My trainer told me to not do anything the day before the race and I thought I could handle that, but with two kids and a list of things that had to be done before the race I didn't really have much time to rest. The resort was huge and my legs were tired. I could only hope for the best.
The morning of the race I woke up about 4:00 and got all my stuff together and had a light breakfast. I took a long time in the shower trying to picture the swim and couldn't really get past the start. I finally just headed out to check-in.
I rode the bike to the transition area to setup. I was very nervous that I would forget something. I went through the list of what I would needed for each event several times. I felt a little inadequate because some people had big backpacks of stuff. I stayed simple.
After setting up my transition I got my number, #389 stamped on my arms, my age marked on my calf (that doesn't seem cool, but it made people watching interesting to see who looked their age and who didn't) and I headed to the beach to watch them setup the course. Cindy came down to watch the start of the race. She got the before pictures.
The water was completely calm. There was almost no wind. I was happy. The starts were staggered. There were 3 waves before mine. Each wave had a different colored cap. My group was bright pink. We were following the yellow caps and were followed by the orange/red caps.
I stayed in the back to avoid getting run over since I knew I would be slow (I'd only swam a mile once before). The water was 73 degrees and it felt pretty cold. The horn blew and we all went out. I remembered my goggles today. I felt good and the cold quickly went away. I just talked to myself the whole way reminding myself to keep the buoys on the left and to pace myself since I had two events to go. My goal was not to stop.
The first turn looked really far away and it felt like it took forever. Right before I got there I passed a few swimmers. One girl was doing the back stroke and then I passed a yellow cap. I felt good that I hadn't stopped but I was worried about reaching that point before the end. As soon as I thought that, I saw a sea turtle. "Hello Mister Turtle!" It somehow made me feel recharged.
I made the turn and kept going. All I was thinking about was "be consistent, don't push too hard, you still have to bike." I made it through the next two turns and was now headed to the end. The next group caught up with us and they were super aggressive. I saw a swimmer literally run over a girl next to me. At the end of the course everyone clumped together. The reef caused us to funnel in together and I got kicked in the face. I held back a little but did not stop swimming. I was happy to reach the shore. Most swimmers took off running but I just walked to the transition area. I had to save my energy (or so I thought). My swim was about 48 minutes.
I got my bike gear on, took a quick potty break, and swallowed some energy gel. The announcers stated the leaders were about 15 minutes out. I definitely wanted to be on the highway before the leaders came in. The wind was only slightly blowing now, still calm so it was an easy ride to the highway. The leaders passed me about 4 miles out. I watched to see how the wind was headed back and it didn't look like it was much of an issue.
About 10 miles out, the wind started to pick up. It wasn't as bad as the past few days but I was concerned about what it would be when I turned around. The turnaround through the tunnel was pretty easy. We had been warned that the downhill was steep and the uphill was tough, but I didn't really feel that way. I got a new bottle of water and got sprayed by the volunteers. The thermometer on the bike said it was about 84 degrees so the little shower felt good.
After about 5 miles the wind really kicked up. I was still able to go about 15 mph but it was slower than I wanted. Then the wind started to gust. For awhile it kicked me back to 8mph, I tried shifting which helped my legs but not my speed. The last 5 miles were impossible. I was almost blown into the traffic lane and the odometer read 5mph. At one point I felt like I was going to get push backwards.
I was starting to feel very sad. It took forever to do those last 5 miles. I expected the bike to be the easiest part of the race but I was really behind. At the transition I saw one of the captains on the phone discussing his race, he told me I would love the run, the wind really helped with the heat. I was no fan of the wind at this point. It was already 10:30. I did a much quicker transition and headed out on the run. My legs felt like jelly but not as bad as I had imagined.
I started the run on the lava field but nearly twisted my ankle. I decided I would walk through the rocks. Once on the street I started to run. I expected the first 3 miles to be the worst but it wasn't so bad. I tried to pace myself because I didn't want to burn out before the end.
At 4.5 miles we hit the single track on the hotel shoreline. It was very rocky so I had to walk again. The trail at the end of the resort was a little flatter and I was able to run and then we hit the sand for the last mile. I think its kinda mean to make the last mile on sand. Everyone said to run near the water, but the course didn't really allow for that.
I had to walk part of the time on the sand, but then I saw the finish line. I ran in and spotted Jeff and Riley at the chute. I sprinted to the finish line. My finish time was 4hr and 20 minutes. I was happy that I finished but sad that I didn't finish in less than 4 hours.
I was #776 out of 900+. I really just wanted to finish but I couldn't help but feel a bit disappointed. I thought I would feel estatic but I couldn't shake the disappointment. I had to think back to when this all started....
I had only been back to work after a 5 month leave for a month. I had not worked out since I found out I was pregnant more than a year ago. I returned to work in a new position with lots of new challenges. I had a 6 month old and a 2.5 year old both transitioning to a new school. I had never swam a mile nor owned a road bike. I hated to run and couldn't really run a mile without stopping. I had to appreciate that I'd come a long way.
BUT..... I'll have to do better next time ;-)
Friday, April 3, 2009
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Thar she blows.....
Yes, I can see the whales from the hotel shore but that is not what I'm referring to. We arrived on Wednesday and spent a few days enjoying the 70+ degree whether. Late on Thursday the wind started blowing and it hasn't stopped.
After we picked up our bikes we took them out on a short practice ride. We rode to the transition lot and then took the route out to HWY 19. The wind was blowing so hard it was a tough short ride. Once we got to the highway we headed South toward the Kona airport. The wind was to our backs so it was pretty easy, but watching other riders heading North, it looked like another story. After a few miles we decided to turn around.
The ride out I was doing 25-26mph. When I turned around pedaling with the same effort I dropped to 8mph. The people who had just arrived stated, "don't worry there is no wind in the mornings', but this was not the case that morning.
On Saturday we met at the start of the race to do a practice swim. It wasn't a big deal, just get in the water, kick off together, go out and then come back in. I walked down with Jeff and the kids. When I hit the beach I realized I forgot my stuff. I was wearing my suit but I didn't have my cap and more importantly my goggles. I went out anyways just to get a feel for it and it sucked to not have my goggles.
We went out a couple of yards and everyone was really excited because there was a sea turtle at the turn around spot. It was even more of a bummer that I didn't get to the see the turtle. Oh well I decided to head back.
The wind was still blowing. The normally calm water in the lagoon was choppy. Swimming back to shore was tough because the waves would splash you in the face. Shore felt really far away and I couldn't see in order to gauge how true that was. I had to stop a few times just to make sure I was headed in the right direction. This wind is making me very nervous.
The good news is that my friend Cindy came to the big island to watch me race. She met me on the swim beach wearing a blue shirt that said "LAVAMAN, GO SABRINA!!" It was awesome and she also had one made for Jeff and the kids. The kids had shirts that said "Go Mommy!" I hope I can see them at some point during the race.
After we picked up our bikes we took them out on a short practice ride. We rode to the transition lot and then took the route out to HWY 19. The wind was blowing so hard it was a tough short ride. Once we got to the highway we headed South toward the Kona airport. The wind was to our backs so it was pretty easy, but watching other riders heading North, it looked like another story. After a few miles we decided to turn around.
The ride out I was doing 25-26mph. When I turned around pedaling with the same effort I dropped to 8mph. The people who had just arrived stated, "don't worry there is no wind in the mornings', but this was not the case that morning.
On Saturday we met at the start of the race to do a practice swim. It wasn't a big deal, just get in the water, kick off together, go out and then come back in. I walked down with Jeff and the kids. When I hit the beach I realized I forgot my stuff. I was wearing my suit but I didn't have my cap and more importantly my goggles. I went out anyways just to get a feel for it and it sucked to not have my goggles.
We went out a couple of yards and everyone was really excited because there was a sea turtle at the turn around spot. It was even more of a bummer that I didn't get to the see the turtle. Oh well I decided to head back.
The wind was still blowing. The normally calm water in the lagoon was choppy. Swimming back to shore was tough because the waves would splash you in the face. Shore felt really far away and I couldn't see in order to gauge how true that was. I had to stop a few times just to make sure I was headed in the right direction. This wind is making me very nervous.
The good news is that my friend Cindy came to the big island to watch me race. She met me on the swim beach wearing a blue shirt that said "LAVAMAN, GO SABRINA!!" It was awesome and she also had one made for Jeff and the kids. The kids had shirts that said "Go Mommy!" I hope I can see them at some point during the race.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Ada Lovelace Day
This post has nothing to do with my training, my triathlon goal, or really me. Its a dedication to a person who has made a difference in my career although I've not ever told her before. Since I signed up for the Ada Lovelace Day, I've been thinking about this posting. I know this person reads my blog and I'm kinda excited to publish this posting.
Ada Lovelace, a woman from the 1800's is referred to as the first computer programmer. There was a brief mention of her during my college years as I was studying Computer Science, probably a historical fact during one of the early subjects. When I started my career with the Department of Defense I became familiar with her again. I've often been amused that people refer to her when talking to me about my role in Computer Science as if she was the only role model we could talk about. Its true there are less women in my field, but I've been fortunate to work with some that have inspired me throughout my career and I'd like so send a personal thank you to one in particular.
I graduated as the only woman in Computer Science during the Fall of 1995. For the first few years out of school I met very few women in my field, even at conferences. It wasn't much of a surprise, I knew what I was getting into when I started. The fact is, I was more surprised when I did meet a female peer. Then I interviewed at Nasa Ames - Moffet Field CA.
The team lead, a short asian woman who spoke very frankly interviewed me and introduced me to her team. The team had 4 other women of all different ages and backgrounds. The group also had a history of women moving through the ranks as interns, SAs, managers, security engineers. I couldn't believe that I was going to have the opportunity to work with this many women in one place.
Cindy Pang became my first female boss. She managed a wildly diverse team. We ranged from super techinical with years of experience to right out of school. The environment was organized, measured, documented, and challenging. Its an environment I've strived to model at several companies I've worked at through the years. In addition to managing a team of SAs, Cindy also had her technical work. She developed projects and prioritized the work of the entire team. I learned a lot about how to get things done while working under her that I continue to use throughout my career.
I wouldn't fully appreciate her abilities until I took over from her as team lead several months later. I'd always been good at managing my own work and projects and Cindy made it seem easy doing the same for others. When she left NASA she named me as her successor. She coached me on how to deal with the NASA management and did her best to help me learn to manage others. This opportunity and experience was one that I would reflect on for a long time.
Cindy went on to do just pure technical work. We stayed in touch and after I figured out I wasn't ready to manage other people, she recruited me to work with her at @Home Networks. The best part about working with Cindy is her straight talk. She looks at problems and figures out how to bring it to resolution. She is resourceful, calculated, balanced, and humble. Her ability to get the job done without having to do all the work herself was something that took me a while to learn. Her focus was always on the solution and getting the work done and she knew that a single person wasn't always the answer.
After the internet bubble burst we went our separate ways. Even though we have not worked together in almost 10 years we still get together and talk about what we are doing these days. I still talk to her about my career goals and talk strategy with her. Her experience and long term thinking always help put things into perspective.
There are very few people that I can discuss technical solutions as well as personal and career development with, man or woman. She was the best manager I've had and the single biggest influence on all that I've accomplished. I feel very lucky to have met her so early in my career and to be able to call her my friend.
And that is the next challenge, can I do for another what she has done for me? Still being inspired by her, I hope that I will be able to say yes to that question one day. Now if she can just stop being so awesome, maybe I'll be able to catch up!!! ;-)
Ada Lovelace, a woman from the 1800's is referred to as the first computer programmer. There was a brief mention of her during my college years as I was studying Computer Science, probably a historical fact during one of the early subjects. When I started my career with the Department of Defense I became familiar with her again. I've often been amused that people refer to her when talking to me about my role in Computer Science as if she was the only role model we could talk about. Its true there are less women in my field, but I've been fortunate to work with some that have inspired me throughout my career and I'd like so send a personal thank you to one in particular.
I graduated as the only woman in Computer Science during the Fall of 1995. For the first few years out of school I met very few women in my field, even at conferences. It wasn't much of a surprise, I knew what I was getting into when I started. The fact is, I was more surprised when I did meet a female peer. Then I interviewed at Nasa Ames - Moffet Field CA.
The team lead, a short asian woman who spoke very frankly interviewed me and introduced me to her team. The team had 4 other women of all different ages and backgrounds. The group also had a history of women moving through the ranks as interns, SAs, managers, security engineers. I couldn't believe that I was going to have the opportunity to work with this many women in one place.
Cindy Pang became my first female boss. She managed a wildly diverse team. We ranged from super techinical with years of experience to right out of school. The environment was organized, measured, documented, and challenging. Its an environment I've strived to model at several companies I've worked at through the years. In addition to managing a team of SAs, Cindy also had her technical work. She developed projects and prioritized the work of the entire team. I learned a lot about how to get things done while working under her that I continue to use throughout my career.
I wouldn't fully appreciate her abilities until I took over from her as team lead several months later. I'd always been good at managing my own work and projects and Cindy made it seem easy doing the same for others. When she left NASA she named me as her successor. She coached me on how to deal with the NASA management and did her best to help me learn to manage others. This opportunity and experience was one that I would reflect on for a long time.
Cindy went on to do just pure technical work. We stayed in touch and after I figured out I wasn't ready to manage other people, she recruited me to work with her at @Home Networks. The best part about working with Cindy is her straight talk. She looks at problems and figures out how to bring it to resolution. She is resourceful, calculated, balanced, and humble. Her ability to get the job done without having to do all the work herself was something that took me a while to learn. Her focus was always on the solution and getting the work done and she knew that a single person wasn't always the answer.
After the internet bubble burst we went our separate ways. Even though we have not worked together in almost 10 years we still get together and talk about what we are doing these days. I still talk to her about my career goals and talk strategy with her. Her experience and long term thinking always help put things into perspective.
There are very few people that I can discuss technical solutions as well as personal and career development with, man or woman. She was the best manager I've had and the single biggest influence on all that I've accomplished. I feel very lucky to have met her so early in my career and to be able to call her my friend.
And that is the next challenge, can I do for another what she has done for me? Still being inspired by her, I hope that I will be able to say yes to that question one day. Now if she can just stop being so awesome, maybe I'll be able to catch up!!! ;-)
Saturday, March 21, 2009
The last workout....
My plan was to run on my own instead of meeting up with the team. I've been so busy that I really wanted to sleep in. My mentor informed me that I had to pick up my packet today so I had to make the practice. I woke up later than I intended and hurried to get dressed, grab some food and water and run out the door.
We were meeting at a new place, a school in Los Altos so it took a little longer than I thought to get there. When I arrived at the school, everyone had already left. I waited around for awhile and didn't see anyone. I decided to go run a little bit on my own, but given that I didn't know my way around I didn't want to go too far.
I ran to the Rancho San Antonio park. There were lots of runners but I wasn't sure which direction the team would go and having never been to the park before I didn't go to far in. I headed back to the car and found the TnT coordinator. She said the team should be on their way back if I wanted to wait but she had the packets.
I didn't feel like waiting around so I just went home. I grabbed the dogs (we're dog sitting) and headed out for a run. Its pretty impossible to run with both dogs so I left them off leash and ran around the Sun Campus in Santa Clara. We ran around the campus a few times. After the first trip around the dogs were ready to go home. When I kept running they were very confused and not too happy.
When I was done I was really disappointed. It was only a few miles but I felt really tired and beaten down. It makes me very nervous about the race. I'm sad.
We were meeting at a new place, a school in Los Altos so it took a little longer than I thought to get there. When I arrived at the school, everyone had already left. I waited around for awhile and didn't see anyone. I decided to go run a little bit on my own, but given that I didn't know my way around I didn't want to go too far.
I ran to the Rancho San Antonio park. There were lots of runners but I wasn't sure which direction the team would go and having never been to the park before I didn't go to far in. I headed back to the car and found the TnT coordinator. She said the team should be on their way back if I wanted to wait but she had the packets.
I didn't feel like waiting around so I just went home. I grabbed the dogs (we're dog sitting) and headed out for a run. Its pretty impossible to run with both dogs so I left them off leash and ran around the Sun Campus in Santa Clara. We ran around the campus a few times. After the first trip around the dogs were ready to go home. When I kept running they were very confused and not too happy.
When I was done I was really disappointed. It was only a few miles but I felt really tired and beaten down. It makes me very nervous about the race. I'm sad.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
I swam a mile!
I made it a goal to swim a mile before heading off the Hawaii. I reached that goal last night. After getting the kids fed and ready for their bath, Jeff took over and I headed to the pool. It took me 45 minutes to get ready because as usual I lost just about everything that I needed. And when I did find all my swim stuff and arrived at the pool, I forgot my key and had to go back home.
It was nice that the day had been so warm and the night was equally as nice. I jumped into the pool and did a few warm-up laps. Now I needed to do the 32-33 laps to complete the mile. Because I wanted to practice for Lavaman, I had to try and do continuous swim. This is a little tricky in a pool. After about 10 laps in the single lane and trying not to kick off the wall or stop between laps, I decided to snake the pool.
This meant I would swim down 1 lane and back up another lane. After a few laps of using two lanes I added a third lane. Once I snaked those lanes I would then come back. I think at most I did 6 laps without stopping or touching a wall.
Keeping track of the laps is tricky, especially because my mind wonders and when swimming I'm so focused on trying to breathe, keeping form, and generally not dying. I now keep change next to my stuff. Each lap gets a penny. So I had 2 dimes, 2 nickels, and 4 pennies to keep track of the number of laps I completed. This worked very well.
It took me about 1.5 hours to complete the mile. I didn't feel exhausted getting out of the pool which I felt was a good sign. I'm still a little worried about the race and pretty anxious about everything but I expect that is normal.
When I got home the kids were still awake and very excited to see me. Cameron asked me about my swim and told me she wanted to go next time.
It was nice that the day had been so warm and the night was equally as nice. I jumped into the pool and did a few warm-up laps. Now I needed to do the 32-33 laps to complete the mile. Because I wanted to practice for Lavaman, I had to try and do continuous swim. This is a little tricky in a pool. After about 10 laps in the single lane and trying not to kick off the wall or stop between laps, I decided to snake the pool.
This meant I would swim down 1 lane and back up another lane. After a few laps of using two lanes I added a third lane. Once I snaked those lanes I would then come back. I think at most I did 6 laps without stopping or touching a wall.
Keeping track of the laps is tricky, especially because my mind wonders and when swimming I'm so focused on trying to breathe, keeping form, and generally not dying. I now keep change next to my stuff. Each lap gets a penny. So I had 2 dimes, 2 nickels, and 4 pennies to keep track of the number of laps I completed. This worked very well.
It took me about 1.5 hours to complete the mile. I didn't feel exhausted getting out of the pool which I felt was a good sign. I'm still a little worried about the race and pretty anxious about everything but I expect that is normal.
When I got home the kids were still awake and very excited to see me. Cameron asked me about my swim and told me she wanted to go next time.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
The Sprint Triathlon
Yesterday was the teams sprint triathlon practice. Organizing was a bit of a mess. Due to the drought we didn't get a permit for any open water swims so we had to figure out how to get everyone through the pool. The plan was to use Burgess' largest pool with buoys for the team to swim around. Then the heater went out. Plan B, get a wetsuit or swim earlier in the smaller heated pool.
At the last minute they changed the start time from 9am to 8am, arrival time from 8am to 7-7:30. I was almost out of the house when the kids woke up and by then it was impossible to leave and arrive in time for the team practice. I decided that since I always ended up separated from the team anyway I would just do a tri myself.
After getting the kids fed and settled I handed over the reigns to Jeff, jumped on my bike and headed to the neighborhood pool. I swam 17 laps (a little more than .5 mile), then got ready to ride the bike. Lesson about this first transition, get socks that slip on easier when you are slightly wet. I wrapped up my goggles & cap in the towel and went out for my ride. I swung by the house and threw the towel into the yard and then headed off.
About 3 miles from the house I figured I felt pretty good so I decided I would bike a full 25 miles. I decided to head over to my new office and turn around at the 12.5 mile point. I wasn't really sure how far the office was but I thought I would get pretty close to the Google campus. It was a great ride because there were no cars out on the roads because the route follows the border of Moffett most of the way. It turns out my new office is exactly the halfway mark. At this point I was wishing I had my badge to go to the bathroom.
I headed home and this was a much quicker ride. I think the wind was in my favor and I decided to make sure I checked how the wind blew on the big island for race day. I took me a little longer than an hour for the entire bike ride so I wanted to work on this. The good news is that I tried out my new Gu/Water Bottle. I love the chocolate Gu and expect this to be my favorite part of the race. The combo bottle was good, but I didn't have the top on completely so made a mess on the first big squeeze. I think I'll get another of these bottles.
When I got to the house I grabbed my next transition bag and quickly got my shoes on and the bike put away. I ran in the house to hit the potty real quick before trying to run. The lesson at this transition is, get a two piece bathing suit. I can't image trying to use the porta-potties during the race with one-piece suit I've been wearing for practice. I drank some water and popped some electrolyte gel squares.
Given how much I don't like running I figured I would probably cut the run short just because I hate the running part. I took off from the house to Lafayette. I made it past the post office. I knew I probably needed to run to the golf course to get the full distance. Once that was done I headed home.
I got home even before Grandma Cindy arrived. I took over the kids while Jeff got dressed and I cleaned the house. I took a quick shower and when Grandma Cindy arrived we all went out to lunch. This day felt super productive and it wasn't even noon.
I was surprised that I was not more tired. It wasn't what I expected at all. I'm either ready, or I'm going to really suck wind during the race. I do need to do a few things before we leave for Hawaii.
At the last minute they changed the start time from 9am to 8am, arrival time from 8am to 7-7:30. I was almost out of the house when the kids woke up and by then it was impossible to leave and arrive in time for the team practice. I decided that since I always ended up separated from the team anyway I would just do a tri myself.
After getting the kids fed and settled I handed over the reigns to Jeff, jumped on my bike and headed to the neighborhood pool. I swam 17 laps (a little more than .5 mile), then got ready to ride the bike. Lesson about this first transition, get socks that slip on easier when you are slightly wet. I wrapped up my goggles & cap in the towel and went out for my ride. I swung by the house and threw the towel into the yard and then headed off.
About 3 miles from the house I figured I felt pretty good so I decided I would bike a full 25 miles. I decided to head over to my new office and turn around at the 12.5 mile point. I wasn't really sure how far the office was but I thought I would get pretty close to the Google campus. It was a great ride because there were no cars out on the roads because the route follows the border of Moffett most of the way. It turns out my new office is exactly the halfway mark. At this point I was wishing I had my badge to go to the bathroom.
I headed home and this was a much quicker ride. I think the wind was in my favor and I decided to make sure I checked how the wind blew on the big island for race day. I took me a little longer than an hour for the entire bike ride so I wanted to work on this. The good news is that I tried out my new Gu/Water Bottle. I love the chocolate Gu and expect this to be my favorite part of the race. The combo bottle was good, but I didn't have the top on completely so made a mess on the first big squeeze. I think I'll get another of these bottles.
When I got to the house I grabbed my next transition bag and quickly got my shoes on and the bike put away. I ran in the house to hit the potty real quick before trying to run. The lesson at this transition is, get a two piece bathing suit. I can't image trying to use the porta-potties during the race with one-piece suit I've been wearing for practice. I drank some water and popped some electrolyte gel squares.
Given how much I don't like running I figured I would probably cut the run short just because I hate the running part. I took off from the house to Lafayette. I made it past the post office. I knew I probably needed to run to the golf course to get the full distance. Once that was done I headed home.
I got home even before Grandma Cindy arrived. I took over the kids while Jeff got dressed and I cleaned the house. I took a quick shower and when Grandma Cindy arrived we all went out to lunch. This day felt super productive and it wasn't even noon.
I was surprised that I was not more tired. It wasn't what I expected at all. I'm either ready, or I'm going to really suck wind during the race. I do need to do a few things before we leave for Hawaii.
- Swim a full mile. I always do less. I kinda get bored or feel like I just need to breathe normally.
- Get a two piece suit that I'll be able to run in.
- Get new socks.
- Put my transition lists together (swim->bike), (bike->run)
- Look at the Lavaman course.
- Figure out sun screen during the transitions.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Best Brick Yet
Its Saturday so we were back at Canada and Edgewood for a brick workout of biking then running. There was a Stanford Sprint Triathlon but I couldn't get a spot when I tried to sign up. I wasn't too sad about that since they were swimming at Redwood Shores (yuck!). I was late to the workout so I missed all the information about the ride, but figured this time I would just keep everyone in my sight. I let the fast group go past and waited for some people I thought would be easy to keep up with.
I was following two women. I would normally have passed them but I didn't want to get lost again since I didn't even look at the map that was sent out beforehand. I figured this was a good pacing exercise. At the end of Whiskey Hill Road, two members of the fast group were at the stop sign working on their bikes. The two girls I was following stopped. Some team members behind caught up. Everybody stopped and were just waiting.
As we stood there for a few minutes the coach's wife who just caught up with us took off. I figured I'd just follow her. She had a good pace for me. I was able to keep her in my sights even though I caught several stop lights. I almost lost her at the Junipero Sierra intersection, the one I took the wrong turn on last time but luckily guessed right this time.
When we reached Portola several members of the fast group came out of a parking lot. I was surprised to see them then a little amused that they could stop and have coffee while they waited for the rest of us (this isn't really what they did).
We made it to the Portola turnoff and the person I was following stopped to wait for someone. Now I was on my own. I kinda feel like I always end up that way. I'm not usually with the fast group but usually in front of the pack. At this point I knew where to go and just headed back to the start. I made it to my car, loaded the bike, changed my shoes, and started to run as the coach got back. He yelled "have fun" and for some reason that didn't sound appropriate. I guess that is just me ;-)
On my run the fast group was headed back. I caught a few people in front of me and passed them. My goal was to make it to the Filoli gate before I turned around. I ran up most of the hills but walked a few of the really muddy downhills. I felt good so I knew I could physically do the run if I didn't talk myself out of it. I didn't see anyone else and didn't hear anyone behind me. I figured I was running a little farther than others but I still wanted to reach my goal. I made it to the gate and it felt like a huge accomplishment.
On the way back I took the road to avoid all the mud. I caught up to a bunch of runners who were turning around at about the half-way point from Edgewood and the gate. I missed the kickoff instructions so I'm guessing that might have been the instructions and why I didn't see anyone else close to the gate.
I got back to hear some announcements about next week's practice tri. People started leaving so I did the same. I had lots to do so was happy to get back to the kids.
I was following two women. I would normally have passed them but I didn't want to get lost again since I didn't even look at the map that was sent out beforehand. I figured this was a good pacing exercise. At the end of Whiskey Hill Road, two members of the fast group were at the stop sign working on their bikes. The two girls I was following stopped. Some team members behind caught up. Everybody stopped and were just waiting.
As we stood there for a few minutes the coach's wife who just caught up with us took off. I figured I'd just follow her. She had a good pace for me. I was able to keep her in my sights even though I caught several stop lights. I almost lost her at the Junipero Sierra intersection, the one I took the wrong turn on last time but luckily guessed right this time.
When we reached Portola several members of the fast group came out of a parking lot. I was surprised to see them then a little amused that they could stop and have coffee while they waited for the rest of us (this isn't really what they did).
We made it to the Portola turnoff and the person I was following stopped to wait for someone. Now I was on my own. I kinda feel like I always end up that way. I'm not usually with the fast group but usually in front of the pack. At this point I knew where to go and just headed back to the start. I made it to my car, loaded the bike, changed my shoes, and started to run as the coach got back. He yelled "have fun" and for some reason that didn't sound appropriate. I guess that is just me ;-)
On my run the fast group was headed back. I caught a few people in front of me and passed them. My goal was to make it to the Filoli gate before I turned around. I ran up most of the hills but walked a few of the really muddy downhills. I felt good so I knew I could physically do the run if I didn't talk myself out of it. I didn't see anyone else and didn't hear anyone behind me. I figured I was running a little farther than others but I still wanted to reach my goal. I made it to the gate and it felt like a huge accomplishment.
On the way back I took the road to avoid all the mud. I caught up to a bunch of runners who were turning around at about the half-way point from Edgewood and the gate. I missed the kickoff instructions so I'm guessing that might have been the instructions and why I didn't see anyone else close to the gate.
I got back to hear some announcements about next week's practice tri. People started leaving so I did the same. I had lots to do so was happy to get back to the kids.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Not such a good swim
Tonight I made it back to the pool with the team. I was hoping it would go as well as last time but it didn't quite happen like that. We started with a warm up and then a few drills. During the open water swim I took a breath with each stroke and I found myself doing the same tonight. Its much more difficult to get into a rhythm this way. I didn't find myself getting into the appropriate position.
Then with the team they wanted us to swim with our heads out of the water. The purpose was to practice what it would feel like as you tried to spot the buoy. All this time I've been working on keeping my head down and now they wanted me to go back to the way I started. It felt ironic.
I almost thought I would have an advantage since this was how I'd always swam but turned out I couldn't swim as well as I once had looking ahead. After several laps of swimming with my head above water poorly we started doing sprints. I really hated the sprints. I was the slowest person on my relay team and that never makes me feel good.
Then we had about twenty minutes left. They decided to have us snake the lanes. This is where you swim down one lane, up the next lane over, repeatedly until you get to the end of the pool, where you jump out and start at the first lane again. I snaked the pool about 4 times. Your swimming with everyone at the same time so you get kicked, splashed on, I was breathing every stroke, and really doing poorly. I guess that is how some workouts go. There is only a 1.5 weeks of training left.
The coaches asked us to do some mental exercises for the race. "If you believe you can do it, then you can. If you don't then you will not make it." We are supposed to mentally play through the race every night from now on. I'm having trouble with the swim portion tonight...
Then with the team they wanted us to swim with our heads out of the water. The purpose was to practice what it would feel like as you tried to spot the buoy. All this time I've been working on keeping my head down and now they wanted me to go back to the way I started. It felt ironic.
I almost thought I would have an advantage since this was how I'd always swam but turned out I couldn't swim as well as I once had looking ahead. After several laps of swimming with my head above water poorly we started doing sprints. I really hated the sprints. I was the slowest person on my relay team and that never makes me feel good.
Then we had about twenty minutes left. They decided to have us snake the lanes. This is where you swim down one lane, up the next lane over, repeatedly until you get to the end of the pool, where you jump out and start at the first lane again. I snaked the pool about 4 times. Your swimming with everyone at the same time so you get kicked, splashed on, I was breathing every stroke, and really doing poorly. I guess that is how some workouts go. There is only a 1.5 weeks of training left.
The coaches asked us to do some mental exercises for the race. "If you believe you can do it, then you can. If you don't then you will not make it." We are supposed to mentally play through the race every night from now on. I'm having trouble with the swim portion tonight...
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Open Water Swim
Today the team did an open water swim. It was in the bay. All I could think about beforehand was every time PJ goes swimming in the bay, its followed by a vet bill for antibiotics.
I rented a triathlon wetsuit from Sports Basement. Waiting for the rental, the girl in front of me was another TnT teammate. I hadn't really talked to her since one of the first runs. She was complaining about trying on the wetsuit. I knew exactly what she meant because every suit I've had to put on for diving was a challenge.
When it was my turn I got sized for a suit and went to try it on. This suit fit me like a glove, not too tight, easy to get on and off. That was the easiest wetsuit I've ever put on. It was also probably the thinnest, my dive suit takes about 25-30 lbs to get my head under the water.
I met the team at Redwood Shores. We all put on our suits. The instructors gave a little how-to but again, my suit was super easy to get on. I started to wonder if something was wrong with my suit, but it felt perfect.
We jumped into the water. YIKES ITS COLD!
This water was gross. It is the bay, kinda. It looked to me like a big canal. We did a warmup swim across the canal/lake/bay, whatever, to the instructor in the kayak and back. The instructors gave us some tips like "you should put your head in the water." Gross!
I did it. I had my goggles on but you definitely couldn't see anything in this water. It was just green with some yellow wash from the swimmer ahead of you. I decided to not think about it and just try and swim the triangle. The goal was to keep form and learn to spot your markers. I liked having swimmers on the side of me. I had to breath every stroke and always on my left side because that is where I'm most comfortable. Argh, I swallowed some water. GROSS!!
I made it back to the dock but I swallowed some more of that water. I would get it in my mouth, try and cough and end up swallowing it. This was not going very well. The coaches told us to swim the loop again, they were busy with rescues. Some people had to be rescued, nothing serious just some freak-outs.
I kicked off again. I know we aren't going to have wetsuits in Hawaii and this worried me a little. The suit was really helping me float. I noticed I was not kicking a few times but still keeping up with the swimmer to my left, maybe I need to the flotation help.
We got out and had to quickly change and then take off on a run. We ran around the office park, through Redwood Shores neighborhood and then back to the dock. Elisabeth passed me and she was really running great. I hadn't seen her in a few weeks but she was definitely a new person. Before I could out run her, which is a little sad, but now she was kicking butt. I was really impressed and even more committed that I had to continue to run even by myself.
After the first loop I was glad to be done, then disappointed when I found out I wasn't. I was committed to not stopping. I really want to finish this triathlon successfully and have to push myself just a little further. We passed some geese on the run, which means we had to try and avoid the geese poop. I noticed it was green and the same color as the water. That was a really unpleasant thought. I finished strong.
Everyone was going to "Hang with the Gang" but just the thought of eating before a shower was too much for me. Besides, I love Saturday mornings with the kids and it was only 10:30. I went straight home.
I rented a triathlon wetsuit from Sports Basement. Waiting for the rental, the girl in front of me was another TnT teammate. I hadn't really talked to her since one of the first runs. She was complaining about trying on the wetsuit. I knew exactly what she meant because every suit I've had to put on for diving was a challenge.
When it was my turn I got sized for a suit and went to try it on. This suit fit me like a glove, not too tight, easy to get on and off. That was the easiest wetsuit I've ever put on. It was also probably the thinnest, my dive suit takes about 25-30 lbs to get my head under the water.
I met the team at Redwood Shores. We all put on our suits. The instructors gave a little how-to but again, my suit was super easy to get on. I started to wonder if something was wrong with my suit, but it felt perfect.
We jumped into the water. YIKES ITS COLD!
This water was gross. It is the bay, kinda. It looked to me like a big canal. We did a warmup swim across the canal/lake/bay, whatever, to the instructor in the kayak and back. The instructors gave us some tips like "you should put your head in the water." Gross!
I did it. I had my goggles on but you definitely couldn't see anything in this water. It was just green with some yellow wash from the swimmer ahead of you. I decided to not think about it and just try and swim the triangle. The goal was to keep form and learn to spot your markers. I liked having swimmers on the side of me. I had to breath every stroke and always on my left side because that is where I'm most comfortable. Argh, I swallowed some water. GROSS!!
I made it back to the dock but I swallowed some more of that water. I would get it in my mouth, try and cough and end up swallowing it. This was not going very well. The coaches told us to swim the loop again, they were busy with rescues. Some people had to be rescued, nothing serious just some freak-outs.
I kicked off again. I know we aren't going to have wetsuits in Hawaii and this worried me a little. The suit was really helping me float. I noticed I was not kicking a few times but still keeping up with the swimmer to my left, maybe I need to the flotation help.
We got out and had to quickly change and then take off on a run. We ran around the office park, through Redwood Shores neighborhood and then back to the dock. Elisabeth passed me and she was really running great. I hadn't seen her in a few weeks but she was definitely a new person. Before I could out run her, which is a little sad, but now she was kicking butt. I was really impressed and even more committed that I had to continue to run even by myself.
After the first loop I was glad to be done, then disappointed when I found out I wasn't. I was committed to not stopping. I really want to finish this triathlon successfully and have to push myself just a little further. We passed some geese on the run, which means we had to try and avoid the geese poop. I noticed it was green and the same color as the water. That was a really unpleasant thought. I finished strong.
Everyone was going to "Hang with the Gang" but just the thought of eating before a shower was too much for me. Besides, I love Saturday mornings with the kids and it was only 10:30. I went straight home.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
No Baby Sitter
Tuesday's workout is always at the track. Its also the hardest day for me to go to a team workout because its Cameron and Jeff's Little Gym date. Tonight's theme is "Bring a friend" and Cameron asked to bring Hannah. So David and Hannah were going along. Typically Riley goes over to Hannah's house so I can make the practice, but that is a no-go for tonight.
Knowing that I had to do something else, I asked Chris if he wanted to go for a run. He was going to the gym and he didn't think he could keep up with me. I have to say this was more than funny to me. I'm such a bad runner, I don't think I'm better than anyone.
Finally I convinced him and we went for a run. I asked him to lead the run because....well....I might get lost. (Yes I have been working in MTV for years...but did you read my last post?) It was a good run.
We went about 4.5 miles. At the end of the run Chris announced the corner would be the end, so I took off. He was surprised and cursed me for the sprint, but of course he had to catch me. No way was he going to let me "win". After the run I went to my last meeting, lucky for Jaq it was VC.
I missed the practice but I didn't feel like a total slacker. I felt good and I had just run. This is a good sign.
Knowing that I had to do something else, I asked Chris if he wanted to go for a run. He was going to the gym and he didn't think he could keep up with me. I have to say this was more than funny to me. I'm such a bad runner, I don't think I'm better than anyone.
Finally I convinced him and we went for a run. I asked him to lead the run because....well....I might get lost. (Yes I have been working in MTV for years...but did you read my last post?) It was a good run.
We went about 4.5 miles. At the end of the run Chris announced the corner would be the end, so I took off. He was surprised and cursed me for the sprint, but of course he had to catch me. No way was he going to let me "win". After the run I went to my last meeting, lucky for Jaq it was VC.
I missed the practice but I didn't feel like a total slacker. I felt good and I had just run. This is a good sign.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Thank goodness for Google Maps
Most people who know me know that I'm a bit directionally challenged. Okay probably more than a bit. I've been lost hundreds(??) of times. I even get lost when I revisit places I've been before. Its really sad actually because my instincts are generally good except when it comes to navigation.
At the kickoff of the team bike ride, Coach Mike announced he did not have any maps, but the route was simple. We were doing the Portola Loop. It sounded familiar. "Head towards Woodside, take Whiskey Hill, left on Sand Hill," something about a familiar intersection Junipera Serra and Foothill was the wrong direction, "right on Alpine, left on Portola, left on Whiskey Hill, back to the start. And if you get confused or separated, just stop and let others catch up to you at the intersections."
Well I headed off. The usual happened, the fast group takes off, but I'm able to keep them in my sights. There are some people between me and the fast group so I feel pretty comfortable. We come to a light and I see it change after the fast group pass it. Still okay I catch up with the fast stragglers.
We head off together. They get ahead of me but not too far. I look back and don't really see anyone close. They are pretty far back. Coming down Sand Hill I get another light and I'm separated from the second fast group, but I can still see them. I see them make the turn so I know where to go......
At the turn I notice it is the same intersection we've taken when we start the ride in Menlo Park. Its all extremely familiar because I think Joe and I rode this section. I take the turn and follow another biker who seemed to be with us, everyone has a bright jacket.
I ride along, I see Page Mill, 280, am I on Alpine? Uh, I'm on Foothill. That is exactly where Coach Mike said I should be. I stop. I'm so happy that I brought my phone, which I actually thought about leaving, not sure now why. I pull up Google Maps. Yep I'm not where I'm supposed to be. I find a route back to Arastadero. Looks like I can take it back to Alpine. So I do it.
This next part of the ride was all about thinking what the team will think when I finally get back. Am I going to get back in time to still do the run? Will the team still be there? Will they notice I'm not there? Afterall the "Hang with the Gang" is a BBQ honoring the honorees. Its a date to meet all of them together, including the young girl Jensen who has been in the hospital since we started training.
Wow, seems like a lot of climbing, but I'm really pushing it. Enjoying any downhill or flat section. I stopped a few more times to check the map. A couple of times I thought I should take a left not a right, but that would have been way worse. Gotta get back to the course.
Finally find Alpine. I'm pedalling hard when I pass a few people who look really familiar, but I don't stop I want to get back. I turn on Portola, now I think the next turn is Whiskey. Then Portola turns and the road I'm on turns into Sand Hill. Stop! Phone! Man the phone is slow here.
As I'm looking at my phone someone stops behind me. She says, "Are you with Team in Training?"
"Yes the tri-team, I'm trying to catch up to them. I got really lost."
"I'm on that team, the people behind me are too. Its Todd the mentor. A bunch of people got lost and everyone is out looking for them. We are supposed to turn on Whisky Hill from here."
I ask her if we continue on Sand Hill or turn. She has no idea. We wait for the group behind us. "Go straight!" says Todd.
I take off, thinking I just want to get back. I see Whiskey Hill but its not marked at all. I know its the right turn because I remember the horse ranch from my ride with Joe. I take the turn. I can't even see the group behind me.
I get back, change my shoes, load up the bike, and wobble to the check in. Everyone is still here but looks like they are done with the run. I see my mentor and Coach Mike. I tell them I got lost and Coach Mike looks sheepishly at me and apologizes for not having a map. They tell me there are several people they are looking for so I'm not the last after all.
Turns out the 21 mile loop was a 27 mile ride for me. I skipped the run, I was really tired. This is probably the first bike ride I've done where my legs ached. Its so stressful being lost, you'd think I'd be used to it by now.
I did the "Go Team!" cheer and just went home. I figured Jeff would get a kick out of hearing I got lost... again.
At the kickoff of the team bike ride, Coach Mike announced he did not have any maps, but the route was simple. We were doing the Portola Loop. It sounded familiar. "Head towards Woodside, take Whiskey Hill, left on Sand Hill," something about a familiar intersection Junipera Serra and Foothill was the wrong direction, "right on Alpine, left on Portola, left on Whiskey Hill, back to the start. And if you get confused or separated, just stop and let others catch up to you at the intersections."
Well I headed off. The usual happened, the fast group takes off, but I'm able to keep them in my sights. There are some people between me and the fast group so I feel pretty comfortable. We come to a light and I see it change after the fast group pass it. Still okay I catch up with the fast stragglers.
We head off together. They get ahead of me but not too far. I look back and don't really see anyone close. They are pretty far back. Coming down Sand Hill I get another light and I'm separated from the second fast group, but I can still see them. I see them make the turn so I know where to go......
At the turn I notice it is the same intersection we've taken when we start the ride in Menlo Park. Its all extremely familiar because I think Joe and I rode this section. I take the turn and follow another biker who seemed to be with us, everyone has a bright jacket.
I ride along, I see Page Mill, 280, am I on Alpine? Uh, I'm on Foothill. That is exactly where Coach Mike said I should be. I stop. I'm so happy that I brought my phone, which I actually thought about leaving, not sure now why. I pull up Google Maps. Yep I'm not where I'm supposed to be. I find a route back to Arastadero. Looks like I can take it back to Alpine. So I do it.
This next part of the ride was all about thinking what the team will think when I finally get back. Am I going to get back in time to still do the run? Will the team still be there? Will they notice I'm not there? Afterall the "Hang with the Gang" is a BBQ honoring the honorees. Its a date to meet all of them together, including the young girl Jensen who has been in the hospital since we started training.
Wow, seems like a lot of climbing, but I'm really pushing it. Enjoying any downhill or flat section. I stopped a few more times to check the map. A couple of times I thought I should take a left not a right, but that would have been way worse. Gotta get back to the course.
Finally find Alpine. I'm pedalling hard when I pass a few people who look really familiar, but I don't stop I want to get back. I turn on Portola, now I think the next turn is Whiskey. Then Portola turns and the road I'm on turns into Sand Hill. Stop! Phone! Man the phone is slow here.
As I'm looking at my phone someone stops behind me. She says, "Are you with Team in Training?"
"Yes the tri-team, I'm trying to catch up to them. I got really lost."
"I'm on that team, the people behind me are too. Its Todd the mentor. A bunch of people got lost and everyone is out looking for them. We are supposed to turn on Whisky Hill from here."
I ask her if we continue on Sand Hill or turn. She has no idea. We wait for the group behind us. "Go straight!" says Todd.
I take off, thinking I just want to get back. I see Whiskey Hill but its not marked at all. I know its the right turn because I remember the horse ranch from my ride with Joe. I take the turn. I can't even see the group behind me.
I get back, change my shoes, load up the bike, and wobble to the check in. Everyone is still here but looks like they are done with the run. I see my mentor and Coach Mike. I tell them I got lost and Coach Mike looks sheepishly at me and apologizes for not having a map. They tell me there are several people they are looking for so I'm not the last after all.
Turns out the 21 mile loop was a 27 mile ride for me. I skipped the run, I was really tired. This is probably the first bike ride I've done where my legs ached. Its so stressful being lost, you'd think I'd be used to it by now.
I did the "Go Team!" cheer and just went home. I figured Jeff would get a kick out of hearing I got lost... again.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Back in the Pool
I took the week off because it was a short week (President's day), I was close to max vacation, and I wanted to really focus on training. I decided that I would swim everyday and try and either run or ride as well. I finally made it back to the NASA pool for swimming and tonight was training with the team.
I've not been swimming with the team in weeks due to a really hectic schedule. I thought my form was really improved and even Coach Megan commented that I was looking great. We did several warm-up laps. Then we did 4x of drill exercises (2 regular stroke laps, 1 drill of choice, 1 kick only). "Okay time for practice" says the coach. "Uh....What?"
So lets just say, I was tired already. Now each lane team had to swim in pairs to other side. We staggered kickoffs and when we all made it to the other side we headed back. The goal was to do as many laps as we could before sprints. "Uh.... What?"
I tried to keep my form the entire time. That was my goal, along with limiting the amount of time I took for rests. I, surprisingly to myself, was doing really well, typically catching the pair in front of me. All together we did about 11-12 laps. Coach Megan assured me that now that my form was good, endurance was all I needed now.
I had a great time swimming with the team. It seems, like running, I do much better when I'm with someone else. I think I'm not able to motivate myself and only need a bit of peer pressure to push myself across the finish line. Anybody want to run?
I've not been swimming with the team in weeks due to a really hectic schedule. I thought my form was really improved and even Coach Megan commented that I was looking great. We did several warm-up laps. Then we did 4x of drill exercises (2 regular stroke laps, 1 drill of choice, 1 kick only). "Okay time for practice" says the coach. "Uh....What?"
So lets just say, I was tired already. Now each lane team had to swim in pairs to other side. We staggered kickoffs and when we all made it to the other side we headed back. The goal was to do as many laps as we could before sprints. "Uh.... What?"
I tried to keep my form the entire time. That was my goal, along with limiting the amount of time I took for rests. I, surprisingly to myself, was doing really well, typically catching the pair in front of me. All together we did about 11-12 laps. Coach Megan assured me that now that my form was good, endurance was all I needed now.
I had a great time swimming with the team. It seems, like running, I do much better when I'm with someone else. I think I'm not able to motivate myself and only need a bit of peer pressure to push myself across the finish line. Anybody want to run?
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Campbell's Valentine Run
A few weeks ago I got mail from Sharon, founder of the Red Power Divas, a running group I joined to get back into shape after Cameron. She was trying to get the divas out for the race even though the new season would not be starting for a few months.
This was the Saturday that TnT would not be having an official practice, but a few people were going to run this race. I was excited to see Sharon and the other Diva's again so I signed up and told her I would see her then.
On Saturday morning I was unsure if I should go because Riley was pretty sick during the night. Everyone was sleeping so I decided to go hoping to be back before 11am. It was so great to see the divas. They were all shocked to see me. I hadn't seen any of them since the 2008 kickoff event, which was held 1 week before I gave birth to Riley (ie, I was big!!)
Although it had rained all night the sun was out. It was a little cool but I took off my jacket before the race. As we lined up at the starting line I saw some of my fellow TnT triathlon team mates. At the whistle they all took off.
Because I had the long run on Thursday I wanted to keep a steady pace and try to not walk too much during this run. I didn't walk until about 1.5 miles. I only walked for 30 sec and made a commitment to myself that I would not walk any longer. 30 seconds is about what I need to catch my breath when my asthma kicks in.
I ran up all the inclines along the Los Gatos creek trail thinking of Sumeet's tips of how this would be a great training tool. There were a large number of divas on the trail (we all had our red shirts on) and it was really cool to be racing with them. We all cheered each other on and after the 5 mile marker I started to lag a bit when another diva started to pass me and gave me an encouraging push. I followed her for awhile and then passed her headed into the 6 mile marker.
When I saw the 6 mile marker I could see one of the race coordinators cheering people in. I was so happy to be so close. He was a great cheerleader and so I decided to step it up. I was going to run in hard the rest of the way.
Surprisingly it felt really good. At the very last section it was all mud but I could see the clock. I crossed the finish line feeling good at 1hr 10 minutes. I knew I had run the race conservatively and had walked when I really could have kept going. I'm thinking maybe I can do this thing!
There were a group of divas at the end. Sharon gave me a big high five and Heather gave me a big hug. Both said I looked awesome crossing the finish line and I was happy to be back in my Diva T-shirt, these women were awesome!
This was the Saturday that TnT would not be having an official practice, but a few people were going to run this race. I was excited to see Sharon and the other Diva's again so I signed up and told her I would see her then.
On Saturday morning I was unsure if I should go because Riley was pretty sick during the night. Everyone was sleeping so I decided to go hoping to be back before 11am. It was so great to see the divas. They were all shocked to see me. I hadn't seen any of them since the 2008 kickoff event, which was held 1 week before I gave birth to Riley (ie, I was big!!)
Although it had rained all night the sun was out. It was a little cool but I took off my jacket before the race. As we lined up at the starting line I saw some of my fellow TnT triathlon team mates. At the whistle they all took off.
Because I had the long run on Thursday I wanted to keep a steady pace and try to not walk too much during this run. I didn't walk until about 1.5 miles. I only walked for 30 sec and made a commitment to myself that I would not walk any longer. 30 seconds is about what I need to catch my breath when my asthma kicks in.
I ran up all the inclines along the Los Gatos creek trail thinking of Sumeet's tips of how this would be a great training tool. There were a large number of divas on the trail (we all had our red shirts on) and it was really cool to be racing with them. We all cheered each other on and after the 5 mile marker I started to lag a bit when another diva started to pass me and gave me an encouraging push. I followed her for awhile and then passed her headed into the 6 mile marker.
When I saw the 6 mile marker I could see one of the race coordinators cheering people in. I was so happy to be so close. He was a great cheerleader and so I decided to step it up. I was going to run in hard the rest of the way.
Surprisingly it felt really good. At the very last section it was all mud but I could see the clock. I crossed the finish line feeling good at 1hr 10 minutes. I knew I had run the race conservatively and had walked when I really could have kept going. I'm thinking maybe I can do this thing!
There were a group of divas at the end. Sharon gave me a big high five and Heather gave me a big hug. Both said I looked awesome crossing the finish line and I was happy to be back in my Diva T-shirt, these women were awesome!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Let's go for a run...
I missed Tuesday's track workout because I had to go to a neighborhood Mom's meeting. Wednesday I was in LA and after complaining to a fellow manager he suggested I bring my running stuff to the city since I was planning on working from San Francisco anyway. Uh....
This made me a little nervous. Some of the managers run together and I get the impression they are all pretty good. I asked Sumeet to take it easy on me and he said, "NO problem, we'll just go maybe 4 miles." I had a 10K race scheduled for Saturday so figured this would be great if I could just keep up with him.
The run started well. Sumeet really did take it easy on me. Running along the Embarcadero was really pretty. I had not been behind the Pac Bell Stadium and it was really nice. I had to walk a few times but I felt like I was doing much better than I expected. Sumeet had warned me we were headed to a hill and I could decide if I wanted to run up it, "once, twice, three times, whatever."
The hill was impressive. It was a straight up wall. Very San Francisco like. At this point I was tired so I decided to not run up. I thought I would walk up. Sumeet did run up it, and down (waved to me) and back up (met me at the top), and back down, and back up (waved to me again), and back down, then we headed back to the office.
I couldn't believe I was still running. I was tired on the way back and just hoping to keep it up until we got to the office. I knew it was late by this point, I'm soooo slow. I started to freak about the race on Saturday, that was going to be more than 6 miles.
It was late when we got back, and just barely got any food because the cafe was closing. I missed a meeting and felt bad to have slowed Sumeet down. When I finally got back to my desk, Sumeet says to me, "oh.... hey....it was a little more than 4 miles," I was a little relieved by that. "How much more?" I asked, "uh....it was 6.5 miles"
"Really?" I was excited. I hadn't run a 10K in awhile and was wondering if I could. My knee hurt a little bit, but I really started to believe I could complete the run portion of the triathlon, which I had started to doubt.
I was hobbling around the office a bit, but I felt good. I hoped I would feel well enough to run the race on Saturday. Hey I just ran 6.5 miles!
This made me a little nervous. Some of the managers run together and I get the impression they are all pretty good. I asked Sumeet to take it easy on me and he said, "NO problem, we'll just go maybe 4 miles." I had a 10K race scheduled for Saturday so figured this would be great if I could just keep up with him.
The run started well. Sumeet really did take it easy on me. Running along the Embarcadero was really pretty. I had not been behind the Pac Bell Stadium and it was really nice. I had to walk a few times but I felt like I was doing much better than I expected. Sumeet had warned me we were headed to a hill and I could decide if I wanted to run up it, "once, twice, three times, whatever."
The hill was impressive. It was a straight up wall. Very San Francisco like. At this point I was tired so I decided to not run up. I thought I would walk up. Sumeet did run up it, and down (waved to me) and back up (met me at the top), and back down, and back up (waved to me again), and back down, then we headed back to the office.
I couldn't believe I was still running. I was tired on the way back and just hoping to keep it up until we got to the office. I knew it was late by this point, I'm soooo slow. I started to freak about the race on Saturday, that was going to be more than 6 miles.
It was late when we got back, and just barely got any food because the cafe was closing. I missed a meeting and felt bad to have slowed Sumeet down. When I finally got back to my desk, Sumeet says to me, "oh.... hey....it was a little more than 4 miles," I was a little relieved by that. "How much more?" I asked, "uh....it was 6.5 miles"
"Really?" I was excited. I hadn't run a 10K in awhile and was wondering if I could. My knee hurt a little bit, but I really started to believe I could complete the run portion of the triathlon, which I had started to doubt.
I was hobbling around the office a bit, but I felt good. I hoped I would feel well enough to run the race on Saturday. Hey I just ran 6.5 miles!
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Nice Ride
For Saturday's workout we headed to Lake Alamaden.The plan was to start from the VTA Park and Ride and head into the hills. I was surprised how warm it was, relatively that is. I was one of the first people to arrive so I got a little worried that it was going to be a low turnout, but then everyone came in at once like a caravan.
Coach Mike, who I've not seen in awhile walked past me and then stopped and came back. He was very impressed by Joe's bike and when I told him it was borrowed he was even more impressed that I had such a good "and trusting" friend. I told him that fit all my friends ;-)
The plan was to go up Santa Teresa into the hills, then take Bailey Hill, which came with lots of warnings and encouragement that we could all do it, and then head back via Alamaden Expressway. I felt good on the ride. I went out with the leaders in the beginning but then fell back a bit. I mostly kept them in sight but didn't push it too much.
I discovered that riding at 17-18 mph is pretty comfortable for me and that would put me at 1.5 hours to finish the bike portion of the race. That thought led me to add up the times of all the events and I think I'll probably be working hard for a 3-4 hour event. That is a long time to work out non-stop. I started to get really nervous.
Just as I got nervous I noticed an incline. I knew I wasn't near Bailey yet so wondered if this was the hill. The grade was only 2% so I figured with all the warning this could not be it. The next portion of the ride was all farm land. It was really nice to see. I saw some horses and a donkey. It was really quiet here and I just enjoyed the biking. I felt really good.
Then I turned on Bailey. I put the bike computer on the incline measurement and made guesses about what the hill would be. Then I was on the hill. I couldn't see the leaders at all and I felt like the bike was practically stopped. The incline went to 3-4% immediately and then kept increasing. I think at the climax it was 10%. I stayed really steady and actually passed a few people. On the advice of one of the coaches as I hit the summit I just kept peddaling hard over the top as if it wasn't yet the top. This made for a good ride over. Then there was a stop sign and a cop car, so I stopped. I was bummed that I lost all my momentum, but I knew I was headed back now and the hardest part was over.
Coming down the hill was good. The plan was after the ride, we had to drop off our bikes and then run 15 minutes. I felt good but wasn't sure how I would feel running. I pulled into the parking lot and there was only one of the coaches who was watching everyone's gear. I put the bike into the car, changed shoes and headed off.
OMG. My legs felt like they weighed 50lbs. It felt like I had on cement shoes. The start was really slow. I'm not a fast runner anyway, but this was pathetic. There were some walkers ahead of me and I wondered if I could even catch them (I did).
Luckily at almost 7 minutes there was a bathroom. I totally needed a break so I stopped there as my halfway point. Then I headed back. I didn't feel really confident after the sad run. If I was going to be running that slow, the triathlon might be 4-5 hours.
I talked to some other participants about their expected time and they were guessing 2.5-3 hours. I actually thought I was in better shape then some of them and now I was feeling super nervous. I have to work harder....
Luckily this week I got several more donations. I have a garage sale planned for tomorrow so I think after this weekend I will be completely done with gathering donations. At least I accomplished that!
Coach Mike, who I've not seen in awhile walked past me and then stopped and came back. He was very impressed by Joe's bike and when I told him it was borrowed he was even more impressed that I had such a good "and trusting" friend. I told him that fit all my friends ;-)
The plan was to go up Santa Teresa into the hills, then take Bailey Hill, which came with lots of warnings and encouragement that we could all do it, and then head back via Alamaden Expressway. I felt good on the ride. I went out with the leaders in the beginning but then fell back a bit. I mostly kept them in sight but didn't push it too much.
I discovered that riding at 17-18 mph is pretty comfortable for me and that would put me at 1.5 hours to finish the bike portion of the race. That thought led me to add up the times of all the events and I think I'll probably be working hard for a 3-4 hour event. That is a long time to work out non-stop. I started to get really nervous.
Just as I got nervous I noticed an incline. I knew I wasn't near Bailey yet so wondered if this was the hill. The grade was only 2% so I figured with all the warning this could not be it. The next portion of the ride was all farm land. It was really nice to see. I saw some horses and a donkey. It was really quiet here and I just enjoyed the biking. I felt really good.
Then I turned on Bailey. I put the bike computer on the incline measurement and made guesses about what the hill would be. Then I was on the hill. I couldn't see the leaders at all and I felt like the bike was practically stopped. The incline went to 3-4% immediately and then kept increasing. I think at the climax it was 10%. I stayed really steady and actually passed a few people. On the advice of one of the coaches as I hit the summit I just kept peddaling hard over the top as if it wasn't yet the top. This made for a good ride over. Then there was a stop sign and a cop car, so I stopped. I was bummed that I lost all my momentum, but I knew I was headed back now and the hardest part was over.
Coming down the hill was good. The plan was after the ride, we had to drop off our bikes and then run 15 minutes. I felt good but wasn't sure how I would feel running. I pulled into the parking lot and there was only one of the coaches who was watching everyone's gear. I put the bike into the car, changed shoes and headed off.
OMG. My legs felt like they weighed 50lbs. It felt like I had on cement shoes. The start was really slow. I'm not a fast runner anyway, but this was pathetic. There were some walkers ahead of me and I wondered if I could even catch them (I did).
Luckily at almost 7 minutes there was a bathroom. I totally needed a break so I stopped there as my halfway point. Then I headed back. I didn't feel really confident after the sad run. If I was going to be running that slow, the triathlon might be 4-5 hours.
I talked to some other participants about their expected time and they were guessing 2.5-3 hours. I actually thought I was in better shape then some of them and now I was feeling super nervous. I have to work harder....
Luckily this week I got several more donations. I have a garage sale planned for tomorrow so I think after this weekend I will be completely done with gathering donations. At least I accomplished that!
Friday, February 6, 2009
Stop Eating!!!
Okay, so you have to eat junk food for the Superbowl, and well it was my mom's birthday and I couldn't just waste that ice cream cake. I keep thinking that I can just stop the junk food consumption any time I want, but this is probably a lie. I don't seem to be able to control eating candy.
Its hard because there is lots of candy at work. I get rid of the candy at home and think "okay I'm done" but then I go to the store. There is something very evil in side me that grabs the candy even though my brain is saying stop!!!
My diet is crazy. I really need a meal plan because I can't trust myself to do the right thing. At this rate I'm going to need an intervention...
Fund raising is nearly completion. Nobody won the Superbowl pool so I made more than $1000. WooHoo!
Its hard because there is lots of candy at work. I get rid of the candy at home and think "okay I'm done" but then I go to the store. There is something very evil in side me that grabs the candy even though my brain is saying stop!!!
My diet is crazy. I really need a meal plan because I can't trust myself to do the right thing. At this rate I'm going to need an intervention...
Fund raising is nearly completion. Nobody won the Superbowl pool so I made more than $1000. WooHoo!
Friday, January 30, 2009
Epic Fail
What a bad week, well for my workouts. Cam was still sick, after figuring out it was not the flu and taking her to the doctor we discovered she had a double ear infection. My mom came for a visit and I tried to spend as much time with her as I could. And finally I had probably one of the busiest week's at work that I've had in months.
I only got 1 run in. I know if I'm going to work out a run is the best for me because I enjoy it the least and need to do it the most, but I'm really feeling the pressure to get the workouts together. I need to sit down and just manage my time better.
On the good side, I've raised lots of money this week. I started a Superbowl pool and that was a fun way to get people to donate. Hopefully somebody will win.
I only got 1 run in. I know if I'm going to work out a run is the best for me because I enjoy it the least and need to do it the most, but I'm really feeling the pressure to get the workouts together. I need to sit down and just manage my time better.
On the good side, I've raised lots of money this week. I started a Superbowl pool and that was a fun way to get people to donate. Hopefully somebody will win.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Just barely making it.
Argh! I missed another practice this week. Cameron got sent home from school on Tues for being sick and she seems to have a flu. I've been able to get in a bike ride and a run but when your baby is just laying there crying it makes it really hard to leave them.
My run was good and my knee feels fine but I'm not doing the distance that I want. I hate the running and really think I need to find a running partner who will push me. Its so easy to talk yourself into stopping.
I've asked Elisabeth to run with me on Friday's after work but not sure when that will start. I think running around my house is also not working because I just think about what I need to do when I get back and eventually just head back to the house. I need some motivation.
My run was good and my knee feels fine but I'm not doing the distance that I want. I hate the running and really think I need to find a running partner who will push me. Its so easy to talk yourself into stopping.
I've asked Elisabeth to run with me on Friday's after work but not sure when that will start. I think running around my house is also not working because I just think about what I need to do when I get back and eventually just head back to the house. I need some motivation.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Ready for a Run?
There was no coached workout this weekend so a group of TnT members decided to do a bike ride on our own. The goals was to do 25 miles, the equivalent of the race. A mentor was leading the workout and he wanted to keep the group within close proximity so we decided to do a loop.
We met at Canada and Edgewood. We rode up to 92, and back just past the 280 overpass 3 times. This has got to be the worst section as far as scenery is concerned. I thought the ride was kinda boring but the ride felt good. I was surprised to be near the head of the pack this time. I was third and can only credit the bike. It was so much easier riding Joe's bike than my mtn bike.
When the ride was done, I wasn't even very tired. I didn't think I was ready for a 10K but I was feeling pretty confident that I could run some. A part of me thought I could put on my shoes and just see how far I could go, and the other part thought, "don't overdue it and hurt yourself." It seems to be a real struggle trying to figure out when to push myself and when to not...
We met at Canada and Edgewood. We rode up to 92, and back just past the 280 overpass 3 times. This has got to be the worst section as far as scenery is concerned. I thought the ride was kinda boring but the ride felt good. I was surprised to be near the head of the pack this time. I was third and can only credit the bike. It was so much easier riding Joe's bike than my mtn bike.
When the ride was done, I wasn't even very tired. I didn't think I was ready for a 10K but I was feeling pretty confident that I could run some. A part of me thought I could put on my shoes and just see how far I could go, and the other part thought, "don't overdue it and hurt yourself." It seems to be a real struggle trying to figure out when to push myself and when to not...
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Did you do it?
Yes!!!! Well mostly. The Saturday workout with the team started with 1 hour in the pool. I'm still improving but this was the best day so far. Less stops and several sprints. The sprinting was the last thing we did and it was a lot of fun. Several times I caught the person in front of me, even when I waited for her to get at the half-way mark. I felt good.
We spent some time working on our kicks. This is an area that I can definitely improve. One of our sprints was with a kick board an I felt so slow. A captain is offering private lessons for $35 and I'm thinking maybe I should take her up on it. I've often thought about lessons but since I actually know how to swim I always thought it was a little weird. Now I don't and the money is going towards her fund raising goal....
The bike portion was a 30-40 minute ride out and back. I stuck with the team and it was a pretty easy pace. In fact at the turn around point the coach complained that we were acting like it was a beach cruise and we better pick it up on the way back. We did. I made it back in half the time. The total distance was probably about 10-11 miles. My Iphone locked so the app, Trailguru stopped recording.
On Sunday the plan was to try and ride 25 miles and then do a run in the evening. Joe called and said he was taking a break from skiing and was back in town. He offered me the option of using one of his road bikes and said he would go for a ride with me. He knew a 22 mile loop that was pretty fun. We met at Page Mill in Palo Alto at the Park and Ride.
Joe let me ride his new bike, very pretty and shiny with lots of fancy features. He bought it for the century ride he just completed (yes, Joe is a rock star). He helped adjust the seat and went through how to shift, checked the pedals etc. Then we were off.
Wow, the bike was so nice. I haven't been on a road bike since...... hmmm can't remember when. It felt really different from the mountain bike. I was pretty nervous but this bike was nice to handle. Joe led the way and I'm sure he was taking it easy on me. I felt good when he commented, "Your not too slow" :-) That was the best compliment he could have given me.
The ride went all through Woodside. We saw (and smelled) lots of horses. I thought of Cameron because she is going through the "I love horses!" stage. I also thought "there are some amazing houses here, people are really rich!" I made some mental notes of places I'd like to try and find again, like the Woodside Store, and Joe pointed out some cool things. Its not too often that my mind just rests, but I did have some moments on this ride where that happened. I forget what a beautiful place we live in... Oh this is why people bike...
Since Joe had just done all this training he gave me some great advice. He showed me some stretches when my back got tired and gave me more bike handling tips. I felt like I had my own personal coach, now if I could only repeat this loop.
I felt great the whole ride. When Joe pointed out the last hill I suddenly felt tired. Joe stood up for the last push and I decided to do the same. I just cranked it even though I was tired and when I reached the top, I felt awesome! Joe let me keep his shiny bike so I could train with it. He's so generous all the time. I was glad to catch up with him and wish we could hang out more.
After the ride I went to relieve Jeff. He decided to take Cameron to Grandma's so instead of a run, PJ and I went on a long walk with Riley. It was a nice was to wind down the day and Riley got to nap.
It was a great training weekend and I raised $200! Let's hope the rest of the week goes as well.
We spent some time working on our kicks. This is an area that I can definitely improve. One of our sprints was with a kick board an I felt so slow. A captain is offering private lessons for $35 and I'm thinking maybe I should take her up on it. I've often thought about lessons but since I actually know how to swim I always thought it was a little weird. Now I don't and the money is going towards her fund raising goal....
The bike portion was a 30-40 minute ride out and back. I stuck with the team and it was a pretty easy pace. In fact at the turn around point the coach complained that we were acting like it was a beach cruise and we better pick it up on the way back. We did. I made it back in half the time. The total distance was probably about 10-11 miles. My Iphone locked so the app, Trailguru stopped recording.
On Sunday the plan was to try and ride 25 miles and then do a run in the evening. Joe called and said he was taking a break from skiing and was back in town. He offered me the option of using one of his road bikes and said he would go for a ride with me. He knew a 22 mile loop that was pretty fun. We met at Page Mill in Palo Alto at the Park and Ride.
Joe let me ride his new bike, very pretty and shiny with lots of fancy features. He bought it for the century ride he just completed (yes, Joe is a rock star). He helped adjust the seat and went through how to shift, checked the pedals etc. Then we were off.
Wow, the bike was so nice. I haven't been on a road bike since...... hmmm can't remember when. It felt really different from the mountain bike. I was pretty nervous but this bike was nice to handle. Joe led the way and I'm sure he was taking it easy on me. I felt good when he commented, "Your not too slow" :-) That was the best compliment he could have given me.
The ride went all through Woodside. We saw (and smelled) lots of horses. I thought of Cameron because she is going through the "I love horses!" stage. I also thought "there are some amazing houses here, people are really rich!" I made some mental notes of places I'd like to try and find again, like the Woodside Store, and Joe pointed out some cool things. Its not too often that my mind just rests, but I did have some moments on this ride where that happened. I forget what a beautiful place we live in... Oh this is why people bike...
Since Joe had just done all this training he gave me some great advice. He showed me some stretches when my back got tired and gave me more bike handling tips. I felt like I had my own personal coach, now if I could only repeat this loop.
I felt great the whole ride. When Joe pointed out the last hill I suddenly felt tired. Joe stood up for the last push and I decided to do the same. I just cranked it even though I was tired and when I reached the top, I felt awesome! Joe let me keep his shiny bike so I could train with it. He's so generous all the time. I was glad to catch up with him and wish we could hang out more.
After the ride I went to relieve Jeff. He decided to take Cameron to Grandma's so instead of a run, PJ and I went on a long walk with Riley. It was a nice was to wind down the day and Riley got to nap.
It was a great training weekend and I raised $200! Let's hope the rest of the week goes as well.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Stepping up Training
There are 78 days, 14 hours, 18 minutes to the Lavaman 2009 race. My knee is feeling better. I'm collecting money via Google Checkout for my fund raising. Now its time to step up the training. I have big plans for the weekend.
I'm training with the team on Saturday. We are doing a swim/bike combination. We'll be meeting at Burgess Pool in Menlo Park at 8:30. Plan to swim for 45-60 minutes, then hit the road on our bikes. I'm still riding my mountain bike but I put the road slicks on. I'm still contemplating whether to borrow Joe's bike or get my own. I think I'll spend the afternoon getting fitted for a new bike and searching around to see if I can get a good deal somewhere.
On Sunday I'll be going on a long bike ride in the morning. I'm debating whether or not to do the Team in Training Coache's workout or going off on my own. The goal is to do 25 miles at the least. Depending on how I feel in the evening, PJ and I will be going for a run. I expect it to be short and slow given my knee, but I've at least got Jeff on board to take the kids.
Yes its advantageous! But I only have 78 days, 14 hours, 15 minutes! What's your training plan for the weekend?
I'm training with the team on Saturday. We are doing a swim/bike combination. We'll be meeting at Burgess Pool in Menlo Park at 8:30. Plan to swim for 45-60 minutes, then hit the road on our bikes. I'm still riding my mountain bike but I put the road slicks on. I'm still contemplating whether to borrow Joe's bike or get my own. I think I'll spend the afternoon getting fitted for a new bike and searching around to see if I can get a good deal somewhere.
On Sunday I'll be going on a long bike ride in the morning. I'm debating whether or not to do the Team in Training Coache's workout or going off on my own. The goal is to do 25 miles at the least. Depending on how I feel in the evening, PJ and I will be going for a run. I expect it to be short and slow given my knee, but I've at least got Jeff on board to take the kids.
Yes its advantageous! But I only have 78 days, 14 hours, 15 minutes! What's your training plan for the weekend?
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Ladder Run
I thought I wasn't going to make the workout tonight. I had a 5 pm meeting, Cameron and Jeff had gym class, and I didn't find a babysitter. Then Sonya called!!! Woot! I made the meeting and the workout.
I changed my clothes in the car and was about 10 minutes late. I missed the warm up but still did the drills. I love the skipping drill, its just fun! Tonight's workout was a ladder run. This means we ran around the Foothill track once, did some core exercises, then ran the track for 2 laps, core, 3 laps, core/rest, 4 laps, rest, 3 laps, core, etc.
The workout was limited to 45 minutes so you were supposed to do as much as you could. I made it 13 laps before they stopped us. Man I'm slow, but my right knee was really hurting. I ran the entire time but had to run on my toes a little to keep from falling over. Elisabeth told me I was too stubborn but I really didn't want to walk during this workout.
After the workout the coaches pointed out that in normal (non-winter) TnT triathlon trainings, the training typically would start now. Everything we've done so far has just been gravy. They told us we were all doing extremely well and should expect in the next few weeks that the workouts just start to click. They assured us that we were going to be those people who just love working out.....we'll see.
I was proud that I ran the whole 13 laps even with my knee hurting, but I'm really paying for it this evening. I'm taking lots of ibuprofen and trying to stay away from the stairs. Jeff thinks I need to go see a doctor. Everyone knows I hate the doctors...so we'll see...
I changed my clothes in the car and was about 10 minutes late. I missed the warm up but still did the drills. I love the skipping drill, its just fun! Tonight's workout was a ladder run. This means we ran around the Foothill track once, did some core exercises, then ran the track for 2 laps, core, 3 laps, core/rest, 4 laps, rest, 3 laps, core, etc.
The workout was limited to 45 minutes so you were supposed to do as much as you could. I made it 13 laps before they stopped us. Man I'm slow, but my right knee was really hurting. I ran the entire time but had to run on my toes a little to keep from falling over. Elisabeth told me I was too stubborn but I really didn't want to walk during this workout.
After the workout the coaches pointed out that in normal (non-winter) TnT triathlon trainings, the training typically would start now. Everything we've done so far has just been gravy. They told us we were all doing extremely well and should expect in the next few weeks that the workouts just start to click. They assured us that we were going to be those people who just love working out.....we'll see.
I was proud that I ran the whole 13 laps even with my knee hurting, but I'm really paying for it this evening. I'm taking lots of ibuprofen and trying to stay away from the stairs. Jeff thinks I need to go see a doctor. Everyone knows I hate the doctors...so we'll see...
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Back in the Saddle Again
Whew! After a long break both from work and working out I joined the rest of the team for an early Saturday morning workout. I almost talked myself out of it because we just got back in town and there was a lot of other stuff I could be doing. But get serious, the race is going to be here before I know it and I got to get back to training for real.
On the drive up to Edgewood and Canada my car reported it was 4 degrees Celsius (I'm converting) and I was hoping I was going to be warm enough. I don't really over dress to workout because I know once you get going you'll have to start taking stuff off. Therefore I try to dress knowing I'll start out a little cold but once I start working out I should be comfortable.
This was my first bike combined workout. I thought we were going to ride, then run so I left my running stuff in the car. Turns out we were going to bike, run, bike again, and finally run again. No big deal. We started off the bike headed from Edgewood to 92 then back on Canada Road. That was almost 8 miles. OMG it was cold!!! My clothes were wicking the sweat but the sweat was crystallizing. My hands were aching they were so frozen. I must remember gloves. Ow, Ow, Ow!
We hopped off the bike and started our run (after I got my stuff from the car). Hopping off the bike was quite a surprise. My legs nearly gave out, at least my right knee did. I took notice and figured this is what folks meant when they said you really had to learn to transition well. The run was short, a total of 10 minutes. I noticed that running back was much quicker, uphill/downhill didn't really matter.
Back on the bike we headed the other way. Coach Mike stopped me as I started out and adjusted my bike seat. He said "Your really going to hurt your knees." My knees felt okay but I was much more comfortable with the adjustment. We rode towards Woodside Rd (84) and then back. This ride was much warmer. Not sure why but I always felt like I was riding uphill. I felt good on this ride but I think I was the very last biker. While that wasn't really true, I was at the end of the pack. Not sure how this happened because not too many passed me.
We then ran for another 20 minutes. In total I ran a 5K and rode the bike for about 24K. This is about half what we are going to do on race day, oh and a swim. "I'll be ready, I'll be ready!"
When I got home, my knees were hurting. Was it the first bike ride or did Coach Mike jinx me??? We'll see I guess.
On the drive up to Edgewood and Canada my car reported it was 4 degrees Celsius (I'm converting) and I was hoping I was going to be warm enough. I don't really over dress to workout because I know once you get going you'll have to start taking stuff off. Therefore I try to dress knowing I'll start out a little cold but once I start working out I should be comfortable.
This was my first bike combined workout. I thought we were going to ride, then run so I left my running stuff in the car. Turns out we were going to bike, run, bike again, and finally run again. No big deal. We started off the bike headed from Edgewood to 92 then back on Canada Road. That was almost 8 miles. OMG it was cold!!! My clothes were wicking the sweat but the sweat was crystallizing. My hands were aching they were so frozen. I must remember gloves. Ow, Ow, Ow!
We hopped off the bike and started our run (after I got my stuff from the car). Hopping off the bike was quite a surprise. My legs nearly gave out, at least my right knee did. I took notice and figured this is what folks meant when they said you really had to learn to transition well. The run was short, a total of 10 minutes. I noticed that running back was much quicker, uphill/downhill didn't really matter.
Back on the bike we headed the other way. Coach Mike stopped me as I started out and adjusted my bike seat. He said "Your really going to hurt your knees." My knees felt okay but I was much more comfortable with the adjustment. We rode towards Woodside Rd (84) and then back. This ride was much warmer. Not sure why but I always felt like I was riding uphill. I felt good on this ride but I think I was the very last biker. While that wasn't really true, I was at the end of the pack. Not sure how this happened because not too many passed me.
We then ran for another 20 minutes. In total I ran a 5K and rode the bike for about 24K. This is about half what we are going to do on race day, oh and a swim. "I'll be ready, I'll be ready!"
When I got home, my knees were hurting. Was it the first bike ride or did Coach Mike jinx me??? We'll see I guess.
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