"God draws up the drops of water, which distill as rain to the streams; the clouds pour down their moisture and abundant showers fall on mankind." ~Job 36: 27-28

In a crappy hotel, right across the street from a Meijer Thrifty Acers in Lansing Michigan I waited. I was headed to basic training, alone for the first time in my life.... felt like I was a king.  I walked across the street to that crappy grocery store and bought the Album by “Talk Talk”-Spirit of Eden. It still to this day is one of my favorites.  Mark Hollis is a genius and for an album that came out in 1986 it’s obvious where the Verve, Radiohead, Sigur Ros, The Doves-many others, camped out during their dreaming years. Don’t want to get to “artsy” (Joe I know your probably reading this)-but give it a listen, in the dark (as it was recorded, in a basement) and let me know what you think--you’ll be hard pressed to find a group of songs that move like that together. “I Believe in You” is unreal.  As a matter of fact if you can’t wait-as a gift, here is a quick link. (I swear I’m getting to the Triathlon stuff….Let’s cover the basics-and important stuff first)-if no interest cool, grab a cup of coffee and read on. This is a long post. If you like, click on it and keep reading-it's good back round music.

So-where am I going with this? As I reflect on this past weekend of Racing at Ironman Texas, a few of Mark's lyrics hit home for me. 

“That ain’t me babe. Ain’t got a bed of excuse for myself.”

For once-Finally, I feel solid in the assessment and have no excuse of “Why” I did not do this, or that in a race. I have a “What” I can direct my focus on... to grow faster, and "How" I'm going to do it. 

It’s comforting, encouraging and confirming to realize that a few things are clicking. Yes, yes.-the first part of this blog (as my wife has often says pertaining to my writing) is Abstract.“I’m sure the readers who know you, get it babe.” I ask her after I write each post what she thinks. That’s the kind way of saying I’m lucky it’s a blog and not an assignment.  (Honestly-she did say that)

I take liberty here-it’s a reflection of how I think and who I am.  I’m my own Ghost writer. 

Many know this was a solo year for me-meaning, I coached myself along with Rhonda-of course. 

I owe her so much, and despite her physical absence in Texas we crossed that line together-She is my mirror in training.  Prep work, build, peak and race week planning was solid and she made sure to keep me focused.

My week spent in the Woodlands was better than I could have imagined.  My friend Matt Borowski, hooked me up with what I thought was just going to be a place to “crash”.  It ended up being one of the most beautiful places I had ever been, filled with some of the most beautiful people I have ever met. Julia, Jay and their daughter Margie welcomed me with open arms, open hearts, and an open refrigerator. Accommodating does not even begin to explain the way they treated me.  It was a blessing. I am forever grateful for new friends and new relationships.  Thank you again so much, I will never forget the kindness you have shown and It was a blast sharing that time around the table with you and family. Matt’s parents lived next door, and I was treated to a meal the night after I arrived that may have scared my new friends-- I could not quit eating. KC and Karen I would fly back just to eat that meal again. Thank you for your hospitality and kindness.

Amazingly simple but delicious dish.

Workouts in Texas were short in length and focused on race effort/pace. My plan had established a confidence that I knew I did everything correct.... getting sleep, staying off my feet,( as Peter Reid has stated in the past “Be bored with race week.  Be OK with it”). I enjoyed watching TV, reading, talking with my family-chilling. Checking and rechecking, memorizing my plan. I felt relaxed.

I had my meals set up-this is a good time to point out, race week is not the time to eat at new places. There will be time after. Cook your food. (as for the meal I had as a guest, I knew what it was before I even got in.  KC and Karen  were cool enough to e-mail me and ask if the menu would work)
Also-careful not to over eat.  I've done this in the past, thinking I was “stocking up". The body does not work that way. ** side note:  A friend of mine, good athlete, got sick the night before his big race because he ate at a restaurant. He and was done even before he started. That’s an expensive meal taking all the time, effort, and insanity that goes into prepping for a race. I don’t eat at the banquet either. I’m not saying you should skip it but, for me it’s part mental, part hypersensitivity, and part common sense.

All was a go race morning but, (bed at 8 the night before with a solid week of rest in the bank) I woke up at 1:45AM. Uh… not planned.  I wanted up at 3:40AM, I knew I wasn't going to fall back asleep  I stayed in bed and thought about the day- Prayed about the day, it was nice. Fast forward- By 4:10  morning raceday meal was in, I was drinking coffee and had been to the bathroom-felt solid.  I’ve been working with Neil Schools form the UK (kineticrevolution.com) over the past few months-he has been instrumental in helping me set up something or at least analyze what I have done in the past and how to tweak for the future. I calculated my cals and portions to equal around 900+ cals. (Oatmeal/rice/egg/avocado/banana/almond butter) With his direction and a few tests we figured out some things that worked better for me. When I raced CDL a few years ago, I overate the morning of the race-I've done this a few times with the best intentions-this time I was very careful.** I plan my last meal 11/12 hours before my race morning meal. (around 4-5pm the day before)  In the past I have traditionally focused on larger meals the day before a big race. Not HUGE meals-just, bigger.  Enough to feel “fuller” than I usually walk around at. This time I focused throughout the week to not overeat-at all. My biggest or “densest” meal was the morning before race morning and again-Throughout the day instead of planning a bigger lunch (many do this), I focused on nutrient dense stuff-that made me feel "just right".  Living Fuel is key here for me.   72 hours out I’ll start cutting fiber a bit too-I’m careful.  Bottom line-be smart.

I was happy and fresh treading water waiting for the cannon, it was the first time I felt totally rested.  I had less nerve than ever before-and more desire to get on with it. We treaded water for around 15 minutes before the gun went off-I took advantage and did a good solid warm up, and, the day before I was able to swim at the race venue for twenty minutes and test goggles-see where the sun was at in the morning-spotting landmarks-etc. etc. Always a good idea.

A few people asked before the race what my goal was. It was patience-ALL DAY, no matter what. Patience. Times? easy, I wanted to be hanging around 1/5/3.5.  My intent here was twofold-of course I'm always in the hunt for Kona-but more importantly my focus, espically during the week leading up to raceday, was to spread the news about what Living Water International is doing around the world.
I enjoyed talking to so many people about running for water, this was on my mind constantly. I even pulled Mike Riley aside and told him about working with Living water. I'm  racing Kentucky in a few months and  knew if qualification did not go down here-I would at least be in the mix, and know for sure what needed to be done for Kentucky---a good test of a few changes in race mode.  That happened-and I am thrilled. I feel now more than ever I have a handle on what I'm really capable of, and prepare myself for an even better race.

Note**I also had the chance to talk at the Ironman Expo on behalf of More Than Sport.  It was a huge moment for me-and like running for Living Water, was a blessing to be a part of something bigger than the event itself.  What Chris Lieto is doing with MTS is awesome, Chris has a heart to serve and I’m privileged to play a small role in the work he is doing. Thank you Chris. Check out his site (link below) and see how he is changing lives.

My swim was controlled-the first 100 meters/around 1:28 the  intent was to hang around 1:30’s/100m, But-flexibility and drafts were key. It was a non-wetsuit swim so I would be happy with an hour or so. Overall the first 1-1.5k was fairly uneventful-- Few bumps and kicks-but the second 1.5k??  Different story.  A group of 4 of us for were bouncing off each other-fighting and jockeying for drafts and positions.  I had enough-and surged very close to the guy on my right- made sure he knew it. He then surged past, and for the final 1000 or so I hung on his feet.  Dave Ciaverella talked to me about the swim and strategy-it was brilliant. Thank you.

1:02-I was happy with that, again I just had that word Patience in my head.  Plus, durability-the goal was to get out around an hour with a low HR. Done. Transition-easy. Smooth, and relaxing. Chris-thanks again for the speed suit

Bike-I had the message from Rich Roll bouncing around in my head “Get it done man”-That’s what I kept saying to myself. Early I cashed in on “Soft effort” When its available-it trumps power. Save legs. Why push when I’m doing 24/5 mph.with beneficial terrain and wind doing most of the work- it was perfect.I was able to get my rate where it should be-and focus nutritionally. You really have to work hard on the bike and focus-It’s the part of the day I sometimes visualize as “being in the office”--Time, Heart rate, Power, Fluid, Cal’s, CHO’s, Intervals, Pacing, patience.
It’s getting easier and easier with each race to let people go by-especially in the first 2/3 hrs. It really was nice to race “my race”. If the peak and final weeks leading to the race were done correctly this should be the best you have felt in months. Other athletes feel it too-and with the excitement of T1, thousands of screaming people, music and the juice flowing competitors were blowing by me for at least the first 2-2.5 hours. Again, patience.

Throughout, my intake was spot on. I was urinating every 50 minutes-I really, really focused on my fluid intake. I was not going to get dehydrated. I didn't, and it was sweet.  My Power profile was a bit lower than I would have liked-but my performance was reflective of my desire to be patient.  My HR graph was spot-on, my legs had pop, and around mile 65 I started to move through the field. That's when it happened...The only real sour experience of the day.

Turning a corner I glanced back and noticed a group of riders approaching fast, a group-or "peleton" sticking together.  Within a few minutes I was swallowed up by at least 15 riders.  I coasted to the right side and let these tools pass.  As they did I yelled at them... "Who has the Yellow jersey?? You guys work well together".  The strong head wind I had spent the last hour pushing through fueled my disgust.  Not one made eye-contact.  I yelled again as they continued to pass "You all should be ashamed of yourself-cheaters. YOU disgrace Ironman". I watched them stick together for miles ahead of me. Freaking losers...The trailing female was the only person that looked back and dropped off a bit. I shook it off. I would be lying if I did not start to think-crap, should I go with them. No way-too risky. Accident, penalty, integrity. I thought of Ian and Evelyn. I thought about the fact I had RYU on my chest and the Living Water logo over my heart. Knock yourselves out guys.  I did catch many of them in the run-not all of them though.  I'll leave it at that. I decided around mile 90 to not overdo it just to get a sub-5 ride. Spin out the legs, let my stomach settle and mentally focus on T2, and the run.

T2-Smooth-I was shocked at how relaxed and loose I felt-so stoked to run.

Not much to relay here-I felt solid throughout.. My initial pace was a bit faster than I wanted, and-it was hard for me to slow because I felt so strong. Around mile nine I got control of myself and just relaxed. Man, I felt good. Again-I urinated and this built confidence and relaxed me. I peed a lot (5 on bike,1 on run), some may suggest this is too many times during this race. It worked for me though-I was not overdoing the salt, nor was I having super long episodes of urination. Plus I have been dehydrated in the past IT SUCKS.  This was the most I have ever urinated during an Ironman. Is there a link between my solid race and the crazy desire to stay hydrated? I believe so. My biggest concern for this race was the heat.  Again--I have screwed this up in the past and  memories of nausea, vomiting, stumbling, and dehydration haunted me. Just stay hydrated. Oh-through out the entire race I noticed only one other athlete urinating??

Coke, water, a few pringles, my stomach has never cooperated more on a run than during this marathon.  I did change my main source of fuel on the bike and as stated above, kept the water flowing in. So, mentally I was just happy. Around mile 19 and 23 I felt a bit queasy, but took a few seconds to walk through an aid station and let my stomach settle-I was good.

My legs felt heavy around 21-and trying to pick up speed was a bit tougher than I wanted.  Was able to stay focused though and,  at the end I was happy with a 3:32.  Running down the finishing chute and crossing the line has never, ever, felt so rewarding. A 9:51, top ten in my age group.  My first thought.."Crap, I saved too much".  I was so paranoid about dropping the ball and getting strangled by the heat, that I thought I may have risked little. Should I have held that 7:10 pace and pushed??  I did hit the halfway point around 1:43 and I remember thinking, "Ok-go..."  but, that word kept pulling me back. Patience. I know now part of the reward of this race is the true, honest anticipation to get to the next race and do better.

Kentucky...I'm coming....

I want to thank my sponsors and let them know how grateful and appreciative I am to be a part of what they are doing-

 I was stoked to wearing RYU throughout the week, not only in the race, but my final training sessions and more importantly recovery and relaxing.  RYU has been supportive, solid with encouragement, have awesome clothing and training gear-they rule.  Reaching across the sporting isle RYU believes in my passion to hurt and conquer. They support athletes in any discipline that are serious and willing to suffer for their craft. I am RYU. I am a warrior. Thank RYU.

Chris and gang have been cool enough to let me ride on their coat tails as they transform multisport in the Northwest and beyond.  Thanks for everything.

I love my wheels. Vuelta were the first to team up with me and I have been so grateful for that.  Fast wheels, Fast service, amazing company.

High quality nutrition with no crap.  KC and crew have been in my corner and supplying me with fuel to help me reach my goals.

Chris and MTS have been willing to help me spread my desire to share the love of Christ and the need for us to love each other. I appreciate Chris and what he is doing to help bring true change to this world.

Thanks to my management. John and Gabe-you guys are freaking awesome and I am stoked to know that you truly are watching out for me.  Thanks for helping me stay on target and more importantly--just being cool, and my friends.  I love working with you and am still as excited today as day 1. Probably more...which, if not careful I know can drive you nuts....

Living water has been cool enough to let me be a part of REALLY changing lives.  Every time I reached for a cold bottle of water on that race day, I imagined how many children at that second, needed clean water. It truly is my desire to let those who have nothing know some have a desire to share, love, and bring hope. I struggle with the idea of getting out of my comfort box sometimes, and facing the reality that one day I will answer for my desire or lack there of to help the needy pushes me. 

I am humbled and truly blessed. God I thank you for all that I have and all that you have given me.

Ironman Texas

Just a few words as I prepare to head back to Portland tomorrow-A race report is coming, along with a long list of "Thank You's".  I'm saving it for the flight home.....

I've been getting text's, tweet's, call's, and e-mails from people letting me know it's OK I did not get my spot to Kona. I missed it by around 8 minutes.  I am humbled that so many folks are with me here-very grateful.  But I'm not the least bit sad. Yes, Yes, it would have been awesome.  But that is coming-soon. I know that now MORE THAN EVER.  I know I can go faster. Getting in the top 10 is awesome-and my overall placement was solid.  

I don't say that with arrogance, or to be cocky.  Yesterday I learned more about myself than any other race, or training session-and, I had a few things finally "click". (More on that later-in my Race Report) It was a great day for me; I had a really good race.

This photo was taken by Margie who has taken great care of me this week....If you notice the black band on my finger-it's electrical tape....to keep my wedding ring from falling off.  This was the first race in my years of racing that I kept it on.  Weird in a way...I focused on it many times as I hurt throughout the day.  Not on the tape, but what was under it of course.  I love you Rhonda-you were with me every second, as you are always. I wished so bad to have your arms to fall into after. See you tomorrow.

It.Is.Time.

Here I sit-wondering...Will I be able to handle the heat tomorrow?  Will I get a flat? Will I _________?

Then I remembered what I read this morning before I even stepped out the door to do my final workouts. 

It was God's response to Job. It helped me relax....

Just a quick update and a thank you to all who have put me in this position. The Athletes Lounge- Thank you for EVERYTHING. Chris...from lending me your own speed suit to advice-I am proud to be a part of what you are doing for multisport in the Northwest.

Living Fuel-thanks for helping me stay on track with my nutrition.

Vuelta wheels-I am grateful you support me with amazing wheels.   

RYU/Respect Your Universe.  I'll be racing around tomorrow with you on my Chest. I am proud to race as part of team RYU.

Jeremy Frechette Photography-You take more than my picture, you have encouraged me and I am excited to see what our future holds together.

Living Water International-I've been talking to many people here in Texas about what you are doing and the lives YOU ARE CHANGING.  When it huts tomorrow I will remember that I can stop and drink water. 

I know millions can't.

I am honored to race to help you spread your word and bring water to the thirsty.  I also know the reason you exist is to quench the only thirst that matters-The love of Jesus Christ.

What good is it to fill a stomach with cold water, but leave the soul dry? I am forever thankful to be a part of what you are doing.

I will save my big thank you note til after the race-there are so many more people to thank here....

Rhonda you are my closest friend in my life. My best friend. The coolest person I have ever known.  This is hard to be away from you. I love and honor you. I will race knowing what you have sacrificed for me to get here.

Evelyn-Study hard little....School is almost over-summer is close.

Ian-help Mom. Go to bed, and wake up when you should.

Tomorrow....I race for you.

Tons to write…I’ll get to it…

Things are going well here in the Woodlands.  Actually-Awesome.  I’ve been blessed with an incredible place to stay leading up to my race.  The home is beautiful, the family that has offered to let me crash their home for the week are beautiful, and my friend who put me in touch with them..is beautiful.  Yes Matt-you are beautiful man.  I thank you again.

Julia, Jay and Margie-I am forever grateful.  This has been wonderful and I am fortunate to still have 5 more days here-It makes it easier to be away from my family.  Texas hospitality is an understatement. It’s amazing….

Thank you.

Things so far have been almost too good. Of course I found this packed in my bag and I melted as per usual when I feel Rhonda’s love through ink.  Her letter was incredible-I miss you babe. I love you so much it hurts.  

My flight was solid-I eat very light traveling to and from events.  Having Living Fuel is vital on long travel days—Thanks KC.

I also owe Rich Roll a cyber-hug.  I ripped through the advanced copy of his new book he was kind enough to send me.  I had planned on using it through the week to relax-but, once I started…I-could-not-stop-reading. Strong work Rich.  I laughed, I cried, I related. You wore a patch-I had massive buck teeth.  Seriously-it's very well written. Something about reading of your struggle comforted me. I understood.  Oh... yeah, the amazing athlete part-is amazing...

I don’t want to give too much away but I connected to so much of what Rich had to say about nutrition, racing, and of course the Epic 5. We chewed through the same bitter seconds-I loved his retelling of what he went through.  I've had the privilege of talking back and forth with Rich for a little while now. His honesty is clear. No, I don’t agree with everything in the book.  I know he too appreciates truth and honesty--None of it is a “deal breaker” here-just different outlooks-that's OK. 

I thought this a few time throughout-- when things are written so clearly it’s easy to nod and think “Ok, not what I believe. But-- I love this man”….I want to say that again-This is a great book. Rich's story is incredible.  I enjoyed every second and I respect Rich and am proud to say he is a friend.  His plant base diet makes sense and as regimented as I eat, and myself close to what he is doing now--I'll continue to tweak my intake based on his advice and knowledge. My wife is up next to read it and I can’t wait to hear what she thinks. Check out his site here-read his book.

 http://www.findingultra.com/

As for me-the final days leading into my first Ironman of the year have been smooth.  My race week workouts have been solid-short and focused.  This morning when I went to swim the athletes in the lanes next to me (obviously here to race) were killing it in the pool. I mean-killing it. I had entered and exited and they were still going-and, fast. Not going to analyze what other people do-or how they train.  For me-I’ve screwed the last few weeks leading into a race up more than once.  If anything, this time I plan to error on the other side.  Actually-as my final week prep has gone-I think I’ll be on the dot come 7AM on race morning.  For the athletes that have asked me about specifics on how to taper/peak-key take away point here is this-you gain nothing leading into a race tired.  This was actually another cool topic Rich relays in his book-his humility and willingness to share mistakes he has made in the past leading into events made me stop and think about my own final days stretching to the line.

I have struggled on and off with doubt-but, not in ways where I fear the outcome.  My legs are in the mode where they don’t hurt, or feel heavy, but appreciate it when I can kick them up and rest.  Tomorrow I am doing very little. At times when too much time is at hand-over thinking ensues. Not this time.  I’m going to enjoy it and read-and re-read race details.  It has always amazed me the days leading into a big race like Ironman how much athletes walk around?  I understand though-it’s so exciting.  The expo is awesome, the pro’s walking around, vendors dole out free gear, food, samples, its fun.  Kind of like Disney land. **For my friends doing CDL for the first time-Take advantage of the Ironman expo early in the week. Like, the Wednesday it opens.  Stand in line on that first day-get registered, try the GU samples.... Then focus on the race, rest, relax.  I've also made the error of dragging my family to the expo more than once during the week.  It’s hard enough getting there-I know I drive Rhonda nuts (sometimes)-talking “Tri”. Then to drag her to a race, then to an expo.  

 Make race week as much about your loves ones as you can. It’s tough-but can be done. And-crap is expensive…Plus how can I screw this up? I miss you guys so much.  (not the dog though...)

I’ve been proud to walk around and represent RYU here-It’s been a good conversation starter and my gear has had more than a few people ask about them.  I always end the conversation the same way-“I am so proud to be on the RYU team”. Thanks RYU.

Today at the Ironman expo I was given the privilege to talk about More Than Sport. Chris Lieto is making an impact. Here at Ironman Texas he is supporting the Freedom Place-

www.freedomplaceus.org  The Freedom Place provides a bed, guidance and help for girls caught up in Sex Slavery. Yes-Here in the U.S.A. 12 and 13 year old girls trapped.


Please check out their site.

I have had the chance to talk to many people about my teaming up with Living Water International www.water.cc .  Many know of LWI and it makes me proud to be an advocate for what they are doing around the world. 

As for the race-I’m ready.

#1658 if you are curious.

Funny thing about focus…when you have it, the pain of the sacrifice used to purchase it gets you through.  It was hard, as it always is, to say goodbye to my family this morning. As I write-I wait for my plane and from the secret letter I had hidden in my stuff-Rhonda wants me to do as well as I desire to.

My family is like nothing else on earth.  I made sure to leave letters on every mirror in the house and secret love notes throughout.  My focus here is to race-but, my passion is to bring attention to Living Water International.  This makes the discomfort of spending a few days away-OK. If I was just “going to race”-it would not work.

Of course-I want to meet my goals, exceed my expectations, perform. But if I lose focus on what I am doing…I lose focus.  Even now- I thirst as I write, knowing as soon as this is posted I’m going to get a few gulps of cold water.  Do we really understand how fortunate we are?? Do I? Do you?

Please-If you have not done so-check out www.water.cc and take a few moments to see what Living Water is doing in places that truly thirst.  Not only for water,  but Jesus Christ.  That’s what it’s all about.  I stand on that one truth in my life. It’s because of Jesus all things rest in my life.  This week I’ve been reading in Acts-It’s amazing how throughout the New Testament Jesus is depicted as sitting at the Right hand of God-but, when Stephen is stoned by the religious wacko’s Christ is standing.  Man-that’s freaking awesome. I desire that. In all my sinfulness and humanness and flawed flesh, I want to do as Stephen did. Stand for my Hope and Truth in Him. Not by telling everyone-but living and showing that He is my reason.  I tell my kids that all the time-“Anyone can say it-Live it”.

 In my comfort  it’s easy to sink in selfishness and not even know it.  Forgive me God for playing in the sandbox, when I need to be on the playground getting roughed up--Skinning knees and bruising shins.  It was always the best place to be growing up-not risking a thing.  Looking at kids swinging on the monkey bars or jumping off the swings.

 Matchbox cars and action figure is the sandbox.  Fun, safe, easy.  

This weekend when I race my hope is that I celebrate the gift I’ve been blessed with, to help even just one person see that truth trumps-- half truths.  That freedom in Christ is true freedom.  At the end of the day, that’s what matters……with my big dumb mouth or misplaced intentions- Christ loves me.

Christ loves you.

I want to thank a few people (and I will throughout the week) for helping me.  My sponsors are incredible. I know I often say this-but, I mean it more each time I write. The Athletes Lounge, Vuelta Wheels, Living Fuel, RYU, Jeremy Frechette Photography…so kind and supportive.  Not to mention the stuff is awesome.

Friends-Aaron just dropped me off here-thank you for taking time to drive me man. Coffee with you is one of my favorite things.  Pat Pisano-your encouragement is like medicine.  Joe-I need your honest evaluations always-you help me more than you know.  Thank you for always being in my corner.

So many more-and I’ll get to them throughout this week.

Getting ready to fly here….My focus on the flight will be to finalize and look over my race plans. I needed the Tweet I got from Neil Scholes from the UK this morning---Big week ahead, keep your head in the right place and believe in my training.

It is a big week, my head is in the right place…and, I believe in my training.

Thanks for reading.

Sluggish..but better now...

Yesterday was rough. Ask my my wife and kids...... I've been a daisy. The "fatigue letdown" has turned me into A mood monster. I'm blessed to have a family full of humor, sarcasm, and patience. Be weary of how you are when peaking.

How you are=mood.

We carry a ton of fatigue while training. During peak-coming into race form, we shed it. If you hold the line, and resist the urge to go hard when you should hardly go-things will come around. I apologized to my team last night a few times. Despite my effort this usually happens.

As I write this I'm waiting for it to warm a bit more before a open water swim. I just finished a easy ride to double check my wheel set up and I'll do an easy run to stay loose, but the water is cold. Side note--My Vuelta's rule....

I've been blessed with so many great sponsors this season. Working for Living Water International is awesome and I am stoked to get to Texas and start spreading the word.

I had an amazing experience this week with kiwami triathlon. Andre and his team took my call and in 72 hours I had my kit. Amazing.

His professionalism and guidance will bring me back---nope, I'm not sponsored by them. But-if you need any Tri/Race kits I'd check them out. Thanks Andre. You were awesome

www.kiwamitriathlon.com

Chris from the Athletes Lounge has been so incredibly helpful. Thank you Chris. His kindness and willingness to help me reflects his honest approach not only to his store, but to people. He gets it. Again- I'm honored to call him a friend, and honored to wear the "A" when I compete.

Ok-that's a quick update... More this weekend as I prepare to Head to Texas.

Now-- Run, Swim, Rest.

Thanks for reading...

Marilyn Manson..really?


I find inspiration in weird places....It hit me like a hand of broken nails today--(Soundgarden reference)-- while on my trainer.  Sometimes during my warm up spin I'll log on and load a few videos to help speed the clock..Lately Chevelle, Sigur Ros, M83 and others have helped. Unfortunately I got drawn  into the new Marilyn Manson video this afternoon.  For more reasons than I'll list-my heart breaks for this guy. I'll do my best not fall into the sarcastic gutter here- afraid the point will be lost-but, poor ol Marilyn seems to be standing in the same line of post grunge, post Nitzer Ebb, post NIN, post "whatever is shocking line" at the dollar store of ideas...again.


Started to make me think-- as an athlete I've done the same. 


Continuing in cycles as we train is dangerous-especially when doing the wrong thing.  I could go on bashing Marilyn here-that's not the point. Actually-it's a good question/reflection. When do you realize your pattern is the wrong one?  That you need to re-Cycle?? Watching the Manson video made me think.."How many times is this guy going to use the Bible, a raw chicken, pale women. black ooze, dead animals, smeared lipstick, yellow teeth, dirty lingerie, Gene Simmons boots, Robert Smiths hair, Trent Reznors sacrilege...whatever.  Is it not getting old man? 


 I began to filter through things I was stubborn on in my training, racing, and performance. Bike fit, nutrition, HR, power, shoes, aero-bar placement...stuff adds up over years of pain mixed with passion.  Stuff that I think is working, but don't "feel" it's working.  I've mentioned my coaches in the past-my last coach and friend David Ciaverella from Summit Performance Coaching has said so many things that are the obvious. I realized with his direct approach, I was the oblivious. One..(of the many) that stuck went something like this..."Bro-Why do you keep doing that?  It's insecurity"... Insecurity-is exactly what it was. 


Afraid of X-when I should do Y.


This first Peak week I've MADE sure not to visit the land of over doing it--That was the hidden insecurity I was blind to. If not careful it try's to sneak back in through whispers of what others are doing, articles on Slowtwitch, or musings on blogs.  Always thinking I need to do this ______, when I should be doing it _____. 


Fill in the blanks. CRAP!!!! I thought I was doing awesome.


Yes--This is a HUGE topic of  discussion.  To the point-good coaches are worth it when honesty is a mainstay. Peer evaluation with truth helps too. I encourage you to find training partners, a coach, more experienced athletes to help you fight urges to stay in, or fall into ruts.  Heck.....e-mail me, just constantly re-evaluate where you are, and what needs to change if results are stagnant.  We can't treat our desires to grow as an athlete the same way I feel Marilyn treats rock and roll. 


New Order, Neil Young, U2, Radiohead...Chris McCormick, Craig Alexander, Mark Allen, Peter Reid...all found things to increase in success. It did not happen with continued Drop D growls and the same nutrition plan.  Bike work was needed....The Joshua Tree had to be up-rooted.  Things were fixed even though it hurt. People were honest and frank with change and direction.


 Hang in there Marilyn...maybe next go around you could use that gifted brain God has blessed you with.  You are talented man..and you know what?  I pray that you find what you need.  We all thirst...maybe your rut is drinking from the toilet instead from the fountain?  


To wrap up...Peak week one is done.  Solid, and hopeful.  Nutrition is on, Bike is dialed, tire are glued..things are a go here.


Next entry I will talk about the amazing experience I had with the company building my race kit, information about Living Water International, and Ironman Texas.


More soon....Thanks for reading.


Sweet Dreams are made of these... 

Thanks Vuelta USA for my wheels. So honored to race for you.