advance

Quick update....

1. Ultraman Hawaii is coming. I'll keep you informed about preparation.
2. Work with the Ameena Project is moving forward-- I CAN'T WAIT to share some things that are coming. It's so amazing and exciting. What's being done in small doses is bringing big change. Amazing what focus does.
3. Social media updates very soon. New website, streamlining FB/Twitter/blog, and Rhonda will be heading up a Pinterest campaign. I love you 9.
4. New sponsor information coming. I'm teaming up with an INCREDIBLE company.  Details coming...

That's it....more very soon

UM Canada

"Truly great friends are hard to find, difficult to leave, and impossible to forget."

Ultraman Canada is over....but the feeling, the vibration of the race has yet to subside. Intentionally waiting a few days to write my race report has served me well in the past, and, I hope it serves the reader well also with this re-cap.  I get so jumbled up sometimes -- the heart gets in the way of my brain and typing fingers along with chewed cheeks pay the price. Not this time. This time will be different.

Yeah...right...

I want to approach this like a high school book report. 

1. I'll tell you what I am going to tell you.
2. I'll tell you.
3. I'll remind you what I told you.

I've actually tried to imagine what someone would want to read and this has helped pick a few highlights I will share.  As a 'hook', you've got torn perineum, vomit, high speed chases, wrong pacing,  flat tires.... But first a word from my sponsors....

Before I start, I ache to thank the people responsible for providing me the resources and encouragement to compete in Canada this past week.

I know belching "thank you's" to sponsors is standard. This is not meant to be that. It can't be. Why? Because my sponsors seem more like family. Seriously. Example?? I was at a BBQ with RYU two weeks before this race with "Go get 'ems", and "You can do its" shot at me like I was dodging spit wads in high school.  It gave me chills.  It gave me strength. 

The family of Respect Your Universe/RYU is special.  Yes they have an amazing product. Yes, they serve the athlete and warrior in all. Yes it is the most functional and comfortable casual wear I have ever had. Yes I wore their compression shorts for the final 52.4 mile run leg of Ultraman. Yes-all this is true.  But the most important thing is they care. CARE. Like many that Just do it.. RYU lives it, eats it, breathes it, gives it, and expects it. Expects sacrifice. Expects commitment, and promises in return the same.  Thank you everyone at RYU. I had you with me.

Vuelta Wheels and my Orbea Ordu gave my 2-day bike split a smile leading into the run.  It was sweet.
My Ordu is fast. My Vuelta wheels are fast.

This provided me with confidence and assurance that I could push hard, and, I did. I am grateful for what they have done for me.  I mean it with everything that I am when I say I will NEVER forget the kindness you have shown me.

Living Fuel is nutrition that really helped me recover. It was necessary to take in clean burning fuel, not only leading into the race itself, but in between stages.  Thanks KC for everything!

The Athletes Lounge here in Portland Oregon had me dialed.  My bike, gear, kit, nutrition was DIALED. My crew had them on speed dial the whole time, but never had to call.  Thanks, Athletes Lounge, for getting me totally set for this race.


I'm fortunate to have these companies behind me.  Not only do they take an interest in my races, but also support the causes that strike a nerve in me.  These companies know my motivation for racing lies in bringing awareness to the devastating poverty experienced by children around the world.

 Working with Chris and More Than Sport has been a blessing.  He supports my passion to help the people of Haiti and my love for them.  My 'Taxi Initiative' for Mountian Top Misistries raised $2,500.00. Yes short of my goal, but the awareness, attention and hope to show others that there is More than Sport to endurance racing is cool.  That money will be used to change lives.  I emphasize...It will truly CHANGE LIVES. Thank you to those who donated and took an interest.

                                     

               

It's a blessing.


My crew were amazing. I was reminded over, and over, and over, just how important others are as I traveled deeper into the hole. Running next to my son, I kept thinking..."He's never, ever going to forget this.  It's going to be something he tells his kids." I thought how I wished I could have done something like this when I was his age.  I was overcome with the moment-all the time. Then I realized "I'll never forget this"...I also realized how much I was loved. I have been married to my best friend...BEST friend, for close to 21 years. We have known each other for over 25 years, and watching her crew me taught me how to love her in yet a different way.  It was incredible.  Eric. I love you.  Your sacrifice and service will never be understood fully if I just keep trying to say it in words. I will follow your example of action, and always be there for you.

Now back to our show...

So as not to stray from the key points too much, let me just say as a quick summary that the days leading into the race were perfect.  The trip driving up was a long day and I shook the fatigue off pretty quick.  In-processing, briefings, and pre-race meetings were awesome.  Actually, flawless is a better word.  The Ultraman Canada race crew is by far the most professional, well organized, accommodating, and interested people I have EVER been exposed to.  Amazing. Steve Brown the race director, along with his daughter Alexis were incredible. Steve King, Jane Bockus, Rick Kent, -- the list goes on...were incredible. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. I can't say it enough. This would be a perfect spot to mention the athletes, with their families and crews also.  It's easy to get over-saturated sometimes at races.  People (myself included) get so locked into "us, me, I," that "them, they, the others" are lost.  Both Rhonda and I agreed that it was a refreshing change to spend time with individuals who were kind.  I'm not kidding.  Athletes who had every right to stick to themselves decided instead to share thoughts, feelings, and time with my family. Humble is a word often used to describe people, but unfortunately, is less often a true reflection. But it's like beauty.  You know it when you see it, or experience it.  Here are a few examples--(sorry to embarrass some of my new friends but, too bad)--Dave Matheson, and Craig Percival.  These two gentlemen basically controlled a large portion of the race, but are as level headed as they come.  Yes, they'll slice your throat during the race, but after ensure you have a ride to the ER for stitches and neosporin to put on after you leave.  The stretch of athletes that were well accomplished and never bragged about it was refreshing.  Bad water 135 athletes, RAAM finishers, Death race, resumes that require being screamed aloud while read were instead whispered under breath and mumbled while walking away.  Pretty cool.  Examples   of action speaking louder than words were everywhere. 

Day 1-

I slept OK.  Normal tossing and turning but overall I felt rested.  Into the water with Eric in his kayak, and I was off.  The first 1:15 was crap. I just felt "blah."  Picking my head up to get a view, it was obvious that I was up in front-just was not sure where. I did my best not to worry about it and just kept swimming. Fueling was OK. I really did not feel like eating but managed to make sure every 25/30 I was taking in some calories. Hitting the 4 mile mark I finally started to feel solid and put in a good effort. I felt really strong but still was conservative.  Plan was to stay around an hour per 2 miles.  Felt like I could've pushed more, but my lack of experience in this was something I wanted to respect. I wanted sub 3 hours, and to feel good getting out of the water.  Did both--2:59 and a spring in my step.  I was a little sad it was over, but excited to get on my Ordu and roll.  Looking around I saw I had one athlete that completed the swim with me and until Rhonda said-- "A new swim record was set today!!"-I thought I was in a good position. "Relax...No way you can win an Ultraman in the swim.-Right??"  Thinking about what Rhonda had just told me, I knew I was already 25 min's down! "Crap...I'm going to be racing already". Yep....That's what I did. On the bike my idea of easing in was out the door and I hit the gas.  I had it too.  I felt awesome, and, I wanted to stay somewhat close to the leaders. It was out of respect, not fear. Guys like Dave and Craig can back up what they don't say. In other words-I was not at all surprised to see them up front.   So-my Watts/Power were higher than I planned, but I had no problem holding, so I rolled. Talking with my coach the overall plan was to be as dynamic as I could in each day, each moment. Adjust to what the moment called for. It's second by second-seriously. I found that out, too, in a three day race losing 3rd place by only six seconds is...funny. And, OK, maybe a little sad...but, it's cool.

 Nutrition, pace, fluid, whatever..I just had to flex. Every. Single. Second. It was awesome, and I learned A TON. I really understood a few things about myself I've managed to ignore over the past years racing. This, along with a massive, swollen, torn perineum, is something I brought home with me.  More on that later...

The bike on day 1 was fast.  We were racing and I LOVED it.  Getting splits from my crew-I would have third locked in and if my nutrition could continue solid I would be sitting decent for day 2. Heat started to pick up a little in the last twenty miles and I could feel my stomach a little off-- the cumulative fatigue was sinking in, but my attitude and mind were focused--  bypassing the rough patches was easy. 
It was a good day. 2:59:22 swim 4:21:33 bike day 1 total 7:20:55 

The evening of the day 1 was spent relaxing.  I felt good and was excited.

Day 2- 

The nerves were sleeping this morning.  Relaxed but excited after day one, I was placed up front at the start.  The chess game began early and played out for the first few hours as the lead group hopped back and forth watching each other like stalkers.  I was patient and even more importantly, happy. Despite a few surges and moves from others we arrived at "the wall" together.  2.5 hrs in and I felt good.  "Ok, let's go."  I broke away and pushed the pace thinking (and hoping ) that a few of the leaders may have some fatigue brewing from the day before.  I felt good and climbed well knowing the backside would be a good opportunity to open things up a little.  Cresting the top I felt strong and kept the gas on...then..I thought..."Oh, crap..Hey there..Hello hidden fatigue.  Peek-a-boo, I see you".  My body bit back and I slowed.  It was not horrible really, just enough to make me breath a little heavy and concentrate more than I expected.  I was passed by 1, then 2...Percival rode next to me, "Good climb mate..now c'mon, lets bridge the gap."  I had nothing.  I tried to hang on close but he and the leaders were slipping. Ok-I thought, no biggie.  Fuel, fluid, recoup, and catch up. 

I could still see the pack ahead but had work to do-I felt good and feeling settled in again I pushed. No sooner had I thought my rhythm was nestling back in cozy and warm--my chain popped off, and during a climb too. "Alright, chill"...I re-set it and 3 min's later same. "Crap!!" The first one was OK, but the second one hurt a bit. Seemed like getting going took a bit this time. I felt like the "re-set" this time was a bit more needy-and, I gave in.  In addition I was on a portion of the course that felt like I was in the freaking Twilight Zone. Conversation went something like this..."Hey cool, a down hill...nice, spin out the..le..wait, why am I going down hill..but, 3.2 mph? huh?, Uhhh....OK wait..Am I going up hill?? Where did everybody go?  Help me Tom Cruise..."  It was the first serious little 'dip' for me and I mentally stepped back, swallowed my ambition and just relaxed. Ultimately things were OK and for 1.5 hours I worked hard to catch the leaders again, all the while just repeating to myself "I am racing Ultraman." It's amazing what smiling can do--really.  I was talking with my crew captain, Eric, later in the week. His advice? "The only, only way to erase, advance, get through pain, anger, discomfort...is with gratitude. That's it...just be thankful." I found my self doing that a lot. 

example/problem-"Holy crap I'm so thirsty. Where is my crew? This is pissing me off-I have not seen them, in like....4 minutes?!"  Solution/thankfulness. "I could be in /Haiti right now with no crew at all. 
No automobile full of food and people that love me, serving me, giving me a choice of any number of drinks, food, and encouragement."  I found my self throughout UM telling Christian Isakson to "Just shut up and go."  I felt shame at times too.  We are so, so, so, blessed and I forget way too often. 

sidetracked....

So--despite a few things--I felt decent. Fuel/fluid were OK, but with the speed/pace being much faster than planned, my nutrition had to be adjusted.  I was able early on to get in some good solid food. Quinoa wraps, chicken wraps, banana's, potato's...felt good.  I pushed much more liquid/gel/cliff blocks/skratch near the  middle and end. I was processing the solids well, but still felt worn the last 30 minutes and resorted to a few chocolate nibs to bring me home.  The "fullness" was encouraging and the idea to try to keep the stove "stoked" to help recovery was working.  
Again--at the end of day 2 I was in third but,  the leader board was tight and the caliber of athletes here left no doubt that tomorrow's run would be a battle.   8:04:33

Day 3-

My nerves were up this morning and I felt a bit queasy. That night I woke at 1:40 thinking it was time to get up.  I was so happy until I saw my watch & realized I had hours before the run.  I tossed and turned and my stomach was sour and cramping. "No way this is happening."  Not worried at all, I just lay there and thought my gut was stressed from the two days prior.  My wife told me "It's nerves, suck it up, and I love you."  In part it was nerves, but the 'physcial' feeling of it felt more like gas. Oh, yeah....my jacked up sack...I almost forgot.

The ride from the day before was kind enough to let what I call "A sack monster" take a good bite out of me.  Sometimes these cute little guys sneak into your race kit and take a little bite....right from between your legs. Actually, with my medical background I feel like I can tell you this without sounding like a psycho. Medical term for today,class is ....perineum.


I had no idea I was in bad shape until I lost my chain yesterday during that climb.  As I dismounted to fix it I saw the little "sack monster" slip out from my shorts--and scurry off, complete with my flesh in it's mouth and a grin on his grill. I was in trouble.  It hurt. I really had no idea how bad it was.  Eventually I was able to get creme on it and get home--but waking up for the run, was sore. Wait, a better word would be raw.  Ripped, torn, you get it.  It's funny how Ultraman removes all barriers...my crew and I spent the morning inspecting it. "Ah crap Dad, that sucks." was my son's response. Rhonda and Eric both winced.

I smiled a smile--of gratitude. 

"Thank you Lord I have a chance to show my swollen, half near severed scrotum to my family"....Ahhhhhh....Ultraman.

Treating my injury as bakers treat cakes for children's birthdays, I frosted it like a pro. It felt much better and throughout the run I would need to be careful. I think I just sat wrong on a fold and didn't realize it till it was too late.  A good lesson.  Keep locked in on  EVERYTHING while racing-small things, can become big things. Or feel like big things....real, big, painful, enlarged, ok...you get it.

"You're running too slow babe!! Your pace is too slow!!"  Rhonda  told me this a few times inside the first three hours.  I told her I was good and forced...forced, myself to be patient.  Eventually...I realized it--She was right, and....it crept in..."Dang it, I should have listened". Talking with Craig post race we discussed the "carrot" of racing...Should have, would have, could have--right??  What if I did start fast, faster, tried to stay with the pack from the beginning???  Then how would I have fared?  Either way The top 4 guys were out front the second the cannon went off-and they were moving fast. I just relaxed.  I actually had a good conversation with Rich Roll before the run and he reinforced my gut feeling. "Patience. Patience. Patience." It worked for the most part really, but.... I refuse to blame it all on my pace-The athletes in front of me were just so very strong. Dave is ridiculously fast and smart. Craig, Inaki, Mike, John--my hat's off to you guys. You are amazing athletes. 

 I moved from 14th, to 10th, to 6th, to 4th and sat in. I was solid til 33, and went though a few rough patches on and off. Bergen--who I had gone back and forth with pretty tightly for the three days-- had a good lead.  I had to stay close if I wanted to keep third, and I actually thought to my self early on, "If I hold strong I could maybe jump into second."  The splits were coming back to me from my crew, and I noticed his crew car circling back.  They even asked me how I felt.  It was not a mean tactic by any means, either. His crew was cool, & I liked the idea of battling.  

My deficit was dropping..18 minutes, 14 minutes, 12, 10...9...and...That was it. With 6 miles to go Rhonda said I was just over a mile behind and the gap would not close.  I tried, and  the pace I "thought" I was running vs. my actual pace was way off. No kidding, had you had asked me I would've told you I was on my way to break the 4 minute mile. Honestly, I could barely hold pace. It hurt. I felt together for the most part, and I was doing my best to suspend judgement till the end, but knowing I had put a ton of time into Craig and Inaki, and lost time to Bergen..I thought "Ok-focus...try to stick in 3rd".  Eventually I would finish and see 3rd place slip by six seconds.  Craig came over and hugged me while I was on the massage table. I was so freaking happy for him. I was happy for all of us. 

The remainder of the week would bring the awards banquet, hugs, hand shakes, and Thank yous. It was glorious. It was incredible. It was Ultraman.

To the athletes....David, John, Craig, Michael, Inaki, Alexey, Shane, Aaron, Michael, Shlomi, Andrew, Alan, Greg, Michael, Iona, Stacey, Christopher, Lucy, Paul, Brian, Devon, Kathleen, Peter, Peter, Ariane, Rory, Bruce, Nick....

Thank you.

Meeting one of my favorite athletes in the World.
Here is a link to my Video Blog also.

Ultraman Video

No one can pray and worry at the same time.

I stared at my race bracelet today in awe that I am here.

Got in late yesterday..food, bed.

This morning I woke ready, felt rested, and exhaled.

Plan was to get in my sessions at a reasonable time, relax, and prep for the first logistics meeting with my crew.

All went well.

Of course coffee at one of my favorite coffee houses (I am serious)in the world, "The Bench" was a priority today.  I've spent a lot of time in Penticton and this place has some of the best coffee I've ever had.

I'm from Portland too. It did not disappoint.

After in-processing we spent some time reading over information and had coffee.  I did this interview and then headed to do a quick swim and ride before the crew information session.

Tomorrow is the welcome breakfast, more in-processing, and swim briefing.

Saturday is coming.

More soon.

Triathlon is usually an individual sport. Ultraman is teamwork.  Found out today how much my crew will help the outcome for me.  Rhonda is the most intelligent human I know. I am not worried.

ULTRAMAN VIDEO INTERVIEW DAY 1

here we go

Headed to Pentiction today...Ultraman this week.  It's here....

I'll be sending updates as much as possible along with some interviews, videos, and pictures.

Also-for those who are interested....

twitter.com/lukeninetwenty
FB Christian Isakson
FB Luke 920
Instagram luke920


These will be great ways to check in with my progress.

Also-Ultraman Canada should also have updates.

More tomorrow from BC.....

absolute beauty....

You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you.

Song of Solomon 4:7

30,000 feet somewhere above Chicago...

I believe in absolute beauty.  

Been thinking about this since getting picked up in Detroit by one of the greatest people in my life. Eric-feels like a brother actually, (a brother like no other. He's got soul, soul,soul sweet soul) and I love him. Eric, thank you for bending to meet me in need man.  Thank you for spending your time, money, and your brilliant mind on me. Flying out to crew me in a few weeks at Ultraman Canada will be one of the best parts about the event for me and I love you. It was awesome to catch up for a day and talk about race stragety.

Ultraman Canada crew. Good to meet up and talk.

Talking like I had been shot out of a cannon, as I usually do with anyone, not just Eric, we stumbled into a conversation about beauty.  How it's something you know when you see it. How it's not just-subjective, but can be observed. 

Example--These past few days I've been in Michigan with Rhonda and her family for a reunion on Lake Huron.  I'll try to be brief...(but won't be)

Rhonda is going to kill me when she sees I posted this picture. She just looks beautiful. 

I was in AWE staring at Rhonda throughout the week.  In her bathing suit, sun dresses, pj's....whatever, She looked stunning.  How I continue to be out done by her pure physical beauty is ground shaking. I mean it with all that I am. At 39 I feel blessed and so, so,so,so fortunate that I still get that lump in my throat, sweaty palm, butterfly in gut feeling when I'm away from her, see her in a new outfit, or just get slapped by a glance that I am frozen by. I won't even start about her soul and inside, the real amazing part..but, (transparent here)....she still rocks my world when she walks by.  It's an absolute wonder and gift of God.  To desire & grow with her is my only hope and goal in this life.  I just love her so much.  SHE is beautiful. 

Ian is beauty. Stabbed in the heart of what's brewing, I saw Ian meet a friend this week and throw rocks in Lake Huron with her.  It twisted my inside with excitement and sadness.  He will go away someday and I quake at the thought even now.  Ian again also filmed me during an open water swim in lake Huron and added a few lines of commentary that ensured he loves me as hard I as I love him.  When I heard that...I heard beauty.

Ian will also probably kill me..but, just a cool picture.

Evelyn is beauty.  Her face when I landed in Michigan and able to catch up (my family left a few days prior), gave memories of just staring at her in her crib.  She too roamed around the resort we stayed at as a woman-laughing with family, hanging out at the campfire with new friends, making me so proud.  I fear the pinch of the time I hold her before she steps out also.  So, so beautiful. My one and only "little".

My 'Little'...sleeping next to me...

I love them all so much.  The sacrifice each has made for me to get to where I am at now is an insult to even try to put into words. What they have done is beauty.  Adjusting schedules, coming to the pool and watching me swim lame lap after lap. Meeting me, with fuel halfway during a run, or waiting for me to finish with a ride to eat dinner, having ice bath's ready after a big day..whatever...they do it.  Even this trip, our vacation, has been a little muted with my final prep into Canada.  You are all the best, and I owe you all.

The real Ultraman Crew....

Just under 4 days in Michigan was put to good use.  Rhonda really ensured I did not loose any momentum and Chris worked out the training to my advantage.  The long runs and bigger open water swim's built confidence and fitness.  I'm foaming at the mouth to get my fresh legs on the bike and can feel the result of the big bike block I did prior to the little detour settling in.  Take home point--flex. 

Got some solid open water work done. Feels good.

No matter what.  Training around and with family is better than training through them.  It just does not work. 

Back to the discussion with Eric--Talking beauty.  Where will I find it when I am knee deep during the Ultraman??  It's coming I know, and so is the pain, doubt, hope, fear, joy, discomfort....it's there, right now. Waiting for me.  

I won't release my strategy for UM--Maybe after the race I will discuss my approach, but-the only people that really know are Chris, Rhonda, and myself.  It's not tough to figure out. Swim, Bike, Run. Right?? Yes and No.

I sat at the airport today and a wave of uncertainty smashed me.  Part fatigue, (part sadness that I'm leaving), I practiced working through it like I've done in races and will do in two weeks during the Ultraman.

"Ok...what is this feeling, and why is it hitting me hard right now?..I don't like this hollow sensation and worry. What can I do right now to flex? Bend? Re-set?"

Athletes have to adjust these bio-feedback signals a lot in, and out of racing. Especially during an event. If you have not been there ever-you will be. It HAS TO BE DEALT WITH AND PRACTICED BEFORE IT HAPPENS.  It's like a nutrition plan, pace plan, or race plan. 

Should I drink? Eat? Slow my pace? Quicken?  Be thinking different thoughts?  Reflect on what I did to get me ready vs.what I did not??  Know this--when your attitude changes,  something is brewing.  I don't just mean when you 'hurt' either.  It will hurt.  It should hurt. **Chris has been adamant about telling me throughout my bigger training blocks.."It should not feel good man.  You are training, building, working".  I'm talking about ATTITUDE and EMOTION. Putting in the practice of - suspending judgement, if that makes sense, during workout's is a great way to build this tool.

Studies have shown during endurance events, espically Ironman, many drops or massive swings in thought are related to a fueling issue. Many greats say when you feel good-eat/drink/fuel. When you don't.... eat/drink/fuel. ***I'm not talking overdoing it either.  I've made that mistake too many times. I made a bad habit of getting locked "into a plan" and ignoring my body's signals. Patience is sometimes the food/fuel you should eat. Bottom line again-when something is coming...deal with it early. (I'll send out a link to a great article by Dave Scoot about this)

So...Sitting here in my terminal feeling thoughts creeping in, I shot an e-mai to Chris. Shared a few things, vented, and read his response.  It worked.  Had I not, it would have festered a bit and maybe grew.  This is something I do with Rhonda all the time also. Many times the more prepared you feel the easier it is to have concern, or worry, because you/I/we know what work has gone into the training, and what expectations of ourselves are.

Ooops...Wandering here...that's what happens when I'm locked in a flying silver bus, jacked on coffee, and amped...  "Hey..I'll just pretend I'm a 'writer'...." Not good. Plus I'm on a full plane and  managed to be the only one with a row of 3 seats to my self....Talk about beauty?!?

Look....The idea behind my "beauty" thing is just this...

I feel surrounded by it, and still ignore it a lot of the time. Shame on me.  Even in races where I can't think of anything...beautiful.  When it is ugly, gross, painful..and just hurts, there is still beauty.  Even more actually.

I know God screams it and I plug my ears. He shines it and I close my eyes. He wraps me in it and I shrug it off like a spoiled  two year old refusing a nap.  Many times--heck, most times, beauty is preceded by pain.  Rhonda and I have had discomfort and fights, Yet, she is more beautiful than EVER, and our relationship is beautiful. Ian has driven me insane and Evelyn questioned my ability to be a good Dad,  yet to find something as beautiful as two sleepy eyed kids coming down the stairs wanting me to make pancakes and eat with them is a mystery, and sheer beauty. Ironman has taken me to the rivet and made me look uglier than roadkill-yet, I've been able to help many in need with racing these events in very hard places, and I see beauty.  Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior was murdered and died a horrible death-But this beauty is the most beautiful of all. Redemption=beauty. Man, what that morning must have been like when he walked out. Thank you God for all this beauty around us. Thank you for giving me the desire to worship you. 

Thank you for giving me a chance to race Ultraman.  It looks terrible at times to me, scary, and ugly.

But I know the beauty will be there. And...if it's not???  

Rhonda, Ian, Evelyn and Eric will be waiting for me.

Beautiful. 

close..waiting...

“Wait on the Lord" is a constant refrain in the Psalms, and it is a necessary word, for God often keeps us waiting. He is not in such a hurry as we are, and it is not his way to give more light on the future than we need for action in the present, or to guide us more than one step at a time. When in doubt, do nothing, but continue to wait on God. When action is needed, light will come.” 
― J.I. Packer, Knowing God

Training and preparation has been priority number one.  "Team Isakson"is in focus mode..honestly over the past few weeks they have had to kick my butt out the door.  All that to say...Things are moving well and I am anxious to pull the trigger and go.

This week has been a heavy week but I have been able to get a few videos done and will include a few pictures here of me in training mode.

EARLY OPEN WATER WORK HAS BEEN A BIG FOCUS.

Yesterday was a solid day...Open water swim, bike, run, lap swim w/ speed work, bed late.  I woke this morning and was assured that I absorbed the day well.  During my last block this has been a common theme. Work, rest, absorb..repeat.

THANKS CHRIS. SO PROUD TO BE WITH MTS.

Thanks for the patience and understanding with the gap between posts.  Leading into Canada I will be informing my social media sites on how you can follow me during the race.  I'll be having frequent updates on FB, Twitter, and will also releasing video and interviews during race week.

Thank's for all the well wishes.

Here is another quick video talking about Living fuel and finishing up a run.

Stay tuned for other videos....and much longer blog post this week.

LIVING FUEL + TRAINING VIDEO

Never thought I would...

“any fool can be happy. It takes a man with real heart to make beauty out of the stuff that makes us weep.” 

So much going on...Let's get to it.

Last Friday I was fortunate enough to be invited to share on the ABC affiliate here in Portland--channel 2 KATU.  AM Northwest is a morning show after Good Morning America and I was excited to talk about new things happening, Ultraman Canada, and training.  Below is a link to the interview if you would like to watch it.

My daughter snapped a few photos during the show.http://www.katu.com/amnw/segments/Endurance-Athlete--Ultra-Ironman-Competitor-Christian-Isakson-212504621.html

A few Sundays ago after Church our family had to 'divide and conquer'.  I was off to speak at a mens youth group at another church,  my son was dropped off at martial arts/tricking class, and my wife & daughter were headed home for a few hours to chill out. Plans were to sync up again in a few and hit the movies.  Days like this are special for us all here at team Isakson --the amount of training I'm doing now leading into Ultraman Canada is consuming-it's getting close.

What was going to be a good day.... turned out to be horrible.

Rhonda and Evelyn walked into our home and were not met with the usual tapping and prancing of our Boston Terrier's feet.  Weird??? Evelyn giggled and noticed our dog was sleeping on the floor of the living room sprawled out--her hind legs visible  from behind the couch. My wife noticed something different.

Leslie (yes, my son named the dog)...was dead.

Somehow Leslie managed to get into our recycling bin and wedge her head inside a yogurt container.  Poor little dog died what she loved doing...eating.  My daughter was hysterical. I mean it...she was devistated.  I phoned home after speaking to the youth group and could hear screaming in the background.

"Leslie is dead!!!"
"What?!..How??"

Rhonda told me what she had found, and indicated Leslie had been there a while. I hurried home knowing how sad it would be when I arrived.

I say this carefully, but..we are not 'pet' people.  For many reasons we just haven't been big on having pets. I'll keep it at that. My son had begged for 2 years straight to get a dog and we refused. Many reasons really--our schedule, time, lifestyle. I also refused to have a dog and not take care of it--just really never appealed to us.

Eventually Rhonda and I caved & circumstances led us to finding a Boston/French Bulldog mix. She was the coolest little dog ever. I started to change and we all began to love that fat little, kind, lovable dog so very much. Four years we spent with her, and grew fond of horrible breath, horrible gas, and Leslie's kind eyes. She really was a part of us. I never ever thought I would say this--but when I walked into the house to find my daughter in tears holding her lifeless body--I hurt. I was very, very sad. I knew I would miss that dog.

What a fluke occurrence. The container was big enough to cover her face and get lodged on her head behind her ears where it was hard to get air.  I could not believe it as I patted her belly and knew my son would be heart broken. 

It really, really, really......really sucked.

Picking up Ian and telling him the news was horrible.
Burying her was horrible.
The rest of the week was horrible.

It was extremely tough to see Ian and Evelyn so very sad. Rhonda and I were hurting too. Questions that would seem easy to answer-were not.  It's just a dog...right??  Nope. 

I never thought I'd feel like this--all because of that little mass of fat.  The week brought tons of sadness, discussion, tears, and reflection.  I never, ever, thought we would have a dog. I never thought I would grow to love it. I never thought it would hurt to have to dig a hole and place her in it. I never thought I would struggle, despite my faith in God, to have an answer for my twelve year old son when he asked through his uncontrollable tears and inaudible words..."Why did this have to happen Dad?"

We prayed together a lot.  Not because we couldn't handle Leslie dying, but more so how thankful we were to have had her in our life for a while and how fun she was to be with.  We prayed how thankful we were to be with each other, and how it made it less heavy.  Throughout the week during my training I kept reflecting on that sentence that was seared in my head..."Never thought I would".

I decided to make a list of ten things I "Never thought I would" and just see where it ended up. Wasn't tough, and it grew larger than ten quickly.  Decided to narrow down the ones specifically relating to 'sport', but first share a few of the others, the ones that matter the most. Plus..kinda helped through the crappy feeling of Leslie being gone.

*Never thought I would end up living with the true love of my life and honest, no kidding best friend.

*Never thought I would have a son that wants so bad to be me and ignore my failings.

*Never thought I would have a daughter more beautiful, complicated, and wonderful than a field of flowers.

*I am ashamed to admit this..but, at one time I never thought I would desire to follow Jesus Christ as much I desire now.

*Never thought I would actually enjoy a cup of coffee and walking around Target over 'going out'.

*Never thought someday I would prefer the Food Network over MTV.

*Never...ever.....ever thought I would love growing old as much as I do.

In relation to 'sport', again....narrowed down a few.

Never thought I would...

1.   Understand I do have to go slow to get fast.
2.   Realize how important sleep is and as I age, I need more. (well at least a little more)
3.   Grasp the importance of proper running form.
4.   Have to take little bites first-even though I have a big mouth.
5.   Take time to talk to athletes that are better, faster, and stronger and ask for their help.
6.   Be level headed enough to give advice back to others when I've grown faster, stronger, better.
7.   Be fortunate enough to have AMAZING SPONSORS like RYU, ORBEA, LIVING   FUEL,THE ATHLETES LOUNGE, VUELTA WHEELS. I mean that with all my heart.
8.   Race around the World, to eventually help around the world.
9.   Be an Ironman.
10. Prepare to compete in Ultraman.

**I never thought I would come to grasp the idea that sport is just that...sport.  It's not life. Funny how the death of a little dog made us all just step back and think.

If sport was taken from me tomorrow, I'll reflect on the privilege of taking part--but (this took years)  it's not everything.  Understand---I love to race, train, compete, everything that's involved, but, God help me if I place it where it should not be. Yeah, I skirt the line during big training blocks and have the support to do so. But, above family?  My relationship with Christ?...no freaking way.  

I believe the blessing of getting to be where I'm at is related to the understanding of where sport should be. Believe me...this is a struggle.

On a similar note, I get how I've been wired.  I'm SO, SO, SO,  thankful I'm built to be an Endurance Athlete, and I'll strive to be the best possible. I will NEVER quit. I won't waste a second wishing to be a golfer, b-baller, q-back.... I'm built to hurt, and to keep going. Never....ever thought I would say that.  But it's the truth. I love to push, I'm grateful for this.

Few more things here.

The Taxi Initiative is still moving forward, and this is awesome.  My fundraising for the team to Haiti and Mountian Top Ministries is still full on, so please go here to see how you can help. 

Last week Rhonda and I met with the Ameena Project. An amazing orginization that works in Kenya.  Meeting Ian and Shari was a moment I won't forget.  We hit it off and will be teaming up together for a really, really, big event.  I'll have much more information on this as the details fall into place. I'll also share a lot more about the Ameena Project. 

Farmington Gardens has been kind enough to extend an invite and allow a fundraiser to take place in the future.  More Than Sport and Chris Lieto will be involved and the idea of the Taxi Initiative 'giving lifts' is taking shape.  More very soon.

I want to say thanks to Respect Your Universe and the team that works at RYU.  These people have treated me with such kindness and support.  Not only is the gear they have (and the gear they are releasing) solid, but the company itself is incredible.  So proud to be included within their vision. 

On that note I congratulate one of their team for completing his first Triathlon!!!! Kaveh solid work man! DO NOT STOP! Way to push through and finish strong.  I'm so happy for you.

Geting to know Kaveh has been so cool and he and the team at RYU wanted me to include a few pointers for interested athletes attempting, or considering a triathlon.  Cool!!! No problem. Along with the insight from my list above I'll relay five "should do's" for new comers.  Next entry I'll do a specific article and include five more. As always if you ever have any questions just shoot me an e-mail.

So....straight forward, and to the point.  Five things you should do if new to the sport of Triathlon.  Thinking back-this is what I would tell myself...

1. RESEARCH and KNOW what you are getting into. Talk, read, surf, listen, seek out (like this) those who have the answers or direction. Locally The Athletes Lounge is a great resource. Books, Mag's, and  better yet people who can give good advice.

2. Start to keep track of what you eat. Seriously....It's not tough. Take a notebook and start on a Monday morning. Every time you eat-- note what/how much/when. Heck...even if you don't ever do a Triathlon-try this once and see what you see.

3. Go to a good running store and get a good pair of shoes.4. Write down the main reason you want to do a Triathlon-Put it on your fridge.

5. Buy a calendar. Place it next to the 'reason' on the fridge.

I'll vamp on this later.