I'm happy with the decision to wait a week before I post thoughts about Louisville. No matter how a race plays out I'm usually a bit raw for a few days. It's difficult sometimes to allow the process to "happen", and not force it. Rhonda is so amazing to talk through things, and makes it easier to relay some insight through this blog without clogging up the message. I feel bad because I drag her through my emotional garbage first-but, it's "cleaner" here. Sometimes it's an event for our family after our race and can be just as taxing....
The race went well although I failed to obtain my Kona spot--- doesn't mean it didn't go as planned.
I'll spare the boring details about pace, nutrition, and water temp's...Please, do not hesitate to ask me any questions about these or other things pertaining to the race if I do not cover it.
After a few drafts this week, I realize these post IM Louisville ramblings sound better when I make it more about the people that allowed me to get here, and less about my battle. But, to cover it...
The swim was solid--I felt in control throughout and exited the water seventh. The bike... little tougher than anticipated with the back half dealing out climbing temp's and strong winds-it tested my patience. I did not have the "time" I 'm capable of, but still finished around 20th and was in a good spot heading onto the run. Nutrition and power was dialed on the bike in large part due to help from an amazing friend...more on that later.
The run?
Good.
Then bad.
Then ugly.
Out of T2...I was so hopeful. I felt strong and ready.... Ironman's cruel joke-and I love it.
Run plan was to find my pace and stick--training/build to this point confirmed this was right, and my confidence agreed. Out of T2 after the first 2/3 miles my legs settled under me and overall my body adjusted quickly. Up to mile 12 it was amazing, and I felt wonderful. I knew my pace was solid and just before I hit mile 11 imagined back a few months ago to Texas. This is where I decided to stay on it-I felt great, I knew I was moving way up and I was happy. I was going for it-all in. Using the week to reflect I now know that this is where I dropped the ball. Not with pace..but thought.
I'm an emotional guy, I know this. As I progress as an athlete this will be a larger part of my preparation. Among the best this is a common theme--Keep stable during the event and as it progresses and increases with difficulty and discomfort, keeping "level" is key. Through the high's and low's focus is easy to let slip. Lesson learned. Again. As vague as that may appear, and, as a race report the point is...the point.
Stay on it.
Despite follow through with swim pace, bike nutrition, and run effort, focus is the key, level, even. Through both good and bad, high and low. Meaning, when it's good..keep focus, keep steady, stay on point. When it hurt's? Keep focus, keep steady, stay on point. Good advice and what I was told by Chris Boudreaux this week.
Chris Boudreaux is a friend of mine, not to mention an amazing professional Triathlete. For those of you interested in learning more about him check out his site -
chrisbtri.blogspot.com his Race reports are well written and full of awesome information. Very insightful to see into the mind of a pro.
I've known Chris for a few years, he's the head of the
Athletes Lounge here in Portland-an amazing Triathlon shop that has been very kind to me. Fielding my questions, helping with bike fit-- just keeping me set before races. It's an awesome place to shop. Talking to Chris over the years I've grown to appreciate his humility and the fact that someone so talented in this sport can stay so grounded. Chris, I know you may be reading this and my intent is not to make you feel awkward--but, your help leading into Louisville was paramount. The fact that you helped me with confidence and awareness of where I am, and, where I am able to go-was eye opening and much needed.
Chris was kind enough to have lunch with me a couple times which allowed me to bug him about training and racing-so, so cool. He has a family, business, and trains as a top level professional triathlete, never once did he flinch with his time. So.... when he offered to help me after Texas ( leading into Kentucky) with some direction, it was answered prayer-Seriously, this was a blessing. Chris worked with me throughout my build into Louisville. Common sense, discipline, and just keeping me on track, Chris was very open and very honest. Things I needed to hear he had no problem saying. If he ever decides to step into the realm of coaching..I'm first in line. Solid...
Chris thanks again man-for everything. Your direction has been so very important to me. I'm even more grateful for your friendship. Plus-you know what the heck you are talking about. Your knowledge is incredible and I feel so fortunate to work with you.
Vuelta Wheels-Ron, I can't thank you enough. Your help made this possible for me and I am so proud to be racing on Vuelta's. I promise-again...I'll find that seven minutes.
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| Serious wheels for serious racing |
RYU- to be on your team rules. It still makes me have a lump in my throat when I remember that I'm included with you. My RYU gear has become such a staple in my training and recovery. I'm being totally honest here..the most comfortable gear I have ever worn is RYU. So, so grateful for you.
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| Sporting the new RYU Archer Tee=COMFORT!! |
Staying in Louisville was one of the coolest experiences I've had before a race. I was blessed to be at a condo owned by a new friend and incredibly kind woman. Ilse and I discussed the details a few months ago while I was preparing for my race. Never had I experienced such easy interaction setting up lodging. Not only did she help me out with everything from where to shop, an immaculate condo filled with supplies, and encouragement, but she donated to
Living Water International and help support the reason why I was racing. Also received one of the kindest e-mails after my race describing how she and her family were praying for me. I am grateful Ilse for the love you showed me. Meeting people like you is one small example of how God is amazing. Thank you.
I also want to say thank you to Eric who drove down from Michigan to hang with me for a few days. I love you man. I find strength in you and am blessed to have you in my life. Your friendship is more important than any Kona slot or PR. I thank God for you in my life.
Thank you...for reading, tweeting, e-mailing, and praying for me.
Plans are in the works for some big things and I can't wait to share with all of you.....until then, I am grateful.
Rhonda, Evelyn and Ian....I can't imagine a second without you in my life. I love you. I just love you so....
