A Beautiful Venue, Hit in the Swim, Drop Chain on the Bike, Hiked a mountain and Still got 3rd!!

 

SOMETIMES YOU HAVE TO FIGHT THROUGH IT 
and IT PAYS OFF!

I left with my transition bag packed and rode my bike 1/2 mile to transition about 1 1/2 hours before the race.  I was excited and wanted to get down to the lake and absorb the energy of prestart.  So far so good, until an Ironman veteran decided to rack right next to my bike.  Hundreds of spots open, yet he had to pick right by me. He TOLD me I needed to share the space.   I moved a half inch and told him anymore I would be on the other side of transition.  Even though he rubbed me the wrong way, I shrugged it off.  Of course, he has done many Ironmans, qualified for Kona more than once, didn't start racing until he was 46 and was I listening and telling him how inspiring he was. Now it was my turn.  I decided to share my journey so far.  As soon as I told him I had lost 75 lbs by racing, he gave me a looked, sized me up and told me I needed to lose at least 30 more.  WHAT?!?&^%$$  The winds have left my sail and I wanted to cry.  What is WRONG with people?  I called my Knight to check where he was because he (Pat) would know what to say to me.  Thank goodness, I saw him and Booger crossing over the beach.  I left that OLD man and really wanted to tell him off.   I never saw him again and I was ready to share my mind.  (P.S.  IF SOMEONE EVER TELLS YOU THEY HAVE LOST 1 LB OR 100 LBS, ALWAYS! ALWAYS ENCOURAGE!! )

Transition Ready before I was told to share

Before the madness

Swim start!!!  I got in the water and could not believe how perfect it was.  The lake was like glass, clear, 65 degrees without boats.  I talked to some women around me and was "coaching" a first timer.  It's so fun to give "words of wisdom" and see them pull trough.   I've been where they are.  The swim was great except for the part where a swimmer didn't know how to site to well and zig zagged across me a few times. The last time, I got a nice hit in the left eye.  I stopped and let her move forward.  I tend to swim with a even, smooth stroke not too fast, not too slow, and enjoy it.  I do get a bit disturbed with the ones who panic, go fast, go slow, zig zag, flip, etc. I always stay in the far back right/left side. So, if you are not a strong swimmer or nervous, just be respectful and position yourself accordingly.     I stood up and saw 37 minutes on my watch.  Of course, I had to stop for a few pictures, wave at Pat, congrats the girl who finished her first open water swim, run up a small hill through sand, dunk my feet in the water bucket and run to my bike.  First part done! (Official Time was 38:54 for a .9 mile swim with a transition of 3:04)

I was talking to the young first timer.

Love swimming

The Bike is my favorite and I didn't have any worries at all.  I test rode the Pink Lotus the day before. I knew we were ready.  I left transition feeling good.  The second climb came (same one I did the day before) and there went my chain.  I'm not sure what is going on.. is it me and shifting or the bike?  I have had this bike since January and have rode all over. However, these last two races, not so good.  There went the wind from my sails again.   A sweet couple stopped and the guy helped me get it back on.  I was 40 minutes into my race when this happen (according to my garmin).  By the time I decided I had no choice but to ride in one gear, it was 59 minutes.  I walked my bike up the hill. I could hear the crunching of my chain.  I wasn't going to DNF no matter what.  I made the turn right and downhill I went.  Of course, I had to TEST the bike and change gears to make sure and there went the chain again while I was going down hill.  I stopped again, put the chain on and decided Yes.. ONE GEAR ONLY!

Heading out for the 25 mile bike

Leaving the park

Heading in to prepare for the run

I was cruising through town, smelling the fresh air and went to move my helmet and there went my face shield.  What the Heck??  Really, is this happening?  I turned around, found it laying on the road waiting for me.  I put it on and realized it wasn't right.  Well, I was missing a magnet so only had two magnets to keep it in place.  I said a prayer and hoped it wouldn't fall off again.  Off I rode... into a beautiful downhill, along bubbling creeks, pass waterfalls, lakes, trees and more.  It was so beautiful and I knew I had plenty of time.   I was back at transition... A beautiful 1:46:54  ride with a few hills in one gear and I felt great! (Transition time 2:15) (And literally take off at least 15 minutes for the chain and face shield issues my ride would have been 1 1/2 hours)

Off on the run.  Oh boy running on sand is so much fun, then it turned to a nice .25 mile climb up a dirt trail. Once I got to the top, I got in my grove (5 minute run/1 minute walk).  I thought, " I could do this" and then I saw the volunteer pointing towards another dirt trail that had no ending in sight.  I didn't see ONE person run up that hill.  According to Strava, there was at one point 21% incline.  I climbed for 2.5 miles.  Once on the top, I stopped to catch my breath (being up at 8400' and feeling dizzy wasn't good). I lost my breath again as I gazed out at a huge beautiful meadow!  I could see where there had been least 2 lakes before this horrible drought).   At mile 4 (and I was still on top of that mountain thinking of Julie Andrews.. "I run through the hills, to the sound of music...ahhahahaha..")  there was an aid station. I asked if they were a mirage.   They told me just 1 mile straight down then you are home free.  First, I had to make a pit stop behind a BIG SEQUOIA.  I let A LOT of runners past me going down.  There was no way I was going to fall down that mountain.  I made it to the bottom and was home free.  Just about 1 1/2 miles from the finish.  However, I stopped to talk to this volunteer about the PCT as he poured water over my head.  (I have to remember sometimes I'm racing not there to socialize.. but then it wouldn't be fun).    I got down the last hill pretty fast and heard my Knight, Pat, calling my name.  I saw the finish and new I made it.  Another successful race after a few bumps! (Run/Hike/Walk 2:00:27)

See you in a little bit..

FINISHED

Got my Finishers Medal to prove it

The event had the food catered for the athletes.  YUMMY!  Grilled chicken breast, lentil salad, quinoa with snow peas, lots of fruit and an entire table of desserts.  Thankfully, I wasn't that hungry and stayed with the food that was going to refresh my muscles.   After I ate, Pat, Boogs and I went to transition to start packing up.   That is when Pat heard my name and I heard Phelan, CA.  There I was again, running down to the beach to get my 3rd place plaque.  My day was amazing.

We packed up, went down to the beach.  Booger and I chilled in the water (like a cool bath) while Pat loaded up the buggy.  We then went back to the campsite, changed, went to dinner to celebrate and had a perfect ending to the perfect day.

I'm so happy I'm picking these more challenging races.  It sure seems to be helping me get to the podium.  I didn't even race in Athena this time.  I am 10 lbs lighter than my last race, a lot more confident and on my way to becoming an Ironman.  

Thanks Coach Kandi @ Train-n-Tri for coaching me to another podium finish and letting me proudly wear your new Tri Kit.  It's working!! All of it!!

 

Special thanks to Energy Bits #PoweredbyBits, #RynoPower Motivation and Endurance, #doTerra Oils (I make my own Energy blend & vitamins) and #DingBat Bars... This is my daily regimen for long workouts and races.  I haven't felt tired and always have more to give.

Santa Barbara I'm coming for you in August! 

Sometimes it is bound to happen.. My First DNF

My First DNF but due to mechanical issues not the Athlete!!

I was really looking forward to racing in the Big Bear Triathlon for many reasons:

1.  It had been on my radar but since I'm only allowed one a month, it was taken off.

2.  It was FREE.  My coach transferred her husband's entry to me 

3.  First time someone gave me a race FREE

4.  First time I and my coach knew I was in good physical shape to compete in it without training

5. A great prelude to June Lake

6.  Third time in Big Bear and I want to spend more time there.

So with all that said, I was excited when we left early Friday and started our journey up the mountain.  Both my husband and I forgot how ruthless drivers are on the 330 and we were flipped off, honked at, etc.. heading up.  It didn't make for a good peaceful drive.

Once there, we checked into our hotel and walked over to packet pick up.  I got to meet Laurin and Jody from Team Tough Chik there.  It is always great meeting new amazing Athletes.  Afterwards, we found a restaurant that would allow Boogs to eat with us on the patio.   Then it was back to the hotel for a good nights rest.

I KNOW it isn't only me but every runner, triathlete, cyclist, etc... we all want a good emptying out in the morning before our race.  I usually say a little prayer and ask for one.  This morning it just wouldn't stop.  So, right off the bat, I was worried about my race.  My stomach was upset and I forgot my ginger.  Not stressing too much, I popped by bits, drank my juice, ate 1/2 a Ding Bat bar and popped my Ryon Power Motivation and Endurance and electrolytes.  I was ready and headed down to the venue.

It was so awesome to see so many friendly faces from Team Tough Chic and Triathlon Connection friends from the Past.  Of course my Coach was there.  And there was Marc, Orietta, Chad, Alan, Liz, Laurin, Jody and Susan.  Even Pat ran into someone he knew from when he did car shows.  

It was nice to have Kandi with me.  Although I do many races alone, it is always awesome to have friendly helpful faces with you.   It was time for my wave to start.  I was a bit nervous about the swim because it was a pier start, I wasn't sure how the water would be (although I was told nice) and I wasn't sure how my shoulder would like the swim (which I never know until I am on the bike).   I jumped into the water with the other 23 OLY women athletes.  I didn't like the fact I couldn't stand up to let the water run through my wetsuit and adjust but besides that the water was nice.  Our wave was off and swimming.  We had to swim around the Miss Liberty which was a bit smelly of gas.  It was much easier swimming towards the pier than swimming out due to wind and current.  The second loop was a bit more choppy now that all the athletes were in.  I managed getting out of the water and into transition in 36:42.  My T1 time was 2:10. 

 I was off on the bike.  Not really knowing the course, I just followed others and the little arrows taped to the street.  I knew there would be some climbing and that the road would not be closed.  I was a bit nervous at times but all in all was having a good ride.  I popped some energy bits when I hit the turn around mark at Snow Valley and before that hard climb back.   I also had a half of a Ding Bat Bar.  Once I got to the dam and was ready to loop around the lake, I knew I would have plenty of time.  I was in aero and cruising.   I was making my way through Fawnskin, when a small climb started.  I went to switch my gears and they were getting stuck.  I started freaking because I was climbing but wasn't moving and clipped in.  There were cars right behind me and all I could think of was falling and getting hit.  Fortunately, I was able to unclip before I fell.  I moved to the side to try to put my chain on and knew something was wrong.  It wasn't going on.  I walked my bike down to a turn off road, turned it over and started messing with the chain.  An athlete came by and asked if I was okay.  I told her my chain was broken and to get help.   About one minute later an older man with a trailer told me to move because he had to turn down that road.  REALLY BUDDY??  At that point what I wanted to do was hurl my bike at his truck.  Of course he didn't stop to help as none as the other 50 cars that blew by.   I had made it 2 hours and 10 minutes, approximately 25.6 miles into the race when this happen.  I was 6-7 miles from transition.

At this point, I knew I had no other choice than to start walking.  My phone was broke so I was phoneless and had no way to call for help.  No, not one of the 100 cars (by now) asked if I needed help.  HINT:  IF A CYCLIST IS WEARING A NUMBER, HAS A HELMET ON, WALKING IN CYCLING SHOES PUSHING THEIR BIKE, THEY NEED HELP!!!  Boy, I was on fire.  Trying really hard not to cry out of anger.  Seriously, is there anymore Humanity, Compassionate, Nice, Helpful people left out there.  (Another HINT:  IF A CYCLIST IS ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD SICK AND IT'S HOT OUT, THEY NEED HELP.  But that is another blog, another time).     I really enjoyed the car of young men driving by as fast as they could yelling for me to get out of the way.  

Finally, David from the event came by in his truck and picked me up.  I had walked about 1 1/2 miles.  My watch read 2 hours and 38 minutes.  He tried to fix the chain.  His exact words were, "In all my years of cycling, I have never seen that happen to a chain.   Your chain has gone South.  I'll take you back."    I still could have made the run but on our trip back to Transition, there was another cyclist down.  We stopped to help him change his flat.  Four tubes and 20 minutes later, Kevin was up and cycling.   Then David was asked to do a sweep of the course to make sure all the cyclist were heading in.  

I have to admit, it was kind of fun playing search and rescue after I was rescued.

Once I got back to transition, I started walking my bike towards transition.  Coach Kandi and hubby came running to me to make sure I was okay.  I was wearing all the tubes Kevin went through so everyone thought it was my issue.  If only it was the tubes.  Coach Kandi turned to me and said run, you can still do the run.  I just looked at her and said, "No  I'll take the DNF."  My wind was gone from my sails.   

There are times when things happen.  I didn't let it effect me.  I really wasn't looking forward to that run because of my stomach.  Although I felt okay, I didn't feel 100%.  I was dreading that run with the heat and believe that maybe God knew I would get worse if I ran.  So, I packed up my stuff, Pat checked us out of the hotel, and we went to lunch with the DeCarlos and Orietta.  Just what the doctor ordered, Sprite, good food with good people celebrating our fitness, birthday, anniversary and telling funny stories of the past.  I really couldn't ask for a better day.

When I got home, I jumped in my pool and read.   Next race is July 12 at June Lake.   I can't wait!  

Keep Living, Loving, Laughing and TRI - ing! And don't sweat the small stuff. Try to enjoy every moment of every day!

Orietta, Kandi and I - Peek-a-boo

Susan from Team Tough Chik, me and Coach Kandi

The swim around Miss Liberty

Coack Kandi getting her finishers medal - She competed in the Sprint

Good Ole Chad.. Always smiling, hugging and volunteering

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....