Another Second Place Finish in the books!!

  Sometimes REST and RECOVERY ARE GOOD!

I'm finally through with Recovery.   Since my 70.3 on May 17th, my coach has had me on an "Active" recovery plan.  This basically means I can do whatever I want to rest my muscle and joints.   I enjoyed this time and didn't stress that I had a Sprint distance coming up.   As Coach Kandi said, I have the endurance for this, it is just another training day.

So, Sunday morning I woke up to a beautiful sunrise.   My boys were up and we were heading down.  I was so excited about racing not because of racing but because I was meeting a Tough Chik Teammate.  We have been talking since I got on the team and I LOVE meeting new people.  I also knew that some of my Triathlon Connection friends was going to be there as well.

Beautiful Sunrise on Race Day Sunday

As soon as we pulled up, Jenifer came up to me.  She was so sweet, we hugged like we had been friends forever, took a "selfie"and she gave me the best gift ever.   Then off I went to register and sweet Jenifer helped Pat with the wagon and Booger.

Tough Chik Jenifer - We finally meet

Jenifer made me a Tough Chik bracelet

Getting body marked with my smiley face

Swim start

As always, I was laughing and talking to everyone.   Since my first triathlon, I have always requested a smiley face under my race number.  This was the first race I received so many comments on it.  My transition was set up.  I was looking for my Coach but never found her.

We went to the swim start so I can get in and warm up.  The water was 75 degrees.  My Coach instructed me to practice technique and bilateral breathe.  She has a theory about my shoulder pain.  I have to say, I did it most of the way.  It's hard because for 3 years now I only breathe on my right but I tried my best and I will keep practicing.

The swim was very congested and I never got an opportunity to "break free."  The 300 yards took me 7:55.  I walked to transition while taking my wetsuit off.  I was off and ready for my bike.   I had to stop and walk back to get my helmet shield since I left it on my mat but that was only a few seconds off.  My T1 time was 3:17.

FINISHED

I LOVE cycling and I think its because its the only discipline that doesn't really hurt any of my joints (unless on for 3+ hours).  The bike was a short loop around the park that does have some hills.  I think it is around 7.5 miles and it took me 31:31.  I felt great getting off the bike.  And it was AWESOME to hear my name being called out.  I knew it was Jenifer.  She was still there.

I believe I can Fly!!

She stayed even though she said she couldn't!  Teammates.. LOVE HER!

Booger's new girlfriend

My Rock

TC Girlfriends

I ran my bike in, racked it, changed my shoes, put on my running belt, grabbed my water, put on my visor and sunglasses and off I went.  T2 was 1:48.

Now the run.  Oh how I love running!  Running is my favorite sport.  (I say this always when running).  But this run wasn't so bad because of all the athletes I was never alone on the run course.  I had people to cheer as they ran past me or (once/twice I would run past them).   I did my 5 minute run and 1 minute walk.  I pushed myself harder on the runs  but only because I knew it was only 3.1 miles.  My run came in at 39:39.  I was very happy.

My total time was 1:24:11.  I was 6 minutes behind the first place winner.  She apparently LOVES to swim and run.  :)

When I heard my name called, I was holding Booger.  I took off running to the podium with him and he did get his picture with the First place winner.  He hopped right up under her feet.  She was laughing, as was everyone else. (Still waiting for the Professional pics since no one was there to get it the picture of me on the podium for the Very FIRST Time)

I came home and you won't believe this...GOT IN MY POOL.   It is almost full and definitely had enough water for me to float.  It was a perfect day.

I also thinking I'm loving my CURVES.  Second place out of 11.   I'll take that!  And, I'll take having any Tough Chik by my side.  They are my Lucky Charms.  

Now let the training commencement for Silverman 70.3 in October.  Next race... June Lake in July!  I LOVE this sport.

Thanks Coach Kandi for getting me through these events without injury and having fun!  Thanks Jenifer for coming out and meeting me.  We will be riding and Tring together.  Thanks to my AMAZING husband who is always there for me. 

Finished and 2nd Place Athena

First "Real-Full" Half Ironman Distance Completed.. BAAM!!!

Still on Cloud 9 and ready for the next event!

It's all about the Bling, T-shirt and the bonus is the Plaque!

14 months ago, I had my left hip replaced due to having hip dysplasia which caused the osteoarthritis to wear down my cartilage. I was also diagnosed with having osteoarthritis in the right hip as well.  5 months ago, I broke my left ankle and was in a walking boot and had right shoulder reconstruction surgery.  Diagnosis, osteoarthritis, a small rotator tear, bursitis and something to do with the bicep tendon.   I was also told I have osteoarthritis and bursitis in the left shoulder.

I'm not going to lie.  2013 was a very hard time for me mentally and physically, especially the last two months.   With the hip replacement, I was told to move. I had restrictions but I was walking and strength training the entire body.  I'm pretty sure it was during this time period when my right shoulder took a turn for the worse.  (I've had issues with it for 15+ years. ).    It was at this time, I wrote my plan down to get to my goal of becoming an Ironman. I knew shoulder surgery was inevitable but the broken ankle threw me a curve.

I signed up for all my 2014 races in October 2013.  I thought my shoulder surgery was going to be at the end of the month so I knew I had enough time.  Well, the surgery was pushed back until December.   I knew one event was going to have to be cancelled.

I was searching for a coach and decided on Train-N-Tri.  There are many reasons I chose her and here are a few.. 1.  She understands I'm not the same as her other athletes. I have joint issues and running is BAD for me.  2.  She actually asked for all my scheduled vacations and or family visits, since she knows I travel a lot.  3. She understands recovery and the older we get, the more recovery our body needs.   4.  She knows me.  When I get a plan, I do my best to stick to it 100%, so I needed a plan that wouldn't beat me down.     It was a great decision.  I love how she wants a weekly report or she will track you down.  I love the fact when I forget to tell her something but she sees it on FB she tracks me down..  

She wouldn't start any plan for me until I was fully released from my doctors.  On Jan 24 I was fully released from both.  However, I didn't get my plan until Feb 18 due to other issues.  Now, I was a bit worried. I had 12 weeks to my first half. I had 4 trips planned.   My longest run of 13.1 miles was when I competed in Boise 70.3 in 2012.   I kept my running to 4 miles or under.  I followed the plan and that was all I could do. We tweaked it here and there but I was getting stronger every week.

It's a week before my race now and I feel good.  I'm worried about the run but I knew if I did my swim and bike like I knew I could I would have plenty of time for the run.  (This is my goal for all races, swim as fast as I can, bike like a bandit and then enjoy a slow jog to the finish).     My dog Booger gets sick and can't sleep for 4 days.  My husband and I take turns sleeping in the living room with Booger so the other can get rest.  The vet told us to wait 24 hours before leaving.   We left Wednesday morning, all of us exhausted. However Booger was feeling back to himself.  My coach told me not to do anything being tired because that would cause injury.  So I didn't and I didn't dwell on it.  Seriously, a week away from my first big event, there isn't anything I could do to change anything now. No I rested while my wonderful husband drove us in the RV.

I picked up my packet and racked my bike the night before.  A few less things to worry about on Race Morning.

The Pink Lotus racked and ready

Believe it or not, I wasn't anxious or stick to my stomach. I remained calm (scary for me).    In 2013, I realized if I wanted to achieve my dream, I first needed to developed my mind strength.  My friend (now coach) told me I would have the strongest mind out there. I don't know if she was right but I know my mindset was right.  

Race Day Morning.. Feeling Good.

Race day morning, I get up and still no nervousness.  I feel calm and happy.  I just told myself, give it your best.  If you don't finish, you don't finish. This is NOT my job, this is actually my JOY.  Usually when the gun goes off I want to puke.  Nope not this time.  It was a mass start with all full and half athletes starting.  I positioned myself in the back and got into my rhythm.   I just kept going over my mantras and what my friend Rob told me when we swam last week.  "Over exaggerated your left arm pull and relaxed."  I did pass quite a few peeps besides the 10 that quit and got pulled out.

Swim Start.. I'm there somewhere.  This was just a few out of the 400 athletes that started.

My watch said 48 minutes when I stood up.  The timing mat was a bit further up but I stopped so Pat could help get my arm out.  The shoulder was fine during the swim because the water was 59 degrees..  I was a bit numb and couldn't feel any pain.  I walked to the wetsuit strippers so they could help me with the rest.  I then jogged into transition.  It was hard putting on my socks. I needed help putting on my gloves and I gave up trying to Zip my jersey.  

Starting my 56 mile Bike Ride

Off I went for 56 miles.  I told Pat I would be back in 3:30 hours.  I stopped twice on the course. Once at mile 25 to fill up my bottle and zip up my jersey. I was finally thawed out.  2nd time was at mile 40.  I was in some pain with the shoulder.  It wasn't numb anymore,  I had a energy bar and took a ibuprofen and some energy bits, endurance, electrolytes, Ryno power.  I couldn't reach my dried fruit and nuts because my arm didn't have the range of motion.  I had 16 miles left and I rode right into 13-15 mph headwinds. 

Back in transition.  I also forgot my Visor.  Preparing for the 13.1 miles left to go.

I was back in 3:23.  Fastest time and a new PR for me.  Total elevation was around 1200'.   I was so busy complimenting this girl next to me that I took off without my bits and dried fruit.  Look this girl was in her 20s but she just finished 56 miles on a 10 speed bike like the one I had in high school and NO clips.  Yes I passed her on the bike but she caught me in transition.  Oh and someone stepped thru my transition so my pink Oakley's were broken. Thank goodness I had an extra pair of sunglasses in my bag. 

Leaving transition, knowing I had about 3 hours left

I was one mile into the run and realized I had forgotten my fuel.  I know there are aid stations but I prefer to use my own stuff.  My stomach gets very sensitive while running.   I had no choice, I tried a few pretzels at one stop but it was like licking cardboard. I don't like the taste of arrowhead water which is what they had, so I would dump water on me and take the ice.  I sipped on my drink I was carrying. I was running 10 minutes and walking 1 and walking thru every aid station (words of wisdom from coach and my friend Greg).  It was at mile 4 when my nausea started.   I told Pat I would be back in 3:15 which was my goal but I let it go.   There was sprite at the aids station so I started grabbing a cup with ice and sipping it at every station.  My body isn't use to that sugar so it probably didn't help the nausea.  

The roads were country roads with no shade.  It was sunny and hot. I took advantage of the sponges at every rest stop as well.  I encouraged many athletes as they passed me by.  At mile 8.5 I looked at my watch and it showed I had been moving for 6 hours and 47 minutes.  I knew I would finish on time.  I still tried jogging but mostly walked, singing, praying and repeating my mantras, besides thanking all the volunteers and encouraging the few runners I would see.

Finally mile 13. I hear my name, I see Pat and Booger.  Mark Wilson, the race director, grabs my hand encouraging me and I sprint to the finish.  Official time 8:05:49.  I Did it.  I finished my first half Ironman (70.3 miles) distance.  (As some know, I did Boise but due to high winds, rain and snow, they shorten the bike from 56 to 12 miles..I felted cheated .. And that's another story). 

At the finish line, getting my medal and them taking my timing chip

After the race, I laid around a bit trying to settle the stomach.  Pat was able to get my things out of transition.  He said while he was in there a woman told him that I was a beast on the bike..She said I just blew past her like nothing. That made me feel good.  Never was told that before.  And we all no the Pink Lotus stands out.  I probably would have won first for prettiest bike as well. Just saying that's what I was told.

Chilling after the race.

My first place Plaque!

We got back to the RV, I had some crackers and ginger ale, took a shower and felt great. Now it was time to eat.  It was at the restaurant when my friend, Leslie, text me and said I got first place.  I had Sandy confirm.  OMG!  That was it, I was on cloud 9.  I contacted Mark, went back to the venue and picked up my plaque.  I talked to a few more people, telling them what I overcame to be here. It's a great feeling to be alive and to inspire.

There were two people in my division, Athena half.  One competitor never made it to the finish.  In my age group, I would have placed 8 out of 9.  

Sowhat is next... I have 3 events in June, July and August before my next half Ironman in October.  This is Silverman in Henderson/Lake mead.  I will keep training, TRIing and losing weight. I will work on my transitions (maybe) and most important I WILL ENJOY every minute of very day that I'm out doing what I Love..

Special  Thanks to..

God...who gave me this heart, passion and desire!

 My husband Pat who is my biggest supporter, fan and best friend.  He completes me.

Having dinner and celebrating once I heard "FIRST PLACE!"

My Biggest Supporter, Fan, My Rock, My Everything.  Always there for me!

Kandi, my coach at Train-n-Tri.  I know I'm a hard one with my plans and physical issues but we did it.  We are going all the way to Couer d'alene.

To Robert who swam 1.2 miles with me in the ocean one week ago and help my mental anxiety. It worked.

To Energy Bits, Ryno power and Ding Bat Bars.  I trained with all of it, good wholesome clean food giving me the energy I need when I don't forget it in transition.

To my girls Sinta and Jamie, thanks for training with me and having so much faith me.  All my TC sisters Sandy, Liz, Anna, Jaymi, Cherilynn and friends/family at home, you always have more faith in me than I do. Thanks so much.. I truly felt the prayers and positive energy pushing me through.

And my two moms.. Barb and Yvonne.  You never once doubted me!

I WILL BE AN IRONMAN!!

And the Wind Whispers... Barbara.....

Okay so maybe that isn't how Jimi Hendrix wrote the song but that was happening to me today.

Of course, it was yet another day I didn't want to get out of bed.  I mean 7 a.m. and it was only 44 degrees and the wind was blowing.  It wasn't a 15+ mph wind this morning but enough to make it chilly.  However, I knew I had to run my 1 hour and 45 minutes according to plan.

I decided I would run up and up and up!  I hadn't been up this particular road since 2012 and it was whispering my name.  Every so softly, enticing me to come to the top and see what I could find...

Ready or not here I come..

It doesn't seem far but after running 2 miles up already, it was making my heart pound

These people are totally connected and have figured it out.

It was was a beautiful day and soon I was sweating and wishing the wind was blowing to cool me down.  I finally made it to the top.  And it was only 3.00 miles from my house.

The arrows show Dun Runnin and our place, DD Ranch.  Not much out here

Behind me is the peak of Mt. Baden Powell - 2nd largest peak in San Gabriels

And then I started running across the ridge when I found these..

Bear?  Doesn't look like a cat (Mountain lion or bobcat) or Big dog??

And they were everywhere.  Pat says it had to be heavy to make those prints

I was completely amazed and excited to find these tracks.  I kept running and felt strong.  It was great now that the climb was over.  I ran across the ridge, went down, back up another ridge and was happy I came out to experience our great playground.  No more prints found but it certainly has interested me into researching or taking up a class regarding animal/tracking footprints.  It would be nice to know if or what could be around me, especially since I train 90% by myself.

No, I don't carry a gun.  I have tried in the past but when it falls off my running belt, it just scares me.  I mean it is a revolver so not like it will go off but still. So I always carry my phone, my mace and now my 5 star response.  Just in case!!

So, my run wasn't as fast as I wanted but I did my 7.4 miles in 1:51 with a total of 780 feet of climbing.   I loved every minute of it.  And with the rain a couple of weeks ago, the DESERT is alive with color.   We don't see that often.

I can't express how much I enjoy being outside either riding or running and even swimming.  I love exploring and the adventure that it brings every time I step outside.  I love being a human BEING... Being in every moment!

And back where I started.  I climbed up the first ridge.

Until the next adventure....

Another Mentally Tough Workout.... But It WILL Pay off

 A Mental Workout is the Best Workout!

Today was my long workout.  I will be gone this weekend so had to move it to Wednesday.   I knew it was going to be hard so I posted it on Facebook hoping someone would want to join me.  Well, that didn't happen.  

This morning I woke up and had already decided to postpone my start time by 30 minutes.  Then my hubby asked if I would wait another hour so he could make a call while I answered the company phone.  I said yes right away.  That wasn't hard at all.    I mean it was a bit chilly, the wind was blowing and I had to climb 3900 ft or so in the first 13 miles of my ride.  I haven't done this particular ride in two years.

Well by 9 a.m. it was time.  Time for me to get on that bike and ride.  Mentally I didn't want to do it.  Physically, I knew I could do it and there was nothing (pains, aches, etc) stopping me.  So, off I went.

Me, myself and I.  My trusted shadow is always there

It was me, myself and I.  We ride together all the time.  I don't use an ipod or any type of music.  Why you may be asking?  Well, they are not allowed in an Ironman event so why train with one?  I need to train my mind to keep going for 140.6 miles and although there will be others around, I will be solo.   So, this is how I train. I really don't mind training alone except on long hard workouts.

2 miles into the ride hoping it would start warming up.

The long 7 mile climb that would lead to another long 6 mile climb

 
Boy it was windy and chilly.  I had 3 layers on but I didn't wear any warmers on my shoes for my toes.  I should have brought another vest, another set of gloves, another set of ear warmers, a cup of hot tea, well you get the idea.  Who would have thought that climbing from 3563 ft to almost 7,000 ft it would be cold.  Come on, the high today is 65???  And I AM climbing!  That should warm the body up.  I knew if I was cold climbing I was going to FREEZE going down.

This is at Mile High where I usually turn right.  Today it was left.  This climb is almost 7 miles with a 1683 ft elevation gain with the last 1/2 mile a gain of 466 ft.

I kept playing it out in my head.  I will get to Jackson Lake and turn around and finish on my trainer.  Once at Jackson Lake I said, "you are only 3 miles from Mountain High, just go!"

6,872 ft .. It was all downhill from here (or flat)

The good news was I made the climb 3563 ft to 6872 ft (13 miles) in 2 1/2 hours.  One half hour less than my project time of 3 hours.  Bad news was I was a popsicle.  I had no choice, either way I went to get home (back or forward) I was going to get colder.  It made more sense to go through Wrightwood.  At least there were businesses I could stop in to thaw out.  So I said, "just get to the Grizzly Cafe and get some tea and soup."   But, once I went by, I made another goal to Mountain Top Cafe, then another goal to Rick's Cafe.  I kept thinking that once I hit the desert and dropped past 4,000 ft it would get warmer.   Well it did but not much.  It wasn't until I arrived at the aqueduct for the last 7 miles that it warmed up.  Nice and flat with the wind at my back.  I flew home.

I got to my car at 3:30.  My plan called for 3:45.  So, I went up my road again for 15 minutes which added 2 1/2 more miles and brought me to 39 miles instead of 36.30 miles. 

Coming down for the last mile! 

A pretty view of the desert after being in the Forest and Mountains

I felt great and was able to do my quick transition into a slow 15 minute walk/run.

There is my best training buddy again. Thumbs up, we did it!

 So, today was a Mentally challenging training day.  I had to remind myself I have no control of race day weather.  I reminded myself of how cold it was in Boise Half Ironman where people where getting hypothermia before the race even started, and people kept their wetsuits on for the bike ride to stay warm.  I thought of all the Ironmans who raced in Tahoe in frigid cold temps and winds.  I prayed a lot, mediated with my pedal strokes and thank God I was able to do this! 

I will be an Ironman!!!!  I can do this!!

A Strong Finish ... The Bionic Hip is Working.. Shhhh don't tell the doctor!!

Desert Tri Sprint Distance

A Strong Finish! Bionic Hip is Working

Yes, another race this weekend.  After I finally recovered from last weekend, I jumped in again.  Of course, it never rains in California but for some reason God thought this weekend would be a good time to send rain and wind (in an abundance) to California.

We left Friday afternoon so we can get our camping spot, I could pick up my race packet and we could relax for Saturday's event.  After checking in, Pat dropped me off before finding our camping spot. It was a bit windy and deep down I was a tad nervous about racing in wind (not so much rain) the next day.  I got my packet and started walking to the campground area.   I was trying to condense my packages when a gust of wind came upon me and took my race packet with chip, numbers, etc.   I had missed the practice swim but because my packet was now floating in the lake, I was able to get a good feel of the water temperature.   No, I didn't dive in and swim but I ran in up to my knees and was able to recover all my numbers and chip.  Relieved but I wasn't thrilled how this was starting.

A nice pic of the dust whipping through the air down by the race area.  I was by the campground soaked.

I got to the RV and prepared dinner, we walked Booger and then put in Ghost (the movie) to watch.  I totally forgot how much I loved that movie but back to task at hand.   My transition bag was packed, my breakfast was laid out, I was going to decide what bike to ride in the morning so all was left was sleep.  Boy, I have never slept so good before a race. I think the reason why I slept so good because I mentally prepared myself for this race.  It was my first triathlon since blah, blah, blah.  I was going into this with an attitude of fun!  There was no pressure. I have done these distances a million times. There were no worries about hydration or fuel since it was a sprint, so slept like a baby!  

I woke up this morning to peacefulness.  No wind! No rain!  That meant the Pink Lotus was the Chosen one.  I had my Ryno Power Motivation, Energy Bits, Oatmeal to Go bar, water and off I went.   

Once I got to the transition area, I began my mental checklist one more time as I set up.  It was so easy I really thought I was forgetting something.   I turned around and I was so happy to see a member of Team Touch Chik!  (It's an awesome group of women and I am very proud to be part of it).  I knew she was coming but sometimes it is hard to find people at these races.

Swim check, Bike Check, Run Check! 

Team Tough Chik Representing at Desert Tri

 

 

Of course, Sinta was there and as always, checking on me and making sure I was okay.  I really am blessed to be a part of the Triathlon Connection Club as well.  I have met life long friends who are always so supportive, loving, mentoring and inspiring.

Sinta and I at body marking.

I was marked, had gone potty and now was waiting for the Hubby to come so I could give him my phone and wedding rings that I forgot to remove.  He was also my wetsuit zipper.    So as I waited for him, I got to take a few pictures of the venue.  This venue is so pretty and my fourth year of doing this race, although first time for the sprint distance.

A view of the lake before the races starts.

Hubby came, zipped me up and we walked to the lake.  Not going to lie, I was a bit nervous as well.  I haven't been in open water since last year.  I had overcome that fear but now it was in the back of my head.  As soon as I put my face in the water, I freaked out but as I started talking to myself, using my Zen meditation and counting my strokes, my breathing slowed and I was okay.

Before the FREAK OUT!

Now since I'm not a strong swimmer, I always position myself in the back, right hand side.  I'm perfectly okay walking into the water and acclimating myself.   I usually end up passing a few people anyway.  Plus Coach Tony has always said, "You never win a race with a fast swim."  Not that I planned on winning but I remember that with every swim.  Our division was the last to start.  (Athena and 50+ women - I use my curves to my advantage whenever I can).  I had a great swim, nice calm even strokes, past some people and finished in 12:45.  Perfect for 500 yards.

And we are off...

Yes, made it to the finish!

Now I must run to transition to get bike!

I was a bit shaky but good over all in T1.  I was ready in 3:18 and on my bike.  I knew there was a problem at the first climb.  I really am going to get my back tire/brake fixed this week.  My brake rubbed the entire 14 miles.  However, I past many on their bikes and made sure I cheered each and everyone on.  It was a good ride!  Harder than necessary but a good ride.  My time was 50:53.  Then I dismounted and switched into my running shoes. 

Yes, I always smile for the camera and sometimes I even wave!

The run is so NOT my favorite.  It might be more mental because I know every step I'm taking is adding extra pressure on all my joints. Having osteoarthritis in both hips, both knees and both shoulders makes me think of the future.  I think about it even though I still run.  (I swear after IMCDA, the running shoes will retire - or so I say now).

I felt GREAT on the run.  I looked down and was doing around 11 min/mile.  I slowed my pace then picked it up.  Again, I met some new friends on the course.  I love sharing my story and motivating/inspiring others.  I ran with a 33 year old mom and after I told her my story (a brief summary) she said I inspired her and apparently gave her a push because she left me in the dust. 

Finally, I saw the finish.  I thought of my hip surgeon telling me I better not see you ever running unless you are being chased.  Well technically I was being chased by all the others behind me.  I crossed the finish line, running my 5K in 32:43.   That was 9 minutes faster than last week (but then last week had hills).

My total time was 1:42:09.  I came in 4th place in the Athena Division.  The 3rd place girl was 6 minutes ahead of me.  Was it the bike?  Maybe. Am I going to beat myself up about not fixing the bike? Heck no.  I had a blast, meet some amazing people, feel great and can't wait until next month's Grape Stomp Reverse Sprint Triathlon.   I can't wait to continue training and improving.   I think I am truly LIVING THE DREAM!!

My baby boy was very tired cheering for me

Tough Chiks Finish

Still had energy!  Love the Pink Lotus

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