Well my injuries from my fall are still hindering in all aspects of life. Hope the knees heal up ASAP. I went back to the treadmill on Wednesday and ram 2.5 miles in 30 minutes. Used the safety cord.
Thursday ran 3.3 miles in 31 minutes.
I am back at it. Barely.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Monday, December 26, 2011
Late december 2011
My knees are all bloody, my right ear is skinned up and oozing,right hand bloody and the top of my head is abraded very bad and is nearly bleeding. That is my condition after I came home from a short run on Christmas eve day. I think back about what happened and why.
I ran down to the apartment office workout room (.35 miles away ) to run on the treadmill. I only had a half an hour to run so I thought I could get in 3 miles easy. This would be a safe run out of traffic on Reid School Road. I got on the treadmill and gradually worked my way up to an 8 minute pace. I was also trying to hit 190 strides per minute. I began to get really winded and had to stop the run by straddling the belt. I was really pushing it at a mile into it. As I stopped to slow my heart down I began to feel light headed too. The next thong I remember was waking up with my head on the moving belt. I struggled to lift my head up. It felt like minutes. Like I was being eaten by a monster and I was conscious while it happened. Help!
So I did get up and i remember thinking "did I fall asleep while running?" and wondering if i had gotten much sleep the night before. There have been times I've done dumb things when sleep deprived . I turned the machine off then headed home. I thought it was funny and I laughed at myself. I was not sleep deprived. I ate a huge amount of lasagna the night before. This morning I had two cups of coffee only after waking. So the coffee was at 830 am and my run started near 11 am.
Another factor in the passing out was my fitness or lack of it. I went to Indiana for the week and did not exercise at all. Even before that my workout load had hit near rock bottom. I did get 12 miles of running the week before going to Huntington.
One day you are finishing a ultra distance triathlon (140.6 miles)and another day you are passed out, face on the ground after 1.4 miles.
Oh yea the treadmill did have a safety cord that I ignored. I think I learned my lesson there. Wear it dummy! Eat breakfast! even a small one before a workout. Take it easy after a week or so of no workouts and a light training load.
Right before I passed out I was trying to get my pulse rate reading from the handhold sensors built into the machine. I wish I would have had a monitor on for continuous readout. I have gotten into a rut lately of not wearing my monitor the last two months.
So i am now nursing my wounds. The knees are pretty bad with lots of skin missing. Road rash? I also am at a real low point mentally and physically. I will begin running again and riding. At the end of January I expect to join the Y and swim. My goals are non specific but going back to Wilmington in October is a possibility. I have a long way to go.
I ran down to the apartment office workout room (.35 miles away ) to run on the treadmill. I only had a half an hour to run so I thought I could get in 3 miles easy. This would be a safe run out of traffic on Reid School Road. I got on the treadmill and gradually worked my way up to an 8 minute pace. I was also trying to hit 190 strides per minute. I began to get really winded and had to stop the run by straddling the belt. I was really pushing it at a mile into it. As I stopped to slow my heart down I began to feel light headed too. The next thong I remember was waking up with my head on the moving belt. I struggled to lift my head up. It felt like minutes. Like I was being eaten by a monster and I was conscious while it happened. Help!
So I did get up and i remember thinking "did I fall asleep while running?" and wondering if i had gotten much sleep the night before. There have been times I've done dumb things when sleep deprived . I turned the machine off then headed home. I thought it was funny and I laughed at myself. I was not sleep deprived. I ate a huge amount of lasagna the night before. This morning I had two cups of coffee only after waking. So the coffee was at 830 am and my run started near 11 am.
Another factor in the passing out was my fitness or lack of it. I went to Indiana for the week and did not exercise at all. Even before that my workout load had hit near rock bottom. I did get 12 miles of running the week before going to Huntington.
One day you are finishing a ultra distance triathlon (140.6 miles)and another day you are passed out, face on the ground after 1.4 miles.
Oh yea the treadmill did have a safety cord that I ignored. I think I learned my lesson there. Wear it dummy! Eat breakfast! even a small one before a workout. Take it easy after a week or so of no workouts and a light training load.
Right before I passed out I was trying to get my pulse rate reading from the handhold sensors built into the machine. I wish I would have had a monitor on for continuous readout. I have gotten into a rut lately of not wearing my monitor the last two months.
So i am now nursing my wounds. The knees are pretty bad with lots of skin missing. Road rash? I also am at a real low point mentally and physically. I will begin running again and riding. At the end of January I expect to join the Y and swim. My goals are non specific but going back to Wilmington in October is a possibility. I have a long way to go.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
End of november
Last week I had a zero running week. No miles. That kinda surprises me. No running but some other outdoor good fun fishing with Kristen at Lake Robinson. We are like beginners at it. what I learned from my dad plus what Kristen learns from her friends gets us up and "running".
I had three bike rides: mon, tue and Saturday. Saturday was a big ride that left my legs shot, used up and dead! So sore. It was 80 miles with almost 5200 feet of climbing. Went with Doug up to Saluda via TR and Tubbs Mountain. Came back by lake Robinson.
Chilly morning but it warmed to mid 60's. Great day with goofy Guth. Can I call him a crack head? Maybe a cracked head is more like it. Like Humpty Dumpty, Doug had a great fall bumped his noggin hard. I am amazed he is riding so far and so strong after such a near fatal head concussion. He patiently waited on me as the ride back from Saluda got hard for me to keep going. Where did my fitness go? Doug nearly got his angel wings but he has to stay on earth so I have a ride partner. Goal for 2012: be able to keep up with Doug on our rides. :•)
Tonight went for a 5.6 mile run after work. It was 37 degrees so the gloves and sock hat were used. Felt good after I stumbled and shuffled for the first 10 minutes. I was then warmed up and fell into a good rhythm.
I had three bike rides: mon, tue and Saturday. Saturday was a big ride that left my legs shot, used up and dead! So sore. It was 80 miles with almost 5200 feet of climbing. Went with Doug up to Saluda via TR and Tubbs Mountain. Came back by lake Robinson.
Chilly morning but it warmed to mid 60's. Great day with goofy Guth. Can I call him a crack head? Maybe a cracked head is more like it. Like Humpty Dumpty, Doug had a great fall bumped his noggin hard. I am amazed he is riding so far and so strong after such a near fatal head concussion. He patiently waited on me as the ride back from Saluda got hard for me to keep going. Where did my fitness go? Doug nearly got his angel wings but he has to stay on earth so I have a ride partner. Goal for 2012: be able to keep up with Doug on our rides. :•)
Tonight went for a 5.6 mile run after work. It was 37 degrees so the gloves and sock hat were used. Felt good after I stumbled and shuffled for the first 10 minutes. I was then warmed up and fell into a good rhythm.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Leaf Tour
Been making time lately to clean up the apartment, do crossword puzzle, play chess and work on my old truck. So much put off training for B2B. Now I'm taking smaller runs and going two days without workouts.
Friday I ran 3.8 miles. Saturday I rode up to Tigerville in the chilly morning air and joined up with a hundred or so cyclists on the Leaf Tour. Got there late and missed joining Doug Guth. Decided to try and ride fast and up to the lead group. Passed many riders. Could not catch the front though. Rode over to Table Rock area. Very beautiful scenery. The big climb and we were halfway. Met Robin Blackburn at Aunt Sue's where people had lunch. Took off some layers and started a Powerbar. I went backwards looking for Doug (he was ahead of me!) and back to the bottom of the tough climb. Took me about 6 minutes from the bridge to the summit.
Back on to SC 11 and no mans land (riding solo). Not fun. Got back to Tigerville and took of leg warmers. On way home came up on an accident involving a motorcycle. Firetruck had traffic stopped on SC 253 but I rode in the grass around it.
Home around 2:30 pm and time to eat. Did 78 miles with about 4800 feet vertical.
Sunday ran 4.2 miles pretty fast for me. Worked on truck with Kristen and chess too. Pizza, beer, donuts, blueberry pie and ice cream. Rewards.
Friday I ran 3.8 miles. Saturday I rode up to Tigerville in the chilly morning air and joined up with a hundred or so cyclists on the Leaf Tour. Got there late and missed joining Doug Guth. Decided to try and ride fast and up to the lead group. Passed many riders. Could not catch the front though. Rode over to Table Rock area. Very beautiful scenery. The big climb and we were halfway. Met Robin Blackburn at Aunt Sue's where people had lunch. Took off some layers and started a Powerbar. I went backwards looking for Doug (he was ahead of me!) and back to the bottom of the tough climb. Took me about 6 minutes from the bridge to the summit.
Back on to SC 11 and no mans land (riding solo). Not fun. Got back to Tigerville and took of leg warmers. On way home came up on an accident involving a motorcycle. Firetruck had traffic stopped on SC 253 but I rode in the grass around it.
Home around 2:30 pm and time to eat. Did 78 miles with about 4800 feet vertical.
Sunday ran 4.2 miles pretty fast for me. Worked on truck with Kristen and chess too. Pizza, beer, donuts, blueberry pie and ice cream. Rewards.
Friday, November 11, 2011
11-11-11 wowwy wow
The date, the 1's. It just makes my head spin. Ok so I'm being sarcastic.
Early this week i rode 22 and 32 miles on Monday and Tuesday. Such nice Autumn weather. A bit more than just a jersey but not much. Perfect. So then I've had two days in a row with no workout. Should i worry? Then today I only ran 3.8 miles. I'm getting lazy. The post huge race syndrome?
Tomorrow (11/12/11), if I wake up before noon, I may do a group ride. The leaf ride starting at North Greenville University starts at 9:30 am. Tonights low in the low 30's will make for chilly start.
Early this week i rode 22 and 32 miles on Monday and Tuesday. Such nice Autumn weather. A bit more than just a jersey but not much. Perfect. So then I've had two days in a row with no workout. Should i worry? Then today I only ran 3.8 miles. I'm getting lazy. The post huge race syndrome?
Tomorrow (11/12/11), if I wake up before noon, I may do a group ride. The leaf ride starting at North Greenville University starts at 9:30 am. Tonights low in the low 30's will make for chilly start.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
More B2B thoughts; back at it
Well I emailed setup events and they corrected my bike and T1 splits. Now about 6:15 for the bike and 15 minutes for the swim to bike transition. Good to know.
Been thinking about "what if" and possibly doing the event again. It is such an expense and for what reason? I now know I can do it. I know I could have done it a little faster. So I think if I was better organized, did not make such frequent and prolonged stops. And so on.
I so not regret at all stopping to chat with my brother and encourager. It made the day special. I even had a few extra minutes to spare. Lol. I was lucky I didn't take longer on the breaks because the last 7 miles I was pushing hard.
Look at my swim and I could take 5 minutes off that. The T1 time compared to others was long. I didn't care just wanted to do it right. Yet I goofed up and said no to the rain jacket and gloves. If I was warmer I could have gone faster. Maybe do the ride 30 minutes faster. I looked at my 15 splits on my Polar heart rate monitor for the run and see where I let my heart rate drop down too low. I could have done the run maybe 20 minutes faster. Add it all up and I'm looking at 11 hours. I now know the course, the logistics, where to improve and so on.
And I also know that something unforeseen or an injury or illness right before the event could ruin it. Any number of reasons I could take longer next time. So thankful I was healthy for B2B.
Ironman Florida was today I believe. That would be another good venue. The IMFL is farther away but still in the southeast U.S. Maybe a few years out for that. There is usually a waiting list anyhow. I'm aware of some upstate people that are participating in this event and will be listening for feedback.
So I rode my bike on Wednesday for 1.4 hours and Thirsday for 1.3 hours- it was so nice and cool with pretty fall leaves. I ran 3 miles on Friday night easy after work.
Been thinking about "what if" and possibly doing the event again. It is such an expense and for what reason? I now know I can do it. I know I could have done it a little faster. So I think if I was better organized, did not make such frequent and prolonged stops. And so on.
I so not regret at all stopping to chat with my brother and encourager. It made the day special. I even had a few extra minutes to spare. Lol. I was lucky I didn't take longer on the breaks because the last 7 miles I was pushing hard.
Look at my swim and I could take 5 minutes off that. The T1 time compared to others was long. I didn't care just wanted to do it right. Yet I goofed up and said no to the rain jacket and gloves. If I was warmer I could have gone faster. Maybe do the ride 30 minutes faster. I looked at my 15 splits on my Polar heart rate monitor for the run and see where I let my heart rate drop down too low. I could have done the run maybe 20 minutes faster. Add it all up and I'm looking at 11 hours. I now know the course, the logistics, where to improve and so on.
And I also know that something unforeseen or an injury or illness right before the event could ruin it. Any number of reasons I could take longer next time. So thankful I was healthy for B2B.
Ironman Florida was today I believe. That would be another good venue. The IMFL is farther away but still in the southeast U.S. Maybe a few years out for that. There is usually a waiting list anyhow. I'm aware of some upstate people that are participating in this event and will be listening for feedback.
So I rode my bike on Wednesday for 1.4 hours and Thirsday for 1.3 hours- it was so nice and cool with pretty fall leaves. I ran 3 miles on Friday night easy after work.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
B2B race report/recount
B2B Race report - highs and lows
Got to T1 and on the trolley in the dark at 6:30 or 6:45. I said goodbye to my brother Andy. Just in time. As we traveled I put on my silicone Speedo swim cap and a chunk of it tore off. Oh no. It was a piece that would cover my ear. I thought about it and decided i could stuff it under the 2nd cap and it would do well enough.
I realized I forgot my prerace 100 calorie drink. Not good.
There were people everywhere on the small street. At about 6:55 I figured out where we were to go and with plastic bags on feet I start walk. Took 5 minutes. Open ocean and a stiff breeze in low light. I tried to urinate in my suit and was marginally successful.
The officials talked and played nat anthem said prayer. We waited for the ok from the coast guard Then at 7:21 am the horn to start sounded. We were off! 600 people all at once. I ran with others and finally fell in and started stroking. I kept getting bumped as expected. But even after 10 or 15 minutes I kept getting lots of hands hitting my feet. It really brings me to a halt when it happens. This was my 4th open water swim so I knew to expect some but still not used to it. Wish I had a overhead view to show an open spot or something.
The chop was maybe 4 inches from the north wind. I didn't swallow too much water luckily but man was it salty.
I got a bad cramp in my calf and had to stop. This was very bad to have just at the first half hour. Later the other side calf cramped. What is going on?? I just tried to kick with the calf muscle very relaxed. It was kept at bay til the swim end and not an issue on the bike.
The buoys were hard to see but I just followed the crowd and when the buoys did come they seemed to fly by. I almost ran into a few. We were flying! After 45 minutes or so As we got near the boat docks I could taste gasoline or petroleum.
I slowly climbed the ladder and was out. I had done the swim in an amazing time of about 55 minutes. But I was the 330th man out of the water. I ran past the wetsuit strippers because I didn't know how that would be or if I wanted it all off as I only had on skimpy swimsuit underneath. Into the warm shower tent Not sure that was really necessary either but I stood there 20 seconds anyway.
I ran gingerly on the asphalt the got on the sidewalk for a smoother surface. A big plant with spikes hung out and scrapped me- ouch. Across the road and got my bag handed to me. I ran to the mens tent. There were guys everywhere some naked it took a bit to find a open spot and get to it. I was going to change completely into a bike outfit. The front opening if the tent I realized was wide open for the public to see.
I put on jersey, shorts, knee warmers, arm warmers, vest, a skull cap under my helmet. Got the wetsuit in the bag and put my goggles into it protective case. Lots of extra time compared to a lot of athletes. They can switch so fast. I guess I took 10 to 15 minutes at T1. I ran to my bike and headed the wrong way until someone yelled at me getting me right.
I regret not taking the rain jacket with me for my ride. I looked right at it and thought it was going to warm up and be dry. It would have been so good. Also gloves! Bad planning. My bike computer later shows the temp got to 46 degrees on the ride.
I averaged 20 mph after the first 30 to 50 minutes even with all the turns and traffic (other bikers). I was passing a lot.
After we got onto an interstate it was cold and boring. I kept slowly passing one rider after another. I watched my heart rate. We rode over a big bridge and the wind was gusting.
The ride north after the interstate way getting even colder and misting type rain. Oh no. I stop at rest stop and text Andy my status. Time for nature break [NB] It was cold I need a rain jacket and gloves!!!
I stopped at the 50 mile (nearing halfway point) for NB. I was shivering. Hypothermia was setting in. My extreme shivering thankfully went away as the day heated up.Got my special need bag. It had a 350 calorie drink. I needed one at T1. My speed had dropped to 18 mph average.
At the halfway point of bike I was shaking uncontrollably. I was texting Andy but it took a long time. when I hit send it told me there was no cell reception so it was wasted effort. Lost time. I took the special needs bag and put it between my vest and jersey to block the wind. I found two empty sandwich bags in the garbage and they would be my gloves. I had been using an empty powerbar bites bad to cover three fingers on one hand!
Got some gels and a bottle of Heed (Gatorade type stuff). I poured it into my water bottle.
I was off after 10 minutes or so. An eternity for what should have been a quick stop.
Back on the road and after 30 to 50 minutes it seemed to be warming up. Time for a NB.
We got to the reststops at mile 73 and I texted Andy successfully this time. Got some gels I think. Just 3 or so minutes here. We soon got to where we were headed south/SE and the wind was now at my back. I was now able to make up time and go faster.
A car pulled up beside me and the driver asked how I was doing. I said ok and wondered why he was asking me. After he offered me his gloves I slowly realized it was Andy! I felt stupid. He went ahead and pulled over. I stopped and got the gloves on. We chatted a little. He took a picture. I was back at it in about 2 minutes. It was getting warmer.
He went way ahead out of sight and I would all the sudden see him taking pictures as I went by. I was able to go about 25 mph by now. Time for a NB again!
The sun started to come out and the wind was still strong if not stronger. I hit 100 miles and my bike computer which only had 96 miles had 5 hours 12 minutes. So I'm not sure but it was a quick century. I skipped the stop at mile 101. I got up into the upper 20 mph area often as I went feeling better all the time getting warm but sore in the shoulders. Ready to get off the bike.
At one point as Andy came up on me I looked over at him and just at that moment I hit a huge rock. I was so mad. I pulled over and inspected my tire and rim. It seemed ok but I was worried about a flat. Andy did a u-turn up ahead and came back to see if I was ok. I said it looked ok and got back on the bike. I stopped yet a third time when I saw him pulled over and we talked a bit. As I got. Going again I heard a biker say as he passed me "this guy has time enough to stop and talk to his buddy" in a kind of upset voice. I passed him. I passed a few people about 4 times as I yo-yoed down the road. Ha. I kept passing bikers the whole way.
Right before getting to T2 I was hitting almost 32 mph for 30 seconds with strong tailwind. I was elated. Headed by a traffic jam, up over the bridge and into the battleship area for T2. It was sunny!
I handed my bike off to some guy and ran to get my T2 bag and into the tent. No energy to change out of my bike kit. Good decision. I did take off the vest. I put on a second pair of socks over my thin bike socks. Running shoes lacedup and triple tied. Change sunglasses, cap, some chitchat with others as I changed. I was off slowly. I stopped at the first table and got salt tablets (Enduralytes by Hammer) i was paranoid about cramps. People cheered me on. I was real slow on purpose at first and the bridge was steep. A 10 minute mile then a 9 minute mile going into downtown. 27 minutes at mile 3. I got 2 salt tablets. And a gel. Down to the turn around at 6.55 miles at 58 minutes or so. Doing good. I stopped and got more tablets gel and drink a small bit.
It was still windy and it was near 4pm so I thought I would need more clothes when I got back to transition.
As I ran back thru downtown I looked over and luckily saw Andy walking, looking for me. We talked a few minutes and I was off again. Headed back to the big bridge I had to do a sitdown NB which took almost 5 minutes not sure. Got some chicken broth and a gel then Back on the road over the bridge and into transition or 13.1 miles. I had to get someone to open a fence so I could get to my T2 bag which I should not have needed to do. There was a special needs bag which was ready for me. Oh well. I got on my "Mercier" jersey for an added layer. Back at it. Took 5 minutes maybe for this. Stop and get pretzel rods (yum!) pulls and gel quick. Some water too.
As I ran toward downtown I passed a guy dressed up as the devil. Red face and full costume and pitchfork too. Wow. Was I seeing things? He smiled at me.
I ran into downtown and Andy saw me and we talked again. He took a video of me. I stretched.
As I ran to the turnaround point I did the math in my head and if I did a strong last 6.5 mile leg I might get done in less than 12 hours. I was able to go from my 140 BPM pulse to up near 150 BPM for a good while. Dusk set in. Tired but knew I could do it and finish. No cramps yet. I was hitting it hard. I heard Andy as I went back thru past him- we talked but I did not stop. He ran with me a bit. I had to push on.
It was getting dark now. I kept looking at my watch with the time of day. At 4 or 5 miles to go it was my last stop at an aid station. When I was about 2 miles away I was feeling confident. I slowed a bit at the 1 mile to go and followed some lady. We chatted a bit. She was steady and I just followed. Coming down the hill I passed her but later she came back. We ran into the battleship area and the run went all around the grounds and I was nervous I had misjudged. I heard the finish line announcer say "if you can hear my voice hurry up and get here before 12 hours comes". It was only another minute and I crossed the line. 3 minutes or more to spare.
They took my timing chip and put my medal on me. I must have looked bad because they kept asking if I needed help. I got my finishers shirt and they put a foil blanket on me. I quickly got cold. I was escorted to the warming tent and sat down. I was exhausted. I was overwhelmed. I started to cry. I held it in pretty good though. It was a crowded tent. After a few minutes I went and got some hot chocolate. Let the eating (pigging out) begin. Another cup please.
Pizza, huge bagel PB and J. 2 cans of mountain dew. I joined Andy in line for the ferry ride to downtown. We got across and walked to the car. To the hotel and a hot shower. So good. Hard to go up steps. Sore.
We went out to Carrabas Italian just down the street and pigged out (elegantly). A quick stop a walmart (yes Andy in a walmart!) and back to the room. The bed was calling me. At about 12:30 am I think I drifted off to a deep sleep.
Got to T1 and on the trolley in the dark at 6:30 or 6:45. I said goodbye to my brother Andy. Just in time. As we traveled I put on my silicone Speedo swim cap and a chunk of it tore off. Oh no. It was a piece that would cover my ear. I thought about it and decided i could stuff it under the 2nd cap and it would do well enough.
I realized I forgot my prerace 100 calorie drink. Not good.
There were people everywhere on the small street. At about 6:55 I figured out where we were to go and with plastic bags on feet I start walk. Took 5 minutes. Open ocean and a stiff breeze in low light. I tried to urinate in my suit and was marginally successful.
The officials talked and played nat anthem said prayer. We waited for the ok from the coast guard Then at 7:21 am the horn to start sounded. We were off! 600 people all at once. I ran with others and finally fell in and started stroking. I kept getting bumped as expected. But even after 10 or 15 minutes I kept getting lots of hands hitting my feet. It really brings me to a halt when it happens. This was my 4th open water swim so I knew to expect some but still not used to it. Wish I had a overhead view to show an open spot or something.
The chop was maybe 4 inches from the north wind. I didn't swallow too much water luckily but man was it salty.
I got a bad cramp in my calf and had to stop. This was very bad to have just at the first half hour. Later the other side calf cramped. What is going on?? I just tried to kick with the calf muscle very relaxed. It was kept at bay til the swim end and not an issue on the bike.
The buoys were hard to see but I just followed the crowd and when the buoys did come they seemed to fly by. I almost ran into a few. We were flying! After 45 minutes or so As we got near the boat docks I could taste gasoline or petroleum.
I slowly climbed the ladder and was out. I had done the swim in an amazing time of about 55 minutes. But I was the 330th man out of the water. I ran past the wetsuit strippers because I didn't know how that would be or if I wanted it all off as I only had on skimpy swimsuit underneath. Into the warm shower tent Not sure that was really necessary either but I stood there 20 seconds anyway.
I ran gingerly on the asphalt the got on the sidewalk for a smoother surface. A big plant with spikes hung out and scrapped me- ouch. Across the road and got my bag handed to me. I ran to the mens tent. There were guys everywhere some naked it took a bit to find a open spot and get to it. I was going to change completely into a bike outfit. The front opening if the tent I realized was wide open for the public to see.
I put on jersey, shorts, knee warmers, arm warmers, vest, a skull cap under my helmet. Got the wetsuit in the bag and put my goggles into it protective case. Lots of extra time compared to a lot of athletes. They can switch so fast. I guess I took 10 to 15 minutes at T1. I ran to my bike and headed the wrong way until someone yelled at me getting me right.
I regret not taking the rain jacket with me for my ride. I looked right at it and thought it was going to warm up and be dry. It would have been so good. Also gloves! Bad planning. My bike computer later shows the temp got to 46 degrees on the ride.
I averaged 20 mph after the first 30 to 50 minutes even with all the turns and traffic (other bikers). I was passing a lot.
After we got onto an interstate it was cold and boring. I kept slowly passing one rider after another. I watched my heart rate. We rode over a big bridge and the wind was gusting.
The ride north after the interstate way getting even colder and misting type rain. Oh no. I stop at rest stop and text Andy my status. Time for nature break [NB] It was cold I need a rain jacket and gloves!!!
I stopped at the 50 mile (nearing halfway point) for NB. I was shivering. Hypothermia was setting in. My extreme shivering thankfully went away as the day heated up.Got my special need bag. It had a 350 calorie drink. I needed one at T1. My speed had dropped to 18 mph average.
At the halfway point of bike I was shaking uncontrollably. I was texting Andy but it took a long time. when I hit send it told me there was no cell reception so it was wasted effort. Lost time. I took the special needs bag and put it between my vest and jersey to block the wind. I found two empty sandwich bags in the garbage and they would be my gloves. I had been using an empty powerbar bites bad to cover three fingers on one hand!
Got some gels and a bottle of Heed (Gatorade type stuff). I poured it into my water bottle.
I was off after 10 minutes or so. An eternity for what should have been a quick stop.
Back on the road and after 30 to 50 minutes it seemed to be warming up. Time for a NB.
We got to the reststops at mile 73 and I texted Andy successfully this time. Got some gels I think. Just 3 or so minutes here. We soon got to where we were headed south/SE and the wind was now at my back. I was now able to make up time and go faster.
A car pulled up beside me and the driver asked how I was doing. I said ok and wondered why he was asking me. After he offered me his gloves I slowly realized it was Andy! I felt stupid. He went ahead and pulled over. I stopped and got the gloves on. We chatted a little. He took a picture. I was back at it in about 2 minutes. It was getting warmer.
He went way ahead out of sight and I would all the sudden see him taking pictures as I went by. I was able to go about 25 mph by now. Time for a NB again!
The sun started to come out and the wind was still strong if not stronger. I hit 100 miles and my bike computer which only had 96 miles had 5 hours 12 minutes. So I'm not sure but it was a quick century. I skipped the stop at mile 101. I got up into the upper 20 mph area often as I went feeling better all the time getting warm but sore in the shoulders. Ready to get off the bike.
At one point as Andy came up on me I looked over at him and just at that moment I hit a huge rock. I was so mad. I pulled over and inspected my tire and rim. It seemed ok but I was worried about a flat. Andy did a u-turn up ahead and came back to see if I was ok. I said it looked ok and got back on the bike. I stopped yet a third time when I saw him pulled over and we talked a bit. As I got. Going again I heard a biker say as he passed me "this guy has time enough to stop and talk to his buddy" in a kind of upset voice. I passed him. I passed a few people about 4 times as I yo-yoed down the road. Ha. I kept passing bikers the whole way.
Right before getting to T2 I was hitting almost 32 mph for 30 seconds with strong tailwind. I was elated. Headed by a traffic jam, up over the bridge and into the battleship area for T2. It was sunny!
I handed my bike off to some guy and ran to get my T2 bag and into the tent. No energy to change out of my bike kit. Good decision. I did take off the vest. I put on a second pair of socks over my thin bike socks. Running shoes lacedup and triple tied. Change sunglasses, cap, some chitchat with others as I changed. I was off slowly. I stopped at the first table and got salt tablets (Enduralytes by Hammer) i was paranoid about cramps. People cheered me on. I was real slow on purpose at first and the bridge was steep. A 10 minute mile then a 9 minute mile going into downtown. 27 minutes at mile 3. I got 2 salt tablets. And a gel. Down to the turn around at 6.55 miles at 58 minutes or so. Doing good. I stopped and got more tablets gel and drink a small bit.
It was still windy and it was near 4pm so I thought I would need more clothes when I got back to transition.
As I ran back thru downtown I looked over and luckily saw Andy walking, looking for me. We talked a few minutes and I was off again. Headed back to the big bridge I had to do a sitdown NB which took almost 5 minutes not sure. Got some chicken broth and a gel then Back on the road over the bridge and into transition or 13.1 miles. I had to get someone to open a fence so I could get to my T2 bag which I should not have needed to do. There was a special needs bag which was ready for me. Oh well. I got on my "Mercier" jersey for an added layer. Back at it. Took 5 minutes maybe for this. Stop and get pretzel rods (yum!) pulls and gel quick. Some water too.
As I ran toward downtown I passed a guy dressed up as the devil. Red face and full costume and pitchfork too. Wow. Was I seeing things? He smiled at me.
I ran into downtown and Andy saw me and we talked again. He took a video of me. I stretched.
As I ran to the turnaround point I did the math in my head and if I did a strong last 6.5 mile leg I might get done in less than 12 hours. I was able to go from my 140 BPM pulse to up near 150 BPM for a good while. Dusk set in. Tired but knew I could do it and finish. No cramps yet. I was hitting it hard. I heard Andy as I went back thru past him- we talked but I did not stop. He ran with me a bit. I had to push on.
It was getting dark now. I kept looking at my watch with the time of day. At 4 or 5 miles to go it was my last stop at an aid station. When I was about 2 miles away I was feeling confident. I slowed a bit at the 1 mile to go and followed some lady. We chatted a bit. She was steady and I just followed. Coming down the hill I passed her but later she came back. We ran into the battleship area and the run went all around the grounds and I was nervous I had misjudged. I heard the finish line announcer say "if you can hear my voice hurry up and get here before 12 hours comes". It was only another minute and I crossed the line. 3 minutes or more to spare.
They took my timing chip and put my medal on me. I must have looked bad because they kept asking if I needed help. I got my finishers shirt and they put a foil blanket on me. I quickly got cold. I was escorted to the warming tent and sat down. I was exhausted. I was overwhelmed. I started to cry. I held it in pretty good though. It was a crowded tent. After a few minutes I went and got some hot chocolate. Let the eating (pigging out) begin. Another cup please.
Pizza, huge bagel PB and J. 2 cans of mountain dew. I joined Andy in line for the ferry ride to downtown. We got across and walked to the car. To the hotel and a hot shower. So good. Hard to go up steps. Sore.
We went out to Carrabas Italian just down the street and pigged out (elegantly). A quick stop a walmart (yes Andy in a walmart!) and back to the room. The bed was calling me. At about 12:30 am I think I drifted off to a deep sleep.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
B2B plus 3 days
Was so exhausted at work. Drank a small pot of coffee before I drove to work Monday morning and had to take two caffeine pills during the drive. Still sleepy at work. Got almost 8 hours last 3 nights but need more. Tuesday was not as tired but was still dozing off after i ate lunch. Legs tight. Knees sore. Certain toes sore. May use the bike rollers tomorrow to loosen up. Need to kind of a slow reverse taper.
I'm kind of blue after it is over but it was great. Happy I finished and thrilled I got my goal time.
I will keep doing triathlons and bike events but may try something new. Maybe drive up into NC for good cross country skiing. Now I need new goals. Do B2B again? Maybe. Will see how my work schedule looks. Do Rev3 Portland, Oregon 70.3? Chicago marathon? Rev3 Cedar Point 70.3? Muncie ironman 70.3? No lack of events.
Only 2 triathlons this year but they were very good. I saved my money for the B2B event and the Miracle Hill cycling challenge charity event. All I need is more time and money. Don't you?
I'm kind of blue after it is over but it was great. Happy I finished and thrilled I got my goal time.
I will keep doing triathlons and bike events but may try something new. Maybe drive up into NC for good cross country skiing. Now I need new goals. Do B2B again? Maybe. Will see how my work schedule looks. Do Rev3 Portland, Oregon 70.3? Chicago marathon? Rev3 Cedar Point 70.3? Muncie ironman 70.3? No lack of events.
Only 2 triathlons this year but they were very good. I saved my money for the B2B event and the Miracle Hill cycling challenge charity event. All I need is more time and money. Don't you?
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Breif post race results
Well i did it. I finished. Goal number 1. Goal number 2 was to finish under 12 hours. I barely achieved that. I finished in about 11:56. 12 hours filled with joy and pain. Feeling sore but that will get better. Feeling satisfied with having set a goal and achieved it.
General break down of the legs
Swim and transition: 1 hour
Bike and transition: 6:35
Run. 4:20
The website will have the exact timing but the preliminary results were not correct for me. I may have to contact them. The overall time was right.
Was a special day with brother Andy here to share it with. Thanks to all my family for their support.
A good quote I saw. Don't be sad that is over, be happy because it happened. Source: Dr. Seuss ? ?
General break down of the legs
Swim and transition: 1 hour
Bike and transition: 6:35
Run. 4:20
The website will have the exact timing but the preliminary results were not correct for me. I may have to contact them. The overall time was right.
Was a special day with brother Andy here to share it with. Thanks to all my family for their support.
A good quote I saw. Don't be sad that is over, be happy because it happened. Source: Dr. Seuss ? ?
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
4 days til B2B
So a 6 mile run on Saturday night, rest Sunday, 25 miles on the bike Monday with a fast 22 mile loop in 1hour 5 minutes but I held back there yet came within a minute of my best time. Tuesday I swam 1650 yards. I'm enjoying having more free time. I slept almost 12 hours last night and 10 hours the night before.
I have packed up and will leave for Wilmington Thursday after work or Friday morning. Still looking at the forecast showing it may rain on Friday and Saturday. Not good. Hope the forecast dries up.
Been thinking post race thoughts already. You know - what next? I don't have any answers but I will get inspiration soon and plan some events and goals.
I have packed up and will leave for Wilmington Thursday after work or Friday morning. Still looking at the forecast showing it may rain on Friday and Saturday. Not good. Hope the forecast dries up.
Been thinking post race thoughts already. You know - what next? I don't have any answers but I will get inspiration soon and plan some events and goals.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
One week until B2B
Ive been worried in the last week or two of some small accident that would happen and ruin my race. I'm trying to be careful as always but stuff happens. Remember when in Forest Gump the guy running with Forest steps in dog doo? Shit happens.
I was at work and saw a board sticking out from a pallet with 3 nails sticking up. A real potential danger. So I wanted to bend the nails over and make it safer. Hey I will use my boot and bend them. Can you see stupid coming? That's me. A nail goes thru my boot and I feel it hit my foot. Quickly I tell myself it is ok. Think happy thoughts. I get some pliers and bend the darn nails. The nails that attacked me. Then I take off my boot and sock. Luckily there is no blood pouring out. Thank God.
Turns out it may have just penetrated a few layers of skin and it was sore for a day. It is fine now. So dumb. So lucky.
Took a 22 mile ride fast and hard on Wednesday. Rode the rollers a half hour before that to warmup actually. Thursday went and swam 2000 yards in 40 minutes with a Personal Record of 33 laps in 31'50". The 33 laps is 1650 yards and is a "pool mile".
On Friday nothing. On Saturday night I ran 6 miles at a near tempo pace or about 8:00 pace for me. Not too much but hopefully just enough training these last few days to keep the power but rest up and save energy. My knowledge of a good taper is evolving.
The forecast for Wilmington shows rain likely on Friday. Hoping Saturday is rain free.
I was at work and saw a board sticking out from a pallet with 3 nails sticking up. A real potential danger. So I wanted to bend the nails over and make it safer. Hey I will use my boot and bend them. Can you see stupid coming? That's me. A nail goes thru my boot and I feel it hit my foot. Quickly I tell myself it is ok. Think happy thoughts. I get some pliers and bend the darn nails. The nails that attacked me. Then I take off my boot and sock. Luckily there is no blood pouring out. Thank God.
Turns out it may have just penetrated a few layers of skin and it was sore for a day. It is fine now. So dumb. So lucky.
Took a 22 mile ride fast and hard on Wednesday. Rode the rollers a half hour before that to warmup actually. Thursday went and swam 2000 yards in 40 minutes with a Personal Record of 33 laps in 31'50". The 33 laps is 1650 yards and is a "pool mile".
On Friday nothing. On Saturday night I ran 6 miles at a near tempo pace or about 8:00 pace for me. Not too much but hopefully just enough training these last few days to keep the power but rest up and save energy. My knowledge of a good taper is evolving.
The forecast for Wilmington shows rain likely on Friday. Hoping Saturday is rain free.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
2 weeks til B2B: tapering
So last Sunday night I was thinking I might connect with a world class triathlete. I got an email from him but it did not work out as he had to fly to Germany Monday morning. My daughter Jessica helped get me a signed photocard from him. It is like a baseball card with stats on the back. Cool.
So Monday I rode my bike Up to north of Tigerville. It was lightly drizzling but warm and roads were dry. I got on SC 11 and went over a few miles then back down to t-ville and home. It rained a little harder. Good fast ride but not too long.
Tuesday Rode bike to the Y to swim 2 miles and then a little spin on stationary bike. Got Kristen. We had Velveeta cheese dinner mix (it competes with Chicken Helper). It was good and cheesy. Rode the rollers a little for easy "miles".
Wednesday night after work ran 6 miles straight with easy start then tempo running near end. My injured toenail was fine. On Tuesday I had gotten some nail glue (super glue basically but in the nail care aisle at CVS). I glued it all up. Felt good about the pace and helps my confidence for the long run on event day.
Thursday was a rest day with only the 9 miles of walking at work today.
Friday I rode hard 23 or so miles then drove to the Y for a swim got in a mile. 1500 yards in 30 minutes helped with my confidence for my swim on event day.
Saturday. Slept in and missed any group rides (shop rides at Gusto or Carolina Tri) in the morning. Probably best for me right now so I can prepare at the eight intensity for my race but I miss the group rides. I actually got up then went with Kristen to walmart and got a fishing license. We went and fished at Lake Robinson. Donated a few lures to the lake and no bites. Later I took my bike with me as I dropped off Kristen at the Fall For Greenville. She had to work downtown at Fall For Greenville as a volunteer for a club at HS. She sold wristbands for alcohol. They expect 150,000 people to attend the event and it was very crowded! Multiple bands on different stages food vendors, fair rides, beer and wine vendors. Etc. All downtown blocked off.
Meanwhile after I dropped her off I rode my bike from downtown north to TR (travelers rest) and beyond. Took the SRT (swamp rabbit trail) its end. Went up to Marrieta and turned around. Came back to truck near sundown. Felt real strong and was doing 270 watts alot on the road up to Marrietta. Averaged almost 20 mph which is great with all the stop and go on the trail. Started running all around the outskirts of main street (FFG event) and tried to find Kristen. Got in almost 3 hours of bike/run. My bike and run training are scaling way back. I read it is ok to keep the swim volume up til the last week prior so Sunday I will do a long swim.
When I ran into a public Restroom tonight downtown, a guy came in while I was going and he was talking to what I thought was a child, to wait while he went. I turned around and there was a huge rabbit on a leash! The phrase WTF went thru my mind (sorry mom). I asked him what kind of rabbit and he said a Flemmish something or other. Weird.
Long swim tomorrow.
So Monday I rode my bike Up to north of Tigerville. It was lightly drizzling but warm and roads were dry. I got on SC 11 and went over a few miles then back down to t-ville and home. It rained a little harder. Good fast ride but not too long.
Tuesday Rode bike to the Y to swim 2 miles and then a little spin on stationary bike. Got Kristen. We had Velveeta cheese dinner mix (it competes with Chicken Helper). It was good and cheesy. Rode the rollers a little for easy "miles".
Wednesday night after work ran 6 miles straight with easy start then tempo running near end. My injured toenail was fine. On Tuesday I had gotten some nail glue (super glue basically but in the nail care aisle at CVS). I glued it all up. Felt good about the pace and helps my confidence for the long run on event day.
Thursday was a rest day with only the 9 miles of walking at work today.
Friday I rode hard 23 or so miles then drove to the Y for a swim got in a mile. 1500 yards in 30 minutes helped with my confidence for my swim on event day.
Saturday. Slept in and missed any group rides (shop rides at Gusto or Carolina Tri) in the morning. Probably best for me right now so I can prepare at the eight intensity for my race but I miss the group rides. I actually got up then went with Kristen to walmart and got a fishing license. We went and fished at Lake Robinson. Donated a few lures to the lake and no bites. Later I took my bike with me as I dropped off Kristen at the Fall For Greenville. She had to work downtown at Fall For Greenville as a volunteer for a club at HS. She sold wristbands for alcohol. They expect 150,000 people to attend the event and it was very crowded! Multiple bands on different stages food vendors, fair rides, beer and wine vendors. Etc. All downtown blocked off.
Meanwhile after I dropped her off I rode my bike from downtown north to TR (travelers rest) and beyond. Took the SRT (swamp rabbit trail) its end. Went up to Marrieta and turned around. Came back to truck near sundown. Felt real strong and was doing 270 watts alot on the road up to Marrietta. Averaged almost 20 mph which is great with all the stop and go on the trail. Started running all around the outskirts of main street (FFG event) and tried to find Kristen. Got in almost 3 hours of bike/run. My bike and run training are scaling way back. I read it is ok to keep the swim volume up til the last week prior so Sunday I will do a long swim.
When I ran into a public Restroom tonight downtown, a guy came in while I was going and he was talking to what I thought was a child, to wait while he went. I turned around and there was a huge rabbit on a leash! The phrase WTF went thru my mind (sorry mom). I asked him what kind of rabbit and he said a Flemmish something or other. Weird.
Long swim tomorrow.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
3 weeks til B2B
For blog2
Thursday I managed to ride about 4 miles (then 3 miles back) to the post office then to the Y to swim. Got there mid afternoon. Had 3 lanes all to myself. Got in 500 yds warmup then did 500 yds freestyle non stop in just under 10 minutes. Good for me. Practiced a new way with finger positioning. 500 brest/free combo. Then 500 free. 500 side/back combo. It got busy and at 4:30 had to join a lady in lane 2. Harder to go all out when being careful passing. She was big, slow and doing breaststroke too so a real challenge. Ended up with 3500 yards in about 1hr 20 minutes. Rode back home.
Friday after work I was up for a long run in the context of after work runs. 3 x 3.1 miles or 9.3 total. Ran negative splits of 26, 25 and 23 minutes. Real hard the last 2 miles.
Saturday was going to run 3 miles easy, but a problem with my toe. My 2nd toe on left side is injured. Had a big blister under toenail after running then I tried to trim nail close and it kinda exploded. Nasty. Hope it heals ok. Been using antibiotic cream. I am dumb.
The one (2nd toe) on right side died and reborn months ago but is ok. I get purple toenails from running.
Sunday night (Now) and I just got word from my daughter that Swen Sundberg is staying at her friends house near Greenville. He is a world class triathlete based in Germany. Trying to find out more and maybe connect. My toe should be ok for riding monday. The Ironman Kona world tri championships were yesterday and I have been catching up on the results. Also the Rev3 Anderson race results being checked and friend Chris Giordanelli was 1st in age group 45-49. Fantastic result.
Thursday I managed to ride about 4 miles (then 3 miles back) to the post office then to the Y to swim. Got there mid afternoon. Had 3 lanes all to myself. Got in 500 yds warmup then did 500 yds freestyle non stop in just under 10 minutes. Good for me. Practiced a new way with finger positioning. 500 brest/free combo. Then 500 free. 500 side/back combo. It got busy and at 4:30 had to join a lady in lane 2. Harder to go all out when being careful passing. She was big, slow and doing breaststroke too so a real challenge. Ended up with 3500 yards in about 1hr 20 minutes. Rode back home.
Friday after work I was up for a long run in the context of after work runs. 3 x 3.1 miles or 9.3 total. Ran negative splits of 26, 25 and 23 minutes. Real hard the last 2 miles.
Saturday was going to run 3 miles easy, but a problem with my toe. My 2nd toe on left side is injured. Had a big blister under toenail after running then I tried to trim nail close and it kinda exploded. Nasty. Hope it heals ok. Been using antibiotic cream. I am dumb.
The one (2nd toe) on right side died and reborn months ago but is ok. I get purple toenails from running.
Sunday night (Now) and I just got word from my daughter that Swen Sundberg is staying at her friends house near Greenville. He is a world class triathlete based in Germany. Trying to find out more and maybe connect. My toe should be ok for riding monday. The Ironman Kona world tri championships were yesterday and I have been catching up on the results. Also the Rev3 Anderson race results being checked and friend Chris Giordanelli was 1st in age group 45-49. Fantastic result.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Another heavy brick but quicker. Early October.
October 1st. Saturday night I did not workout. Just the swim today. Should have done core body workout.
Sunday I rode almost 50 miles on my race bike and got some good stretches where I could go fast and hard. Rode up to SC11 and back and more around Sandy Flats. Rode the rollers some.
Monday after work ran just 3.1 miles, but with 6 "all out" sprints of about 30 seconds each. Very rough. Wanted to stop and stand still after each sprint, but shuffled along til I regained composure. I read that this short run with sprints was a recovery run with some anabolic stimulus.
Tuesday - work then drive home. No workout. Watch some TV. Last two days only the half hour run so a mini-taper so to speak. Time for a hard effort.
Wednesday I got up about 9 am, but took til almost noon to get on the road. I was worried that I had certain symptoms of a nasal infection, but felt OK otherwise.
I decided to ride the same 51 mile route to Woodruff and back that I did on Sept 30th. Staying away from the mountains is forcing me to get into the aerodynamic "tucked in" position most of the time which is good practice for the B2B race.
This time I was able to do the ride faster and do it in 2 hours 39 minutes instead of 3 hours. I was happy with the result. I averaged about 200 watts.
I dream of someday having a light time trial bike, aero wheels, aero helmet and all the other stuff as well as being in top shape and doing a route like this "superfast". Averaging like 24 mph would be so fun.
Then as I did on the 30th, I went for a long run (after a 12 minute transition). Did the same crummy route of 5.3 miles out and back on Reid School Road. Heavy traffic and running on the white stripe. Did the first two laps faster than the 30th also with about 46 minutes. At the start of the second lap I took a 12 ounce container of spiked Gatorade. I added extra salt and creatine. On the third lap I was tired but wanted to try and get an even faster time. I ate a gel and took the little bottle of Gatorade. It was agony the whole way. I kept wanting it to be over. My heart and legs were doing ok and I hit the halfway point at about 22 minutes. At 4 miles I started to give out but stayed tough and got back to the starting point at about 43.5 minutes. I was dead. Hope i didn't overdo it. 16 miles done.
Went in apartment managed to get to the toilet and just sat my wet behind down. Just sat there a while. Then I put my head under the bathtub spigot and let cool water flow over it. There may have been steam rising my head was so hot. Felt good until a hamstring cramped up and more agony.
I guess this days workout kind of started my taper as it was shorter than the one on Sept. 30, but probably more intense. I will be trying to figure out how to taper down the volume over the next 3 weeks without loosing my conditioning.
Sunday I rode almost 50 miles on my race bike and got some good stretches where I could go fast and hard. Rode up to SC11 and back and more around Sandy Flats. Rode the rollers some.
Monday after work ran just 3.1 miles, but with 6 "all out" sprints of about 30 seconds each. Very rough. Wanted to stop and stand still after each sprint, but shuffled along til I regained composure. I read that this short run with sprints was a recovery run with some anabolic stimulus.
Tuesday - work then drive home. No workout. Watch some TV. Last two days only the half hour run so a mini-taper so to speak. Time for a hard effort.
Wednesday I got up about 9 am, but took til almost noon to get on the road. I was worried that I had certain symptoms of a nasal infection, but felt OK otherwise.
I decided to ride the same 51 mile route to Woodruff and back that I did on Sept 30th. Staying away from the mountains is forcing me to get into the aerodynamic "tucked in" position most of the time which is good practice for the B2B race.
This time I was able to do the ride faster and do it in 2 hours 39 minutes instead of 3 hours. I was happy with the result. I averaged about 200 watts.
I dream of someday having a light time trial bike, aero wheels, aero helmet and all the other stuff as well as being in top shape and doing a route like this "superfast". Averaging like 24 mph would be so fun.
Then as I did on the 30th, I went for a long run (after a 12 minute transition). Did the same crummy route of 5.3 miles out and back on Reid School Road. Heavy traffic and running on the white stripe. Did the first two laps faster than the 30th also with about 46 minutes. At the start of the second lap I took a 12 ounce container of spiked Gatorade. I added extra salt and creatine. On the third lap I was tired but wanted to try and get an even faster time. I ate a gel and took the little bottle of Gatorade. It was agony the whole way. I kept wanting it to be over. My heart and legs were doing ok and I hit the halfway point at about 22 minutes. At 4 miles I started to give out but stayed tough and got back to the starting point at about 43.5 minutes. I was dead. Hope i didn't overdo it. 16 miles done.
Went in apartment managed to get to the toilet and just sat my wet behind down. Just sat there a while. Then I put my head under the bathtub spigot and let cool water flow over it. There may have been steam rising my head was so hot. Felt good until a hamstring cramped up and more agony.
I guess this days workout kind of started my taper as it was shorter than the one on Sept. 30, but probably more intense. I will be trying to figure out how to taper down the volume over the next 3 weeks without loosing my conditioning.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
4 weeks til B2B; heavy brick
On Wednesday after work I ran 9.3 miles at about an 8 minute pace. Felt good with the result. The next day I was sore in the knees and calves. Thursday no workout, just work.
On Friday I did a big brick. First, I did 3 hours on the bike. Headed southeast to Woodruff. Had a few long flat stretches on SC14 south past airport and later on SC 101 I was able to go hard (145 HR) and fast (26 mph). Many stops at lights though kept average speed down. Headwind on way back. Got 51 miles. 2000 feet vertical. Slow start that included a stop at post office. Had a 20 minute transition time after the bike. Ran about 19 miles in just under 3 hours. I was doing 9 minute miles. My form was ugly I think. Could not really find the energy to try and run the last 5 miles faster. I tried to go harder on the last mile and may have done an 8 minute mile. Lost track. It was only 81 degrees high, but felt like 90 with the full sun. Hotter than I expected.
My 9 mile run on Wednesday seemed to have stressed my legs out more than I would have thought and perhaps affected my run here.
It was a darn hard workout. I was worn out after the bike and was dreading the run. Felt real slow at first few miles. Then I got into it. At mile 13 or so it got painful again. I ran along a very busy road (Reid School) and had to dodge cars alot. Bad shoulder with tall grass and lumpy bumpy. Frustrating.
My legs hurt today, Saturday , but that is good i guess My calves are tight and it hurts to climb stairs. Today went for 50 minute swim. Tonight may ride rollers for an hour with HR at 120.
Tomorrow not sure. May just do a moderately long bike ride. Shy away from running but may do a few miles of that too.
Dave
On Friday I did a big brick. First, I did 3 hours on the bike. Headed southeast to Woodruff. Had a few long flat stretches on SC14 south past airport and later on SC 101 I was able to go hard (145 HR) and fast (26 mph). Many stops at lights though kept average speed down. Headwind on way back. Got 51 miles. 2000 feet vertical. Slow start that included a stop at post office. Had a 20 minute transition time after the bike. Ran about 19 miles in just under 3 hours. I was doing 9 minute miles. My form was ugly I think. Could not really find the energy to try and run the last 5 miles faster. I tried to go harder on the last mile and may have done an 8 minute mile. Lost track. It was only 81 degrees high, but felt like 90 with the full sun. Hotter than I expected.
My 9 mile run on Wednesday seemed to have stressed my legs out more than I would have thought and perhaps affected my run here.
It was a darn hard workout. I was worn out after the bike and was dreading the run. Felt real slow at first few miles. Then I got into it. At mile 13 or so it got painful again. I ran along a very busy road (Reid School) and had to dodge cars alot. Bad shoulder with tall grass and lumpy bumpy. Frustrating.
My legs hurt today, Saturday , but that is good i guess My calves are tight and it hurts to climb stairs. Today went for 50 minute swim. Tonight may ride rollers for an hour with HR at 120.
Tomorrow not sure. May just do a moderately long bike ride. Shy away from running but may do a few miles of that too.
Dave
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
More newts on the training path
For blog
Monday rode back to the watershed in rainy, cool and cloudy conditions. The mountains were again obscured by clouds. I took the now nearly 40 lb Trek (aka the Silverado). I again saw the little salamander or newts on the road by the reservoir. This time they were alive I stopped to observe one closely. It barely moved. I flipped it around and then with two sticks was able to pick it up and look right at it. Brown with bright orange spots. I threw it and a few more off the road to save them. They were maybe "Gingrich Newts" because they were getting killed out there. I will try to find out more about them.
So anyway a slow kind of ride. I took Trammel Gap road and went around Lake Sheila. Went to the end of TG rd also. A nice little detour. That lake is so pretty. saw a snail crawling across the road as I crawled up a really steep grade at the lake.
Got to Saluda and got some water and ate some. The sun came out a bit. Back on the road and down the watershed. Saw a huge turtle in the middle of the road but I was going 30 mph and I left him alone. Met Keith (of the former Keiths triathlon shop) at the bottom of the watershed and we talked a bit. He needs a job this winter as the Black Bear Adventure tours business stops in October.
Went up old camp Indian way for a good 15-20 minute climb. When I got into Tigerville the sun was out again and it was warm. On to home. Got in about 66 miles and 4000 feet vertical.
Today I got a late start due to bill paying and some housekeeping. Ahhh. I rode my lighter Allez. Only 30lb. Ha. Anyway did my 22 mile Willis course which is a hilly loop I've done a thousand times it seems. Took 1hour and 9 minutes. After these LSD rides (long slow distance) on the heavy Silverado I was needing a confirmation on my speed.
Then I ran almost 3 miles. Decided to go to the Y and signup before Sept was over (no membership fees). I rode the Silverado bike there and swam 750 yards in 15 minutes. Back home and go pickup Kristen. Rode the rollers while we watched a couple"everybody loves Raymond" shows. Got in 23+6+17 miles on the bike today. Not enough.
I need a huge weekend volume coming up. We shall see. Almost 4 weeks to go.
Monday rode back to the watershed in rainy, cool and cloudy conditions. The mountains were again obscured by clouds. I took the now nearly 40 lb Trek (aka the Silverado). I again saw the little salamander or newts on the road by the reservoir. This time they were alive I stopped to observe one closely. It barely moved. I flipped it around and then with two sticks was able to pick it up and look right at it. Brown with bright orange spots. I threw it and a few more off the road to save them. They were maybe "Gingrich Newts" because they were getting killed out there. I will try to find out more about them.
So anyway a slow kind of ride. I took Trammel Gap road and went around Lake Sheila. Went to the end of TG rd also. A nice little detour. That lake is so pretty. saw a snail crawling across the road as I crawled up a really steep grade at the lake.
Got to Saluda and got some water and ate some. The sun came out a bit. Back on the road and down the watershed. Saw a huge turtle in the middle of the road but I was going 30 mph and I left him alone. Met Keith (of the former Keiths triathlon shop) at the bottom of the watershed and we talked a bit. He needs a job this winter as the Black Bear Adventure tours business stops in October.
Went up old camp Indian way for a good 15-20 minute climb. When I got into Tigerville the sun was out again and it was warm. On to home. Got in about 66 miles and 4000 feet vertical.
Today I got a late start due to bill paying and some housekeeping. Ahhh. I rode my lighter Allez. Only 30lb. Ha. Anyway did my 22 mile Willis course which is a hilly loop I've done a thousand times it seems. Took 1hour and 9 minutes. After these LSD rides (long slow distance) on the heavy Silverado I was needing a confirmation on my speed.
Then I ran almost 3 miles. Decided to go to the Y and signup before Sept was over (no membership fees). I rode the Silverado bike there and swam 750 yards in 15 minutes. Back home and go pickup Kristen. Rode the rollers while we watched a couple"everybody loves Raymond" shows. Got in 23+6+17 miles on the bike today. Not enough.
I need a huge weekend volume coming up. We shall see. Almost 4 weeks to go.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Super swimmer; 5 weeks til B2B
Just got updated on the life of and recent news of Diana Nyad. She failed again to swim from Cuba to Florida. She got stung by jelly fish and portugese man of war. She had gone 2/3 of the 100 plus miles.
Lots of good background on her on wikipedia. she has been swimming a long time and has set records for distance and speed. I have heard her on NPR reporting on the business of sports.
When I think of my recent nearly 3 mile swim it seems so tiny and insignificant. Oh yea she is 63 years old too. Such harsh conditions. Such mental fortitude. I'm inspired. Maybe someday I will punch through my current distance record swim of just over 3 miles and do a much larger swim.
My last two nights have each had 6 mile runs after my shift was over. Was going to run 9 miles last night but lightning in the distance and the sprinkles felt scared me off. I didn't feel like getting pelted with rain and in a lightning storm. My B2B is in 5 weeks so I still need some major efforts this coming week.
Lots of good background on her on wikipedia. she has been swimming a long time and has set records for distance and speed. I have heard her on NPR reporting on the business of sports.
When I think of my recent nearly 3 mile swim it seems so tiny and insignificant. Oh yea she is 63 years old too. Such harsh conditions. Such mental fortitude. I'm inspired. Maybe someday I will punch through my current distance record swim of just over 3 miles and do a much larger swim.
My last two nights have each had 6 mile runs after my shift was over. Was going to run 9 miles last night but lightning in the distance and the sprinkles felt scared me off. I didn't feel like getting pelted with rain and in a lightning storm. My B2B is in 5 weeks so I still need some major efforts this coming week.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Is it only 6 weeks until B2B?
So for last week I got 21 hours of training with help from the 7 hours on the last day (Sunday). Monday I ran 6 miles at an easy pace.
With the outdoor pool temp getting so cool I bet they will close it soon. So i was thinking if I do use it again, I will use my wetsuit. Actually that would be good to try out before my race. Otherwise I will need to get back to "The Y".
So on Wednesday it was raining alot and I decided to see if the pool was unlocked. It was. I got my wetsuit on in a record 19 minutes. Headed back down and jumped in the probably 72 degree water. It was sprinkling a little. I wore a thick silicone swimcap also.
I started slowly but by 30 minutes into it I had done about 1650 yards (1 pool mile). I kept going and was really in the zone. At 1 hour and 14 minutes I had done 2.4 miles. This is my best effort ever. I knew the wetsuit really helps but wow. I kept going but not as purposefully. Easy swimming. At 4800 yards I finally stopped. I wonder if I surprised anyone in the apartment office with my effort.
Later I ran a 5K. Then 30 minutes on the bike rollers. Not a big volume day but a happy result in the pool.
On Thursday I headed out in the rain on my heavy (35 lb) rain bike and did 50 to 55 miles in 3.5 hours. Went up to Tigerville. From there I could see the escarpment shrouded in very low clouds or fog. It looked like I was headed to shangra la or someplace mystical. Very cool. On the way up the watershed road I saw many dead red salamanders about 3 inches long. One I stopped to look at was not run over. I wondered what happened to them. We got almost 3 inches of rain in Greenville yesterday so the rain was a factor. I don't remember seeing them here ever. There were many of them over a several mile stretch. Saw a big dead copperhead. It was so humid but pleasant - very rare a car came by. Went up to the Hendersonville/Saluda split and turned back toward home. On the way back saw another copperhead in the middle of the road with it's head up. I circled it and noticed it's tail end had been run over and some internals exposed. I think it was nearly dead.
Got home and added a few more miles to get about 53 miles total then off to pickup daughter from school. After that I ran about an hour. Some upper body strength training to end the day.
With the outdoor pool temp getting so cool I bet they will close it soon. So i was thinking if I do use it again, I will use my wetsuit. Actually that would be good to try out before my race. Otherwise I will need to get back to "The Y".
So on Wednesday it was raining alot and I decided to see if the pool was unlocked. It was. I got my wetsuit on in a record 19 minutes. Headed back down and jumped in the probably 72 degree water. It was sprinkling a little. I wore a thick silicone swimcap also.
I started slowly but by 30 minutes into it I had done about 1650 yards (1 pool mile). I kept going and was really in the zone. At 1 hour and 14 minutes I had done 2.4 miles. This is my best effort ever. I knew the wetsuit really helps but wow. I kept going but not as purposefully. Easy swimming. At 4800 yards I finally stopped. I wonder if I surprised anyone in the apartment office with my effort.
Later I ran a 5K. Then 30 minutes on the bike rollers. Not a big volume day but a happy result in the pool.
On Thursday I headed out in the rain on my heavy (35 lb) rain bike and did 50 to 55 miles in 3.5 hours. Went up to Tigerville. From there I could see the escarpment shrouded in very low clouds or fog. It looked like I was headed to shangra la or someplace mystical. Very cool. On the way up the watershed road I saw many dead red salamanders about 3 inches long. One I stopped to look at was not run over. I wondered what happened to them. We got almost 3 inches of rain in Greenville yesterday so the rain was a factor. I don't remember seeing them here ever. There were many of them over a several mile stretch. Saw a big dead copperhead. It was so humid but pleasant - very rare a car came by. Went up to the Hendersonville/Saluda split and turned back toward home. On the way back saw another copperhead in the middle of the road with it's head up. I circled it and noticed it's tail end had been run over and some internals exposed. I think it was nearly dead.
Got home and added a few more miles to get about 53 miles total then off to pickup daughter from school. After that I ran about an hour. Some upper body strength training to end the day.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
6 weeks til B2B: big ride and big run
Update from last post: 155 coins. $8.20. Then today I went back and got $0.30. Took 20 min to get down hill. I realized I should have avoided this road so as not to go slow today.
After Altamont I went on the "Miracle Hill" route to Ceasars Head. Then onto North Carolina and the Dupont forest, along Crab Creek and into Flat Rock. Zirconia, Tuxedo and then down the watershed. Tigerville and home.
97 miles. 7900 feet climbing.
Swam later in the outdoor pool. Water temp is now 74 degrees but in I went for 1500 yards. At about 7:30 pm I was really getting cold and had to stop. Soon teeth were chattering.
Oh yea on Saturday I ran about 17 miles so legs sore/not strong today. No real flare up of pain other than heels a little so I was happy.
Time to get more pop tarts.
Dave
After Altamont I went on the "Miracle Hill" route to Ceasars Head. Then onto North Carolina and the Dupont forest, along Crab Creek and into Flat Rock. Zirconia, Tuxedo and then down the watershed. Tigerville and home.
97 miles. 7900 feet climbing.
Swam later in the outdoor pool. Water temp is now 74 degrees but in I went for 1500 yards. At about 7:30 pm I was really getting cold and had to stop. Soon teeth were chattering.
Oh yea on Saturday I ran about 17 miles so legs sore/not strong today. No real flare up of pain other than heels a little so I was happy.
Time to get more pop tarts.
Dave
Friday, September 16, 2011
Pennies from heaven
The temps yesterday was a high of 89. Today's high was 64 and cloudy and windy. I wore a jacket and no sunscreen. Such a welcome change.
I went out for a long ride and did not really know where I was headed. Tired of Saluda and Ceasars Head today. I wound around the base of Paris Mtn. and went on North, South and Old Parker Roads. Also some dead end roads just to explore. There was a road off Dreamland that doug said was steep. I got to a spot of 17 percent grade and then it got real steep and a hairpin turn. There was sand or dirt over the road and I was freaking out that I would loose traction and fall down the hill but I found a narrow spot of pavement and struggled on up. Fwew!
I ended up riding the Swamp Rabbit trail down to it's end and over to Parkers Mill Road before turning around. Back through Cleveland Park, downtown, and up to Furman. I headed for the old well worn trail of Paris mountain before going home.
Found a penny on Altamont just about 1/4 mile from old buncombe. Then I saw more coins up the road. A quarter. A dime. More pennies. This went on for an hour. I picked up maybe 120 coins. A mile or so stretch. On the road, on the white line, in the grass, in cracks in the road. I wished I had my running shoes. I can envision so many strange scenarios of how these coins spilled down the mountain.
So it took over an hour for me to climb the backside of Paris Mountain. I estimate it was $8 in coins. The quarters were $5 alone. As Doug Guth knows I will circle back for a penny on a group ride so this was a compelling situation for me.
Not a great day for training for my B2B event but time in the saddle and some interesting distractions. Time to increase the training!
Dave
I went out for a long ride and did not really know where I was headed. Tired of Saluda and Ceasars Head today. I wound around the base of Paris Mtn. and went on North, South and Old Parker Roads. Also some dead end roads just to explore. There was a road off Dreamland that doug said was steep. I got to a spot of 17 percent grade and then it got real steep and a hairpin turn. There was sand or dirt over the road and I was freaking out that I would loose traction and fall down the hill but I found a narrow spot of pavement and struggled on up. Fwew!
I ended up riding the Swamp Rabbit trail down to it's end and over to Parkers Mill Road before turning around. Back through Cleveland Park, downtown, and up to Furman. I headed for the old well worn trail of Paris mountain before going home.
Found a penny on Altamont just about 1/4 mile from old buncombe. Then I saw more coins up the road. A quarter. A dime. More pennies. This went on for an hour. I picked up maybe 120 coins. A mile or so stretch. On the road, on the white line, in the grass, in cracks in the road. I wished I had my running shoes. I can envision so many strange scenarios of how these coins spilled down the mountain.
So it took over an hour for me to climb the backside of Paris Mountain. I estimate it was $8 in coins. The quarters were $5 alone. As Doug Guth knows I will circle back for a penny on a group ride so this was a compelling situation for me.
Not a great day for training for my B2B event but time in the saddle and some interesting distractions. Time to increase the training!
Dave
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Aug 14 training update
Friday no training. Saturday did the 3.1 x 2 route similar to last Tuesday but a little slower. My 2nd 5K was 21.5 minutes.
Sunday night I ran easy 3.3 miles after work. Monday slept in and then went to the pool for a 3000 yard swim in just over an hour. Feeling good with my swim endurance, but need this length or longer for training. Should have done a bike ride too, but spent time on cleaning the chain and installing a new rear tire.
Tuesday rode to Ceasars Head and back for almost 70 miles then ran 2 miles right after that. About a 4.5 hour training session. Stopped a few times. Once to pick up a cell phone (again!). It worked but battery soon died. Will find owner someday. Later I stopped in Blythe Shoals to read about the big rocks they are putting in the south Saluda River and the property owners against it. Www.saludariverroots.com or dot org not sure. Of course I stayed at the CH ranger station a while to eat and get water. The 6 mile downhill was great as always.
Tonight Wednesday, I ran after work and did 3 laps of my 5K (3.1 mile) loop. Felt good on the first lap (no asthma) and had a good time of about 24 minutes. Did another lap at 23 minutes. So I thought: "can I push it and do it a minute faster again?". And I did. Well 22:04. So 9.3 miles in about 1hr 10 minutes was very good for me. Better than my 1:20 result this Spring in the Green Valley 10 mile race.
Will this help me on October 29th? I hope so. I also hope my legs/feet don't get overuse injuries like plantar faciitis.
Sunday night I ran easy 3.3 miles after work. Monday slept in and then went to the pool for a 3000 yard swim in just over an hour. Feeling good with my swim endurance, but need this length or longer for training. Should have done a bike ride too, but spent time on cleaning the chain and installing a new rear tire.
Tuesday rode to Ceasars Head and back for almost 70 miles then ran 2 miles right after that. About a 4.5 hour training session. Stopped a few times. Once to pick up a cell phone (again!). It worked but battery soon died. Will find owner someday. Later I stopped in Blythe Shoals to read about the big rocks they are putting in the south Saluda River and the property owners against it. Www.saludariverroots.com or dot org not sure. Of course I stayed at the CH ranger station a while to eat and get water. The 6 mile downhill was great as always.
Tonight Wednesday, I ran after work and did 3 laps of my 5K (3.1 mile) loop. Felt good on the first lap (no asthma) and had a good time of about 24 minutes. Did another lap at 23 minutes. So I thought: "can I push it and do it a minute faster again?". And I did. Well 22:04. So 9.3 miles in about 1hr 10 minutes was very good for me. Better than my 1:20 result this Spring in the Green Valley 10 mile race.
Will this help me on October 29th? I hope so. I also hope my legs/feet don't get overuse injuries like plantar faciitis.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Monsters and opossums : long run and a fast 5k
Last night I was busy after work helping Kristen with her Geometry homework. It took up my time and I got no workout (running) in. That was fine since my nearly 15 mile run on Sunday had me sore yet. Also the normal 10 miles of walking at work.
Tonight I stayed in Clinton and did a run before the trek home. But first a bathroom break and shopping at Bilo grocery store. I picked up some pretzels and a can of Monster Energy drink. I was feeling sluggish and needed something to pick me up. I have never had a Monster drink nor similar to but have had Starbucks bottled coffe drink. I can't justify the $2 a can for this stuff that is questionable nutrition. Ok several years ago I had a Red Bull that they gave out on the last part of Assault on Mount Mitchell bike challenge.
Anyway I was kind of anticipating a spike of energy from it (and a few handful of pretzel nuggets). As soon as I got out of the store I started drinking it. Then I changed into my running outfit. I drank probably 10 or 12 ounces of the 16 oz can. Then I was off for my 3.1 mile route. It was about 8:40 pm and a nice cool evening for a change. Great running conditions except for it was dark. I did the lap in 25 minutes which is good for me. Right as I ended the lap I spotted what I thought was a stray cat crossing my path. I yelled at it and it scampered back into the bushes. I almost ran over an oppossum!
I paused and texted this funny incident to my mom. Then I felt ambitious. I would run another lap as fast as I could. Have I mentioned I hate running 5K's? Actually I have never, not yet run an official 5K per say I have run them on my own and as part of a sprint triathlon. They are so hard and painful to me. Lungs gasp for air and legs burn. Even my arms hurt.
I started out in the normal way too fast mode going down a slight hill. As I went I began to sense my stomach, no lower down was active and warning me of something. Lots of gas was being passed. About halfway I was not sure I could make it. I started to wish for the Bilo bathroom ASAP. I slowed a bit but was making great time and was hoping for a great end result - if I could finish. I struggled on and kept the speed high to the end. I made it in 20:25. My personal best. Slow compared to many runners I am familiar with or know but my best. I was happy.
I ranon into the Bilo and took care of my urgent business. I guess the Monster energy can have several effects. One is that just psychologically the thought of taking a hyped up drink is enough to make you have energy. Second maybe and actually caffiene can improve performance. Not sure about the Taurine or carnitine and the other stuff in it. Third beware of the flushing effect on your system. At least mine. Coffee does that to me too.
So beware all you critters of the night. Don't play possum with me because I am a stark raving lunatic Monster running you down. And I will stink you up. All for now I gotta go.
Tonight I stayed in Clinton and did a run before the trek home. But first a bathroom break and shopping at Bilo grocery store. I picked up some pretzels and a can of Monster Energy drink. I was feeling sluggish and needed something to pick me up. I have never had a Monster drink nor similar to but have had Starbucks bottled coffe drink. I can't justify the $2 a can for this stuff that is questionable nutrition. Ok several years ago I had a Red Bull that they gave out on the last part of Assault on Mount Mitchell bike challenge.
Anyway I was kind of anticipating a spike of energy from it (and a few handful of pretzel nuggets). As soon as I got out of the store I started drinking it. Then I changed into my running outfit. I drank probably 10 or 12 ounces of the 16 oz can. Then I was off for my 3.1 mile route. It was about 8:40 pm and a nice cool evening for a change. Great running conditions except for it was dark. I did the lap in 25 minutes which is good for me. Right as I ended the lap I spotted what I thought was a stray cat crossing my path. I yelled at it and it scampered back into the bushes. I almost ran over an oppossum!
I paused and texted this funny incident to my mom. Then I felt ambitious. I would run another lap as fast as I could. Have I mentioned I hate running 5K's? Actually I have never, not yet run an official 5K per say I have run them on my own and as part of a sprint triathlon. They are so hard and painful to me. Lungs gasp for air and legs burn. Even my arms hurt.
I started out in the normal way too fast mode going down a slight hill. As I went I began to sense my stomach, no lower down was active and warning me of something. Lots of gas was being passed. About halfway I was not sure I could make it. I started to wish for the Bilo bathroom ASAP. I slowed a bit but was making great time and was hoping for a great end result - if I could finish. I struggled on and kept the speed high to the end. I made it in 20:25. My personal best. Slow compared to many runners I am familiar with or know but my best. I was happy.
I ranon into the Bilo and took care of my urgent business. I guess the Monster energy can have several effects. One is that just psychologically the thought of taking a hyped up drink is enough to make you have energy. Second maybe and actually caffiene can improve performance. Not sure about the Taurine or carnitine and the other stuff in it. Third beware of the flushing effect on your system. At least mine. Coffee does that to me too.
So beware all you critters of the night. Don't play possum with me because I am a stark raving lunatic Monster running you down. And I will stink you up. All for now I gotta go.
Monday, September 5, 2011
B2B training ramps up; high heat continues
On Friday i had to work the phone some and wait for a call It is what i I'll only call the B-project for now. I did .5 hour of pushups, pullups, sit-ups. Then went for a 1.5 hour ride then .5 hour run. It got to 98. degrees so I was worn out. So on Saturday I slept in till 11 am and that was good for recovery and health but no group ride. Bummer.
I did a hard fast ride to Saluda and back in 3.5 hours. Only the low 90's this day. I weighed in at my lowest weight in a year or two maybe of 135.5 lb Sunday: skip church and ran 14.5 miles and it was maybe 90 degrees. Cooldown ha ha. Then went with Kristen to the Steppes pool. Last nice hot day maybe for the year. Tropical storm Lee would affect us Monday thru Thursday it seems. Anyway got in 2000 yards. That night after making a chicken broccoli cheddar braid , I rode the rollers for half an hour.
For the week I got about 18.5 hours of training. That was the goal.
I did a hard fast ride to Saluda and back in 3.5 hours. Only the low 90's this day. I weighed in at my lowest weight in a year or two maybe of 135.5 lb Sunday: skip church and ran 14.5 miles and it was maybe 90 degrees. Cooldown ha ha. Then went with Kristen to the Steppes pool. Last nice hot day maybe for the year. Tropical storm Lee would affect us Monday thru Thursday it seems. Anyway got in 2000 yards. That night after making a chicken broccoli cheddar braid , I rode the rollers for half an hour.
For the week I got about 18.5 hours of training. That was the goal.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
September arrives
Tonight after I got home from Clinton I went to the apartment pool. It is supposed to close at 9 pm. I got started at about 8:55. Waste of time? Well the caretaker never came and so I swam until 9:50. Got in 2000 yards. Had moderate asthma the whole time. I just dealt with it as I do alot. Could have run to the truck and used the inhailer but just coped. Part of the pain training I guess to prepare me for Oct 29 pain.
I viewed the B2B website and saw that there is only 5 slots left of the 750 for the full distance triathlon. The half distance I think filled up months ago and has 1000 slots. They are participants from all across the US and one from P.R. One from Toronto and so on.
Last night did a way too late 3.1 mile run Again I had asthma. Before races I take a special asthma medicine and some regulars and I am fine. Training can suffer some.
I viewed the B2B website and saw that there is only 5 slots left of the 750 for the full distance triathlon. The half distance I think filled up months ago and has 1000 slots. They are participants from all across the US and one from P.R. One from Toronto and so on.
Last night did a way too late 3.1 mile run Again I had asthma. Before races I take a special asthma medicine and some regulars and I am fine. Training can suffer some.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Swim in the sun
Today got a late start as usual. Got in the apartment pool at 2:15 pm and started a long swim. It would be a long swim to see how I felt afterwards and get in the endurance, time and speed not a factor. It was sunny and mid to upper 80's. No problem from hurricane Irene as many along the east coast suffered.
So I wound up doing 80 round trips or 4000 yards/2.4 miles. This is the same distance as in a full/ultra distance triathlon. With several bathroom stops, drink stops, equipment changes, dealing with the cross pool rope etc it took til 3:55 pm. I would guess it was 1:40 or less of actual swimming. In the real event I would not be stopping much if any. I hope to be able to have a race time not too far from 1:20. Maybe I should set aside one day to do a race simulation non stop timed effort.
I found out the the local YMCA will have no joining fee in September so that when the apartment closes it's pool soon (manager couldn't give me a date) I will be able to still swimn. Then after the B2B event I can cancel again to save money.
I went for a 12 mile ride afterwards - not pushing it just going for a little spin. Might go for a run tonight. Only got 8 hours of training in last week. Need a long bike ride tomorrow. I need a week in the mid to upper teens hours this week of training.
Only 9 weeks until the B2B event. Hope my training is on track, but I have no exact plan as many people do. I had Joe Freils Ultimate triathlon trainying bible book as a guide but turned it back to the library. Maybe I will go check it out again.
So I wound up doing 80 round trips or 4000 yards/2.4 miles. This is the same distance as in a full/ultra distance triathlon. With several bathroom stops, drink stops, equipment changes, dealing with the cross pool rope etc it took til 3:55 pm. I would guess it was 1:40 or less of actual swimming. In the real event I would not be stopping much if any. I hope to be able to have a race time not too far from 1:20. Maybe I should set aside one day to do a race simulation non stop timed effort.
I found out the the local YMCA will have no joining fee in September so that when the apartment closes it's pool soon (manager couldn't give me a date) I will be able to still swimn. Then after the B2B event I can cancel again to save money.
I went for a 12 mile ride afterwards - not pushing it just going for a little spin. Might go for a run tonight. Only got 8 hours of training in last week. Need a long bike ride tomorrow. I need a week in the mid to upper teens hours this week of training.
Only 9 weeks until the B2B event. Hope my training is on track, but I have no exact plan as many people do. I had Joe Freils Ultimate triathlon trainying bible book as a guide but turned it back to the library. Maybe I will go check it out again.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
I am committed
I finally committed to participate in the Beach to Battleship iron distance triathlon. They were down to 85 spots. I am nervous about the whole thing. Hope it all goes well.
Last week I got in a whopping volume of nearly 20 hours. Two 6 hour rides; a 12 mile and smaller runs. Couple hours of swimming. The week before was only 6 hours due in part to a colonoscopy I got done.
So now I must stay on the training and get enough sleep. It will be a challenge.
Last week I got in a whopping volume of nearly 20 hours. Two 6 hour rides; a 12 mile and smaller runs. Couple hours of swimming. The week before was only 6 hours due in part to a colonoscopy I got done.
So now I must stay on the training and get enough sleep. It will be a challenge.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Hawaii five O
Last night I watched the new Hawaii five O TV show. Then about 15 minutes into it they start talking about a triathlon and how some big time robbers may be in the race. They find out they are going to rob a diamond exchange house vault in the middle of the triathlon and then get back in the race. They were scaling the sides of a building in cleated shies and with aero helmets on. Then boom! They explode the vault and steal millions in diamonds and put them in their fanny packs. Soon they were headed back to the race. But the cops wrecked them. It was all so unrealistic but it kept my attention. I scrutinized the gear. Oh yea the police tracked the athletes via their timing chips as if it was a GPS sending unit.
There was good shots of the ironman world championships mingled into the show. It was neat to see how they integrated the triathlon event into an episode. Multisport goes Mainstream.
There was good shots of the ironman world championships mingled into the show. It was neat to see how they integrated the triathlon event into an episode. Multisport goes Mainstream.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Late July
Had a great week of vacation visiting family in Indiana. Did a reduced volume of training (run and bike and Schwinn Airdyne machine with Mom)but good efforts including a 4 hour ride with Andy in very muggy, hot, sunny weather. Played golf with Phil which I have not done in eons. Thanks Phil. Had great food all week from Mom and Cheryl and Phil.
On Sunday the 24th I biked up Paris Mountain 3x and I was slow and the heart rate high. I have lost my conditioning. It was a stressful 3 hour ride so I took next two days off. Plus work was very stressful (same as always). Today I biked an hour then tonight swam 2000 yards. Tomorrow a big ride and maybe a little run afterwards. Darn heatwave will not stop so go early.
As I keep thinking about October 29, it is hard to keep the motivation up. There is uncertainty to me signing up. It has to do with possible scheduling conflict which I can't explain here. I want to do a 140.6!
On Sunday the 24th I biked up Paris Mountain 3x and I was slow and the heart rate high. I have lost my conditioning. It was a stressful 3 hour ride so I took next two days off. Plus work was very stressful (same as always). Today I biked an hour then tonight swam 2000 yards. Tomorrow a big ride and maybe a little run afterwards. Darn heatwave will not stop so go early.
As I keep thinking about October 29, it is hard to keep the motivation up. There is uncertainty to me signing up. It has to do with possible scheduling conflict which I can't explain here. I want to do a 140.6!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Early July notes
Well I am still thinking about participating in a full/ultra distance triathlon. Specifically the Beach to Battleship event in late October. With 525 slots out of 750 I may need to sign up soon. I am thinking yes. This a 140 + miles total triathlon.
I worked July 4 so that was 4 days in a row (52 hours) and 1 day off. Back on two days then off three days (Fri sat sun). Been sqeezing in some running - up to an hour each night after work so building up some miles. Did the skunk sprints technique one night. On my day off swam in outdoor pool for an hour - about 1.3 miles. Then did a 2 hour ride in the high heat. I was not feeling peppy.
My weakness seems to be getting enough sleep. But on Tuesday night I went to bed at 730pm and got up around 430am. Did I mention that I am now on day shift? That will help me sleep better. Probably no more 3 am runs down Wade Hampton Blvd. anymore. I love having 7 lanes to myself.
Bought some new swim equipment. Training fins called Zoomers. Man do they make you zoom. But there is an added stress on your legs so beware. I am still figuring them out. Got some full scuba goggles with corrective lenses. During my last lake swim my goggles fogged up and my nearsightedness combined for a frustrating situation. I don't like these goggles either. I may get contact lenses. Something I have not worn in 20 years.
I worked July 4 so that was 4 days in a row (52 hours) and 1 day off. Back on two days then off three days (Fri sat sun). Been sqeezing in some running - up to an hour each night after work so building up some miles. Did the skunk sprints technique one night. On my day off swam in outdoor pool for an hour - about 1.3 miles. Then did a 2 hour ride in the high heat. I was not feeling peppy.
My weakness seems to be getting enough sleep. But on Tuesday night I went to bed at 730pm and got up around 430am. Did I mention that I am now on day shift? That will help me sleep better. Probably no more 3 am runs down Wade Hampton Blvd. anymore. I love having 7 lanes to myself.
Bought some new swim equipment. Training fins called Zoomers. Man do they make you zoom. But there is an added stress on your legs so beware. I am still figuring them out. Got some full scuba goggles with corrective lenses. During my last lake swim my goggles fogged up and my nearsightedness combined for a frustrating situation. I don't like these goggles either. I may get contact lenses. Something I have not worn in 20 years.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Triathlon notes
So last Sunday I got off work at 7:30 am and drove down to Greenwood to watch the FOF triathlon. It was nice to spectate and cheer the athletes on. I watched as Parker Roth came and went into the park and won the event. Gail Kattauf camerl in 1st for women.
Sunday afternoon I woke up and watched ironMan 70.3 world championships on NBC - a 60 minute program of 2010 event in Clearwater Florida I think.
There are a lot of loose thoughts and observations from watching these events and how it related to me. What are my motivations? What new equipment do I want? How much faster can I get? And so on.
I am now trying to figure out my plans for future events. I may decide to do a full 140.6 distance this year. Beach to Battleship is probably the one.
Battery on iPod is low so all for now.
Sunday afternoon I woke up and watched ironMan 70.3 world championships on NBC - a 60 minute program of 2010 event in Clearwater Florida I think.
There are a lot of loose thoughts and observations from watching these events and how it related to me. What are my motivations? What new equipment do I want? How much faster can I get? And so on.
I am now trying to figure out my plans for future events. I may decide to do a full 140.6 distance this year. Beach to Battleship is probably the one.
Battery on iPod is low so all for now.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Miracle Hill Cycling challenge
Hot day Saturday as I rode the century for Miracle Hill Ministries. Procedes of this charity ride went to help the homeless.
This year was a great new route that stayed in SC and started and ended in downtown Greenville. Just a few of the positive changes for the event.
And my daughter Kristen joined in a did a wonderful effort raising money and doing the 25 mile route. A big adventure for her to "solo" and build confidence. Her first organized ride. I was torn to ride with her or stick to my plans. She had done her route before on the Swamp Rabbit Trail (SRT) which is a rails to trails deal. I am so proud of her. She took 2 hours 20 minutes for her ride. I have bigger plans for our future rides!
The ride was cleared for the first hour by police as we rode thru the city. About 60 of us doing the century disrupted traffic. When we got to Paris Mountain we were on our own. I chugged up the hill in under 18 minutes which is better than usual. We then proceeded toward Ceasars Head. Got in with a good pacing group and drafted some until the base. That group included John Rundell (breaking the wind) and Kristie Aldredge (SC masters woman marathon record holder) and her husband.
Did the climb in 43 minutes which was good but conserving energy for the rest of the long day Doug Guth and Rob Dempsey were my riding partners for the next hour or two as we headed toward Table Rock. Great views of this awesome feature. The high heat began really kicking us. Doug did a century the previous weekend and had started the day by riding from home. He was getting dehydrated and energy waning. I decided to ride at my own pace and pulled ahead. Rob was somewhere up the road. I was in no mans land as they say. I gained a second wind and began digging deep to finish strong. I met up with Rob finally and we rode across the Daucausville area.
I kept my pace up on the hills and using my aerobars (homemade) to get into my aero tuck. I left Rob behind as I was in the zone and determined to get to the finish as fast as I could and get with Kristen ASAP. Rob was very strong and right behind me but as he told me later his legs were feeling the pain near the end.
I finished at about 1:35 pm and had 6 hours 10 minutes riding time on my computer. 7500 feet of climbing. I guess I was 4th to finish the century. Jessica and Debbie were there too to cheer me in. Rob was about 5 minutes back and I cheered him in. I arrived at the stadium in time to hear Kerrie Roberts mini concert as we sat in the shade. I had stomach cramps that took a little while to subside.
Doug was cheered in later and he rode to me and Kristen. He high-fived Kristen for her great ride. He also battled a leg cramp as he dismounted. Time for us all to eat and recover.
Later I would enjoy cold A/C, pizza, and a movie with Kristen.
This year was a great new route that stayed in SC and started and ended in downtown Greenville. Just a few of the positive changes for the event.
And my daughter Kristen joined in a did a wonderful effort raising money and doing the 25 mile route. A big adventure for her to "solo" and build confidence. Her first organized ride. I was torn to ride with her or stick to my plans. She had done her route before on the Swamp Rabbit Trail (SRT) which is a rails to trails deal. I am so proud of her. She took 2 hours 20 minutes for her ride. I have bigger plans for our future rides!
The ride was cleared for the first hour by police as we rode thru the city. About 60 of us doing the century disrupted traffic. When we got to Paris Mountain we were on our own. I chugged up the hill in under 18 minutes which is better than usual. We then proceeded toward Ceasars Head. Got in with a good pacing group and drafted some until the base. That group included John Rundell (breaking the wind) and Kristie Aldredge (SC masters woman marathon record holder) and her husband.
Did the climb in 43 minutes which was good but conserving energy for the rest of the long day Doug Guth and Rob Dempsey were my riding partners for the next hour or two as we headed toward Table Rock. Great views of this awesome feature. The high heat began really kicking us. Doug did a century the previous weekend and had started the day by riding from home. He was getting dehydrated and energy waning. I decided to ride at my own pace and pulled ahead. Rob was somewhere up the road. I was in no mans land as they say. I gained a second wind and began digging deep to finish strong. I met up with Rob finally and we rode across the Daucausville area.
I kept my pace up on the hills and using my aerobars (homemade) to get into my aero tuck. I left Rob behind as I was in the zone and determined to get to the finish as fast as I could and get with Kristen ASAP. Rob was very strong and right behind me but as he told me later his legs were feeling the pain near the end.
I finished at about 1:35 pm and had 6 hours 10 minutes riding time on my computer. 7500 feet of climbing. I guess I was 4th to finish the century. Jessica and Debbie were there too to cheer me in. Rob was about 5 minutes back and I cheered him in. I arrived at the stadium in time to hear Kerrie Roberts mini concert as we sat in the shade. I had stomach cramps that took a little while to subside.
Doug was cheered in later and he rode to me and Kristen. He high-fived Kristen for her great ride. He also battled a leg cramp as he dismounted. Time for us all to eat and recover.
Later I would enjoy cold A/C, pizza, and a movie with Kristen.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Mid to late may status
Friday. Swam 1500 yds. Bike 22 miles
Saturday. Bike 67 miles. Carolina Triathlon group for 30 of it.
Sunday. Run 6 miles. End another round of antibiotics.
Monday. Bike 22 miles hard.
Monday was my first ride with the Ergomo power meter
200 watts ave. 224 watts normalized. 850 watts max
Hope I can avoid getting sick again !
Saturday. Bike 67 miles. Carolina Triathlon group for 30 of it.
Sunday. Run 6 miles. End another round of antibiotics.
Monday. Bike 22 miles hard.
Monday was my first ride with the Ergomo power meter
200 watts ave. 224 watts normalized. 850 watts max
Hope I can avoid getting sick again !
Lance
I remember back in 2004 when I went to the Tour de Georgia and watched the pros race. I saw them time trial in Rome, GA. Then the next day I returned to see them in the mountains. I was in Delonega, GA. I saw Lance get out of the team bus afterwards and I followed him. I had brought my bike and was able to get around pretty well.
He went to a trailer with the initials USADA on it. There was a crowd formed around it (as there was everywhere he went). He came out and maybe signed a few more autographs and got on his bike. I got on mine. He went one way and I went another. I knew he would head back to the bus.
I rode hard for about 30 seconds and intersected him. I rode beside him and was able to take his picture as I rode. I didn't know what to say. I just rode. Then he was back at the bus and out of sight. He had to get through a huge crowd clammoring for autographs.
So in my own tiny way I raced Lance and then rode with him. Good memory.
Today he is still dealing with doping accusations. I wish the government would not do their inquiry. We know our heros of the peloton have probably doped in the past. But if the tests are negative then stop there. Design better tests. Or maybe we need a new cycling federation that allows doping. No more tests. Anyway, I'll keep loving watching bicycling races and cherishing memories of them.
He went to a trailer with the initials USADA on it. There was a crowd formed around it (as there was everywhere he went). He came out and maybe signed a few more autographs and got on his bike. I got on mine. He went one way and I went another. I knew he would head back to the bus.
I rode hard for about 30 seconds and intersected him. I rode beside him and was able to take his picture as I rode. I didn't know what to say. I just rode. Then he was back at the bus and out of sight. He had to get through a huge crowd clammoring for autographs.
So in my own tiny way I raced Lance and then rode with him. Good memory.
Today he is still dealing with doping accusations. I wish the government would not do their inquiry. We know our heros of the peloton have probably doped in the past. But if the tests are negative then stop there. Design better tests. Or maybe we need a new cycling federation that allows doping. No more tests. Anyway, I'll keep loving watching bicycling races and cherishing memories of them.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Early May status
I have gotten in a couple 75 mile mountainous rides in lately. One to Ceasars Head with Paris Mountain and last Saturday to Saluda with PM also. Getting in shape for the Miracle Hill Century on June 4th.
Had a 2500 yard swim last Friday which is the longest this year. Not as much long swims as last year but I am progressing. My speed and endurance keep improving. The pool at the apartment is now open and at months end I will end my trips to the Y.
I ran 13.5 miles Sunday night at midnight on a cool but humid night. The run down Wade Hampton to the Handlebar and back. I did it in 2 hours so I was pleased with that. Almost did the GHS swamp rabbit 5K with my daughter. She is not where she wants to be with her training/readiness so we skipped it. I have never done an "official" 5K before. Many on my own, racing myself. Maybe soon.
I missed the Lake Murray triathlon on Saturday. I did it last year and liked it. Oh well. I may do the Caine Halter sprint in June held in Greenville.
I hope to soon have a "new to me" system on my bike soon. It is a meter that records power data. Still working on installation.
Had a 2500 yard swim last Friday which is the longest this year. Not as much long swims as last year but I am progressing. My speed and endurance keep improving. The pool at the apartment is now open and at months end I will end my trips to the Y.
I ran 13.5 miles Sunday night at midnight on a cool but humid night. The run down Wade Hampton to the Handlebar and back. I did it in 2 hours so I was pleased with that. Almost did the GHS swamp rabbit 5K with my daughter. She is not where she wants to be with her training/readiness so we skipped it. I have never done an "official" 5K before. Many on my own, racing myself. Maybe soon.
I missed the Lake Murray triathlon on Saturday. I did it last year and liked it. Oh well. I may do the Caine Halter sprint in June held in Greenville.
I hope to soon have a "new to me" system on my bike soon. It is a meter that records power data. Still working on installation.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
What about using Crisco?
Langley Pond International Triathlon. April 23, 2011. Near Aiken, SC
I had been thinking about participating in the Langley tri for a while but never committed to it. On Wednesday before I left for work in Clinton I frantically put together my bike. The crankset had been taken off a few months ago. The tires were nearly flat.
After work got out Friday morning I checked the forecast for Aiken. It looked like any storms should pass in the night. I expected a cold swim.
After a few hours sleep I decided to drive south. I went to the bypass around Greenwood (never been there) and followed some directions a lady at work gave me (turn left at Bojangles/CVS, etc). I came to a most interesting town of Edgefield. It had old huge plantation style homes and big turkey statues all over downtown, each decorated differently. I wondered why they had done that?! The national wild turkey center south of town explained that.
Got to the site around 5:30 after getting a little lost. I registered and went to the Go Tri Sports booth. The salesman told their wetsuits were marked way down and I bought one. But not after about an hour of putting/getting it on and convincing myself it would work. It was size SMT by Blueseventy model FUSION. I guess it was small mens tall. Yea a really skinny guy. It took so much effort to keep squeezing myself into it. It was the only size they had that might fit me and I wanted a full suit for the 70 degree water. I had planned to wear just tri shorts but chickened out.
Had to buy a new thing of Body Glide ($10!!) cause I couldn't find the one I brought.
So it is near sundown and most everyone had left the park or was leaving. I decided to try out the suit in the pond. I got in and went only a short distance to be safer. Swam in small circles and went over to docks for about 10 minutes. Got out and needed to use the bathroom. But wait I was trapped in this wetsuit.
There were some RVs and a popup VW van that were in the park overnight so I was lucky I could just stay put. Didn't have to go search for a spot to park. After changing and preparing and eating it was 9 or 10 pm. I was compelled to organize my mess somewhat so I did that.I could see Katie Malone's (tri coaching service) RV lights still on late. I got in the back and was laying down about 10:45 pm.
Woke up at 2am from noise another camper made. Put on more clothes and shut my side windows. Went back to sleep.
Got awake at 6:10 or so. The Setup Events PA music started at about 6:20. Van Morrison started things off. There was Beatles (good morning), cat Stevens, greatful dead, instrumental and more. Pretty mellow music to start.
I ate a Powerbar for breakfast. Went to tje portapotty before the lines formed. Then i took my bike and other stuff over tp the transition area.
So with about a half hour before the start I began putting on the wetsuit. I used the BodyGlide all over my entire body except my face! I struggled to put it on and thought about how long it would take to get it off. I walked over to the beach where all the participants had gathered. Group prayer and then national anthem. The first wave was off at 8 am. I think we in the second wave waited until 8:03 am.
Out of water in about 33 minutes which was about 5 minutes ahead of my prediction. I was surprised because I had swum badly. The suit must have really helped me. I had such a hard time seeing where
On bike. Pass so many others ( but the Sprint field was out on the same course) that I lost count. I do pretty well on my non TT bike. Wonder if I had a tri/TT bike with deep aero wheels what I could do.
Start run
Finish line and it showed 2:40 something. I realize i need to subtract 3 minutes for delayed wave start. So I was done in under 2:38. Real happy.
Ate. During awards. Leave 12:15 head north
Got home 3 pm pick up kristen
I had been thinking about participating in the Langley tri for a while but never committed to it. On Wednesday before I left for work in Clinton I frantically put together my bike. The crankset had been taken off a few months ago. The tires were nearly flat.
After work got out Friday morning I checked the forecast for Aiken. It looked like any storms should pass in the night. I expected a cold swim.
After a few hours sleep I decided to drive south. I went to the bypass around Greenwood (never been there) and followed some directions a lady at work gave me (turn left at Bojangles/CVS, etc). I came to a most interesting town of Edgefield. It had old huge plantation style homes and big turkey statues all over downtown, each decorated differently. I wondered why they had done that?! The national wild turkey center south of town explained that.
Got to the site around 5:30 after getting a little lost. I registered and went to the Go Tri Sports booth. The salesman told their wetsuits were marked way down and I bought one. But not after about an hour of putting/getting it on and convincing myself it would work. It was size SMT by Blueseventy model FUSION. I guess it was small mens tall. Yea a really skinny guy. It took so much effort to keep squeezing myself into it. It was the only size they had that might fit me and I wanted a full suit for the 70 degree water. I had planned to wear just tri shorts but chickened out.
Had to buy a new thing of Body Glide ($10!!) cause I couldn't find the one I brought.
So it is near sundown and most everyone had left the park or was leaving. I decided to try out the suit in the pond. I got in and went only a short distance to be safer. Swam in small circles and went over to docks for about 10 minutes. Got out and needed to use the bathroom. But wait I was trapped in this wetsuit.
There were some RVs and a popup VW van that were in the park overnight so I was lucky I could just stay put. Didn't have to go search for a spot to park. After changing and preparing and eating it was 9 or 10 pm. I was compelled to organize my mess somewhat so I did that.I could see Katie Malone's (tri coaching service) RV lights still on late. I got in the back and was laying down about 10:45 pm.
Woke up at 2am from noise another camper made. Put on more clothes and shut my side windows. Went back to sleep.
Got awake at 6:10 or so. The Setup Events PA music started at about 6:20. Van Morrison started things off. There was Beatles (good morning), cat Stevens, greatful dead, instrumental and more. Pretty mellow music to start.
I ate a Powerbar for breakfast. Went to tje portapotty before the lines formed. Then i took my bike and other stuff over tp the transition area.
So with about a half hour before the start I began putting on the wetsuit. I used the BodyGlide all over my entire body except my face! I struggled to put it on and thought about how long it would take to get it off. I walked over to the beach where all the participants had gathered. Group prayer and then national anthem. The first wave was off at 8 am. I think we in the second wave waited until 8:03 am.
Out of water in about 33 minutes which was about 5 minutes ahead of my prediction. I was surprised because I had swum badly. The suit must have really helped me. I had such a hard time seeing where
On bike. Pass so many others ( but the Sprint field was out on the same course) that I lost count. I do pretty well on my non TT bike. Wonder if I had a tri/TT bike with deep aero wheels what I could do.
Start run
Finish line and it showed 2:40 something. I realize i need to subtract 3 minutes for delayed wave start. So I was done in under 2:38. Real happy.
Ate. During awards. Leave 12:15 head north
Got home 3 pm pick up kristen
Friday, April 22, 2011
Progress
Over the last few weeks or more I have been on the road to recovery. I had an illness for about a month. I have been swimming and running a few times a week. I'm getting in longer rides too. I recently did the Ceasars Head climb. It took about 44 minutes to do the nearly 6 mile climb. That along with some 15 to 16 minute climbs of Paris mountain (backside) I am regaining my fitness.
I have seen my swimming speed increase steadily as the need to rest between laps decreases. I did a 6.6 mile run in a hour which is good for me.
I had a wonderful ride this week with my daughter Kristen on the Swamp Rabbit Trail from Furman to reedy river falls downtown and back. It was a warm Spring day and good stuff was seen.
I ponder what events to do and what goals to have. The main goal is to keep having fun with others as we sweat it out.
I have seen my swimming speed increase steadily as the need to rest between laps decreases. I did a 6.6 mile run in a hour which is good for me.
I had a wonderful ride this week with my daughter Kristen on the Swamp Rabbit Trail from Furman to reedy river falls downtown and back. It was a warm Spring day and good stuff was seen.
I ponder what events to do and what goals to have. The main goal is to keep having fun with others as we sweat it out.
Friday, April 8, 2011
into the storm
It was nearing midnight on April 4th. It was a windy warm night and the weatherman had shown an approaching storm system that was supposed to hit around 1am. I decided to squeeze in a run that would be an hour and get me back inside before the rain hit. I headed out the door and planned on a common route down Wade Hampton Blvd (WHB). I would run out 3 miles or 4 miles if doing well and turn around.
I got ready and headed out the door. Down the hill and across Mountain Creek, up the grade to WHB. I hit the BB&T bank at about 10 minutes and got onto WHB. Toward Walmart I went and At mile 2 it was 20 minutes. Slow pace so I opted for the 3 mile mark as a turn around. The headwind was 15 to 20 mph so I was looking forward to the tailwind. I could see lightning in the distance to the northwest. I felt a drop of water but no rain. So I got to mile 3, which is Joe Joes Fish Market, at 30 minutes and turned back. The storm I felt was getting close.
As I ran I felt faster due to the lack of headwind. Back to near Walmart and the wind started really pushing me. I began to fly. Well nearly. The wind had kicked up to maybe 40 mph. I was going fast (for me relative to myself). Only 2 miles to go. I came to the railroad overpass and started to climb the hill. I increased my effort as well out of fear of the storm on my heels. I flew up the hill and began to screeam down the other side. Crazy winds of 50 to 60 gusts tangled my legs and I struggled to not fall. The wind came from all directions. I was thinking oh crap here it comes.
Nearing the BB&T bank the rain started to hit. A daily light rain at first and the thunder chimmed in. The final 1.1 mile to safety so only about 9 minutes at this rate. I ran down toward Mountain Creek and the intensity of the storm increased. My top was wet but the feet were still fairly normal. Onto Mill Estate Road and only .6 mile to go. Down down to the pit of the bridge crossing. A river was flowing in the street.
Now up the brutal 17% grade out from the bridge- slowly I climbed. The gutter was a torrent of fluid. Not much lighting here but the lightning reflected the volume of water everywhere. The thunder was now hitting only a few seconds after the lightning. Serious dread but only 3 or 4/10 of a mile to go.
I climbed closer to Reid School Road and the lightning was followed right by the crashing noise. Code red. Run faster. Max it out baby. I hit the entrance to the apartments. Code red code red was all I could say to myself. Only a tenth of a mile to go. My shoes were like buckets of wet cement. I was wetter than wet-Superwet. I neared the doorway and swung it open and ran into the hallway/ breezeway. I was safe but dripping water everywhere.
Another great run. Time to strip and hit the shower.
I later heard on the news the next day of all the damage from the storms. Thousands without power, People killed in Georgia and stuff like that. I survived to run another day (or night).
I got ready and headed out the door. Down the hill and across Mountain Creek, up the grade to WHB. I hit the BB&T bank at about 10 minutes and got onto WHB. Toward Walmart I went and At mile 2 it was 20 minutes. Slow pace so I opted for the 3 mile mark as a turn around. The headwind was 15 to 20 mph so I was looking forward to the tailwind. I could see lightning in the distance to the northwest. I felt a drop of water but no rain. So I got to mile 3, which is Joe Joes Fish Market, at 30 minutes and turned back. The storm I felt was getting close.
As I ran I felt faster due to the lack of headwind. Back to near Walmart and the wind started really pushing me. I began to fly. Well nearly. The wind had kicked up to maybe 40 mph. I was going fast (for me relative to myself). Only 2 miles to go. I came to the railroad overpass and started to climb the hill. I increased my effort as well out of fear of the storm on my heels. I flew up the hill and began to screeam down the other side. Crazy winds of 50 to 60 gusts tangled my legs and I struggled to not fall. The wind came from all directions. I was thinking oh crap here it comes.
Nearing the BB&T bank the rain started to hit. A daily light rain at first and the thunder chimmed in. The final 1.1 mile to safety so only about 9 minutes at this rate. I ran down toward Mountain Creek and the intensity of the storm increased. My top was wet but the feet were still fairly normal. Onto Mill Estate Road and only .6 mile to go. Down down to the pit of the bridge crossing. A river was flowing in the street.
Now up the brutal 17% grade out from the bridge- slowly I climbed. The gutter was a torrent of fluid. Not much lighting here but the lightning reflected the volume of water everywhere. The thunder was now hitting only a few seconds after the lightning. Serious dread but only 3 or 4/10 of a mile to go.
I climbed closer to Reid School Road and the lightning was followed right by the crashing noise. Code red. Run faster. Max it out baby. I hit the entrance to the apartments. Code red code red was all I could say to myself. Only a tenth of a mile to go. My shoes were like buckets of wet cement. I was wetter than wet-Superwet. I neared the doorway and swung it open and ran into the hallway/ breezeway. I was safe but dripping water everywhere.
Another great run. Time to strip and hit the shower.
I later heard on the news the next day of all the damage from the storms. Thousands without power, People killed in Georgia and stuff like that. I survived to run another day (or night).
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Fairly inactive
Been fighting a bacterial infection for the last 5 weeks. On second antibiotic now and hope it does the trick. My conditioning is very low. I have been to the pool once or twice a week though. Also last weekend did a 60 mile ride to Saluda where I joined Doug Guth for portions.
No events will be done soon as a result. Hope to get back into shape and maybe do a triathlon and train for Miracle Hill cycling challenge. Would like some help from sponsors for that event to help the homeless in the SC upstate. Goto miraclehill.org/cycling and see my fundraising page.
No events will be done soon as a result. Hope to get back into shape and maybe do a triathlon and train for Miracle Hill cycling challenge. Would like some help from sponsors for that event to help the homeless in the SC upstate. Goto miraclehill.org/cycling and see my fundraising page.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Mid February
So in the last week I ran a 4 miler and a 6 miler on the 19th and 20th between shifts. Then Monday I got out for a 22 mile ride. It was my "Willis3 Loop" which is a standard route I have done a hundred times or so. I was able to go 17 mph average even with very gusty winds of 30-40 mph. So that was showing a bit of improvement for me.
I had installed one aerobar on my Allez, which is pretty silly, for my Willis3 loop. It helped me against the wind but it was akward. I just did not have enough time to install the other one before I had to get the ride in. That night I installed the other one. I was now ready for a bigger ride on Tuesday.
I had the idea to try and get a fairly early start of 11am and go to Ceasars Head ranger station which is a little more than 60 miles round trip. I had to be back by about 4:45 pm. I got a late start of about 12:30 due to sleeping in. So my goal was on shaky ground. I made good time even with still strong winds from the north. Then as I was just to get off route SC11 my rear derailluer cable broke. I had a new one and really had to fix it. It took about 10 minutes. I thought about turning back but I had some time yet so I headed up the escarpment. After about 35 minutes of climbing and nearly to the top I decided to turn around.
Averaged 16.5 mph for the trip of 58 miles and got home at 4:40 pm so I probably could have made the summit but had to leave wiggle room. I will be back and conquer the mountain soon enough.
On Thursday before going to work I squeezed in a half hour swim at the Y. Did 1250 yards. My right shoulder was hurting as soon as I started so I favored it. I guess a lot of time on the aerobars yesterday had made it sore.
On Friday I went for a small 2.5 mile run. Later at work my throat felt sore and I thought "oh no", here comes a weekend in bed. I slept all Friday night and drank lots of fluid and took vitamin C and zinc... anyway. So here it is Saturday Feb 26 and I am not feeling terrible but not normal. Sure wish I could ride long and hard today as it is 60 degrees today. I may go out for a few miles really easy but don't want to make it worse.
I had installed one aerobar on my Allez, which is pretty silly, for my Willis3 loop. It helped me against the wind but it was akward. I just did not have enough time to install the other one before I had to get the ride in. That night I installed the other one. I was now ready for a bigger ride on Tuesday.
I had the idea to try and get a fairly early start of 11am and go to Ceasars Head ranger station which is a little more than 60 miles round trip. I had to be back by about 4:45 pm. I got a late start of about 12:30 due to sleeping in. So my goal was on shaky ground. I made good time even with still strong winds from the north. Then as I was just to get off route SC11 my rear derailluer cable broke. I had a new one and really had to fix it. It took about 10 minutes. I thought about turning back but I had some time yet so I headed up the escarpment. After about 35 minutes of climbing and nearly to the top I decided to turn around.
Averaged 16.5 mph for the trip of 58 miles and got home at 4:40 pm so I probably could have made the summit but had to leave wiggle room. I will be back and conquer the mountain soon enough.
On Thursday before going to work I squeezed in a half hour swim at the Y. Did 1250 yards. My right shoulder was hurting as soon as I started so I favored it. I guess a lot of time on the aerobars yesterday had made it sore.
On Friday I went for a small 2.5 mile run. Later at work my throat felt sore and I thought "oh no", here comes a weekend in bed. I slept all Friday night and drank lots of fluid and took vitamin C and zinc... anyway. So here it is Saturday Feb 26 and I am not feeling terrible but not normal. Sure wish I could ride long and hard today as it is 60 degrees today. I may go out for a few miles really easy but don't want to make it worse.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Spring already?
The temps up in the mid 60's and time to ride. I wore only shorts and a jersey. It was mostly sunny (or is it partly cloudy?). Decided to go climb Paris Mountain a few times. Before I got to the base a Porsche 911 type went by the other way and i heard hom really stomp on the gas a few minutes later he went past me and I saw it was a Carrera 4 model.
I climbed the frontside moderately in 22 minutes which is a good effort not a huge effort but some sweat was produced. I stopped at the summit and ate a fig bar and soon started down the backside. It took only 4 minutes to do the 2.2 miles. It felt great. I saw a few riders going up as i went down. I lingered at the bottom and two riders went by. I began to circled around before going back up.
Just then a rider came at me going toward the climb as I was going away from it. I recognized it was big George Hincapie and I said "hi George" and waved. He said hi. Another rider followed him. I circled back and began the climb with George and friend? In sight. I was soon struggling with the heart at 160. They were only about 50 feet in front but I knew I probably would not catch them. If only I was 10 pounds lighter on a lighter bike and in better shape then maybe. Well maybe closer.
So after a few minutes they were farther away but maybe only 15 to 20 seconds ahead. I kept on and knew at least I would have a good time for the climb as long as I was chasing. About 10 minutes in and I saw the friend again. I was in the mid to upper 160's heart rate now. I caught the guy and sat on his wheel a minute then saw I was able to pass. He said I scared him I was too quiet I guess. I said sorry. I passed him and anticipated the summit. I did not see George again anywhere but no surprise.
I made the top at 14.4 minutes and at about 172 BPM. I stopped and caught my breath. In a minute the guy passed by me and went down the front side. I continued on up to the radio towers to view the city and found a dime and a penny.
Back down the backside and this time I climbed it in about 16.5 minutes, a reasonable pace. On down the frontside and went right toward George's house. Also I went into the Protech motorsport car shop and there was the Carrera 4 and a plain Carrera and other Porches and Audis in the lot. Never know what I'll see there. Once there was a 914 with a potent small block chevy in it. Crazy fast.
Went into Montebello and passed by Georges house and noticed the for sale sign was gone. I wonder what ever happened to his plans for his bike housing developement (pla da day)since the housing bust. I think maybe it has been cancelled. Noone appeared to be at home but the whole community seemed strangley vacant. The millionaires don't take walks I guess.
Time to go home and get the girls and eat.
I climbed the frontside moderately in 22 minutes which is a good effort not a huge effort but some sweat was produced. I stopped at the summit and ate a fig bar and soon started down the backside. It took only 4 minutes to do the 2.2 miles. It felt great. I saw a few riders going up as i went down. I lingered at the bottom and two riders went by. I began to circled around before going back up.
Just then a rider came at me going toward the climb as I was going away from it. I recognized it was big George Hincapie and I said "hi George" and waved. He said hi. Another rider followed him. I circled back and began the climb with George and friend? In sight. I was soon struggling with the heart at 160. They were only about 50 feet in front but I knew I probably would not catch them. If only I was 10 pounds lighter on a lighter bike and in better shape then maybe. Well maybe closer.
So after a few minutes they were farther away but maybe only 15 to 20 seconds ahead. I kept on and knew at least I would have a good time for the climb as long as I was chasing. About 10 minutes in and I saw the friend again. I was in the mid to upper 160's heart rate now. I caught the guy and sat on his wheel a minute then saw I was able to pass. He said I scared him I was too quiet I guess. I said sorry. I passed him and anticipated the summit. I did not see George again anywhere but no surprise.
I made the top at 14.4 minutes and at about 172 BPM. I stopped and caught my breath. In a minute the guy passed by me and went down the front side. I continued on up to the radio towers to view the city and found a dime and a penny.
Back down the backside and this time I climbed it in about 16.5 minutes, a reasonable pace. On down the frontside and went right toward George's house. Also I went into the Protech motorsport car shop and there was the Carrera 4 and a plain Carrera and other Porches and Audis in the lot. Never know what I'll see there. Once there was a 914 with a potent small block chevy in it. Crazy fast.
Went into Montebello and passed by Georges house and noticed the for sale sign was gone. I wonder what ever happened to his plans for his bike housing developement (pla da day)since the housing bust. I think maybe it has been cancelled. Noone appeared to be at home but the whole community seemed strangley vacant. The millionaires don't take walks I guess.
Time to go home and get the girls and eat.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Green Valley Road Race
Went to Furman University Saturday morning and it was cold for a run. It got to about 25 degrees and was just starting to warm up at 7:30 AM. I went and got my packet and headed back to the car like most everyone else (not everyone to my car). I pinned my bob number onto a race belt. I did not find the start time so I had to to ask (I'm so prepared). I thought it was 8 but it was 8:45 for the 10 mile. There was also a 8K race starting at 8:30.
I ran and walked over to where generally I was told the start line was. It took about 5 minutes. Only one person was there at about 8:20. I went back to the car walking and jogging. I needed to take off an outer pair of pants and a coat. I took a sockhat with me not sure if I wanted that either. Hard to judge what will end up being too much but I was cold! I had medium wt tights bottom and on top had a wicking layer, a light wt sweater, and a green bike jersey on top. Many runners had just shorts pn the bottom -yikes.
I went back to the starting area at 8:40 and now there were many people there. I decided to stuff my sock hat into a bush to hide it. I had a lightweight billed cap i kept. We gathered for the start and I faced the wrong direction for a few moments! Anyway we were off. I kept my pace slow and negotiated around the even slower runners. I think my first mile or two was 8:30 pace.
As I warmed up I was glad I didn't have the sockhat. I got my heart rate to the low 150s at first but then got going mid 150's and doing 8:00 pace. I flew down the short hills compared to the others but slowed way down going back up. About half way and the sun and the run kept warming me up. I started to amp it up a little more to the 160 area and 7:45 pace.
At mile 8 I let it get to the mid 160's and was really straining. Wondering if I could hold on. Maybe I was pushing too hard. Sweat pouring down. I had stopped at 3 aid stations along the way by now each time gulping about 4 ounces of Gatorade.
The last mile I was giving it all and just wanted to collapse in the grass but kept upright. My heart rate was 171 average for the last mile and 7:20 pace.
I hit the finish line just after the 1 hour and 20 minute mark.
Did better than I hoped for a few days prior. I was faster at the half marathon last year in April but I had much more training for that. I only had about 50 miles this year stickly running but had biking and swimming also.
Afterwards I pigged out on bagels and fruit at the gathering spot for the event. Time to rest the legs a while but later that day I did a few hours on the bike easy.
I ran and walked over to where generally I was told the start line was. It took about 5 minutes. Only one person was there at about 8:20. I went back to the car walking and jogging. I needed to take off an outer pair of pants and a coat. I took a sockhat with me not sure if I wanted that either. Hard to judge what will end up being too much but I was cold! I had medium wt tights bottom and on top had a wicking layer, a light wt sweater, and a green bike jersey on top. Many runners had just shorts pn the bottom -yikes.
I went back to the starting area at 8:40 and now there were many people there. I decided to stuff my sock hat into a bush to hide it. I had a lightweight billed cap i kept. We gathered for the start and I faced the wrong direction for a few moments! Anyway we were off. I kept my pace slow and negotiated around the even slower runners. I think my first mile or two was 8:30 pace.
As I warmed up I was glad I didn't have the sockhat. I got my heart rate to the low 150s at first but then got going mid 150's and doing 8:00 pace. I flew down the short hills compared to the others but slowed way down going back up. About half way and the sun and the run kept warming me up. I started to amp it up a little more to the 160 area and 7:45 pace.
At mile 8 I let it get to the mid 160's and was really straining. Wondering if I could hold on. Maybe I was pushing too hard. Sweat pouring down. I had stopped at 3 aid stations along the way by now each time gulping about 4 ounces of Gatorade.
The last mile I was giving it all and just wanted to collapse in the grass but kept upright. My heart rate was 171 average for the last mile and 7:20 pace.
I hit the finish line just after the 1 hour and 20 minute mark.
Did better than I hoped for a few days prior. I was faster at the half marathon last year in April but I had much more training for that. I only had about 50 miles this year stickly running but had biking and swimming also.
Afterwards I pigged out on bagels and fruit at the gathering spot for the event. Time to rest the legs a while but later that day I did a few hours on the bike easy.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Back to the pool; 2010 summary
Well it is back to joining the YMCA or as it is now just known as "The Y". Courtesy of my employers rebate I can get 3 months worth at no cost. The pool is definitely the main attraction. When summer comes I can swim at the apartment pool.
I have gone 4 times since joining Jan. 29. I am rusty but much better than the same time last year. I really taught myself and pushed myself to a higher level last year. I wonder if I can improve over last years efforts.
Last year I swam 80 miles total. Oh yea I ran almost 650 miles and biked 3900 miles by the way. I use 1650 yards in the pool as a mile because that is what an authoritative book claims it to be.
Anyway tonight I dropped the girls off at home at 7:45 pm and then headed to the Y. I thought I might get in half an hour before they kicked me out. I got changed and showered and in the pool at 8:09 pm. There was an adult swim class (adult WAVE) going on in 3 of the 4 lanes. I might join them sometime but not sure. There is a coach that tells them what to swim. I got going and got in 20 laps by 8:40 or so. People were leaving and the WAve class ended.
I kept going. I had warmed up by then and was able to keep swimming lap after lap. 8:50 and Boone else in the pool but no one kicked me out. At 8:57 the lifeguard told me the pool was closed. I got in 37 laps overall. Good workout. I can only guess my average heart rate to be 140. I check it at the end of a lap sometimes but it goes down quickly.
Last year I recorded how fast I could swim various distances and look forward to compeating against myself. I also had a one session distance record of 110 laps. Maybe I will break that.
I have gone 4 times since joining Jan. 29. I am rusty but much better than the same time last year. I really taught myself and pushed myself to a higher level last year. I wonder if I can improve over last years efforts.
Last year I swam 80 miles total. Oh yea I ran almost 650 miles and biked 3900 miles by the way. I use 1650 yards in the pool as a mile because that is what an authoritative book claims it to be.
Anyway tonight I dropped the girls off at home at 7:45 pm and then headed to the Y. I thought I might get in half an hour before they kicked me out. I got changed and showered and in the pool at 8:09 pm. There was an adult swim class (adult WAVE) going on in 3 of the 4 lanes. I might join them sometime but not sure. There is a coach that tells them what to swim. I got going and got in 20 laps by 8:40 or so. People were leaving and the WAve class ended.
I kept going. I had warmed up by then and was able to keep swimming lap after lap. 8:50 and Boone else in the pool but no one kicked me out. At 8:57 the lifeguard told me the pool was closed. I got in 37 laps overall. Good workout. I can only guess my average heart rate to be 140. I check it at the end of a lap sometimes but it goes down quickly.
Last year I recorded how fast I could swim various distances and look forward to compeating against myself. I also had a one session distance record of 110 laps. Maybe I will break that.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Rain on my parade
I set out at 11 am on a rainy day for a long ride. It was 36 degrees and sleet was possible. These wintery conditions made they ride a festival of misery. Yet if I could keep my hands and feet warm enough it was refreshing.
Took the Silverado bike it is my Trek touring bike with racks and panniers and fenders also it has a triple with a 28 tooth "granny gear". It approaches 35 pounds. Needless to say it would be slow going.
I rode up north to tigerville and the rain started. Along rhe way i had to swerve out of the way of a garbage truck that started to run through a stop sign right as i passed by. I yelled loudly and waved my fist as I looked back. I also had to swerve around a dead skunk (oh the smell was unbelievable) I rode up old camp Indian at a snails pace. On up the watershed and decided to keep going up toward Hendersonville. The reservoir seemed to be very full which always is reassuring. I saw lots of icecicles on the rock face on the side of the road. Much snow was still in the woods and side of the road. The river flowed over falls. It was a beautiful trip.
The 6 mile ride down the escarpment was quite chilling but unavoidable. My feet were numb nuns on the end of my legs. The neoprene gloves were soaked yet just good enough to have my hands not fall off. The fingers were sharp with pain.
Back at Tigerville and my legs were quite sore. I would suffer further on the way back.
Back at home at 3:30 pm. I was so sore. My quads were dead. My toes were bright red as I took off my socks.
I took a long hot shower and slowly came back to life.
Took the Silverado bike it is my Trek touring bike with racks and panniers and fenders also it has a triple with a 28 tooth "granny gear". It approaches 35 pounds. Needless to say it would be slow going.
I rode up north to tigerville and the rain started. Along rhe way i had to swerve out of the way of a garbage truck that started to run through a stop sign right as i passed by. I yelled loudly and waved my fist as I looked back. I also had to swerve around a dead skunk (oh the smell was unbelievable) I rode up old camp Indian at a snails pace. On up the watershed and decided to keep going up toward Hendersonville. The reservoir seemed to be very full which always is reassuring. I saw lots of icecicles on the rock face on the side of the road. Much snow was still in the woods and side of the road. The river flowed over falls. It was a beautiful trip.
The 6 mile ride down the escarpment was quite chilling but unavoidable. My feet were numb nuns on the end of my legs. The neoprene gloves were soaked yet just good enough to have my hands not fall off. The fingers were sharp with pain.
Back at Tigerville and my legs were quite sore. I would suffer further on the way back.
Back at home at 3:30 pm. I was so sore. My quads were dead. My toes were bright red as I took off my socks.
I took a long hot shower and slowly came back to life.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Winter in taylors
Taylors got about 8 inches of snow and then freezing rain or sleet came down on top. What a mess. Every time it snows here I think about dusting off the cross country skis and trying them out. Well this time I did. After hunting for the boots and digging way back in the closet for a bag full of waxes I was getting all set for some crazy little adventure.
I applied purple klister wax (from a tube) onto my skis midsection (messy). Then I treated my boots with neatsfoot oil to help the leather resist water (another mess). I dug out my wool sweaters and socks that come up over the knees. They all smelled of mothballs. It was 28 degrees out so just 2 sweaters over a wicking base layer and for the bottom just the knickers.
So at last around 4 am I was out the door. After walking through the parking lot uphill a ways i clipped into my bindings. The conditions were terrible. The ice over the snow was at least a quarter inch thick. Every step I took on the snow was a loud cracking crunching noise. I felt I would wake everyone in the apartment complex. Oh well be brave and crazy. I made a short set of tracks along Pinecroft Drive. It was on a hill and there were tree roots sticking out.
So I headed up to Reid School Road. I got onto the road itself and just started double poling over the ice. I had to avoid a few thin spots where the asphalt was. After a quarter mile I decided this was no fun and headed back. Before getting back to the apt. entrance road I got back into the snow and blazed a new trail. Crunch crunch. Step by loud and slow step I made progress. I think it was about a tenth of a mile long. I turned around and went back over it. This time with some speed. Back and forth faster each time. I suddenly remember how to do a 180 degree turn around manouver by sticking the tail of one ski at the tip of the other. I forget what it is called. I kept going back and forth and was finally able to get my heart rate up to near 150.
There were a few cars that went by in about 40 minutes. Normally it would have been maybe 50 or more. after about an hour of the activity I decided to take a break. I went inside and got something to drink and started watching TV. I realized I had enough for the night and just stayed in.
After more than 20 years I was on my skis again. I can only be sure in 1989 I was on them. I wish I traveled up into NC more often to use them. Maybe we will get another big snow in Taylors again this winter! Ha
I applied purple klister wax (from a tube) onto my skis midsection (messy). Then I treated my boots with neatsfoot oil to help the leather resist water (another mess). I dug out my wool sweaters and socks that come up over the knees. They all smelled of mothballs. It was 28 degrees out so just 2 sweaters over a wicking base layer and for the bottom just the knickers.
So at last around 4 am I was out the door. After walking through the parking lot uphill a ways i clipped into my bindings. The conditions were terrible. The ice over the snow was at least a quarter inch thick. Every step I took on the snow was a loud cracking crunching noise. I felt I would wake everyone in the apartment complex. Oh well be brave and crazy. I made a short set of tracks along Pinecroft Drive. It was on a hill and there were tree roots sticking out.
So I headed up to Reid School Road. I got onto the road itself and just started double poling over the ice. I had to avoid a few thin spots where the asphalt was. After a quarter mile I decided this was no fun and headed back. Before getting back to the apt. entrance road I got back into the snow and blazed a new trail. Crunch crunch. Step by loud and slow step I made progress. I think it was about a tenth of a mile long. I turned around and went back over it. This time with some speed. Back and forth faster each time. I suddenly remember how to do a 180 degree turn around manouver by sticking the tail of one ski at the tip of the other. I forget what it is called. I kept going back and forth and was finally able to get my heart rate up to near 150.
There were a few cars that went by in about 40 minutes. Normally it would have been maybe 50 or more. after about an hour of the activity I decided to take a break. I went inside and got something to drink and started watching TV. I realized I had enough for the night and just stayed in.
After more than 20 years I was on my skis again. I can only be sure in 1989 I was on them. I wish I traveled up into NC more often to use them. Maybe we will get another big snow in Taylors again this winter! Ha
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