New Website up...

I'm glad...the new website is up and as usual, it took longer than I wanted. www.christianisakson.com still has a few tweaks needed. Overall, I am happy. It's not super flashy or overly "hip", just nut's and bolts.  Please-send me your thoughts, be honest too.  If you see something that is off, or could be better--please let me know. The concept is simple-tell people about the Taxi Initiative and start to work towards helping those in need.  Plus, it's awesome to be teaming up with Chris and More than Sport. Honored to have that opportunity. New Facebook page in the works, and mobile website update too!!!  Also-I'll be having some stuff on the More Than Sport site also.

Training is in full swing and I've had a few big weeks.  I feel good.  I'll talk more about this in my next post...Just wanted to give a quick heads up about my new site and new information.

More very, very soon....

moving....

“Don't find fault, find a remedy; anybody can complain” 
― Henry Ford

I'm in "focus mode"and looking towards Cozumel.  Patience is still key here even after the weeks post Louisville, but, as of now I'm training.  It's nice to know I have one race left this season and can defer the "reflection" until December-no matter, reflection is for those that finish, I've got a long, long....long way to go.




I posted a few "tweets" over the past week or so about a few changes coming.  I am really stoked to say that my teaming up with Chris Lieto and More Than Sport is a full go.  Over the next few days I'll be updating and reworking my social media sites to reflect that, and some other changes will happen also.  (I have to wait to release some new AWESOME details until they are finalized--Super exciting stuff.) I'm really looking forward to updating my website and improving it a bit. My Face book (Luke 920) and blog will also have a few changes-I'll let you know.

Some may have also noticed my new project-"The Taxi Initiative".  I'm so freaking stoked about this man...Again, I'll have space on the More Than Sport site discussing the Taxi Initiative and informing others of what we are doing.  This will allow those that are interested to help to do so very easily, or, find out more information about it. It'll make sense when it's set-Again...I'll send out the information.

As for the details about Taxi Initiative-the idea is built around a discussion Chris and I had a few months ago.  My passion and desire to help in Haiti has grown stronger since I returned from my second trip. To see the need and result of how far a dollar can go first hand is mind numbing.  Mountain Top Ministries in Gramothe/ Port Au Prince-is where I  spend my time when I travel there. IT IS AMAZING.

(I'll be headed back next year again--gimme a heads up if you are interested in going) Much more on this to follow. Please take a few minutes and check out what they are about...

I'll share more in detail about the specifics of the project soon... the goal is to raise enough money to send children to school for a year---food, clothes, books, medical attention, and-again an education. I also hope to educate others, not only how big of an impact this is for a child, but  the other amazing work Mountain Top Ministries is doing in Gramothe Haiti. It truly is a wonderful cause lead by wonderful people.

I look forward to sharing more of their story and how you can help.

   

Update

Just a few quick words.....

Things are getting set for me and it looks like I'll have one more opportunity this year to give Ironman one more punch. In November I'll be heading to Cozumel.  I'm stoked.  I'll be brief here--- I'm actually working on a bigger blog dealing not only with a few thoughts about the race and intent, but details on a really cool new project called the Taxi Initiative. It revolves around  helping out a few children and using our reach-- to reach them.  Details very soon.  

Thanks so much for the response after my last race in Louisville.

More very soon.

7 days later...

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.

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.

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....







   

Ideal

"In an ideal world I would have all ten fingers on my left hand so my right could just be a fist for punching..."
-Dwight K. Shrute

Not only is this an awesome statement from one of my favorite episodes of "The Office" called Scott's Tots, It's funny. The episode is riddled with some of the greatest lines in the shows history...ever. With a constant flow of mishaps and mistakes...scenarios leading to trying to make things "ideal" that are not.

Sounds like race week....

Here I sit---in Kentucky, right outside Louisville in an ideal place. No kidding. I've been blessed with a great place to stay-minutes away from the pool, bike shop, and anything else I need.  I feel so, so, blessed. Also-So many to thank for providing comfort and ease-more on that later.

To most, me relaying the "happenings" of race week will be boring. Just another athlete talking about what "he's" doing, eating, seeing,.....blah, blah.  In a nut shell (and to cover it for good)-
-
1. I'm not over-eating
2. I am trying over-sleeping
3. I am not over-reading.

Over eating-Athletes do this a lot leading into a big race.  I've done it-and, have paid the price. Yes I do use food as a "weapon' this week-build and store, but not cram and gorge. That's after.

Over sleeping-the first few days here I set no alarm.  Still-- this morning, even with the time change-I woke at 5:30.  I really try to "bank and refresh", yes-you can do this. Rest and sleep.  I've also learned that just because I am not "out" does not mean I'm inside resting. I can make myself just as tired inside-bouncing off the walls-doing whatever. Just ask my co-workers. (I think most of them would be shocked to see me sit and do nothing for a whole week leading into a race).  Bottom line SCHEDULE down time-and, take it.  Don't think it will just happen. Plan it.....P...L...A....N.....it.

Over reading-No blogs, slowtwitch, Endurance corner, whatever. Yes-I am reading, just not certain things.    I trust my training and build,  I don't need to second guess anything-not for a second.  I've fallen victim to this in the past. It's not a willful wandering, or even doubt..but "what if's" can rot the mind during 112 miles. When weakness and fatigue take root (and it will)-things come to mind. Preferably-good things. On the plane I caught myself reading an article on "flats"...uh...I have a plan already for that. Moving on.

Ideal has been the theme for me thus far. Not out of greed or entitlement-but, necessity.  Anyone can do this no matter the situation, just takes thought. But mostly, as I reflect, it takes others. Actually mostly others. Anyone who does this sport knows what I mean.  For me-those "others" are not here.

Rhonda, Evelyn and Ian are back home--Circumstance did not allow for all of us to be here-really sucks. The lack of "myself" here is weird.

Last night when we were all "face-timing" it was hard to say good-by, and it had only been a few hours. This definitely is not ideal for us, and when I question my motives-Rhonda is right there telling me to "Get it done", and "It's OK".  It's the hard part of being an Athlete. I love them so much-and it stings.  That "sting" will be present in my thoughts on race day. Find a "sting", and use the day to relieve it. Cash the check.

Other "team mates" that make this week comfortable and ideal are my sponsors-

Stoked to have RYU on my Chest.

RYU-Even as I write this I wear my warrior gear.  Comfort is a luxury and you make it easy.  Thank you so much for letting me wear RYU to battle, and Sunday I'll again have you on my chest for all to see.  I'm RYU and, I am proud to be a warrior.

This mornings breakfast with my Race wheels smiling at me

Vuelta Wheels-Ron....I'll find that seven minutes for you--- thanks for all the help. I love my wheels.

Greens and protein 

Living Fuel-Again..KC, thank you. One of the greatest things about traveling to races and events is the fact that I can stay full all day and not worry about feeling "heavy".  Flying and airports give little relief both in cost and choices when you are in a hurry and hungry.  Living Fuel is excellent to travel with-plus, it's awesome.

One of my favorite Kits

The Athletes Lounge-I'll share more about the "a" later on...but for now, Thank you. (as I was reading that article on flats yesterday-it made me proud to flip through the pages and land on an awesome ad featuring The AL-- made me so proud to know them and wear their "A" in battle too.

Those quick "Thank you's" may appear like I am just ripping through - but I assure you it's not.  I am SO GRATEFUL for these people. Plus-I support what they have.

 RYU gear is awesome, Vuelta Wheels are fast, Living Fuel is good for you, and the Athletes Lounge is an amazing Triathlon Store. Each of these "mates" know I'm being honest and when it gets uncomfortable on Sunday-it'll be easier to push through when I reflect on the help, love, and support I receive from them. I really want people to see how much they mean to me, and how it's "us" racing together.

Sunday will also allow me to run again for Living Water International.  Throughout this year I've been able to talk and share with so many about the great and vital work LWI is doing around the world. What LWI does is no joke. Really....It's life or death. PLEASE check out this short video-It's two minutes long. When I worry about getting dehydrated from the heat on Sunday...I'll think of people who really thirst,, and tell myself...It's a race.

I won't die.

It is an honor to play a very, very, small role in what Living Water is doing around the world. Thank you for taking an interest in what others need.

More Later this week....

Worship

Wanted to relay a few things here.  Later this week I'll be posting about my race build and other information. For now....enjoy....

I thought to myself....or, felt it being whispered into my heart......"It really does not get better than this here. Here, on earth. In this life, in this world. This feeling, the filling of it-it's what matters. It just feels like what people reach for."

This is so hard to explain-but so definite when it hits.

Today in church, during worship with my son's arm around me singing at the top of his lungs, my wife in my other arm and my daughter next to her, "it" for a brief moment all hit. It was right. I just felt blessed and so fortunate--so warm. Assessing the morning leading up to this "feeling" I listened to my friend preach and discuss being a "Dangerous" follower of Christ-- meaning, living to love others, be merciful, graceful...you know, things that are dangerous. Stuff people (myself included) don't do in a "me first" culture. As I evaluated the week-listening, it was nauseating making a list in my mind of the times (this week alone) I failed. My mouth, attitude, thoughts, actions, motives, anger, ego, fill in the blank....opportunities to love my kids, be patient, a good employee, friend, follower...get it?   If I am able to sit and pour over the data compiled from a week of training and evaluate performance-why shudder at doing the same in things that matter-right?  I am blessed. Things happen and I relish, or revolt. In training, work, life...whatever.

Totally transparent here, totally honest--This morning with my family clutched together worshiping my King, our Creator, I was shaken to know what I've been lent on this planet---is from nothing I've done. If it was...I'd be screwed.  God-thank you for this. Thank you it's not a religion and you reach for a relationship. Oh God, thank you so much.

Mark Driscoll states religion has gotten him in trouble in the past---me too. It leaves feelings of pride. Checked boxes....good, I'm warmer. Not checked, deflated, I'm colder. Too much red ink on the test... results dictate reactions. All that to say...Church today was awesome. What a gift to have the freedom and ability to experience community together. To reflect on my commitment to walk reflecting Jesus in my life. To show my children that racing, training, Ironman, protein, carb's, watts, means nothing unless it's done as an act of worship. To function how we are wired by him, because of him, and for him. Cool....

Shifting focus-I've been asked by a few of you what I hope to accomplish in Kentucky racing my next Ironman. I hope to do this....

Destroy it. Go faster than I ever have. Hurt. Get a time and placing so unbelievable that the only explanation is Jesus Christ.

Because If I can explain the accomplishment, analyze the "how and the why" it's not me in the first place.

Solid....

Just a few quick thoughts....

This past week has been solid. Good training leading into Kentucky and I'm right where I should be-it's a confidence builder and with each passing day confirms I'm ready.

My family have been the best training partners in the world. Evelyn, Ian, and Rhonda...I am so thankful for the blessing to share this life with you. I often feel like the luckiest human on the planet. I love you all so much. Thank you...

Ok---so, the plan....Recovery and rest will be key for me. Getting "fresh" and to the line rejuvenated is vital-and, I will do as well as I did in Texas to ensure this. With all the possibilities that could Go wrong in a race-the things you have total control over must be performed to perfection. Nutrition,rest, planning, and recovery can, and will Be a priority for me. I can't say that enough.

I've written about this in the past as a mistake I've made. It boils down to turning off my ADD, and turing on the TV or opening a book, whatever--just finding comfort in boredom. Especially race week. Actually-These are some of The best memories I have had from past races. (They can also be some of the worst if not done correctly) Just relaxing...Writing, praying, and thanking all those who allow me the privilege to compete really is so important.

Now-I still have work to do-sessions that have to be nailed. But I am growing more comfortable with the idea and process of cashing in on my hard work with rest rather than cashing it out.