Well, this certainly isn't how I planned it out in my head, but it's happening nonetheless. I'm not quite sure I've come to terms with my decision just yet, but on October 30, 2011, I will attempt to complete my first 70.3 (also known as a half-ironman) in Miami,FL.
I have been training hard over the last several months, with the Miami Man (November 13, 2011) Olympic Distance race marked firmly on my calendar. Unfortunately (although maybe it happened for a reason unbeknownst to me), today I encountered a scheduling conflict that will keep me from participating in that race.
All trained up with nowhere to swim, bike, or run, I quickly checked my local race options. Aside from the Miami 70.3, which many of my fellow Tri Locos were preparing for, I only found a nearby sprint race. Having completed several sprints already, I've had my heart set on something bigger to finish out the season. But could I really take on the 70.3? After quick consults with my coach/training buddy and another Loco, I was pushed over the fence I was sitting on, and have chosen to give my body and spirit its toughest test yet. Maybe it will actually be better that I haven't had weeks or even months to think/stress about this day.
The training program that Coach Tim has organized for me over the last several months has been the same plan the other Locos have been using in preparation for the Miami 70.3. I have been completing almost all the workouts as crafted (and feeling strong), with the exception of some of the swim sessions which I have cut short; this seemed alright as I was preparing for a .5 mile swim, not the 1.2 they were all working towards.
The swim is my weakest link and while this has me mildly concerned for next weekend's challenge, I am willing myself to believe that things will go smoothly. If I can just calmly guide myself through the swim leg, I feel confident that I can bike and run my way across the finish line. I've been assured that few triathletes are strong in all three disciplines; hopefully my decent foundation in two will carry me home.
Failure is not an option.
As I filled out my registration form earlier this afternoon, and readied to make the final click that would cement my decision, I established one goal for myself: JUST FINISH. I don't care how long it takes, or how many people finish before me, I am only out to cross the finish line and show myself that I can accomplish something which I never thought possible. Just seven months ago I couldn't swim a pool length, now I'm planning to swim 1.2 miles, only to be rewarded by being allowed to ride more than half a century and run a half-marathon directly afterwards.
More to come on my adventure, but in the meantime, if you could give one tip or piece of advice to a 70.3 Newbie, what would it be?
Wow, I didn't know you were doing a half-ironman! Wow, good luck. I like your blog. It looks (and sounds) great. And happy belated birthday, btw!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Lauren. Can't wait till we can all rendezvous for a marathon some day (post baby, of course!)
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