tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78606349584485313282024-02-18T22:14:42.264-05:00Team Continuum and IMNY PreparationDocumenting training, races, and the general life and times of my journey to raise money for Team Continuum and finish my first Ironman in 2012EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-47834173430555206992012-02-14T21:58:00.001-05:002012-02-14T21:58:58.375-05:00February Update and Team Continuum Video<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As I enjoy a recovery week I look back on my last couple of months of training. Right now I am in my half marathon focus getting ready for the Famously Hot Columbia Half Marathon on March 10th. John Hirsch has got me in the pool a lot with a swim focus as well and I had consecutive 10,000 yard weeks in the pool. I hit a milestone last Sunday as I endured 3:40 minutes on my trainer in 23 degree weather in my garage. Insanity? Dedication? Or as coach likes to say "Eye on the prize!"<br />
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I have a charity event coming up in about a month at Village Idiot Pizza in five points and I want to thank the folks that have helped out with raffle prizes. I am still looking for a band and working with WXRYUnsigned to possibly get someone to play an acoustic set that evening. It will be shared with friends and will also be trivia night so come on out and learn about Team Continuum.<br />
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I hope you enjoy the video I produced about my journey. Until next time, Push On!EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-14342433577861633742012-01-02T19:57:00.002-05:002012-01-02T20:50:03.180-05:00Happy 2012!<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/l7qAdAtpHdE" width="420"></iframe><br />
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As I think about this last race of 2011 it really marks a beginning. The first of several small goals that I will have leading up to Ironman New York in August. This 5K was really a goal I set for myself to get me back into training. To make it interesting I made it something that was pretty far out of my reach. The result was an incredible PR on a moderate course.<br />
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From the beginning, goals have been the reason I have been so successful. Understanding the importance in making goals, and not being satisfied with mediocre results in attaining them. It is also important I have found is having milestone goals along the way to the overall goal that you set. This has been evident with my coach, John Hirsch's approach as well. The first conversation we had talked about breaking up the training into segments that were bench marked with different types of races leading up to the Ironman.<br />
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I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has contributed to Team Continuum on my behalf so far. I am honored to have the support that has been given to this important charity that will help so many people. During my big races I always put notes to myself on my forearms to remind me to keep going and remember why I am doing what I am doing. For this race, I will be making temporary tattoo's to put on my arms so I can see each individual that contributed and made this a reality.<br />
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Looking forward to 2012 I wish you the best in all your ventures, and I look forward to training, racing, and giving back in a way that makes a difference. Push On!EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-73294828307512218162011-12-18T21:54:00.000-05:002011-12-18T22:11:49.394-05:00A focus on nutrition two weeks in!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtK2mtcUfCldJfKCYYRA4kyVMKfYqxwTEgyQ5Gi-_C7OuTp8wCP01r_3vIrIOgWyR6CQuJ3kpKQmx8kk7HEuzhyjLKNnEdcL7ev-BEwYOmooGxw3T9ZWx-g1USoS0WWW8nBjD4TjYgoX0/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtK2mtcUfCldJfKCYYRA4kyVMKfYqxwTEgyQ5Gi-_C7OuTp8wCP01r_3vIrIOgWyR6CQuJ3kpKQmx8kk7HEuzhyjLKNnEdcL7ev-BEwYOmooGxw3T9ZWx-g1USoS0WWW8nBjD4TjYgoX0/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This is what was waiting for me at the co-op pick up point this afternoon. A large box of fresh organic greens, fruits, and vegetables. I made some pasta tonight with marinara and veggies that was incredible. I could get used to this. I have been starting to focus on my nutrition along with the the training I have been doing for Ironman NY. I can't wait to mix up a green smoothie with some of these ingredients. I would like to lose some weight especially over the holidays since right now it is easy to gain if you aren't careful.<br />
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I have an 1800 yard swim I am looking forward to in the morning and then a run during lunch. I don't plan on eating before the swim but will probably make that smoothie to take to work and sip before the run. In 2010 I did really well knowing what I ate and how it made me feel. I felt great that year and had a real strong season. Training for an Ironman I am taking that same approach and I look forward to testing the waters and giving my body what it needs to succeed.<br />
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This week's training has gone well and I was able to complete all of my workouts. I also started the 100 runs in 100 days on slowtwitch.com.
This seemed to help me out a lot last year in my running so I thought I
would do it again. I asked my coach John Hirsch if it would be OK to
add a 30 minute run the days I didn't have a run scheduled and he said
it would be great but not to over do and keep it in zone 2. I agreed
and think that it won't be a problem to get these runs in.<br />
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I think I did a good job juggling the family and training this week and I am looking forward to time off work starting this Friday coming up and enjoying the holidays with everyone. Push On!<br />
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<br />EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-85133225060091720372011-12-10T18:45:00.001-05:002011-12-10T19:23:07.642-05:00Putting It Into Perspective<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-TCzMIsTb9YLg0VhVDkX37iewcAn7ApTADnqZLI-IM07oh3xugfq5zR6Xg_aAWNnn6sKdFnvDGRtpfnND87cWoYT7WwPO_nnTYg5pFjgiSHbkFDW_5aT5U6jl7XqFPFGUO-Z0k60-f7M/s1600/Picture+112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-TCzMIsTb9YLg0VhVDkX37iewcAn7ApTADnqZLI-IM07oh3xugfq5zR6Xg_aAWNnn6sKdFnvDGRtpfnND87cWoYT7WwPO_nnTYg5pFjgiSHbkFDW_5aT5U6jl7XqFPFGUO-Z0k60-f7M/s320/Picture+112.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I ran across this picture while contemplating what to write about tonight. About a week into my preparation for Ironman NY with Team Continuum in August this really made me think about what I am preparing for. This picture was taken almost 2 years ago after my first and only marathon down in Kiawah Island, South Carolina. This was the bookend to my first triathlon season that I had started only in June of that same year and my first 5K was only 9 months before that. I remember saying not too long ago that if I ever did another marathon it would be at the end of an Ironman. Well, guess what?<br />
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I have to say that this whole experience even though it is in it's infancy, is very exciting and almost surreal. As I prepare for this event, in the backdrop stands something bigger than myself that I will make a difference in. Cancer patients who are enduring their disease will have resources to help them fight. I cannot describe how this feeds my discipline, determination, and desire to succeed first for them, and then for myself.<br />
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Having a coach for the first time was a bit of a challenge for me. When I first started I would find a plan stick to it exactly without much change. After my interview with the coach and my plan was ready I questioned him about the run portion. I learned quickly to let go of what I was doing at that point and trust that he would get me where I need to be. This is new territory and like most things I take on this way I know I will be successful.<br />
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I included a link below to a little video I took this morning at the gym. Excuse the lack of enthusiasm as I was getting some strange looks as I talked to myself on the treadmill.
I look forward to updating everyone on my progress and until I run into you again. Push On!<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phBL1-EjvbI&list=LLNg529Ji_73kknUxKmaZUXw&index=1&feature=plpp_video">Video Update #1 Team Continuum Ironman NY</a>EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-64800192904192074742011-12-03T22:03:00.001-05:002011-12-03T22:34:03.844-05:00Training with purpose for an outstanding goal!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeNV2OZHhgbzRVTXwJW7Vt2JJaViRpRxMCKzDuMXAJX3H_sdYkKAjpSFysFbn40ZyUFNsUhnnhSnybIySB09S57IJNru6T5_rc3826snN2mIzJOJt7D8VDgkpzPvuzKRUJLwHaliYkmyc/s1600/New+York+City.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeNV2OZHhgbzRVTXwJW7Vt2JJaViRpRxMCKzDuMXAJX3H_sdYkKAjpSFysFbn40ZyUFNsUhnnhSnybIySB09S57IJNru6T5_rc3826snN2mIzJOJt7D8VDgkpzPvuzKRUJLwHaliYkmyc/s320/New+York+City.JPG" /></a></div>
As I endured the long line to the top of Rockefeller Center the day after Thanksgiving with my wife and three small boys, I didn't really know how much it would affect me. I had finished my first Half Irondistance race less than a month ago and every since then I had a taste for an Ironman. I thought about Cozumel then found out Arizona would be opening up soon and I had already started trying to talk my wife and family into the idea when something hit me.
Since my start in fitness and triathlon I have believed in giving back and the importance of this journey being something above just myself. I had been following some folks on Twitter that have really guided me through my journey and found out about Team Continuum about a year ago. Something led me to their site and I realized that their cause was something I believed in. To top it off they were offering entry to Ironman New York for a commitment to raise money for their important charity. This was it, I thought, this was something that meant more than just a goal for myself.
Thanksgiving day I had the privelege to get my father in-law out of the house for a simple trip to the Seven Eleven to get the paper with the Black Friday ads for my wife. You see, over a year ago he was diagnosed with cancer and it touched myself and family greatly. I talked to him about what I was thinking about doing and he thought it was commendable. He also mentioned to me how when he was in the hospital there wasn't a lot of communication and consultation about the disease for him and his family. He was really amazed how little of this support was available. I think during that conversation I made up my mind.
Back at the top of Rockefeller Center where I started this blog and the view you see in the picture something changed in me and I committed to this great cause and epic event that will help those battling cancer with the non medical needs that are present as they endure their disease.
I will be updating this blog as I complete my journey and I appreciate your consideration to helping me with this cause. Click the Team Continuum Athlete Page link in the top right hand corner of the page to read more.EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-45773504271102277662011-08-13T20:40:00.002-04:002011-08-13T21:06:18.313-04:00Where have you been?It's been about 4 months since my last post. Here I am in the back of the car on my iPad2 coming back from a very relaxing day trip to Charleston, SC reflecting on my triathlon season (or lack there of). I started out the year with an understanding with myself that I wouldn't be doing much in the way of triathlon this year since my wife and I had our third son in December. Of course, now that I have signed up for the Beach 2 Battleship Half Ironman I am kinda wishing I would have listened to myself. I really wanted to complete a Half this year.
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<br />So, last Sunday, after my 5 mile run, after my 43 mile bike I wasn't feeling so good. I finally went to the doctor Monday evening and could not believe the diagnosis. Pneumonia, yep thats right, pneumonia! So I was out last week and will take it easy next week. I hope to ease back into training and be fit enough to finish the race, all things considered. It has been road block after road block but I am keeping my spirits up. I have found that some of the best motivation has been all of my podcasts, race reports, and blogs from last year.
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<br />I need to focus on eating right, training when I can and pulling my weight with the family. I also need to focus on staying healthy. I think I might have a piriformis issue in my left side. I know I will persevere, it is in my nature. Push on!EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-73789705632732396392011-04-17T22:29:00.003-04:002011-04-17T22:58:48.739-04:00Tour de Lake MurrayI had a great ride today. It is a catch 22 as usual. I finally get time to get out for a long ride but it is because my family is away for the week. I miss them.I have wanted to ride around Lake Murray for a long time. It was a little over 66 miles and this was my longest ride so far. I really enjoyed it. <br /><br />I concentrated on keeping my cadence around 90 to 100 and my heart rate between 140 and 150 bpm. This earned me 19.2 mph average which I was happy with. I added my Garmin connect file and a video. I apologize for the format of the video. I am not sure why the first two are not the correct orientation. It is good to be blogging again. Enjoy and Push on!<br /><br /><iframe width='465' height='548' frameborder='0' src='http://connect.garmin.com:80/activity/embed/79850359'></iframe><br /><br /><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/cz7sttAFZHw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-61840119893638338052011-02-27T21:13:00.002-05:002011-02-27T21:15:38.285-05:00Lexington Race Against Hunger 2011First event of 2011 was a lot of fun. I ran this 10K race with my two oldest kids in the double stroller. A lot of hills and even had to stop and tie my shoe. A great time all things considered. I was just glad to get out for the cause. Push on!<br /><br /><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/p4aAX05kduA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-12543414923829205652011-01-18T19:55:00.002-05:002011-01-18T20:04:27.693-05:00Checking In<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRCjrjmJyXADysfC47OwAEfovxEO0m7pZcJKX_rcxcNETpsBoc1jWiiwKey5jGXg3YtXP2n-_np5-m4HXOjA2rS5Tq_r-Yjvt6V5zNlr4fUabK0y_QhvIa1g52SSp11_uUCj9HhyQqkVE/s1600/Riyler+Comes+Home.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRCjrjmJyXADysfC47OwAEfovxEO0m7pZcJKX_rcxcNETpsBoc1jWiiwKey5jGXg3YtXP2n-_np5-m4HXOjA2rS5Tq_r-Yjvt6V5zNlr4fUabK0y_QhvIa1g52SSp11_uUCj9HhyQqkVE/s320/Riyler+Comes+Home.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563696478992008322" /></a><br />Yes it's true, I am still around. I actually started my triathlon training yesterday. I am not real sure what I will be doing this year but I will probably only do a few races. I have my sights on Nationals again but the most important thing right now is the family, especially with the new baby. <br /><br />I have been focusing on the run so far this off season and I am currently participating in the 100/100 challenge on slowtwitch.com. I am finding it to be a great challenge to keep my volume up and I have been working in some speed and hills here and there. <br /><br />I went to the pool for the first time today since October if you can believe that. It was about like swimming in mud but I logged 750 meters and will be back at it tomorrow. I included a little podcast of when the baby came home. Our lives have really changed since then for the better. It is really great to have a new baby in the house and everyone is enjoying him very much. Push On!<br /><br /><div><br /><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,0,0" width="210" height="25" id="mp3playerdarksmallv3" align="middle"><br /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="sameDomain" /><br /><param name="movie" value="http://www.podbean.com/podcast-audio-video-blog-player/mp3playerdarksmallv3.swf?audioPath=http://enduracefanatic.podbean.com/mf/play/abixq7/NewBaby.mp3&autoStart=no" /><br /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><param name="wmode" value="transparent" /><br /><embed src="http://www.podbean.com/podcast-audio-video-blog-player/mp3playerdarksmallv3.swf?audioPath=http://enduracefanatic.podbean.com/mf/play/abixq7/NewBaby.mp3&autoStart=no" quality="high" width="210" height="25" name="mp3playerdarksmallv3" align="middle" allowScriptAccess="sameDomain" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" /></embed><br /></object><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: normal; padding-left: 41px; color: #2DA274; text-decoration: none; border-bottom: none;" href="http://www.podbean.com">Podcast Powered By Podbean</a><br /></div>EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-60182718345983127062010-12-17T12:45:00.000-05:002010-12-17T12:46:09.316-05:00Last Weeks Trainer RideA little update on the trainer I filmed last week. <br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/1NsAuw2qtKs?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/1NsAuw2qtKs?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-11496582403921496802010-12-11T10:14:00.002-05:002010-12-11T10:20:34.874-05:00Before and After RunJust a couple of clips I took before and after my run this morning. This training time is precious before the baby comes. Thanks a ton to Rebecca for the hour she gave me this morning.<br /><br /><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Cd4mC0UI2Jk?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Cd4mC0UI2Jk?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br /><br /><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Qb4xTOjWAlE?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Qb4xTOjWAlE?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object>EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-30324277697365713582010-12-08T20:44:00.004-05:002010-12-08T20:59:08.933-05:00More Podcast Shorts<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRKGcon4DqC7LrFahj4T0EmxnEVv7lGN4gCLS-YmjnRrY0ZMR3Pf45TdvFKnjSWXJm-UTF6Sm0Yosb2Q8KAnwrZZmiECkwF_PtdlOUfmi8Zvm648e67EwSiiR35oHblx3JViNTorl8MCA/s1600/Trainer.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRKGcon4DqC7LrFahj4T0EmxnEVv7lGN4gCLS-YmjnRrY0ZMR3Pf45TdvFKnjSWXJm-UTF6Sm0Yosb2Q8KAnwrZZmiECkwF_PtdlOUfmi8Zvm648e67EwSiiR35oHblx3JViNTorl8MCA/s320/Trainer.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548494963377221490" /></a><br /><br />Hello there! Just another quick blog to let everyone know that I am still "Tri-ing". I am still busy busy and keeping up with at least 30 minutes a day. My tricep is feeling better and I am anxious to get back in the water. The baby will be coming soon and so will come another chapter. I hope everyone is having a bountiful off season one way or another. Enjoy the podcast short below. Push On!<br /><br /> <div><br /> <object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,0,0" width="210" height="25" id="mp3playerdarksmallv3" align="middle"><br /> <param name="allowScriptAccess" value="sameDomain" /><br /> <param name="movie" value="http://www.podbean.com/podcast-audio-video-blog-player/mp3playerdarksmallv3.swf?audioPath=http://enduracefanatic.podbean.com/mf/play/rz4zxc/Dec820107_38_27AM.mp3&autoStart=no" /><br /> <param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><param name="wmode" value="transparent" /><br /> <embed src="http://www.podbean.com/podcast-audio-video-blog-player/mp3playerdarksmallv3.swf?audioPath=http://enduracefanatic.podbean.com/mf/play/rz4zxc/Dec820107_38_27AM.mp3&autoStart=no" quality="high" width="210" height="25" name="mp3playerdarksmallv3" align="middle" allowScriptAccess="sameDomain" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" /></embed><br /> </object><br /> <br /><a style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: normal; padding-left: 41px; color: #2DA274; text-decoration: none; border-bottom: none;" href="http://www.podbean.com">Powered by Podbean.com</a><br /> </div>EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-61207951910488229772010-12-01T22:55:00.003-05:002010-12-01T23:13:17.902-05:00Hangin on!Just a quick post to let everyone know I am still here. I have a lot going on right now that is makin training more of a challenge than usual. Our third child is due to join us in less than three weeks. I am training when I can and focusing on my running in the off season. I have also been on the trainer and on some rides. My tricep injury hasn't gone away and I am back on the Kinesio tape for two weeks and a prescription anti-inflammatory patch for a month. The doc says no swimming until I get the inflammation under control. I will be tweeting some videos and podcasts to mix things up a bit. I hope to make a decision before too long about my triathlon schedule. I think I am going to lean toasted three quality races and a possible half ironman. May you all keep up the best you can during the off season and I will be updating often. Push on!EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-39726901212131114252010-11-05T20:43:00.005-04:002010-11-05T20:55:35.160-04:00Reflecting and Next Steps<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEium-B-7J6Lt8gNXVuqXlsGWDMhHN2jXEMz66rtpFbVeFVe16j78UY_rzLPM-xqMS0ITlyWpW_VmEuNOd0YcNTDoZ3DVo5jP6Xr9CPZHIOu0Z8s3AoTc7lJdEgUOtD3Uvef1KdzjV4AUPE/s1600/HKPreKids.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEium-B-7J6Lt8gNXVuqXlsGWDMhHN2jXEMz66rtpFbVeFVe16j78UY_rzLPM-xqMS0ITlyWpW_VmEuNOd0YcNTDoZ3DVo5jP6Xr9CPZHIOu0Z8s3AoTc7lJdEgUOtD3Uvef1KdzjV4AUPE/s320/HKPreKids.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536232476450926450" /></a><br /><br />I just finished watching Star Wars episode IV for the second time with my five year old. Never a dull moment with that kid and his 21 month old brother is growing up fast in his footsteps. It has been a while since my last blog posting and I thought I would dust off the keyboard and reflect a bit.<br /><br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSZKS2UaEk5OYVdEAWtcHeG8eoWuQU-JVwcVSBtOPJ5kz708gT_PGuFW_JKGODAYyiR_zXvVdQAQYH0yi3NERSpvuhk2Gr8npmbs_x4V2PqdwpcCvcIU4vz-8wB_JFXPn0sfIbeU3wUs/s1600/NationalsBike.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSZKS2UaEk5OYVdEAWtcHeG8eoWuQU-JVwcVSBtOPJ5kz708gT_PGuFW_JKGODAYyiR_zXvVdQAQYH0yi3NERSpvuhk2Gr8npmbs_x4V2PqdwpcCvcIU4vz-8wB_JFXPn0sfIbeU3wUs/s320/NationalsBike.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536232743639965346" /></a><br /><br /><br />I started out with my main goal of qualifying for the National Age Group Championship. I met this goal and it was an incredible journey. I have met many friends, and have learned a lot about myself, my health, my body, and how to push my limits. It has been incredibly taxing and I have been very happy with my results. I have said it before and will say it again, if it isn’t difficult to obtain, your goals aren’t high enough. It is important to put yourself in situations that you aren’t accustomed to in order to grow in anything in life. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihNYgxbROGYIAGTDmsi7cPPALiCs73AKuOqb2OiR9zIFiVL93Kp4F6duEfTdxo92TX1hPOE5xeZ4HpCKx55YexaDZ3fCquTBRJPSAcKZoswn61h_Lu8zbBxvpasLB6hQHGz8L0DpRkEuw/s1600/HKFinish.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihNYgxbROGYIAGTDmsi7cPPALiCs73AKuOqb2OiR9zIFiVL93Kp4F6duEfTdxo92TX1hPOE5xeZ4HpCKx55YexaDZ3fCquTBRJPSAcKZoswn61h_Lu8zbBxvpasLB6hQHGz8L0DpRkEuw/s320/HKFinish.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536233095745467298" /></a><br /><br />My final sprint triathlon of the season was awesome. I ended up placing third in my age group and 13th overall. I still have a half marathon that I will do in a couple weeks and hope to push myself to a PR there as well. I am still making up my mind as to what I will do next year. With our third boy on the way December 15th, dad’s training schedule will have to be approached with lots of flexibility to say the least. One option is 3 races. One option would be Northeastern regional qualifier to qualify again for Nationals, Nationals, and an undetermined half ironman. Another option is to stick to the Go Tri Sports SCTS local races and include one of the half ironman races in that series. Whatever I do I will train as much as I can while the first priority will be getting to know our new family member, and battling the attention needed for all of the other family members. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuoB1OmmOKFTp6166IMp3BfL3TmrF9WBpHwmgC3aPADgrbmF3AFlHUATEGQLZdZeIqMiQaWr8C6RVYlqqzwp_bAuxI5BLd49TvJIdzNPhEb7C3hcYabUWWGtCzwW1dxELwgeyqKrEU8xg/s1600/family+stretching.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuoB1OmmOKFTp6166IMp3BfL3TmrF9WBpHwmgC3aPADgrbmF3AFlHUATEGQLZdZeIqMiQaWr8C6RVYlqqzwp_bAuxI5BLd49TvJIdzNPhEb7C3hcYabUWWGtCzwW1dxELwgeyqKrEU8xg/s320/family+stretching.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536233784377037634" /></a><br /><br />I will be putting together a mixed podcast of clips I have recorded throughout the last part of the season so hopefully you can follow it. I will follow up with a report of my half marathon. Push on!EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-30874957540219189312010-11-03T20:46:00.000-04:002010-11-03T20:46:42.162-04:00WeightChart.com, track and chart your weight and wellness<a href="http://weightchart.com/WellnessView.aspx">WeightChart.com, track and chart your weight and wellness</a>EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-51338990289650506192010-09-20T06:32:00.004-04:002010-09-20T20:43:32.937-04:00Follow my blog on USA Triathlon<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJSiaSGziix03U0MVvB4_nsWcr0dp8Kk_JhzWhXYqNcj7WlnPIShYLE8_FzshUwx72ycgcT8KbQkuTss6IYq5L0W7NIhIAc261gPfnuH0rmSMhtxkgD76MwTXuFE3k2BykzKsyNDZyzU/s1600/DSCN2104.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: center; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5518941884943044594" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJSiaSGziix03U0MVvB4_nsWcr0dp8Kk_JhzWhXYqNcj7WlnPIShYLE8_FzshUwx72ycgcT8KbQkuTss6IYq5L0W7NIhIAc261gPfnuH0rmSMhtxkgD76MwTXuFE3k2BykzKsyNDZyzU/s320/DSCN2104.JPG" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><br />Follow my blog on www.usatriathlon.org as I prepare, travel, and compete at my first USA Triathlon National Age Group Championship in Tuscaloosa, AL.EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-29437191103330115102010-09-08T19:36:00.009-04:002010-09-18T14:08:57.102-04:00This is me before I "Tri"ed<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE2Fu2Hz9WYUvIe2NQvln2lMZ8q5otqf9FP2SPjOCwbKU3S7gwUUmlhnExTv1Kro5y-NZKhdWpzM0Gia4PgWhNCyvUPaQUrbR8RVPL5T-XT5f9jaQDbkcwSyZY5EN5nowcKkYcxWtDoAs/s1600/Before.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 192px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514712552355945410" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE2Fu2Hz9WYUvIe2NQvln2lMZ8q5otqf9FP2SPjOCwbKU3S7gwUUmlhnExTv1Kro5y-NZKhdWpzM0Gia4PgWhNCyvUPaQUrbR8RVPL5T-XT5f9jaQDbkcwSyZY5EN5nowcKkYcxWtDoAs/s320/Before.JPG" /></a><br /><div>It is hard to believe that only thirty two months ago I looked like this (plate in hand). I stumbled upon some pictures when I was visiting my in laws in Connecticut over the weekend. This was taken during the holidays in December of 2007. I was probably pushing 270 pounds at this point. </div><div></div><div>About 6 months later I started running and a by June of 2009 I had completed my first of many triathlons. The detail can be found on the "Why I Tri" page above. I am currently weighing in at about 185 and I qualified for the National Age Group Triathlon this year. </div><br /><div></div><div>This sport has changed my life and I am very happy to have made these changes. I look forward to continuing my journey. </div>EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-5211876644294003812010-08-12T20:37:00.005-04:002010-08-12T20:49:42.329-04:002010 Dam Swim for Drew<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhijiGrXacnvwqGTBknqH-WSyMj4X7kz9Fc1KqVc5oTV0qovSHR6CWdJT_qCbhchfWR_fcXIBNvspgya-TLJGsptsIQV_qufcjZd4istR29TI_VWomSgC9KNGdlujVLZx0LSp_W8k-Uw7s/s1600/tn_MUR_R3036.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 86px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 130px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504687520717494770" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhijiGrXacnvwqGTBknqH-WSyMj4X7kz9Fc1KqVc5oTV0qovSHR6CWdJT_qCbhchfWR_fcXIBNvspgya-TLJGsptsIQV_qufcjZd4istR29TI_VWomSgC9KNGdlujVLZx0LSp_W8k-Uw7s/s320/tn_MUR_R3036.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I have decided to do the 2010 Dam Swim for Drew charity event this year. It will be one week before my trip to Nationals so I will be swiming it it very easy. This is a two mile swim across the Lake Murray dam. I am putting this out here for people to be able to donate anything they can to this cause. Drew was my cousin and he was killed in a BUI accident in 1997 when he was only 11 years old. I have included the link to the website with all of the information needed to register or to donate money to this charity. Please contact me with any quesitons you might have.<br /><br />Please click the title of this blog for all of the details on the event.<br /><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/lhsdamswimfordrew/"></a>EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-26451525061086068502010-07-13T20:26:00.031-04:002010-07-16T16:51:09.124-04:00Chattanooga Waterfront Report<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSjjedREdZBvd1CUMoH2AILXsyLGagLtVDv4nM7cszxIaD3A2Mtfe4kC1PioHUTtY7cKKd26IPZzrbK2BE0oecBmHJCTFsc82CwvozsTTP6-pL40tjeOZ1zlweO4EvLpuMXq1qkIBvps/s1600/chatt+bridge.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglSjjedREdZBvd1CUMoH2AILXsyLGagLtVDv4nM7cszxIaD3A2Mtfe4kC1PioHUTtY7cKKd26IPZzrbK2BE0oecBmHJCTFsc82CwvozsTTP6-pL40tjeOZ1zlweO4EvLpuMXq1qkIBvps/s320/chatt+bridge.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494535248883806114" /></a><br />Wow! What an incredible experience in Chattanooga. I came over with the family on Saturday and we weren't able to check into the hotel so I left my bike with the bellman with about a dozen other bikes and went to the Big River Grill for lunch. I had a really good hummus salad that was a perfect lunch.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEAKg7Myo4LTDncaJlVkGR4SIlEAwCCpfwyrvOOsBIPgCIXzl03DaL9CzNgBIT1lIXsLogS1K2n-KOj7QBeEHINTmu5_bD9pTvXaEJTTKUIQ-oSTtxXwqjK4YB6s17yYqBRpTK9LFDXzk/s1600/family+at+aquarium.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494321938486149250" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEAKg7Myo4LTDncaJlVkGR4SIlEAwCCpfwyrvOOsBIPgCIXzl03DaL9CzNgBIT1lIXsLogS1K2n-KOj7QBeEHINTmu5_bD9pTvXaEJTTKUIQ-oSTtxXwqjK4YB6s17yYqBRpTK9LFDXzk/s320/family+at+aquarium.jpg" /></a><br /><br />We then walked down to the Aquarium area on the way down to the packet pickup. The boys had a great time playing in the water in front of the aquarium and Cedar would have sat right in it if we would have let him.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0_IqfToF835bm-_yWzdXVPQTC5urqg5VdyfLPUa8bZ9KoOt5HUmkf-1ijypkZeWl8_seMYQJ-jRxUMV0Lv6cCwSCmDpP474Yjo1QR4ohV68v-D_BhmEhg7Y6RRFNqcghQmWhRn7u-KaE/s1600/chatt+athletes+tent.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0_IqfToF835bm-_yWzdXVPQTC5urqg5VdyfLPUa8bZ9KoOt5HUmkf-1ijypkZeWl8_seMYQJ-jRxUMV0Lv6cCwSCmDpP474Yjo1QR4ohV68v-D_BhmEhg7Y6RRFNqcghQmWhRn7u-KaE/s320/chatt+athletes+tent.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494604031585105346" /></a><br /><br />We continued on to pick up my packet and get checked in and it was HOT! After I got all of my stuff we walked back to the Hotel and got checked in. The family took a nap and I went for a run down to the race area and recorded a short podcast. I am not sure if I will be able to use it because it wasn't a very good recording but I will doctor it up and give it a shot. I ran for about 15 minutes and then had a good stretch. I checked out the expo, walked out onto the pier and took some photo's of the swim finish. Then I went to the transition area to find my bike and try to get familiar with my transition area. I have never seen such a large number of racks.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVNEAi0A8n6yjBu9QGbQlT9G5_Iwa-IRcGlhVs7YiGhvJ_mPSuDBwZ2FoQQ_ulAHW3w7IaaBjnyDuBh2Q-THRnE11c2yquHI5Y-NDlME2Kv5io1glXw_V_d8yM5yp0NUIlDSfM_Ak0e6Y/s1600/chatt+transition+area.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVNEAi0A8n6yjBu9QGbQlT9G5_Iwa-IRcGlhVs7YiGhvJ_mPSuDBwZ2FoQQ_ulAHW3w7IaaBjnyDuBh2Q-THRnE11c2yquHI5Y-NDlME2Kv5io1glXw_V_d8yM5yp0NUIlDSfM_Ak0e6Y/s320/chatt+transition+area.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494604308330875074" /></a><br /><br />I went back to the hotel and we went to the Children's Museum and I stayed there with the kid's for about an hour until I ran down for the pre race meeting. I missed the part I was wanting to hear about the course overview but I was able to get my questions answered. I then met back up with the family and we closed down the Children's museum.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirBU49B9cZotIP3lp-Rost8NyRXmrZewDTijaS4a7OfMXvjOQnAUkmqzF5xqMlyeo-VP7mTesvwbCaEMBT4R2JJLjjlBWUxqgFTy0hYWLuqNdmgQ8MGePJUpDcpCRh0BO9-W-X07Xicq8/s1600/nino's.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirBU49B9cZotIP3lp-Rost8NyRXmrZewDTijaS4a7OfMXvjOQnAUkmqzF5xqMlyeo-VP7mTesvwbCaEMBT4R2JJLjjlBWUxqgFTy0hYWLuqNdmgQ8MGePJUpDcpCRh0BO9-W-X07Xicq8/s320/nino's.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494604580095630306" /></a><br /><br />Soon after that we went up Signal Mountain to a little Italian place called Nino's. Nino is great, he always comes out to talk to his customers and bends over backward to accommodate. They were having a special with a veggie lasagna that was absolutely incredible. The kids were a little restless but overall we were glad we went. Really great food!<br /><br />We went back to the room and I started getting everything together for the race. I was hydrating by drinking plenty of water and getting all numbers placed, tires pumped, Infinit mixed, etc. I was able to get to sleep relatively early but didn't sleep real good. I ended up sharing a bed with my 5 year old and he slept real close to my back and I had a little bit of a pain in it when I woke up.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPjSu7vfXwc9v5N88D_esLBa0NT9n5HzZkePa6K-OC5c8tdyUphQRODbEv62sw0Dv5uUvNeFxV8KY0XnimDatoso9lfa0xfD_YPfuYVPf3SlgDj9rCA57YRWmNCbUkrC9KNHwe4uolo4/s1600/Race+Notes.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPjSu7vfXwc9v5N88D_esLBa0NT9n5HzZkePa6K-OC5c8tdyUphQRODbEv62sw0Dv5uUvNeFxV8KY0XnimDatoso9lfa0xfD_YPfuYVPf3SlgDj9rCA57YRWmNCbUkrC9KNHwe4uolo4/s320/Race+Notes.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494604979722108514" /></a><br /><br />I ate two packages of oatmeal and a banana and drank plenty of water when I woke up at 5 am. I took my Sharpie and wrote 2:29:59 on my inside fore arm and underneath it wrote "Push On!!" This was my aggressive goal of the day and a reminder that I could do this. I got everything together and was ready to walk out of the door by 5:30 am. I stopped by the desk for a cup of coffee, drank half of it then put on my pack, helmet, and hopped on my bike to ride down to the transition area.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE8byIV3osQOMzqRHa9pwv0vGRjpUFukG8Rc131-F2biyVVJ4BaKYyNlJuSjN9Dta5geM46TXOGnT2Ox6ZLgYcRHZXqn2dAitaJXPX-cHN3HosmVj1ngHrLFJ38sfr38-mF9QGBJXH9UA/s1600/my+bike+chattanooga.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE8byIV3osQOMzqRHa9pwv0vGRjpUFukG8Rc131-F2biyVVJ4BaKYyNlJuSjN9Dta5geM46TXOGnT2Ox6ZLgYcRHZXqn2dAitaJXPX-cHN3HosmVj1ngHrLFJ38sfr38-mF9QGBJXH9UA/s320/my+bike+chattanooga.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494605437005908914" /></a><br />I was the second person to rack my bike and got a pretty good spot. I got everything set up and put on my running shoes to go for a quick run. I went through a stretch routine and tried to relax a little. I grabbed the Infinit I was going to drink prior to the swim and started walking toward the pool start.<br /><br />It was a little over a mile to the start and I opted out of the bus ride because I wanted to warm up a bit and they had been going since 6 am with 85 athletes a piece in them so I am sure they were pretty ripe. It was an enjoyable walk and I chatted with a seasoned triathlete that had been in the sport for 20+ years. It was a great conversation since I had just started and I was able to hear about his journey and share my experiences.<br /><br />I got to the field about 7:45 and waited around watching the athletes line up for their swim start. The sun was hot and I found some shade to keep me cool. I sipped on my Infinit that I had brought with me and before I knew it they were lining up the 900’s. I got in line pretty deep into the field and it seemed like no time until I was on the ramp down to the swim start. Once that happened like all TT starts it was quick. I slid into the water and then I heard “944 GO!”<br /><br />I wanted to stay as close to the buoys as possible to take advantage of the current. I normally swim to the right but the current was pulling me and I managed to stay pretty close. At least I wasn’t close to the shore. The swim felt good and I started out easy, picking it up as I went. I past under one bridge, then two, before I knew it I was approaching the exit and I swam toward the steps. There was a volunteer there with their hand outreached to help me out. I ran up the few steps and hit the mat at 24:50 (42/149 age group).<br /> <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUIx7-BqFDvLr-dWqGwpP20_Ebr8JL0ohVQq6-dGFMWyReaI39NVZqyAJo_NaoBJwjvEn9EerSleSFt0sd5eWGaqDY9RnbJg34R8hOdbvdPkPtaz_f5FXviGtQ9ZZP4I7Ij2gqgajxbts/s1600/chatt+swim+finish.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUIx7-BqFDvLr-dWqGwpP20_Ebr8JL0ohVQq6-dGFMWyReaI39NVZqyAJo_NaoBJwjvEn9EerSleSFt0sd5eWGaqDY9RnbJg34R8hOdbvdPkPtaz_f5FXviGtQ9ZZP4I7Ij2gqgajxbts/s320/chatt+swim+finish.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494605780596019538" /></a><br /><br />I ran around and to the steps to transition. I had practiced this the day before and decided to run every other step to the top. There were 17 steps and it was a little tougher than the day before. I kept a nice pace running into the transition area and counted 9 racks before I turned down to find my bike. Helmet, shades, bike, go! I ran with my bike out of transition and to the mount line, hopped on the bike and went. T1 was 2:12. I got up to speed, slipped my feet into my shoes and got them fastened and started up MLK to get on to the highway. <br /><br />I was feeling pretty good at this point and I just started out to get a feel of how it was going to be. I hit the first hill and it wasn’t too bad but I knew I was going to be working. I was passing a lot of people on the bike and I was hanging with a couple of people in my age group as we kept passing each other back and forth. At this point I started feeling really good (maybe too good) as I looked down at the time that was written on my arm and my reminder to push on. <br /><br />I remember telling myself that I could do this and I was riding really well. Before I knew it I was at the turn around and turned into the wind and kept pushing. The way back seemed a little tougher but I just kept digging and moving forward passing a lot of people, then being passed a little. I wasn’t drinking as much as I thought I should have been and I had quite a bit of Infinit left. The exit came up quick and I got back on MLK with thoughts of the run on my mind. I finished the rest of my Infinit and got my feet on top of my shoes. I made it to the dismount line, hopped off and ran with my bike into transition passing one person in the process. My bike split was 1:10:43 and 22.1 mph (24/149 age group). I counted one, two, three racks and went to the left to put away the bike. Unfortunately, went on the wrong side but there was only one bike there so I racked my bike and went under the rack. Shoes, cap, grab race belt and 10 oz. flask and Go! T2 time was 1:42.<br /><br />I ran out of transition and soon after I heard the family cheering. I gave Sheldon a high five and was on my way to experience what would be a very painful three point one miles. I had a horrible stitch but I kept running. Looking back I think this had to do with eating a little too much and not spreading out my intake of fluids on the bike. I kept looking down at my time and knew that I wouldn’t reach my goal. I didn’t let this bother me and I just kept up the best pace I could. <br /><br />By the time I got to the turn around my stitch had eased and I tried to pick it up a little. I sipped on the Infinit that I had brought in my flask and pushed as good as I could. Before I knew it I saw the finish and really picked it up as best as I could. I saw the family and gave Sheldon a high five. He told me later that it hurt because I was running so fast. I crossed the finish line relieved and was handed a nice water bottle full of cool water that was a welcome treat. Run split was 56:48 at a 9:10 pace (71/149 age group). <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4c_DoBmN6H6zGEgpZAlgtPGtnxgS5TG-0Lfv7HhQGps-jSxcyP2rcvoTFnB8kv2B03VUVmbRZp1iWNSIsZt1NfkEWbKK17_CswrYJlBiQfKGjedO1HCWb6qZHFNUONwd32N6z5bJhWwc/s1600/chatt+finish.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4c_DoBmN6H6zGEgpZAlgtPGtnxgS5TG-0Lfv7HhQGps-jSxcyP2rcvoTFnB8kv2B03VUVmbRZp1iWNSIsZt1NfkEWbKK17_CswrYJlBiQfKGjedO1HCWb6qZHFNUONwd32N6z5bJhWwc/s320/chatt+finish.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494606260064391586" /></a><br /><br />After they removed my chip I walked up to find the family and gave them a great big hug. I had finished. I was pretty hungry I thought so I went to the food tent and picked up a sandwich and a slice of pizza. I drank about 3 small cups of regular Coke and lots of water. It was pretty hot so I went with the family over to the Coldstone Creamery and they all enjoyed ice cream as I went to the athletes tent to check the results. <br /><br />When I got there a lot of people were crowded around reviewing the results and I was able to find my standings I was 35th out of about a hundred and forty something and I couldn’t believe it. I was very skeptical because not all of the splits were listed and I have seen results change in the past. I talked to a couple of people about it and they were sure that I had qualified for Nationals. It wasn’t until Monday morning that I found out for sure. I ended up in the top 26% of my age group and have never felt better. My final results were 38/149 age group and 221/839 males. I am looking forward to the ten weeks preparation for Tuscaloosa and I am very proud of where I have come in a short time, accomplishing my goals, and thankful for those who have helped me along the way. Push On!EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-91837309301865338182010-07-05T17:08:00.006-04:002010-07-06T06:42:40.497-04:00Relaxing Weekend<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6x8CkzMZvzzGnb7iU3DYJ29yC52S9ucD4UuDeY8ZdTruvl07BAye59AruL5bOjU88oxpGuGAChBB4_LraQd8G2-VlDLTjI2M9fI71Ou4KCTNkFb6RVr5EhcSpIeH_776FEbgb98eu1qA/s1600/Fripp+Sunset.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6x8CkzMZvzzGnb7iU3DYJ29yC52S9ucD4UuDeY8ZdTruvl07BAye59AruL5bOjU88oxpGuGAChBB4_LraQd8G2-VlDLTjI2M9fI71Ou4KCTNkFb6RVr5EhcSpIeH_776FEbgb98eu1qA/s320/Fripp+Sunset.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490532123351623042" /></a><br /><br />I just got back from Fripp Island, SC. We spent Friday through Monday there with my wife's sister and her family. This was a great vacation and I was really able to relax the whole time I was there. The island was very laid back with plenty of things to do to keep the kids busy. The picture above was what we got to see every evening from the place we were staying in. <br /><br />Friday I took the day off from any exercise and enjoyed a morning at the beach and a nice long nap with the boys followed by an afternoon at the pool. Saturday I went for about a 7 mile push run on the island. This was fun and very flat. There isn't much you can do about that being on the coast like that but I still managed to keep my heart rate up and really enjoy the wildlife. There were a lot of deer that weren't afraid of people and that was really nice. The one below was right outside our pad one evening. I managed to get a nap on Saturday as well. Very uncommon but a plus for taper week.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibiLCv-SQiymXJuZPXcm6a9A7etAZTAGn0miKF1-WyChUVMDci-EOj0S7v6eNC3HrvNBH2LHrXSrKmmrXBepqJ799Xsgd3b3xhDa3w9akcOeyg6nsIGTXOD7ozwqEW9SfsmtZ9uEgqd-g/s1600/Fripp+Deet.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibiLCv-SQiymXJuZPXcm6a9A7etAZTAGn0miKF1-WyChUVMDci-EOj0S7v6eNC3HrvNBH2LHrXSrKmmrXBepqJ799Xsgd3b3xhDa3w9akcOeyg6nsIGTXOD7ozwqEW9SfsmtZ9uEgqd-g/s320/Fripp+Deet.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490533421555675202" /></a><br /><br />Sunday we headed to the golf cart parade that was pretty nice. The kids loved it and the folks were pretty clever with their designs. Here you can see the crowd anxiously awaiting the first golf cart float and the start of the parade. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJEDJZMRXmVaK-YETo6xLnM6CrxvhQDDtts67UtBVXl0hiO-svuX2ykeCJnUWNNHnXlJU4kUlMY8dSga2Xy8xVXGcjJhQ-MBYFfOTSBo701HtPWZ1a3kB0LUh8YMlrfaUH9sSowqwTh5w/s1600/Fripp+Parade.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJEDJZMRXmVaK-YETo6xLnM6CrxvhQDDtts67UtBVXl0hiO-svuX2ykeCJnUWNNHnXlJU4kUlMY8dSga2Xy8xVXGcjJhQ-MBYFfOTSBo701HtPWZ1a3kB0LUh8YMlrfaUH9sSowqwTh5w/s320/Fripp+Parade.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490533962776086066" /></a><br /><br />After the parade I stayed back with Cedar while he slept and managed to get 30 minutes in on my trainer before he woke up. I took him to the pool and hung out with the family for a while and then we all went back to the house. While everyone napped I finished off my 42 miler that I had started on the trainer earlier. I had a nice fast ride west with the wind and really worked on the way back against the wind. It was a pretty good work out. I obviously didn't have the hills I usually try to hit on my long ride but it was very peaceful and I enjoyed it. <br /><br />That night we had a nice meal and watched some good fireworks put on by the island. This was a great time spent with the family and relaxing as well as getting in my workouts for the weekend. I ended up taking today off and I will start my week tomorrow. It will be a short week since my race is on Sunday. Hard to believe it is already here. I am excited, nervous, and ready for the race. Push on!EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-83050347301397012272010-06-30T21:32:00.003-04:002010-06-30T21:45:33.435-04:00Taper Report<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrvrCGL9mTuUSVN4SFvV610gpyHJFh2eFjKsv38FzX5h9tjbNaObfqiVyDSVWsoQ8gl-6RXbMBOc7OWEkfHnnbQ7S_-WOPmYi5R9abbPZLDuW6dDBdPay3ssmoGFafe0dxHWTy4EcmjO0/s1600/Festival+Finish.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 137px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrvrCGL9mTuUSVN4SFvV610gpyHJFh2eFjKsv38FzX5h9tjbNaObfqiVyDSVWsoQ8gl-6RXbMBOc7OWEkfHnnbQ7S_-WOPmYi5R9abbPZLDuW6dDBdPay3ssmoGFafe0dxHWTy4EcmjO0/s320/Festival+Finish.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488746831011365682" /></a><br />I was a little worried that I wasn't going to get up this morning since I was up so late watching the Gamecocks win the National Championship baseball game, but I did manage to get up and get it in. I hit a nice 60 minutes on the trainer this morning and kept my heart rate up above 145 and into 155 bpm. I am doing pretty good with nutrition this week and staying on target with what I need to be eating. <br /><br />The photo above is the finish of the Festival of Flowers triathlon. I might as well be laying down I am bent over so much. I was actually running hard and battling with the person beside me. If I would have stood up I probably would have done a little better because my form looks pretty slack. I was beat and it is good to see the photo to help me with what not to do. <br /><br />I am looking forward to going to the beach for the weekend tomorrow night and getting some relaxing time in with the family. Until next time...Push on!EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-33143780610844809532010-06-27T19:04:00.002-04:002010-06-27T19:08:30.218-04:00Long RideI went on a 40 plus mile ride today with lots of hills. I was able to record a little while I was riding and I think it came out pretty good. The podcast is below. I did my hour walk today behind a lawnmower. You have to get it in somehow. Push on!<br /><br /> <div><br /> <object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,0,0" width="210" height="25" id="mp3playerdarksmallv3" align="middle"><br /> <param name="allowScriptAccess" value="sameDomain" /><br /> <param name="movie" value="http://www.podbean.com/podcast-audio-video-blog-player/mp3playerdarksmallv3.swf?audioPath=http://enduracefanatic.podbean.com/mf/play/mmzcmh/LongRide6-27.mp3&autoStart=no" /><br /> <param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><param name="wmode" value="transparent" /><br /> <embed src="http://www.podbean.com/podcast-audio-video-blog-player/mp3playerdarksmallv3.swf?audioPath=http://enduracefanatic.podbean.com/mf/play/mmzcmh/LongRide6-27.mp3&autoStart=no" quality="high" width="210" height="25" name="mp3playerdarksmallv3" align="middle" allowScriptAccess="sameDomain" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" /></embed><br /> </object><br /> <br /><a style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: normal; padding-left: 41px; color: #2DA274; text-decoration: none; border-bottom: none;" href="http://www.podbean.com">Powered by Podbean.com</a><br /> </div>EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-34936705943228052372010-06-26T20:00:00.004-04:002010-06-26T20:11:12.143-04:00Thoughts on Volunteering<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWRvkfVPXMq2bJipFnLDCqNVI0ydxk9cE4JMQDtcBV7pvs9OQlp55AoRS8q-tQTcpsz4khgryeSUt9B9GIM0TRLNk6pNHa-W8MFLTHE0m-wdU_SkOaJv0lZeYZ5z_igH7qdX8yDFBNN8/s1600/StationTTMCrop.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWRvkfVPXMq2bJipFnLDCqNVI0ydxk9cE4JMQDtcBV7pvs9OQlp55AoRS8q-tQTcpsz4khgryeSUt9B9GIM0TRLNk6pNHa-W8MFLTHE0m-wdU_SkOaJv0lZeYZ5z_igH7qdX8yDFBNN8/s320/StationTTMCrop.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487238506197090930" /></a><br />I have said before how I like to give back to the sport of Triathlon and today I feel like I was really able to do that in a direct way. I have included a short pod cast on the day and what a good experience Sheldon (my 4.5 year old pictured above) and I had giving our time to help the athletes that raced today. Congratulations to all the finishers of the Tri The Midlands Sprint, you all did a great job. Push on! <br /><br /><div><br /><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,0,0" width="210" height="25" id="mp3playerdarksmallv3" align="middle"><br /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="sameDomain" /><br /><param name="movie" value="http://www.podbean.com/podcast-audio-video-blog-player/mp3playerdarksmallv3.swf?audioPath=http://enduracefanatic.podbean.com/mf/play/hi9iq/TriTheMidlandsVolunteering.mp3&autoStart=no" /><br /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><param name="wmode" value="transparent" /><br /><embed src="http://www.podbean.com/podcast-audio-video-blog-player/mp3playerdarksmallv3.swf?audioPath=http://enduracefanatic.podbean.com/mf/play/hi9iq/TriTheMidlandsVolunteering.mp3&autoStart=no" quality="high" width="210" height="25" name="mp3playerdarksmallv3" align="middle" allowScriptAccess="sameDomain" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" /></embed><br /></object><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: normal; padding-left: 41px; color: #2DA274; text-decoration: none; border-bottom: none;" href="http://www.podbean.com">Powered by Podbean.com</a><br /></div>EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-59670787119434409672010-06-25T18:05:00.003-04:002010-06-25T18:17:39.973-04:00Quick Update<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLE95266bD89UXOxcq2tCNw3VYkfWky2sL2mn1pt9PijFCyu1QIf1MR71bya7UUc7xrF1OLE0N9fcDzqy-wOE1O4hDXhX_hODMJRCw-RsvtYhxgWz7FCbFO41f4g1h-bdg4lFPdH7_3og/s1600/Run+LPI.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLE95266bD89UXOxcq2tCNw3VYkfWky2sL2mn1pt9PijFCyu1QIf1MR71bya7UUc7xrF1OLE0N9fcDzqy-wOE1O4hDXhX_hODMJRCw-RsvtYhxgWz7FCbFO41f4g1h-bdg4lFPdH7_3og/s320/Run+LPI.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486838913178202450" /></a><br />I found out I may have a way to record some podcasts on my trainer and possible on the road. I had my iPod Nano on the arm band while on my trainer and recorded a quick test. I think it sounds pretty decent so I will try it later when I get some notes together. Click the podcast below to listen.<br /><br />I had a pretty light training day today which is nice. I am just hanging out with the boys while Rebecca is at the mall. I am making veggie taco's tonight which should be pretty yummy. I will prepare some ground turkey for the boys and Rebecca as well.<br /><br />Looking forward to helping out at the race tomorrow and I hope to get a podcast out of it. To all those racing Tri the Midlands...Push on!<br /><br /><div><br /><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,0,0" width="210" height="25" id="mp3playerdarksmallv3" align="middle"><br /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="sameDomain" /><br /><param name="movie" value="http://www.podbean.com/podcast-audio-video-blog-player/mp3playerdarksmallv3.swf?audioPath=http://enduracefanatic.podbean.com/mf/play/2skwx5/ipodtestontrainer.mp3&autoStart=no" /><br /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><param name="wmode" value="transparent" /><br /><embed src="http://www.podbean.com/podcast-audio-video-blog-player/mp3playerdarksmallv3.swf?audioPath=http://enduracefanatic.podbean.com/mf/play/2skwx5/ipodtestontrainer.mp3&autoStart=no" quality="high" width="210" height="25" name="mp3playerdarksmallv3" align="middle" allowScriptAccess="sameDomain" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" /></embed><br /></object><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-weight: normal; padding-left: 41px; color: #2DA274; text-decoration: none; border-bottom: none;" href="http://www.podbean.com">Powered by Podbean.com</a><br /></div>EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7860634958448531328.post-74412487033285909022010-06-24T21:07:00.002-04:002010-06-24T21:20:52.349-04:00Reflecting on Today's Work<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSLjGTSaiqSFAT5slukfANqabHeOTtzKn2pG0a7epOBvJC_D6kx44Txmw_7e3VyCyJkH0M4YJjxqIrpelRHZYieYUvMgXAT3hmUYSRbjAM-eZBPsmzPxxPUxS24eJ8Z7oiwzwa6oR5wA/s1600/Picture+618.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486512182516758306" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSLjGTSaiqSFAT5slukfANqabHeOTtzKn2pG0a7epOBvJC_D6kx44Txmw_7e3VyCyJkH0M4YJjxqIrpelRHZYieYUvMgXAT3hmUYSRbjAM-eZBPsmzPxxPUxS24eJ8Z7oiwzwa6oR5wA/s320/Picture+618.jpg" /></a> Here is a reminder of my last race. This is the start of the Festival of Flowers International Triathlon. This was my second international distance race but it brought a lot of firsts. First disappointing swim time (they say this was a long 1500), first awesome bike split at 22.5 mph, first thoughts of walking through the run, and first big race with very little taper and overall satisfaction with results. See the race report blog below for a podcast of the race.<br /><br />This morning I had a nice warm half hour push run followed by a nice hard 2500 meter pool workout. I feel great this week and I am looking forward to my easy bike workout in the morning. I will hit the road real early for an hour run prior to my volunteering Saturday morning early at the Tri the Midlands Triathlon and finish off the week with a nice 40 mile hill workout at Fort Jackson on Sunday.<br /><br />It is getting late and I still need to get my son to bed. Carolina has some work to do to win this baseball game to night. Until next time.....Push On!EnduranceFanatichttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02126165734671570158noreply@blogger.com0