09:53:56.992-06:00World Championships 70.3 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFQfQSp_9rV2vI-w-ajApcpYv8JtK9ciEIiz7Y9g2upodlQDJVeRel5FWUCdBgfVZVra48oaC906zgCuO2jxEVBiq30jicpGTTA7CaNF__u1WbTmhYt7UQNlBunf1Wu9GcGWGLQvty1jc/s1600/a2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFQfQSp_9rV2vI-w-ajApcpYv8JtK9ciEIiz7Y9g2upodlQDJVeRel5FWUCdBgfVZVra48oaC906zgCuO2jxEVBiq30jicpGTTA7CaNF__u1WbTmhYt7UQNlBunf1Wu9GcGWGLQvty1jc/s320/a2.jpg" width="212" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>What a weekend!!!</i> The <span style="color: #fff2cc;"><span style="background-color: #674ea7;"><u><b>World Championships</b></u></span></span> lived up to all my expectations. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Just being at this event was <i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">incredible</span></i> in itself. Being surrounded by talent, and intensity, and competition was so
exciting and intimidating all at once. I am so happy to have had the
opportunity to race here with the other 2000+ athletes... especially since this was the last year the event will be held in <i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">VEGAS</span></i>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9LOAxpUFBvWum2ZWr0aZ92ZDRUQzwvJi-z9C-ES4rEceiLn90k_5V8WDHeblHyk5l5fvwnVPl5W8chPxmrwQbFe9s-TsL79Ug-mQ05XSDLTQt2w1r6FgWH2Mh8FTOSi5pipNiVtlWCLU/s1600/70.3WC2013+1235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9LOAxpUFBvWum2ZWr0aZ92ZDRUQzwvJi-z9C-ES4rEceiLn90k_5V8WDHeblHyk5l5fvwnVPl5W8chPxmrwQbFe9s-TsL79Ug-mQ05XSDLTQt2w1r6FgWH2Mh8FTOSi5pipNiVtlWCLU/s200/70.3WC2013+1235.jpg" width="200" /></a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">We</span><span style="font-size: small;"> arrived in Vegas a few days prior to the race. I was able to get a swim in the amazing outdoor lap pool, a ride, run...all the normal pre-race formalities. Dropping my run bag off and Heather Jackson came up to me to chat... just about <i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">made my day</span></i> :D Most importantly, those few days before I made a point to stay off my legs as much as possible, hydrated like champ, and visualized executing my race plan - over and over and over. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHr4IThuTur-c6BdZfmpfPqu-tt6YFFkAsM-bi_Ll5lD4yNtSQNfmY7N8Y8Kgt4pyRxWs4g1U2cNcSs8kppEi-mnXkzBohBvq7HRc7UuVjmuVMMJuBUuJycuKYLHxkGd_3RUBe85c0_o/s1600/70.3WC2013+1221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span> <span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Race day I woke up to a little rain and as we drove to the race start,
it turned into a straight-up downpour; it stayed like that
until just before I started to run. I text Coach T and she reminded me to still keep up on the hydration so that the humidity doesn't kill me if the rain were to stop. I was in the 15th wave, so I didn’t get to start until 75min after the
first group… not ideal because things get very congested and I have more time to sit and be nervous!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOT-3dwCn2RVcfS6dbOfEW2-NILpkjBTidOqS1xXophza_dpF0VgOlM0tZ0f5vHIu-M2ha8C1S-rTlwVnmljGIafuL6o9EOAMTtat0ZI2OZPDhyphenhyphen6gHb9mxpLAIO7DSkOwrQWNjr_c5-Ik/s1600/b8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOT-3dwCn2RVcfS6dbOfEW2-NILpkjBTidOqS1xXophza_dpF0VgOlM0tZ0f5vHIu-M2ha8C1S-rTlwVnmljGIafuL6o9EOAMTtat0ZI2OZPDhyphenhyphen6gHb9mxpLAIO7DSkOwrQWNjr_c5-Ik/s200/b8.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Swim 39:46 </b>Ouch!! This is a <i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">non-wet suit swim</span></i> so I was
expecting this slower time. Lake Las Vegas is like swimming through mud, yum! Found my <i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">rhythm</span></i> right from the start. Nothing really went wrong; my swim just
<i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">needs work</span></i>, especially if I expect to place higher. I lost 8 age group spots just in the swim.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIq5h702szYYYSLkothQzYtYgfceCHB7LJnD3fWME9UIfQ1kxIDH8-Xn3iMOo7xJvQbVPy96sDSeSdXjhqy4VpeDsg-Q-Z8Hoy-1Zeou-u3E4wnXJQqP1Kr5giGT8feTUHeqUb6b8ajJ4/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIq5h702szYYYSLkothQzYtYgfceCHB7LJnD3fWME9UIfQ1kxIDH8-Xn3iMOo7xJvQbVPy96sDSeSdXjhqy4VpeDsg-Q-Z8Hoy-1Zeou-u3E4wnXJQqP1Kr5giGT8feTUHeqUb6b8ajJ4/s200/4.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>T1 3:56</b> Transition 1 was nuts. I knew that this was going to be a longer transition so the day before I
<i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">practiced</span></i> going through it 5 times to avoid any silly mistakes. You exit the water
and have to run up and over this bridge, then through a grassy area
(which was a bunch of mud holes by the time my group got to it),
get your bike, then hall the bike up a hill before you mount! There
was the longest line going up that hill and it was starting to frustrate
me that people were not moving very fast. I allowed that time to let
my heart rate come down before getting on the bike. You can tell where
you are standing by how many bikes are gone... so I knew getting on my
bike I had a bunch of <i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">ladies to catch</span></i>! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKubmaKQMuZxFn4VEL41gWFOnS9D84jWxZmhvC9i6tBBWVOx6mvc5okXb8NAjxeGIzaw-Nu1XGusj2G01b-DoPA0a1kcHJYn58w1jl8ZBFCfsKUY0RkeuQyOMCGgnCJ4_JbfIFhLRB7ak/s1600/a5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKubmaKQMuZxFn4VEL41gWFOnS9D84jWxZmhvC9i6tBBWVOx6mvc5okXb8NAjxeGIzaw-Nu1XGusj2G01b-DoPA0a1kcHJYn58w1jl8ZBFCfsKUY0RkeuQyOMCGgnCJ4_JbfIFhLRB7ak/s320/a5.jpg" width="208" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bike 2:50.44 </b><i>(Pre-race meeting they told us
the bike was about a mile long)</i> I was honestly having a
great time on the bike. Caught 33 girls in my group moving me from 59th to 26th place. It
was raining so freaking hard that it was just making me laugh. Everyone
had been prepping for ridiculously hot weather, and here it was
downpouring. (Good thing I did all those work outs with sweatshirts and beanies on! lol) My race plan was to keep my heart rate consistent in the 157-163
range and not pushing too hard on the climbs. This race, I was not so glued to my watch and going more by <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">'feel'</span> which still had me in my planned range when I would check in. I felt really <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>focused</i> </span>and just <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">'<i>in the game</i></span>' during the bike. I continuously checked in with myself... 'how am I feeling... can I run fast off this effort... am I thirsty..etc.' Lots of crashes out on
the course because of the water! I don't feel like I was able to take advantage of all the descends because I'll admit, the water made me a little nervous. The last climbing section into town was when I felt the most power so I was excited to get my running shoes on! All in all, <i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">super challenging course
but fun</span>!!</i> </span><br />
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</span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>T2 1:29</b> Nothing exciting here except it was super nice to have volunteers rack your bike for you</span><br />
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</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4NTYPPT91qGC8DZF3ECLFattsgBg6zQ0OgwE3CaBYsAPtwRJjRlsnG1-mHKtc_leLfyZz-CgZQKoGfgsefKKJAtvAK1m6CEuXdJFb6E-rXuu2bCLYxK_RBNIrBAgQGsfBCuQg0hzF8c/s1600/a4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4NTYPPT91qGC8DZF3ECLFattsgBg6zQ0OgwE3CaBYsAPtwRJjRlsnG1-mHKtc_leLfyZz-CgZQKoGfgsefKKJAtvAK1m6CEuXdJFb6E-rXuu2bCLYxK_RBNIrBAgQGsfBCuQg0hzF8c/s320/a4.jpg" width="207" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Run 1:42 </b> During the last 5-10 miles of the bike course, Las
Vegas <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>Sun decided to come out to play</i> </span>and turned the course into a
humid, sauna. The first couple groups of the day, were able to run in
the rain… luckies! By the time I got to the run, I starting to get pretty
hot so I was super happy I drank extra on the bike like T told me to. The run course was either
up or down <i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">hill</span></i> – 1 down, 2 up, 1 down (repeat 3 times) no flats. The first loop I took conservative, keeping an eye on my heart rate. Every aid
station I dumped ice down my top and shorts and put water over my head.
Felt really good until that last 2 mile climb. Kicked My Butt! That
section was where I caught 3 of the 6 girls though. Caught 6 girls on the run taking me
to 20th by the end. Being able to see my Dad and Janice three times was great... high fived them and my dad would yell out to me what Teresa wanted me to do!! I cant tell you how many times I have practiced progressive runs and I feel like that translated perfectly during this race. That last mile was <i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">strong and fast</span></i>... how it should be! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg577QI2NAutOjHKO22og0WAyeLikcu9Xro44FaCB9hQmkDAaei0pHdBSQPW5kk_PIgV8V4yiVau-jlIHBX5Clr3Fctb04d8Cn9OgpFok3EyxkZJf__jhfymGMh2jtBiygbOc4NIOiLsSs/s1600/70.3WC2013+1260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg577QI2NAutOjHKO22og0WAyeLikcu9Xro44FaCB9hQmkDAaei0pHdBSQPW5kk_PIgV8V4yiVau-jlIHBX5Clr3Fctb04d8Cn9OgpFok3EyxkZJf__jhfymGMh2jtBiygbOc4NIOiLsSs/s320/70.3WC2013+1260.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I am completely <i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">addicted</span></i> to the feeling of finishing an all-out race. Crossing the finish line brings emotion out of my 'emotionless self' that is unexplainable... races like these break through that <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>tough outer shell</i> </span>you create. They allow you to lay all your hard work out when you are <i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">confident</span></i> enough to cross over that line of fear, become vulnerable to the <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">pain</span> and <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">hurt</span> and just be your own raw self... it is an <i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">amazingly</span></i> unexplainable feeling...<i>(clearly)</i>:D </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Results were posted to show I finished 20th in my ag and I can honestly say I am <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">proud</span> to
have finished there... no disappointment whatsoever! This course and the weather and the girls were insane. I
followed my race plan exactly and <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">gave it my all</span>. I crossed that line feeling like I wanted to feel. Being my second year
racing, what more can I ask? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;">I say this in every race report but I honestly feel like the <i>luckiest girl</i> to have some pretty awesome people in my life. Words can not event start to describe how awesome my <b>dad</b> is, and I know, if I wouldn't have met <b><a href="http://teresanelson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Teresa,</a></b> I would not be where I am today... not just as an athlete but as a person. I also have a few, special friends, that continue to give me such support and confidence to believe in my <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i><b>crazy dreams!!</b></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>Another stepping stone in</i></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i> <b>Building My Machine</b>....</i></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNbxgqMol8W2ta9tTcgOnuq4Ofx8rmkw0JPqQjMorVFjoSXICMdgI6RgXceLfeyYkYtyUY-AzuuXcFQ7AkSmqndAcyZuRhpA-0lPyorq62X2hiTfTuvDLMUbnhwt0PerVT82YEIN2dIic/s1600/a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNbxgqMol8W2ta9tTcgOnuq4Ofx8rmkw0JPqQjMorVFjoSXICMdgI6RgXceLfeyYkYtyUY-AzuuXcFQ7AkSmqndAcyZuRhpA-0lPyorq62X2hiTfTuvDLMUbnhwt0PerVT82YEIN2dIic/s320/a.jpg" width="214" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-10865989795729323412013-08-26T10:28:00.000-06:002013-08-26T10:28:04.223-06:00This time of year... Vegas here I come!<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Race day</span> is 13 days away.<span> </span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Which means taper time…. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Which means blogging
time to occupy my <i>‘I want to be training, not resting’</i> mind!! </span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">I remember <i><span style="background-color: #8e7cc3;"><span style="font-size: large;">this time of year</span>,</span></i> last year, getting a text from
<a href="http://teresanelson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Coach T</a> about considering <span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">qualifying for the Worlds 70.3</span> as a goal of mine for
2013. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Big goal… <u>I’m game!</u><span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Reaching that goal in <a href="http://buildthemachine1.blogspot.com/2013/05/st-george-703-race-report.html" target="_blank">St George</a> was amazing and the rest of
the summer has been all about <span style="font-size: large;">training hard, racing smart</span>, and <span style="font-size: large;">learning lots</span> to
lead me to a great race on September 8<sup>th</sup>.<span> </span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Vegas is going to be very windy, and a lot hot,
and plenty hard. Championship race worthy... I think so! :) <span></span><i>Tough courses make for tough athletes, right? </i>I am such a numbers person… quantifying
everything is something I do without even thinking about it. <span></span>NOT for this race. <span></span>No time expectations going in. Don’t get me wrong, I want to have a fabulous
race, but my #1 goal is to leave everything I have on that course.<span> I am so excited to race with some <i>talented</i> ladies and all </span>I want, is to cross that finish line feeling <b>absolutely spent</b>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="background-color: #8e7cc3;">This time of year</span></i></span> is also when I decided to change my life. <span> </span>Two years ago I committed to
letting go of an awful lifestyle and began ‘Building My Machine.’<span> </span>Recently, I finally feel like I have gotten
to a point that I am not ashamed or held back by that past ‘life.’<span> </span>A couple weeks ago at the gym, a young man I didn't know
asked me if I would talk to his mom about her weight issues since I have been
able to overcome mine. <span></span>This was a real 'aha' moment for me. I <i>have</i> overcome them. I <i>can</i> admit to it without being
ashamed.<span> </span>I can <i>help</i> others now.<span> </span>Changing your life is freaking <u>HARD</u> no matter what
the adjustment you are making.<span> You can have amazing support like my dad, coach, and cousin but that doesn't simplify the change. </span>Throughout
the two years I was always teetering back and forth, so owning my new ‘changed’ life
never seemed honest and genuine.<span> </span>But now,
<i>NOW</i> I feel like I have gotten to a point to use that weakness
as fuel instead of a weakness rendering me from my potential. <span>Finding strength in that weakness, <b>Akhilandeshvari</b>! </span>Fueling my fire within.<span>
</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwYq0-BA_tmuUfoQe6juev2f7AfgPui_9rBYFwhDmEZ6zpHV_HBm99iisKZ8aiWSH8dslxfmt7LVFiXuDWHXmDnorbEBCFpnAmz1NJ5ERti5gi-317kSda2CFimHQM7kBWbRvnLg7MwBQ/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwYq0-BA_tmuUfoQe6juev2f7AfgPui_9rBYFwhDmEZ6zpHV_HBm99iisKZ8aiWSH8dslxfmt7LVFiXuDWHXmDnorbEBCFpnAmz1NJ5ERti5gi-317kSda2CFimHQM7kBWbRvnLg7MwBQ/s320/blog.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: small;">“If it isn’t
something that’s physically stopping you, then it’s mental. <span> </span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: small;">So, is your mind
going to be your <u><b>weapon</b></u> or weakness?”</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">You better bet that </span>fuel <span style="font-size: large;">will be my</span> weapon <span style="font-size: large;">in </span>Vegas!<span> </span><span></span></i></span></div>
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Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6080378157399954831.post-91252375233676454402013-07-24T10:01:00.000-06:002013-07-24T11:42:16.643-06:00Lake Stevens 70.3 Race Report<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><u><b>Lake Stevens 70.3 - 5:05.08</b></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">8/64 AG</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">36/421 Female </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">205/1222 Overall</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbldxiIYH9gj1hw3AqaEfkRvpXz-uKOK-ShOREAt5UcF3_dUxe7Hvk1niJY_QTzO9KpMmpNFaU24r-U1KP5CMRV34N09j2TxpJFeobGbNly-K-tNMM4bQxUuUwrOwFsViM-UQcA6fAW8Q/s1600/FinishLine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbldxiIYH9gj1hw3AqaEfkRvpXz-uKOK-ShOREAt5UcF3_dUxe7Hvk1niJY_QTzO9KpMmpNFaU24r-U1KP5CMRV34N09j2TxpJFeobGbNly-K-tNMM4bQxUuUwrOwFsViM-UQcA6fAW8Q/s320/FinishLine.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Lake Stevens 70.3 was my first half distance Tri <a href="http://www.buildthemachine1.blogspot.com/2012/07/lake-stevens-70.html" target="_blank">last year</a>
finishing in 5:35. I am in love with Washington, <a href="http://teresanelson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Coach T</a> is
from there, and this course has been my favorite so far so I had to do it
again. </span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HYu6ARG5DSn6IvtodfbasOJMZK1x97mhdoGn5NJ_D-FJ4ejRlMMFem3L1wgf0QWpAbjf1iHWIpCKaxjGuP5f_sleSn3jAeRITi_6jZFk70NHyy1ZkVMEmIDQB8165q-7TyAkJYp070A/s1600/bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HYu6ARG5DSn6IvtodfbasOJMZK1x97mhdoGn5NJ_D-FJ4ejRlMMFem3L1wgf0QWpAbjf1iHWIpCKaxjGuP5f_sleSn3jAeRITi_6jZFk70NHyy1ZkVMEmIDQB8165q-7TyAkJYp070A/s200/bike.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv9jjLy7ps9GkwAqyPn5AmfiNZ0LeWDuzvaN7DA7Mu8L8HgBqro5I_0CcY5RpB-sLcFD_-gdjNAAVXOAHkemYZ9MiRH9_Kn9ODNE3j6tF4bfy78t8-5avFT_vxsY_ApH_g6TBn0sNk9TQ/s1600/conopyrides.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">Leading up to the race, I felt the most calm I have
ever before.We got into Washington
Friday night and then spent Saturday doing all the usual pre-race stuff… driving the
course, short shakeout run/ride/swim, and ended the day with dinner with Teresa
and Mark - perfect! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Going into this race, I wanted to have a good run. T and I
decided to take the bike course more conservative in hopes of accomplishing that goal. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU6TyQOpq0W9JpuVYOCkWSA3WM2xqiGRxMok2wjPNFNBoH6fQMgNeuhUQCDv5YS1jZknldWQ5yV1EL8l5e-rHFBWOCG3JUNTB3G6_RGwwg_NJ_8EXXfsnk09F68hmM5CO9iDRicW1gzno/s1600/racestart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU6TyQOpq0W9JpuVYOCkWSA3WM2xqiGRxMok2wjPNFNBoH6fQMgNeuhUQCDv5YS1jZknldWQ5yV1EL8l5e-rHFBWOCG3JUNTB3G6_RGwwg_NJ_8EXXfsnk09F68hmM5CO9iDRicW1gzno/s320/racestart.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_alJD-IRrJcAEfDbnLMO_ggwstCIVZmSgH4ldZmO2C-Ft0uNhRgrs59GotZxlJUSanALwfk3A_hy1MZNtstpqDKu6QTlIF_f13eWdF0EDBUOKIz7auM0ZEarrLS9LNY35DSs69mj1Uw/s1600/zoot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_alJD-IRrJcAEfDbnLMO_ggwstCIVZmSgH4ldZmO2C-Ft0uNhRgrs59GotZxlJUSanALwfk3A_hy1MZNtstpqDKu6QTlIF_f13eWdF0EDBUOKIz7auM0ZEarrLS9LNY35DSs69mj1Uw/s320/zoot.jpg" width="320" /></a><u><b><span style="font-size: small;">Swim </span></b></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I was in wave 9 which took off about 30min. after the pro's. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">This was my best swim to date. I
really felt great in the water. I think what made the difference in this swim was making sure my mind was continuously focused. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">It is very easy to let my mind drift, especially when swimming, and especially when I have the bike and run to think about. Instead, this race I stayed in the moment. When the finish line was in site, I went over what I was going to do in T1 and before I knew it... it was ROCKY time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCgGJESO8ekoYC0WdQJh9Ud7u8H3R9HD7kTgn9uPgxIHMw2lfLUQ80gUSRtwfbINL27HZChRGYGHzB4q1vxSf__cMAjQZjn-Vb99gqKnrBmZjCI1mLgCkIsZz6QW63-7adt8cBfxtv8Sg/s1600/bikecourse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCgGJESO8ekoYC0WdQJh9Ud7u8H3R9HD7kTgn9uPgxIHMw2lfLUQ80gUSRtwfbINL27HZChRGYGHzB4q1vxSf__cMAjQZjn-Vb99gqKnrBmZjCI1mLgCkIsZz6QW63-7adt8cBfxtv8Sg/s200/bikecourse.jpg" width="200" /></a><u><b>Bike </b></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Absolutely gorgeous course... you are basically riding
through a canopy of greenery the entire time. I found the ride more challenging
than <a href="http://buildthemachine1.blogspot.com/2013/05/st-george-703-race-report.html" target="_blank">St George.</a> I honestly do not know
how I did this course last year on a flat pedal bike! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLz1dnUwW4Ti9wr9s7e9Fuj3eV9OjamKSdscIdaB3d4_bXkiVY3vlY53kHN0XU2tzQz8u9FDWkmJcEIGXW9LyfE5xzQQ1QrQr04XCzq848zu2IntfkRsRp3lSUdDGSjYT6DbbxaA2hqxg/s1600/bikecourse1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLz1dnUwW4Ti9wr9s7e9Fuj3eV9OjamKSdscIdaB3d4_bXkiVY3vlY53kHN0XU2tzQz8u9FDWkmJcEIGXW9LyfE5xzQQ1QrQr04XCzq848zu2IntfkRsRp3lSUdDGSjYT6DbbxaA2hqxg/s200/bikecourse1.jpg" width="200" /></a>The plan was to <u><i>not</i></u> be in attack mode the entire ride which
was my prior race approach. I made sure
to keep my cadence up, spin up the climbs, and try to keep my heart rate more
even throughout. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Finding what balance I need to
take to have a good run is going to take time… maybe I held back a little too
much on the bike, maybe not… either way, I came off the bike feeling fresh and
ready to run. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSymjVRJAPsHYIr-3GQ2YwnOg7x4rJ3lMO6__ad2flVC3-FiuPyIY1EdpNfLIALDcDffgwlwpRprcevjDgaXYY6Ga5gWOCt-LFkYYmY9c36gTXFfBklAvEOdhIUYHgMSSzILFHbRxt6-4/s1600/bikestart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSymjVRJAPsHYIr-3GQ2YwnOg7x4rJ3lMO6__ad2flVC3-FiuPyIY1EdpNfLIALDcDffgwlwpRprcevjDgaXYY6Ga5gWOCt-LFkYYmY9c36gTXFfBklAvEOdhIUYHgMSSzILFHbRxt6-4/s320/bikestart.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNo1wbbR2dJrc2qzv16WZEURZoJkeF1M-5Mlh0Gj0cH2MUtAcX3G7WXPHd56E_sm4VSUkMd6_38S5TA2wncepV1AvNx50RF5WyzcyuqBgg6km_Se23lEHmW_Qb8TdB3OLO93VHSOn4ccA/s1600/T2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNo1wbbR2dJrc2qzv16WZEURZoJkeF1M-5Mlh0Gj0cH2MUtAcX3G7WXPHd56E_sm4VSUkMd6_38S5TA2wncepV1AvNx50RF5WyzcyuqBgg6km_Se23lEHmW_Qb8TdB3OLO93VHSOn4ccA/s320/T2.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Run </u></b>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Right out of transition I saw my dad which gave me tons of
energy… always does. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">This is a 2 loop
course which means a lot of crowd support. Since we were racing where <a href="http://www.tnmultisports.com/?doing_wp_cron=1374676835.1224689483642578125000" target="_blank">TNMultisports</a> is based, there were many TN athletes out on the course for encouragement.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYQ7G0MSEiS0caog12CxGsuR_tuNjZ2Ryzik0VvoXrXehA0HcyXiQY4bX4m0ICzAmY5S3XvuHiQboFFt6eMHkd7GSs0Z8IAmnoGTfrYKAOk8tcXePTByATJkn0lOHrtmvrQjRV3YrtLT0/s1600/1002557_10100593174864731_1886956406_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYQ7G0MSEiS0caog12CxGsuR_tuNjZ2Ryzik0VvoXrXehA0HcyXiQY4bX4m0ICzAmY5S3XvuHiQboFFt6eMHkd7GSs0Z8IAmnoGTfrYKAOk8tcXePTByATJkn0lOHrtmvrQjRV3YrtLT0/s320/1002557_10100593174864731_1886956406_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">This is not necessarily a flat course, so my paces were not even/consistence;
but I feel like my effort was. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I never
looked at pace the entire run, only HR. This was the first run off the bike
that my HR was not through the roof coming out of transition. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I was feeling awesome until about mile 10. When I high fived T and Mark
before the second loop I should have took another gel. I think that would have prevented the energy
loss. Going back up the hill at mile12 hurt but crossing the finish line is always worth
it. Especially with the 70.3 distance. I
am addicted to the feeling of finishing on completely empty. Seeing my dad and Teresa's faces
there at the finish was awesome! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1s0Zab0iOoLUfrlO8TmfMgVrWy8MTY16Ddk_7yA0MQE2tlPYGlAj9NVeGLDdJtbeb2C_70VOoZ4JWYDM31vl3RZtw6uI0R3US5MmiXEXwZZnqAjQJFiqRMPOdwqCCgfvzDe2iGU8DisE/s1600/running.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1s0Zab0iOoLUfrlO8TmfMgVrWy8MTY16Ddk_7yA0MQE2tlPYGlAj9NVeGLDdJtbeb2C_70VOoZ4JWYDM31vl3RZtw6uI0R3US5MmiXEXwZZnqAjQJFiqRMPOdwqCCgfvzDe2iGU8DisE/s320/running.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">It is hard not to get frustrated with yourself when you pour your whole heart and are putting
in the time and not necessarily seeing the results. You cant help but question, 'oh I didn’t train
long enough, go hard enough, give enough.' My head and heart want to be racing with those
top girls but my body just isn’t there yet... </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">YET!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Big goals take time...</i></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Patients. Consistency. And listening to
coach T. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXgxAhi3iLf5BRU_8Lqj24D0hP7mrQTGmQSegZyQ5MIukdoyrPz7E9cACbYbZuGfKUnXA7p6fx_bMUKinK5YoeNasiCaT2PgWY3kNdMovJyKqCV115rKIPcsI01A6hhV_M7oARB41G2G4/s1600/946627_10151792363838377_1585717770_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXgxAhi3iLf5BRU_8Lqj24D0hP7mrQTGmQSegZyQ5MIukdoyrPz7E9cACbYbZuGfKUnXA7p6fx_bMUKinK5YoeNasiCaT2PgWY3kNdMovJyKqCV115rKIPcsI01A6hhV_M7oARB41G2G4/s400/946627_10151792363838377_1585717770_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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</span>Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203noreply@blogger.com6