Then the whole town went out to meet Jesus. And when they saw him, they pleaded with him to leave their region.
Translation-"We give a crap about you Jesus-you freaking weirdo. We could care less about your love for others and the fact that in you is truth. Just go."
I've long loved this parable in Matthew. The context--Christ saves a few guys, delivers them, and shows He is the son of God....still, despite the whole thing taking place right in front of them--people still ignored him. I don't get it...right?
For me It's always been easier to use this example of what "others" do...or don't do. "How can so many refuse Christ when many examples in this life indicate God is our only hope?" I ask myself....totally ignoring the lessons this history means to me--Everyday.
What makes me think it's OK to see the blessings I have and ignore who gave them and why? Answer-Jesus has, and because He loves me. Embracing this hope is the root system to my life. It has to be, it just has to be. Thinking about this in the pool during my morning swim, I started to recall events in my life that He has done and I responded-- "Just Go....Not now....Come back when I need you, really...I'm fine". When I want God to show up in a cape, fix my problem, and hit the bricks...cool. Other than that, I got this.
Well...I don't. We don't. You don't.
I feel I've been "getting worked on". Sometimes for me training for Ironman-- the physical preparation is secondary. "Chopping wood, carrying water" is the obvious. The inside stuff-between the ears, and rib cage, is where the wrenches are turning and the wires are connecting.
This is an excerpt from an interview with Ryan Hall. Ryan is outspoken about his faith and desire to seek God, I admire this-
***It was easy for me to feel God's presence when it meant him taking me to new levels of physical performance but it took me years to learn to feel God's presence in my running even when I was struggling or just having an ordinary day. I don't believe God comes and goes as I once felt he did. I believe that as the Bible says, God is with those who are with him (Matt: 28:20, Deut 31:6, Isaiah 41:10), and this is my message. In a world where it is all about the guy on the top step of the podium and we are defined and define ourselves by the time on our watch, at the end of the day I am trying to spread the word that it ultimately isn't all about that. The sweetest part of life is that we can all have God. God is with those who are with him. It’s our choice and a free invitation to everyone.
Please...Pray for me. Pray that I trust in Him. Pray I focus on what I've been built to do and strive to glorify God with the blessing of this greatest sport in my life. Thank you Lord that in you there is freedom. Don't let me screw it up by thinking I did this-if that's the case....I won't even step on the line.
My hope is you, show me your ways, guide me in truth, in all my days.
OK....training...Things are on track--Very solid. I've had the blessing to be working with a friend these past few weeks getting dialed for Kentucky. I will share more about this later...but for the time being-(you know who you are), I am so, so grateful for your direction, guidance, and willingness to help. Working with you has done wonders for me. Thank you.
Oh!!! A few of you noticed last week I was "tweeting" about Rhonda running her first 5k. This was so awesome!!!--Working with her and encouraging Rhonda to stick with it has taught me a few things about how difficult it is for her to keep supporting me when I loose my focus, or let doubt creep in. (This is the work I spoke of earlier that I need to keep building "inside". It can easily get derailed if not careful. No foothold must be given.)
And Rhonda-You did it babe. You rule. I am so proud.
To wrap up here I want to mention how I am directing my focus for Kentucky....Specifically speaking about what to think when constructing the mental game for an event. It goes back to the guidance I am getting from my friend, and amazing athlete.
"9+ hours...That's it. Focus on that"
So simple..it's a puzzle.
I want to say a quick thank you to all the people backing me for this upcoming race. Ron-you and Vuelta Wheels have been instrumental in assisting me to get to Kentucky. I am forever grateful and can't thank you enough. The wheels are amazing-I mean that. But you are incredible. Thank You.
Living Fuel-I look forward to my recovery shakes. KC you have been so generous.
RYU of course-I love being on your team. I desire to show others what you represent in sport. Dedication, Discipline, and Desire. Plus-Your gear is the best.
The Athletes Lounge...I'll be coming to see you in the next few weeks. Stocking up on essentials, bike check up and whatever else I need. I will never take for granted the fact in my backyard is the greatest Tri-Shop in the country.
I want to remind you that this race is still a tool for me to use to show the Life Changing Work Living Water International is doing. Water...it all begins with water.....
It's been cool brainstorming with Chris and MTS. Next year is going to bring some big things and I am hopeful and excited to share them with you as soon as details are in place.
As always...Thank you. I meant what I said. Please...pray for me. And, let me know if you need prayer.
Having been back for a few days
and letting UFC 148 and the Vegas experience sink in was a smart choice. Think
before I post thoughts...wow, I'm becoming an adult. I've run the course
of emotions and feelings during my few days in Nevada. Most were solid,
good, and productive. Some, were not. I'll get to that...
Long story short...I had a great time.
My accommodations were stellar, the UFC expo was solid and meeting
RYU and its team was awesome. It's a weird thing to experience a trip
like this going as a "Professional". I don't say that in the
sense of a being a "Pro", but with the intent to act as a
"Professional". Actions, language, etiquette, manner... Just being
aware that I am an athlete, and around other athletes.
Fishbowl.
Not to mention surrounded by actual
"Professional athletes" that, put food on the table as a result of
their profession. All that to say I wanted to make absolutely sure I was not an
idiot. RYU means more than a T-shirt to me and I wanted to make that known. I
am so grateful for their kindness and focused on representing them with a
thankful heart...more on that later also.
*Side note* During a running session in Vegas-I
wondered how my actions would differ if instead of a RYU shirt, (or any one of the awesome supporters I have) I wore a "I serve Jesus Christ", or
"God is my King" T-shirt? Would that change anything?? My
actions, intent, focus? God forgive me for getting lost in
"me".
I forget (or ignore) that I'm forgiven and
loved by you. My hope is you and I never want "where" I am to
determine "who" I am. Cool thing here-I had opportunities to
share my Love for Christ on this trip and am thankful to have engaged in some
good discussion.
Ok... So, training.....it was productive. Other than hanging at
the expo and meeting with people....I trained. Put
around 43+ miles running, and 10k swimming. Nothing super tough- just smart.
Letting the heat and the elevation dictate my HR, I was content just to
"stay loose". It was evident I live at no elevation, and... Vegas had
it. The last day- (my final big run), I could feel the adjustment and it was
encouraging. In preparing to make a change in my training schedule I initially
freaked a bit knowing 3 days off my bike was a while-but (as I said in a
previous post)- I had a big week leading into this trip and lost nothing. I've
done this before w/ swimming -- "Bank" some time/ work. Not cram, or
overdo it. It should be a "shift" in the approach not overhaul. It can be done, and with some thought even help
address a few limiters. (Swimming endurance is a must for me to maintain)
Plus, the stress to "fit it all in" is sometimes not worth the
hassle and pressure. Rhonda helps me with this constantly.
Specifics-
**arrived late Thursday.
Friday 11 mile run/4.5k swim.
Saturday 6 mile run, 5.1 k swim, 6 mile run.
Sunday 19 mile run.
Fly home Sunday afternoon.
Recovery Monday.
I had to get creative to make it work-- Mapping
out where the pools are and fitting them inside workouts kept things
interesting. (Quick story)--On the second day I did end up in atougherpart of Las Vegas. It made me sad--
running by men and women sleeping, eating, baking in the hot sun on the
sidewalk. I made sure to say hello to any, and everyone. We who are fortunate
are so blessed. I was reminded of the song by "the Call"--
Well, it could have been me Living in that house With all those rooms With all that power And powerful friends Flattering friends It could have been me Oh, it could have been me
Well, it could have been me Living on that street Out in the cold With nothing to eat Dream of a home Dream
of a bride A life alone, locked outside God, it could have been me
The porn everywhere was haunting. This too made
my heart hurt and sad.
It made me think about how X3 church is such a great
ministry. Keep it up you guys. Don't ever stop. I still am fortunate to know the minds behind such a needed ministry.
Running through Freemont, and the older casinos
I could feel the rush of AC running past each. I wondered how the people
leaving fared the hours before battling "lady luck"???
"Must suck to have this heat hit you after a losing night" I thought.. By
the looks and stale smell of spirits- most were defeated. That too made my
heart sad. It was difficult for me to enjoy the pain and comfort of my run
because of the obvious, pain and discomfort on a the faces leaving. "Did
they loose rent money? Food? Bills? Child support? Eh... Who cares right?? What
happens in Vegas stays in Vegas".... Twisted. Running in the heat
makes you think. With levels of discomfort depending on the
day, my mind wanders...I can solve the world’s problems, or think my own are
bigger. Ultimately it clears my thoughts and allows me to feel clean-so,
it was obvious to notice the grime. (deep thought for the day)
Ultimately the reason for this trip was to
meet with RYU and talk--Go to the expo and be a part of the team. I did that
and could not have been more blessed. Shaking hands and telling people
who I was and what I do was a bit awkward at first-but, I was received warmly
by all and it was an honor. Plus-it was easy to say "I am a RYU
athlete". Oliver-you made me feel comfortable, *** you walking
between that MMA fighter and fan photo was very funny. You handled it with
grace, I think...I turned the other way and pretended not to know you. Honestly-- I'm
grateful for your kindness and willingness to hear me babble. Rocky-you
too man. I know I talk a mile a minute. Both of you had a ton going
on and I was stoked to just sit and chat--I've said this a million times, and
it never gets old...I am proud to be with RYU.
Next blog.....Kentucky is smiling......
Friday, July 6, 2012
It is time.
"Ittttt issssss Tiiimmmeeeee!" Bruce Buffer will
scream this tomorrow during UFC 148. With each utterance his voice will weaken, and by the main event it'll sound like he's been drinking sand.
I love it.
I say that to myself at times during training when I need to
motivate myself...."Ittt isssss Tiiimmmmeeeeee"... off I scanter,
swim, or pedal. Today as I woke in Las Vegas it didn't seem to
help, I was tired. I've been putting in big weeks and along with the
excitement of being here, altitude and heat, I felt a bit sluggish. Plus
the stress of being away from my family-even for just a few days-is obvious.
I promised Rhonda I would make the most of the time and get a good
run/swim block in. It's been a heavy bike week thus far and the plan,
since I arrived last night and leave Sunday was to focus on running/swimming
and give my bike legs a rest. I stressed about this at first-but, looking
at my data and training log-It's a solid plan. My run and swim were decent
today-but, again, I felt tired. Especially in the water. It reminded me
of a few years ago when I raced Pumpkin man here-- very tough.
Spending time at the UFC Expo was an experience.
In some ways, It reminded me a bit of being at an Ironman village.
Dudes walking around eyeballing each other dressed in battle gear and
focused. Peddlers of protein, supplements, and energy drinks. Seeing firsthand
how accessible the UFC fighters are reminded me of how the Pro's in
Ironman are too. I was honored to be at the RYU booth meeting with people and letting them know I'm not an MMA fighter... I'm a different kind of fighter, and I am thankful RYU has recognized this. I am so proud to be with team RYU.
Sam Sheridan in his book "The Fighters Mind-Inside the Mental
Game" showed me striking similarities between endurance athletes
and MMA fighters. I love this. I felt comfortable at the Expo today;
in a weird way I understand the desire these amazing athletes have to go the
extra mile. Because, usually it's the place you find solitude....rarely are
others there. These guys get that. I watched Jake Shields, Phil
Davis, Ian McCall and Johny Hendricks interact with the fans and people at the
expo. They were gentleman-but, I could see in their eyes.
They know how to work, it was obvious-these athletes are
disciplined. I am attracted to that and as I took it all in, I thought about
the podcast I listened to a few hours earlier on my run.
James MacDonald is amazing. "Walk in the Word"
(his podcast) has become a staple in my diet-today he spoke about doubt.
"Doubt is the soil that fear grows in". Crap...that is sweet. I
thought of all the doubt in my life, not just in athletics either...Me as a father, a husband, a friend, whatever...it creeps in. Coming full
circle to my initial thought.... To dominate in MMA doubt, distraction, fear, uncertainty...has
to be nonexistent. You can't "Step into the Octagon" and be a gladiator
wallowing in fear. Same with Ironman. It is--It certainly is. Once in the water and facing the day-have your head on straight.I gain strength just hanging around people that won't quit. We should be in our element on race day. Other thoughts on my run....were strength and weaknesses. Something these fighters have to know, and know how to get around them, fix them, strengthen them.
“Let me tell you the secret that has led me to my
goals: my strength lies solely in my tenacity.Louis Pasteur (1822-1895); Invented
Pasteurization
I lack natural talent. I lack speed. I've struggled with my nutrition and pacing. I need to work on my bike leg. These things are obvious to me. I'm working on them, and many more. Tenacity though...I have it. Maybe too much, to a fault. This afternoon during my swim I struggled for the first 2.5 k-it so was frustrating. I wanted to quit-but, I told myself give it another 100, and another, and another..it finally clicked. No-I wasn't breaking any records-but, I kept swimming and gained. That's what I encourage you to do when it sucks. Slow down and ask yourself-Am I tired, or just tired of training? Everyone at one time or another feels like bagging it or calling it a day when you have no other reason other than just feeling "blahh".
Push through. Push through.
I want to thank John and Sq1-he has taken such great care of me and I am proud to know him. Gabe you too man-It's a blessing to have you in my life. Thank you both. Thank you so much.
"Somewhere in the world someone is training when you are not. When you race him, he will win." Tom Fleming's Boston Marathon Training Motto
I absolutely love this time of the year. Tour De France and Olympic Trials, Olympics coming....(Along with the Dark Knight Rises)....So awesome. The former will help over the course of the next few weeks numbing the pain of hours on the trainer. The latter will be a reward for the former on a recovery day.
Yes-I ride a lot on the trainer...For a few reasons.
It keeps me honest.
I am at home with my family.
It works me.
It's hard.
It's boring. It is a time saver.
If used it can be and has been an awesome tool.
I've made mistakes in the past on the trainer though. ( been talked to sternly by a previous coach about riding six hours on the trainer-oops....) That's not to gloat-if anything it's to showcase how drive and stupidity can meet in a fender bender. It was cool to watch the "Borne" Trilogy all at once though. Ultimately I do believe long hours have served me well on the trainer. Now I'm careful, and it's something I believe in. Plus-Having Rhonda, Evelyn and Ian in the same room is the best.
Speaking of training--it is finally back on track. I was uncertain for a few weeks post Texas. I rested and then got back to it, but had some sessions where doubt started to put it's hands around my throat.My swimming has been encouraging, running is creeping to where I should be, and recovery (thanks Rhonda for my massages-AMAZING) is solid. Though as I write I am tired. I was moody today and actually took a nap....My moodiness is such a clue that I need rest. It was a big week and after a solid 4k this morning I used the remaining hours of the day to get some cal's in and chill.
Rhonda inevitability reminded her stubborn husband- this has never been nor will it ever be about "me". "Who gives a crap-get water to the thirsty." I run for Living Water International-
To my original point about this time of year. The Athletes in the TdF and the Olympic trials = unreal. I'm continually amazed by the discipline, dedication and passion that bleeds from every pore. It's fuel for the fire. Another awesome observation is all the people getting interviewed giving thanks to God-sweet...
Speaking of Amazing athletes--Congratulations to my friends Jason, Ryan , and Jake!!!! Ironman CDL!!!! You guys Killed it!!! I love these guys and am so happy for them. I've known them all for a short time but through calls, e-mail, skype, and text we've grown to become friends. A cool example of Christ---feeling so close to people you really never see. Jesus removes the film of new relationships. It's like God and his promise to us in a weird way....One second I'm a lost sinner...the next, a beloved son. No "getting used" to each other. "I'm in". That's kind of how I hit it off with these guys. Thanks you guys-for being my friends--way to rock it representing XXXChurch.com. at Ironman. Porn sucks. You don't.
Next week at this time I'll be in Vegas for UFC 148 and the UFC expo. I'm excited to be representing RYU. I can't tell you how much I love RYU gear. Training, casual, sleeping, just chilling...It really, really is quality stuff. I love it. I love being a part of what they are doing not only in MMA-but sports as a whole. It's an honor and I am so stoked! Thanks RYU-I will do my best for you always. Thank you.
I was able to talk to Rich Roll a bit this week-It's been so cool to pick his brain. Not only is Rich an amazing athlete, he is a smart dude. Finding Ultra, his latest book, is now in the hands of my wife and she agrees thus far--It's awesome. He has been an encouragement to me and it's a blessing to have him as a friend. He works hard and I respect his dedication so much.
Thanks Rick for letting me carpet bomb you with questions. It is appreciated more than you know.
Ok...to wrap up this A.D.D. post....Training is on track. UFC 148 is coming, my family rules, my friends rule, Jesus died for you.
Uh.....what else is there????
I'll be doing many updates from Las Vegas, and will let you know about the training I'll be doing too.
I remember as a kid how much I loved to play the game battleship. It was fun to imagine you could actually be good at something that was based-for the most part-on luck. Listening to my opponent launch his numbers out was nerve racking and exciting to me. I thought of this when I was informed that I would not be selected to move on to the semi-final round of the Kona Inspired athlete selection process. As it stands-I have one hole in the ship still open, and it's my turn.
Evaluating my situation from the begenning of the season til now-I gave myself a few opportunities to get to the World Championships in October. No...my reasoning behind applying for the Kona Inspired Athlete was not solely based on "Getting To Kona", I definitely want to, and know I can qualify. I did think it was another chance ( had I been given the privilege I would have not thought it less just because I did not, for lack of better words--earn it or "qualify"...) to spread the Living water International mission.
Note** Even mentioning the word "earn" does not make sense because those selected have earned it.
I couldn't believe some of the stories of the applicants. Simply awesome.
As mentioned--I really thought it more of an opportunity to spread the word and continue to bring attention to Living Water International-and, I'll continue to do so no matter what. I'm thankful for all the votes/views I received and was happy to just be part of the initial process. Good luck to those still in the running.
It's almost 4 weeks to the day since Ironman Texas. This break in blog entry's and twitter updates was not me being lazy-It was planned. I stepped away and focused on a few things for a month (something I promised myself I would do) to evaluate not only my nutrition, rest patterns, and training, but plan my approach into Kentucky. This is new for me. I am coming off a PB knowing I have the ability to cut even more time, go faster, qualify for Kona and possibly-- even podium. I know it's been "hazy" in previous blog entries on exactly where I want to finish or where I "think" I will. I'll clear that up...I want to qualify for Kona and I want to Podium. I have great sponsors supporting me, amazing people pulling for me, a wonderful family helping me, a solid cause to strive for, a loving God blessing me...for those reasons (and more)....I owe. Yes...this is going to be fun.
Having said all that-I desperately believe in what Living Water is doing.
I am privileged to run for an amazing vision and organization really focusing on changing lives.
Later this week I'll share some sponsorship news, upcoming plans, training approach into Kentucky and answer a few questions I've received over the past few weeks.
Thanks for checking in with this quick update....
Monday, June 4, 2012
It's been 2 weeks since Ironman Texas-Recovery went well and I am at it again. Busy getting things in line for Louisville already and dialing in my plan.
I will get an update out this week. Thank you to all who have e-mailed me and given support after Texas. I am still so thankful to log a 9:51 at Texas and am excited to see what goes down in Kentucky.
More soon.....
Thursday, May 24, 2012
"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.
.JPG)
