BEAR ON A BIKE

My Journey to St George IronMan 2011

2011-07-31T17:46:00.011-06:00

My Journey to St George IronMan 2011

While it's fresh on my mind I want to write my thoughts on my journey to Ironman. I ask myself or am often asked why we do it and maybe the answer is in here somewhere. This whole crazy journey began again a few months after finishing Ironman St .George 2010 which by the way was the most amazing finish to a race I could ever have. I told myself I would not do it again but the drive and desire came back again as well as the ok from Meri who by the way trained, raced and finished with me last year, decided to wait it out this year and help me to give it another go, and I signed up. 20 weeks out and training began again. I owe thanks to my family, Veyo Pies, Jay at Blackbottoms and to my friends of The Southern Utah Triathlon Club. Coach Dennis Budd was outstanding for coaching advice. Most weeks the club would get a group together to go out on the course and train. Some of the most memorable were the 13 mile runs with Matt Bracken in the drenching rain and getting sprayed by cars as we ran the hills of this epic course. Training bricks of 80 miles on the bike with 13 mile runs on the course with Jeff, Dennis, Breanna, Craig, Ben, Jamie, Heath, Ryan S, Ryan D, and Dan. Other times at Sand Hollow reservoir chasing Heath's feet and bubbles in the frigid 52 deg waters. Good Times!!

Before I knew it, It was May 7th and I was drifting in and out of sleep waiting for the 3am alarm for breakfast. I changed my IM breakfast from last year and it worked pretty well for me. 2:30 am... 1 bottle of chocolate Ensure and 2 Eggo waffles with a drizzle of syrup. Went back to bed for 30 minutes and at 3 am went with another bottle of vanilla Ensure, 1 serving of tapioca pudding and 1 serving of sugar free applesauce. By 4:30 A.M. I was dressed and off with my bro-inlaw Jeff (who is one of the main reasons for getting me hooked into IronMan distance to begin with) down to the shuttle school busses for the 5am departures. We dropped our special needs bags for the bike and run in huge boxes labeled with your race #. These are bags that we have access to on the race course during mile 55 of the bike and mile 12-13 of the run. I put extra things in there just if I needed them like a tube, tire, a few gels, endurolytes, powdered Carbo Rocket and water. The school bus ride was very dark and unusually quiet. Very different from riding the bus up to the St George marathon from years past years where you couldn't hear yourself think. I drank 1 bottle of Carbo Rocket during the bus ride before I got to the race and tried to keep my mind focused and listened to my I-pod. Just before the swim start it was awesome to spend time with Meri, Shell, Craig and Mel all volunteering at T1 and there to help us and others get ready. 1 potty break waiting 15 minutes in line. Just before getting the wet-suit on they started calling us down to the lake. All of a sudden I had to go to the bathroom again with the anticipation of starting was near!! It was slow going like a cattle drive of wet-suits and Jeff and I decided we needed to get up in the front or the cannon will go off and we will still be standing in the parking lot. We made it to the water just after the anthem and swam to the far left side along the buoy line, We figured by following the buoy line and to stay out of the middle would make it less chaotic. Jeff and I made a deal to meet in the corner of the transition tent of T1 just in case we swim the same time. Treading for 5 minutes in the water seemed like forever and I was ready!! The cannon goes off. I swam buoy to buoy to the first turn somewhere near 1500 meters and was never in much traffic, a few times a body would climb over me and I was wondering what they were thinking trying to climb over me sideways in the wrong direction. Turn one was directly into the sun and I just followed people and the lifeguards voice in the megaphone until I eventually saw the next turn buoy. This next stretch was a long stretch back behind the Sand Hollow island and again I just focused on one buoy at a time. I would actually just count my strokes and when I would lose focus I would start over again. I swam a consistent pace and breathing was normal and relaxed. My hip flexors were getting tight which I had never had happen before but I set my mind back to counting strokes and I didn't notice the discomfort. The last turn in and I looked at my watch 1:02 and I was right on my goal with 600 meters to go or so. Exited the water and saw Meri off to the right!!! and headed to a wet-suit stripper. I made it a point to walk and get blood back in to my legs. Sometimes after swimming, standing and running you get dizzy. My heels were completely numb. At T1 I went to the corner and had an awesome volunteer help me with everything. He even opened my Honey Stinger Waffle cookie out of the package for me which I downed as one of my solid fuel sources for the race. Within minutes Jeff comes around the corner. I was ready to go so I told him he would easily catch me on the bike and I would see him out there. Out of T1 and onto the bike. I planned to ride this course smart at what I should and not try to kill it, having trained on the course I knew it demands respect. Jeff caught me about 5 miles out and we stayed within 50 meters or so of each other for quite a while. I started to drink and eat by alternating every 15-20 minutes with GU chomps/water and Carbo Rocket energy drink. The first 20 miles seemed to go by so fast and I was grinning and loving it. I made it to the start of the loop actually ahead of my planned time but wasn't worried since I didn't feel I was over doing it. On the descent down to cross Bluff street where the loop begins I lost a crucial bottle of Carbo Rocket liquid fuel due to the bumpy ashphalt in the road at a high rate of speed. I knew I would need it but I also knew I had an extra bottle of it at Special needs in 25 more miles. I went to the IM Perform drink which I have used before but was not what I preferred. Now thinking back I should have grabbed that fallen bottle. Mile 30 approached which was Ivins for a quick potty stop and I saw my good friend Brandon chillin in his lounge chair. It was good to see people in unexpected places. Jeff was right in front of me doing the same. As I exited the restroom I ran back a few feet to get more drink on the bike and when I did that Jeff thought I went ahead. He spent the next 10 miles trying to catch me when all along I was behind him. Onward and upward I went. The town of Gunlock was crazy with volunteers and Jeff and I met up again and he was excited to see me since he thought I was 10 miles up the road. Next was “The Wall” which is a huge hill that climbs up about a mile. I saw a few people walking at the top and if you have never been on this course you would be asking yourself, “What have I done?”. Well I have trained this course plenty of times and I always tell myself it will be over soon and not to think that I have to do it again at mile 80. Welcome to “THE WALL”! I stayed in the saddle on this climb and stayed in a Aerobic HR zone. I could not wait to get to Veyo and see one of my favorite support crews at the Veyo Pie shop. They were rockin out and cheering like crazy. I was so glad to see them and they were a huge support for me. The next 18 miles is one of my favorite parts of the course where you can get down and cruise. Despite going down hill it still takes a toll on your body. In past training rides I have felt great at the start of the Veyo Volcano and by the time I reach Bluff street I had nothing left. I would think, how am I going to do this again. I had a straight on head wind which made it difficult to get to high speeds but it was not impossible to maintain a good pace and still stay within my zone. I got to special needs and had two bottles of frozen water that were now melted. I refueled with and added my missing bottle of Carbo Rocket!!! I wish I had it earlier. All went smooth up through the second loop. The heat started to rise and I was dumping water bottle after water bottle on my head, face, arms, ears, nose to stay cool. I made a potty stop in Ivins again and onward to climb again. Just before Veyo at mile 70-90 Jeff started to pull away. I don't blame him, its in the Lambert genes. My mind was a roller coaster of ups and downs just before The Wall for the second time, It was getting hot. I made it and regained mental focus as I made a stop to say hello to the support crew at Veyo Pies (no I did not eat a piece of pie even though I wanted to) Fellow training friend Dan flew by me and said hello and I thought it would be good to descend (not draft) with him since he is real fast on the downs. I think he asked if everything was OK and I think I replied that I was just visiting for a moment and all was good. I downed a Gel and off I went. The same head wind as the first descent was still there as I headed back into town. I kept it under control and at a safe speed knowing I would still get back the speed lost on the climbs. I almost caught Dan on the Veyo Volcano climb but once the flats and downhill came he was gone. He told me in training he got going near 50mph on some days. Must have been another one of those days.
After descending and flying down SR 18 for 40 minutes it was sure good to see the intersection of Bluff and Snow Canyon. Just when you think you are done you have to descend for about ¾ mile down Snow Canyon Parkway and loop under to the other side of the road and come right back up Snow Canyon Parkway to Bluff . Finally entering diagonal flying down the street lined with people before T2 was energizing. It was awesome to see more family and friends. Bike handlers were there awaiting my bike as I thought I would do a nice cyclocross dismount but I knew if I did I would not of been able to get my leg over my seat. I stopped and dismounted safely. I hobbled to the change tent, I changed out of cycling shorts (thick pad) into running tri shorts and had the aid of an outstanding volunteer at my beck and call. I could have wanted a pizza and he would of ordered and delivered it. Six or so minutes in T2 and away I went. My plan was to run a 10min/mile starting out to keep it under control running up Diagonal street. For most of this run you are either climbing or descending. One quick calculation at my watch and I was thrilled to be way ahead of last years time and just ahead of 2008's time in Coeur d'Alene. (faster swim this year) The over-all goal is to finish but I have many other little goals filed away. I just had to execute a 5hr marathon at this point....easy right? Ha ha I told myself since I have run a sub 4 marathon before. The plan was to run to each aid station walk through it and take it one at a time. It was good to see friends at aid 1, Ryan Duckworth with sponges drenched in water. These were life savers!! Each mile ticked away and I was able to get to Pioneer Park and actually run through it!! This was where in the past that the Tri Club had done some hill training work-outs and it paid off today knowing I could run it. To my amazement I caught my brother in-law Jeff 6 miles into the run. Last I saw him was mile 70? I was excited to have someone to run with but as I passed and tried to get him to come with me he said he was done. He was pulling from the race. Arrghh. I had to keep going and the HEAT was climbing as I headed into miles 7-13 at my doable pace. Coming into mile 13 I made my turn on Main. I passed special needs and grabbed a few endurolytes just in case I needed them. This point was mentally draining as I did not see anybody that I knew. This point in the race can break you mentally because you see the finish line one lane over and you know you have to go back up 1000 plus feet of road that I just got done doing. As I approached the Duckworth aid station I found myself bypassing any food or beverage that was offered by the volunteers and I remember telling Duckworth that I needed something but none of this is was working. Perhaps I needed a 5 hr energy or something but I needed a kick start and didn't have it and couldn't find a rhythm. He told me I was ahead of my time from last year and gave me a few words of encouragement and I knew I would make it if I just kept going. 1 mile later a fellow racer and buddy Craig was sitting on the curb in disarray and I thought; I can finish this with him. But as he approached to join me he crunched over and couldn't go with me. I told him to see if the people sitting on the lawn chairs in their front yard had some water or something that he could try to recover with and keep going. The sun was brutally in our face and I just wanted it to go behind the mountain so the temperature would drop. I made it back up to Pioneer Park and headed back out on the road and Craig had recovered and Jamie Egbert was with him. We teamed up in away just before the turn at mile 18-20. Just as we made it to the turnaround to head back there was a huge mental boost as Meri and my nieces and nephews: Domans and Lamberts and Abby, Josh and Seth were there cheering. They ran along side of me for a few yards. My neighbors the Funks and Kings were having a great old time doing the stadium wave to athletes as we went by. It was a much needed lift. The temperature was finally dropping and the three of us would set small goals to run to a street cone and walk and repeat as much as we could. I was not sure if they were going to continue but we kept plugging away. I had times when I thought after cresting the top of Skyline drive, alright I am going to run this in and then I also thought don't mess it up, keep moving and avoid DNF. What does the 20min faster matter at this point, it is about getting to the finish. We all had moments of doubt but we hung in together told each other we are going to make it (Kinda weird and cool that some of the people we train with all off and on over 20 weeks with each of us having different strengths and weaknesses are all together 132 miles into a race that can be 17hrs long). You could hear Mike Reilly the announcer of Ironman off in the distance calling peoples names as we got closer and closer. The finish was well within reach just play it smart. Heading back down Bluff street again I saw friends treating me like I was a rock star, Kellie and Adam!! and Stephanie and Todd. Stephanie actually called my Triathlon idols Stan and Marti Davis. I could here them cheering through the ear piece on their phone!! Just as I enter the Elks lodge it was really quiet and a dreary place. This is where the Ford motivation station is. A billboard sends messages to athletes for encouragement. As we rounded the turn to head out of there It was Deja vu, Meri was there waiting to cheer us home. Meri and I were both racing last year and this was just about where we joined up and finished together last year. (fyi...greatest race experience ever!!)Just this year it was her on the cheering side and I was wishing she could be on the racing side finishing this off together. I told her I would see her at the finish. As we rounded Diagonal Street roundabout and approached the finish the atmosphere was amazing and the energy from the crowd was absorbed and the fatigue went dormant. I slapped high fives and enjoyed the moment going back and forth from people on the right and left. I was thrilled to see my mom, dad, Meri and my brother waiting at the finish line.
I DID IT. IRONMAN #3!! You may ask me, will I do it again? The answer is........._____.

Things to know when training and completing an IM.
-Just face it....The race is too long so just grin and BEAR it.
-Figure out your nutrition, what works for one does not for another.
-Have Fun. Enjoy the experience.
-You got 17 hrs.
-Have friends and family on the course to cheer you on. They help with the mental game!!!
-Race your race.
-Make sure the family will support you.
-Join a club or team
-Don't say you cant do an IM.
-Thank the volunteers!!

North Shore Swim Series Sunset Beach to Ehukai Beach

2011-07-12T13:47:00.004-06:00

Arrived at the North Shore in Lae'i on Friday night. We decided to head over to the first race of the North Shore Swim series first thing Saturday morning. We raced in the Waimea Bay race two years ago and had a blast so we figured we would do another one since we just happen to be here for one of the their races in the series. I don't think I have seen so many fit swimmers in my life. 700 or more were registered and ready to go. We got in just before the day of registration closed and we headed down to the shore. The first step of my vacation into the beautiful water of the North Shore was to do a 1 mile swim just off the break from Sunset Beach to Ehukai Beack park. We had to swim out about 300 meters to the two bouy start. Men went first and women followed 5 minutes later. My first impression when I swam out was very calming and relaxing with the salt taste of the water. In less than a minute getting to the start the horn sounded and we were off. Lifeguards placed bouy markers every few hundred meters to follow. It was difficult to sight them with the swell. I just tried to follow people and sight as well as I could. It was much more challenging than an open fresh water lake swim with a wetsuit. The salt water takes a second to get used to the taste and the water is so clear for 10-20 feet it is almost like snorkeling with tropical fish here and there. I had to clear my goggles out once and if you get the salt water in your goggles it stings. I thought I could see the finish buoy with two to go but when I reached it and saw another I was thinking wow this is longer than 1 mile. The rolling waves and current carry you forward and backwards and hold you in place at times where you feel you are not moving at all. Time wise in past swims I would have been done at around 30 minutes but still had a ways to go. I finally spotted the final turn triangle buoy and the fast women were starting to catch and pass me. I drafted as much as I could but was dropped many times. Finally making it to shore was a relief and if you time it you can body surf in on a wave. You have to run up the beach to cross the finish in the deep and everyone sprints in the sand to the finish regardless if you cross 1st or 700th. I only waited a few more minutes and Meri was coming out. The look of "Are you kidding me" was on her face. We headed over to get our finisher shirt, ate a piece of chocolate to get the salt taste out, grabbed a few red-vines from the snack stand, and we were done!! We had to get back to the start somehow where Jeff and our kids were waiting so we decided to run along the beach. What an awesome opportunity to race and in such a beautiful place. We had a blast and hope we can do another one someday.

Summer Games Triathlon

2011-06-21T16:18:00.013-06:00

Meri and I raced the Utah Summer Games Triathlon this weekend and had a fundraiser at registration for my 12 year old niece Abby who needs a heart transplant. We had great prizes that were given from Pro triathlete Heather Wurtele, Red Rock Bicycle, Perks, Swig, Bicycles Unlimited, and St George Running Center. Friday night we set up a table at Rebel Sports where race packet pickup was taking place. I was amazed by the generosity of the people that came by. It was very successful and cant thank everyone enough who helped in one way or another.

The race has two transition areas. Starting at Gunlock reservoir and finishing at Snow Canyon High. I ran the bikes up to Gunlock just at sunset and put the bikes at t1. Luke and I did some fishing before sundown and then we headed back to town.

The morning came early and we had to be on the shuttle bus at 5:30am. I only slept maybe two hours and at 4 am I ate my traditional pre race meal of tapioca pudding, apple sauce and a bottle of Ensure! I left the Eggo waffle out this time since it was a sprint race I didn't need many calories. I did consume 1 bottle of Carbo Rocket on the bus ride up and just before the start of the swim. The whole process with the shuttle went really smooth and I did not mind it at all. It is actually nice to have your bike already set and not have to haul it around with you in the morning.

7 am was drawing close and it was very fun to have many friends at the race to talk to in preparing to make our way to the water. The tri club is growing and it is fun to see the sport grow.

The water was perfect in the high 60's as we started the 750 meter triangular swim. The start was more physical than any previous triathlon or Ironman I had ever been in. I was around flailing swimmers and I think I may have been in a bad starting spot. I got hammered in the goggles a few times for the first 50 meters and then the crowd opened up. Rounding th last bouy I could only see a few caps ahead of me. I ran right into some floating dead wood and was startled for a second wondering what the heck I hit but realized it was just wood. It startles you when you cant see two feet in front of you and you see something you are not expecting.. I came out of the water in 10th and had a pretty fast transition other than a slight struggle getting my left ankle out of the wet-suit. Ryan D was right with me and also had his bike set up right by mine. I got out ahead of him on the bike and knew he would shortly be catching me on the bike because he is one of the strongest cyclist I know. I thought to myself, wow holy cow I am in 5th or 6th coming out of t1!! The ride into Snow Canyon High was fast with most of it flat or downhill with only a few quick uphill bursts. It was lonely out there only seeing about 3 others on the bike. It was nice with no traffic and coming in off the bike in top 10 right behind Ben F. T2 was fast at 38 seconds and a quick grab of Abby's Unicorn and we were off. I told Abby I would race for her with her Unicorn!! A minute or so in I was passing Ben and we started to hit the uphills into the lava fields. I knew the I had to keep this pace or I would be caught. I saw Meri coming in off the bike and knew she was up in the lead somewhere against the other women. I made the turn-around and had made a gap on Ben but Craig and Heath were closing not too far behind. Heath is my shadow when it comes to racing. We had the almost exact same bike split by 1 second and in past races like the St George tri a month earlier we were steps from each other and he beat me out by seconds heading into the finish. I had a lead on him this go but knew he had the ability to catch me so I just kept pushing hard. I finished 6th over-all behind Craig and the gold medal was mine for the age group. Heath finished 7th right behind me for silver. It was pretty cool to see 5 of the top ten finishers were buddies I have been training with the past year. I stayed at the finish to see Meri finish 2nd over-all for the women and getting the silver medal and 2nd place plaque.

This was a fun race, with a good turn-out of near 170 participants. I hope they can continue and make it a yearly event for the Summer Games. Jeff and Colby put on a good race!! A huge thanks to those that helped Abby.

Now its time to check the calender and see what's next!!

135

Steve OLSEN

ST. GEORGE UT

Utah Male Overall

01:07:20.7

00:00:00.000

00:14:30.486

00:01:10.383

00:32:05.408

00:00:39.913

00:18:54.564

173

Todd MITCHELL

LAS VEGAS NV

Utah Male Overall

01:10:47.5

00:03:26.800

00:13:32.311

00:01:22.750

00:34:23.631

00:00:42.986

00:20:45.898

190

Kalani SCOTT

ST GEORGE UT

Utah Male Overall

01:10:56.0

00:03:35.300

00:11:40.828

00:01:37.469

00:34:27.121

00:00:39.636

00:22:31.005

202

Ryan DUCKWORTH

ST GEORGE UT

Utah Clydesdale

01:11:41.0

00:04:20.300

00:13:32.988

00:01:42.247

00:32:32.124

00:00:59.625

00:22:54.066

107

Craig COATS

ST. GEORGE UT

Utah M 25-29

01:12:08.6

00:04:47.900

00:13:37.937

00:01:56.627

00:35:14.236

00:00:47.171

00:20:32.631

138

Rich BRUIN

ST GEORGE UT

Utah M 35-39

01:12:21.0

00:05:00.300

00:13:29.209

00:01:40.164

00:34:42.809

00:00:38.664

00:21:50.230

139

Heath BURCHINAL

SAINT GEORGE UT

Utah M 35-39

01:12:26.7

00:05:06.000

00:13:56.598

00:02:10.835

00:34:43.293

00:00:49.257

00:20:46.814

155

Kim FORD

ST GEORGE UT

Utah M 40-44

01:13:14.6

00:05:53.900

00:11:57.743

00:01:33.639

00:35:41.807

00:01:13.596

00:22:47.858

Time to keep up on the Blog

2011-06-07T19:17:00.000-06:00

Testing Testing 123

Ironman Training??????

2009-10-27T00:14:00.002-06:00

When to actually start training has been churning in my mind the past year. I do not want to start serious training too early and then burn out or not peak at the right time. 20 weeks seemed to work well for CDA but I am not sure if there is a better option. For now I will keep enjoying my shorter workouts just to keep a base and then when January comes it will begin!!

Goulds+Jem+Rim=Fantastic

2009-07-05T21:46:00.003-06:00

Set out early this morning for the Hurricane ride. Rode with the Bro in-laws who I call Juan de Niner and King Hype. 21 miles of sweet trail riding. As usual they pinned it from the get-go. I was tempted to go out hard on the first mile and chase them down but remembered to leave some in the tank for the last 5 miles of this ride climbing out. So I kept it under 160 and just plugged along. Trail was in great shape as long as you stay on it as King found out by hitting some loose stuff. This ride makes you feel like you are on a slalom course with fast singletrack right then left then right then left. Reaching the final overlook where the bathroom is located I felt pretty good going into the last 4 miles(was it the Carbo Rocket?). We arrived back just as the heat was starting to set in.
I'm trying to figure out where the 25 hour race is going to be. I would like to ride it.
Its about time to charge the light and ge some evening rides in.

Stucki Springs To Start The Day

2009-07-02T23:20:00.005-06:00

Rode the red dirt early this morning. Starting from Poppy trail out and making a loop out of it. I am amazed at all the trails that still keep going further west from the turnaround point. Someday I will have to do some more exploring.
Jem and Hurricane Rim trails are on the schedule for Saturday.

Rain or Shine Vikingman Goes On.

2009-06-13T23:36:00.005-06:00

We arrived in Burley to cloudy skies. As the racer meeting progressed so did the rains. I kept thinking this race is not going to happen. The meeting seemed to insist it was going to take place so we planned for it. 5 am comes quick on a race morning. We drove down to Bike drop off as it was sprinkling here and there. The swim start was a mile up the river so we dropped our bike and run gear off protected under a rain poncho and headed up to the start. 90 men and women all huddled in the backyard of someones grassy yard by a boatramp waiting for the 7 am start. I was in my wetsuit so I was warm regardless if it was raining or not. The river was very calm as the start began. I swam out about 50 feet from shore which seemed to have the fastest current. It was hard to tell how fast was going but before I knew it I was at the finish exit in 29 minutes. You climb up a ladder onto a dock and run a good couple hundred yards to t1. I grabbed my stuff and entered the change tent and completely went to new clothes for the bike. I forgot how hard it was to put dry clothes on wet skin. I took forever but wanted to be warm for the ride. I started on the bike heading out on wet roads with a little rain. I forgot my shot blocks so relied mostly on my Perpetuem and water on the course. I had ups and down on the bike but seemed to be consistent. I started the run feeling good but hitting mile 8 thinking I was at mile 10 deflated me and I struggled the last few miles. I finished under my 6 hr goal and headed to the massage table. This race was just as good if not better than the races with 5 times as many people. They had the coolest trophies I have seen so far. An engraved vikingman in stone. The only complaint is the road out of t1 was riddled with a cracks every 10-20 feet. Note for next race....Go with Carbo Rocket for drink fuel.

SG TRIATHLON, I MEAN DuATHLON

2009-05-10T22:33:00.004-06:00

Clear skies and warm temperatures made it seem as if the day was going to be perfect for a triathlon. But winds from the north had other ideas and made it hard for the safety crews to stay in position on the water. Run-Bike-Run was the new race for the day. 2 hours and 6 minutes later I crossed the finish line 14th place out of the 60 competitors. I felt great on the tt bike and pushed my avg speed to above 20mph. The run was fine but difficult in the sand. I just pushed on with my avg pace. The first mile into the run took a minute for the body to kick in but after a water station and gu I felt pretty good.
If triathlon entry fees continue to increase (near 100 dollars for this one)I only see myself doing maybe one a year. I may do more ICup mtb. races instead.
Even though it was dissapointing to not do an actual tri, It was still good to see friends. I hope AJ has recovered and Rico has found his walking muscles again.
By this time the winds went elsewhere and people were swimming the course. Oh well.

6 Days to Tri Season Opener

2009-05-03T23:43:00.002-06:00

Saturday is the SGtri at Sand Hollow. I have been out to the lake to swim a few times and the water is near perfect temperatures. Perfect beach conditions to get a sunburn as well. Lets hope the engine is ready to go and is faster than last year!

Double Snake-Bite Spoils The Show

2009-04-05T16:48:00.003-06:00

I wasn't sure If I was going to race the Cholla this year since last years course was not the best or funnest course in the series in my opinion. But a change in the course for this year with a picture perfect day convinced me. I was not expecting much of a great performance since the last week I was up and down with soreness in my throat.
Turns out I was sitting 4th going into lap 2 with a few miles to go to the finish. But a sharp imbedded rock had other plans for my tires as I came out of a steep descent that abrubtly shot back up. I started to change my rear tire when a weezing sound started out of my front. (great, two flats). Funny thing is, with-in a few minutes while I was sitting there, 4 others hit that same spot and the same result. I fixed the flats with 1 1/2 co2 worth of air pressure and I jumped back on the trail knowing I would probably be last. I slumbered back deciding to dnf or just finish. I decided to finish. Great course this year. I will have to remember that spot for next time. Rico had a good race with the experts and the bro-in-law dnf'd with a flat in the same spot as me. I felt like I had left a great movie with a horrible ending.

To race or not to race

2009-04-02T17:49:00.001-06:00

Cholla race this weekend. I cant muster up some reasons to race this course other than I will be on the bike and racing.

Who's With Me

2009-03-20T23:09:00.002-06:00

Ironman St George 2010. Finally!! The wife and I are in!! I may have to hire a nanny!!

Record Turnout Rocks The Desert At The Desert Rampage

2009-03-09T19:04:00.008-06:00

I dont think I have ever been to an I Cup race with so many racers. Maybe its just because its the first of the season and last year is a blurr. I decided to get a good warmup before the race and set up my trainer and rode for a good 20- 30 minutes. My Bro-inlaw pulls up and laughs at me thinking I am way too serious about this. I always hate the feeling your body gets when you don't properly warm up and your heart rate rockets from resting to 170 before you know it. It paid off and my legs and lungs were ready for the initial shock. Another perfect day for racing. The pack of 20 or so in my group started out fast as usual. By the first mile everyone settled into their spots. I sat in at around 5th or so trying to keep an eye on the 1-3 guys. Once we hit the single track uphill we were all mixed in and I couldnt tell who was who. I ended up passing Bro-inlaw somewhere in the wash. He should of been kickin my butt on his SS 29er but he said he may have been puking in the bushes when I passed him. The down hill was superfast. On my next lap my stinkin lower back was cramping on the last climb before the descent back to the finish. I pushed through it and held on to 6th or 7th. 1 minute faster than last year but 3-4 spots behind last years 3rd place finish. Funny how you improve from a year ago but it seems others also improve or someone new comes out and puts the hammer down on us. The wife bumped up to sport this year and placed a respectable 6th in her group of 15 plus. Nice Job Pear!! Next up for mtb race is the Hurricane Cholla Challenge. Not my favorite course, but its racing.

Photo from zazoosh.com What a great job they do.

Tuacahn Duathlon, More than Drama in a Red Rock Canyon

2009-03-02T21:58:00.005-07:00

The 2nd annual Tuachan Duathlon 5k run 24 mile bike 5 k run was last Saturday. The first race of the year for me to test where I am for the pre-season. I knew it was going to be a fun day when the big guns showed up to show me how its done. It was also the first time for me to take the new tt machine out. Its much different to start out running compared to a triathlon with swimming first. You can see your competition and where you sit in the first 5 minutes where as in the water you really dont know until you are done with the swim. I started out the first mile somewhere in the sub 7 pace feeling like I was flying. I knew I was in for a tough race when 15-20 other guys were ahead of me and pulling away 6min pace. The big boys have not been hibernating during the winter thats for sure. I had to back it off a little so the engine wouldnt blow. I held my own on the bike passing a few and holding a good pace throughout the 24 miles. The last 5k the engine turned back to endurance mode and I finished 14th of 61 finishers. AJ put in a usual impressive race and finished 3rd over-all. Ricos better half did her first sprint duathlon race and finished strong. Look out Rico, you may be sharing the pain cave. The kids ran a mini race. I am not sure they knew what or why they were running but they loved it, especially getting the goodie bags at the finish.

Presidents weekend....Priceless

2009-02-16T16:46:00.005-07:00

Saturday: 34 Miles on the road bike up to Snow Canyon with Alex, Lacie, Wifey, and Bro in law.

Sunday: Stuki Springs with Jeff and Petey the Dog. Petey the dog barely made it back. Bear paw is pretty beat up but Stuki is good old Stuki.

Monday. Bear paw over to race course back to bear paw and home. Race course is in great shape. Near the top of the the first wash we now have a fence that diverts the trail. Someone thinks they had to own an acre in the middle of nowwhere I guess or to keep the atv's out of Stuki.

Veyo 40

2009-02-09T19:13:00.002-07:00

Took the road bike out Saturday with a few guys from the local tri club down south. Veyo loop from Ivins. I like this ride. Plenty of climbing and you never know what kind of weather you are gonna get when you get to the top. 20-30 Canyon Bicycle jerseys were heading up to Utah hill. Probably heading over to Mesquite. They had a sag wagon for their crew which I followed for 5 miles or so before I turned off. Looked fun though. Would of been out of place with a porcupine jersey though. I hope the weather is good for next weekend.

Is It The Weekend Yet?

2009-01-29T21:42:00.003-07:00

Going to hit the Desert single track this Saturday. Probably take the wife on the Barrel Trail and maybe Zen. This week seems to have been slow, I am glad its almost Friday. Looking forward to a weekend!! Temps should be in the 60's. Maybe I'll take my camera!

Whew!!

2009-01-19T22:06:00.002-07:00

What a great week and weekend. Thursday and Friday I was experiencing symptoms of the onset of a cold. I was hoping it would subside so I could still run in Saturdays 1/2 marathon. I was challenged by the wife so I could not sit this one out. I felt fine Saturday morning and with perfect weather for a race we were on our way with hundreds of other people. I finished 3 minutes behind my personal best and the Pearball came in 3 minutes after me. I talked with Dantley Young "a Tri genius" about upcoming races and also chatted with the inspiring Stan and Marti Davis family at the finish line.
I thought the rest of the day I would take it easy but for some insane reason Rico and I decided to go ride 2 1/2 hours all over the best single track in SG. I chased him around Bearpaw to Barrel to Race course to Zen. Not much of a recovery time for me. Heck I just as well of added a swim that afternoon but I had enough. I now have been walking like frankenstein up and down stairs due to knots in every muscle of my right and left legs. The flu/cold has hit me hard on Monday morning and I have been dragging today. Time to recoop

Stage is Set

2009-01-14T20:47:00.002-07:00

The stage is set for the Half Marathon sprint fest between me and the wife and some fellow weekly training friends this Saturday. With highs in the low 60's for Saturday it should be a perfect temp. for running. Main goal is to beat last years time 1:41:00. We will see, I have a little itch in my throat as if I have caught a little something. I dont think it will hinder me too bad. Maybe I'll have to go golfing after and ride in a cart to recover.

Runnin Them Hills

2009-01-08T20:33:00.002-07:00

58 deg temp on the porch Wed. so I went exploring and found a new 5.5mile trail run up in the backyard hills. Over 1000 feet of climbing before I was done. No more mud to contend with. It sure beats running on pavement. Todays temp was at 60 so I took the Tarmac out for an hour to visit the folks over by Sun River. They drive golf carts to get around over there. That would be nice when I retire, I mean If I ever can.

Not a Dull New Year

2009-01-02T16:02:00.005-07:00

Monday:Group family hike up to Scout Cave in a.m.
Afternoon Road ride up to Chevron on Telegraph street 35 miles.

Tuesday:Mtb Race course Green Valley with the 29er boys. Perfect singletrack conditions. down hill section was fast and soft.

Wednesday: Mtb Race course with Rico. Tire mechanicals cut our ride short.
Thursday: Off road 10k run around Bloomington hills. Ran into a little mud. Boy do shoes get heavy.

Friday: Zen trail with Rico. Trail was in great shape. I forgot how technical this trail was. You definitely have to be aggressive. Note to self to adjust seatpost to right height before ride instead of the end of the ride. This makes a huge difference when handling your bike and powering up those rocks.
Weather was at perfect temperatures all week. High 50's low 60's in the sun during midday. Gotta luvit.

Now you see it Now you don't

2008-12-27T13:59:00.004-07:00

The 10 year snow storm seems to have finally passed and the blue skys and warming up are in progress. I have never seen a snowman dissapear so fast in my life. Guess I am used to it being around for 3 months in Salt Lake City. Talked to an old buddy in West Jordan about getting over a foot of the white stuff and I dont miss it.

Ran 6 miles today and the better half got in twenty miles on the bike. Time to test the mtb trails for traction. It may need one more day to dry up. Next week should be nice for riding.

Swim Bike Crap I have to run.

2008-12-24T17:16:00.003-07:00

I started running again this week. Back to a training schedule to prepare for the 1/2 Marathon in January. No I will not win this race or even come close. I will try to beat my time from last year. It sure takes a while to get into a good pace and rhythm when you have taken a long break from running. After a few miles it actually is not too bad. Did I just say what I thought I said? I actually cant wait to start swimming again. And mtb season is just around the corner and the temp down here are great for mtb riding. It just needs to dry up a little.

Any ways.....Here comes Santa

Now where Did I Put That Shovel?

2008-12-17T21:35:00.003-07:00

Oh yeah I gave it away when I moved. A little white stuff and SG shuts down for a day. Schools closed, No snowplows in a 20 mile radius. I guess it is kinda nice for a change of scenery for a few days, not!! We built a snowman.

Scout Cave

2008-12-14T18:57:00.004-07:00

We hiked to Scout Cave Saturday with the kids. 4 miles round trip for a 3 and 4 year old is pretty adventurous. We made them walk. Give a kid a walking stick and he is set.

Had To Break Out The Layers

2008-12-07T17:27:00.006-07:00

Sweet day of riding in the sun on Saturday with a quick jaunt around Sun River. Met up with a new crew that calls themselves the "Sunday Riders". Then over to Dickins Festival to meet up with the family for lunch. Well I got out of that place without spending a penny, well except for a 1$ drink and some food for the little ones. Alot of cool stuff in there.
Sunday morning ride had to break out the arm warmers and knee warmers. Met up with the group for the Veyo Loop. I had to turn back at Gunlock to make it to Church in time looks like they are dredging that lake. A little chilly on the 8 mile descent down that canyon. Yes I know, riding on Sunday and going to Church?Yes.

Good times in SLC

2008-12-01T21:22:00.002-07:00

Home for t-giving dinner. Nice to be with family I have not seen for a few months. Rico tells me to bring my mountain bike and race the the Wheeler Farm gig on Saturday so I do. Well, what a fun day of getting worked over. I would like to try again someday but not on a full suspension 24lb mtb. Great accomodations both from my brother and Rico. Kids loved the 30ft Christmas tree Rico.
I was getting closterphobic from the cloudcover and decided I wanted to head back home before dark Saturday afternoon. So we watched the rest of the A's battle it out as my pic was on Rico to pull one out, but what can you expect after racing to a 2nd place finish previously with the ss. Nice work.
Sunday was 68 degrees and 32miles on the road bike was a nice way to burn those turkey pounds from the Holiday.

101 Things. I need to quit blogging and get out more!!

2008-11-27T00:17:00.005-07:00

Copy the list and highlight (mine are green) the ones that are true about you.

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Been to Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a snake
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Graduated from a College
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Swam in the Ocean
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Speak two languages
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris?
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Built a sandcastle at the beach
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Been in a bike race
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold something on E-bay
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Hiked on a closed hiking trail and got a citation
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake-oh sick
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Talked your way out of a ticket
101. Completed an Iron Man competition

Split Decision

2008-11-23T17:11:00.004-07:00

To Mtn Bike or to Road Bike? I'll do both. Stucki Springs on the MTB with the wife. Snow Canyon loop on the road bike for a nice Sunday stroll to wrap up a nice weekend.

My Other Rig Is A USAF Thunderbird, I wish.

2008-11-10T22:52:00.018-07:00

My ultimate dream is to fly in an f-16 or f-15 fighter plane. So with that dream being what it is, a dream, I dragged the kids and the nephew out to the closest thing to it at the annual airshow at Nellis AFB. I have been to a couple airshows and this topped them all. I was in amazement as I watched our United States Military demonstrate their plethora of aircraft. They ranged from F-16's, F-15's, F-18's, F-22's and so on. This is the first time I have ever seen an F-22 Raptor and all I could say was "WOW!! you have got to be kidding me". Dont blink while watching this video, and dont look into the sun,sorry. Enjoy the pics!!

The Better Half Runs An Impressive Half

2008-11-08T14:15:00.004-07:00

The Snow Canyon Half Marathon race was this morning and the better half being my wife turned in an impressive 1:41:21 time today. It couldnt of been a nicer day. The weather was perfecto. I took the easy way and just rode my bike along side the 300+ runners. I'll have to add this race to my list of have to's for next year so I can beat her!!
Go Utes!!

Ironman on Versus

2008-11-02T22:09:00.005-07:00

Sunday Nov 9th tune into "Versus channel" 1 p.m. and see the "Ironman Coeur d'Alene". You may see me along with the other tri-geeks going 140 plus miles in one of the best events on the planet.

Snow Canyon 1/2 Marathon

2008-10-22T18:25:00.000-06:00

Should I race or Not!!

Name This Place!!

2008-10-20T20:57:00.004-06:00

For Fall Break, yeah Fall Break, I put the bikes aside and took the fam in the pop-up to this cool place out in the middle of nowwhere. I only wish I had a Raptor with paddle tires and we would of been set!! We hiked all the way to the top and the kids slid down more times than I could count.

Tour de St George Our Own Way

2008-10-19T09:19:00.002-06:00

We decided to skip out on the 4th annual Tour de St George event this year and the 4 of us Smokey, Lambouu, Pear, and I rode our own route starting in Bloomington, out to Washington fields, up to the base of Snow Canyon and back to Bloomington. 43 miles in all. Nice for a fall morning in the desert. Next week will be riding 100 miles with a bit larger group as King Hype makes his way down for a visit from the north.

Stuki/Stucci Springs at Sunset.

2008-10-09T16:17:00.004-06:00

The road bike is set aside and the mtn bike is rollin.
Best time to ride....Sunset. 6 miles of rolling climbs, 6 miles of downhill rolling thunder with plenty of adrenaline to go with it. Any questions?

Mtn Bike Season coming soon

2008-10-04T16:21:00.002-06:00

It is just about prime time to put the road bike away and get the dirt machine out and ready to go. Time to go map out some new courses on the mtn bike. Glad I dont need to get that snowblower ready!!

2:36:17 minutes holds up for a 3rd place Finish at Kokopelli

2008-09-21T10:04:00.005-06:00

Hundreds converged on the shores of Sand Hollow reservoir for this years Kokopelli Triathlon. It was 100% picture perfect weather this year as we began our two lap 1500 meter swim just as the sun was rising on the horizon. It was smooth sailing for me throughout the race with just a hicupp on the run as the heat may have slowed me. Final times: (swim 31:27) (t1 1:20) (bike 1:12:46) (t2 :41 ) (Run a dissapointing 50:01). 3rd place in age group and 24th over-all. The wife, brother, and sister-inlaw all raced as well. Pics to come shortly!!

6 Days to Go Time

2008-09-14T19:16:00.003-06:00

Kokopelli Triathlon is already upon us again this Saturday. 4 family members and 4 close friends will be competing for bragging rights along with 600 others. I scored some of the new Specialized BG Trivent Triathlon shoes for my b-day. It should cut down at least a whole 10 seconds on t-1 and many minutes off the bike split!! Yeah.

Just make up your mind already!!

2008-09-08T17:34:00.005-06:00

I told myself last year I would race the Ogden Valley Tri next Saturday. But as the date approaches and the thought of dishing out 200$ in travel expsenses, (Gas Mainly) and entry fees I have decided to skip it this year. The brother is going to be upset I am not racing with him. I even made contact with every tri club member in SG and no one wanted to carpool and even stay for free up at the race. Oh well KOKPELLI is right around the corner

The Legends of Tri

2008-09-01T10:12:00.002-06:00

I had the opportunity to ride with two of the eilite age group triathletes in Utah this weekend. Stan and Marti Davis have been dominating their age group and many other athletes for years in the sport of triathlon. This is pretty amazing considering they are in their 60's. What a great example they set for the sport. Their commitment to training makes my 20 weeks to Ironman training look like a walk in the park. I hope to be as active as they are when I am that age. 75 miles in the saddle and a few strokes in the lake with a little jog make for a great work-out weekend. What will I do next weekend?

Biked, Boarded, Surfed, Swam

2008-08-30T12:59:00.002-06:00

Thats what I did today!!
What did you do?

Suckered into Fantasy Football

2008-08-23T18:32:00.003-06:00

I spent 2 hours of my biking and family time sitting in a room drafting a fantasy football team with 15 other friends today. We were only through half the draft and I had to get out of there. It should be fun, or just an excuse to watch 10 football games every Sunday.

We are headed out to Sand Hollow to ride the Tri course. I have to see how long this bike course will take and try to beat it on race day. Schmoelka is getting faster with her new Giant.
Should I race the Ogden Valley Tri the week before?

Zion to SG

2008-08-17T16:16:00.003-06:00

Met up with Rico and the Caveman to shuttle them through the Zion tunnel on their 300 mile plus journey on roadbikes from SLC to St George. The family stayed up at Panguitch lake for the weekend so it was almost, almost an ideal situation to pick them up and drive them through on our way home. I blazed the remaining fifty miles with them but had to get back a little earlier than them so I went ahead at the Chevron station on Telegraph St. The heat wave was bad and the wind was starting to pick up so I was glad when I was done. Poor Rico has to drive back for 4 hrs to SLC now which he just spent 3 days riding his bike to get here.
Cant wait to go back to the lake sometime soon.

Break from the bike.

2008-08-09T15:12:00.003-06:00

Quail Creek and a little air time.

Hiking the NARROWS

2008-08-02T18:26:00.003-06:00

We ventured the Narrows Saturday with a group of friends from the wifes work. We shuttled up to the trailhead and started our journey at 7:50am. The journey entailed 16 miles io hiking and navigating the Virgin River as we followed it through 100 plus foot high sandstone walls. It required us to hike through knee to waist deep water. Half way through the hike the river started to get more difficult with bigger boulders and slippery moss. Everyone fell at least once and became completely drenched, it was just a matter of time. If it weren't for our handy walking sticks we would probably still be up there.
If you like to hike and want to see formations that most people never even know about, then go do this. If you prefer a shorter hike you can hike up the river from the bottom but you miss alot of cool stuff.

No pics of course because I cant find the camera. I will have to get some from the others.

Spudman Triathlon

2008-07-28T15:31:00.004-06:00

Spudman was a blast. We loaded up the White Pearl (tent trailer) courtesy of Rico and headed up to Burley Friday afternoon. We got our usual primo spot right under the shade of the driving range within walking distance of the race start. I was off in the 2nd wave behind the elites and came out of the water ahead of most of my age group. I was solo for the whole ride except for catching and passing about five guys and being passed by 1. I was slighlty slower on the bike compared to last year and I am not sure why. It could of been that I was on a tt bike last year and a road bike this year. The run was right on target for my goal at 7:45min/mile and I finished 5:32 faster over-all compared to last year. Was I happy? Oh Yeah!! I felt like I was fast but could only pull out a 17th place of 203 in my age group. Congrats to AJ for smoking his age group for 1st place and passing me on the run and giving a few words of encouragement. Time to move up the Elite my friend!!

I am not sure if I will do this race next year or not. If I register i will regfister the wife first and me second since she was unable to get in this year race. I know she wanted to compete against her triaing partners.

On a sad note, An athlete passed away during the swim for reasons unknown. We all feel for the families and friends.

Quail Creek Perfection

2008-07-21T17:25:00.004-06:00

I took the Tarmac (now semiconverted into a tt bike) out to meet the fam at Quail Creek to do some wakeboarding, kneeboarding and wakesurfing. The conditions were unbelievable. The water was so smooth it looked like a mirror image of the sky above. We were the only boat on the lake other than a fishing boat off in the corner by the dam. The only wake we could see was the wake from our boat or the wake from one of the waterbirds swimming nearby. To top it off we finally got the boat dialed to get a bigger wake for catching air on the wakeboard. bla bla bla
Anyways, Tuesday morning will be a final swim prep for the Spudman race on Saturday. I hope to get one more run in Wednesday and then I should be good. It will be a fast course. I just hope I can go fast!!

Pre Heat The Oven, I want a Spudman

2008-07-19T15:54:00.003-06:00

Next weekend is the annual Spudman Triathlon in good ol Burley Idaho. One of the most unique triathlons that starts everyone out in waves going down the Snake river, followed by a 20 plus mile bike and a 6.2 mile run. This race is over 1000 people so chances are I will not get a spudman but will definitely be trying to be my time from last year.

What's next? R&R in Carlesbad

2008-07-08T17:44:00.002-06:00

We took a week, rented a 15 pass van and drove to the beautiful coast of Carlesbad for some days on the beach. We stayed again at the Surf Motel across the street from the beach, I decided to take the bike and get a few miles in. It is pretty fun to ride along the coast at sealevel with the ocean within reach. We spent one of the days at Legoland for the littles which they had a ton of fun at. I had no idea it was a huge park similar to that of Disney but on a smaller scale and specifically for children under 5.
We ate some good food at Maria Pollos, Knockout burgers and of course Cold Stone for desserts.
Pics to come shortly.

As The Song Goes: "I AM IRONMAN".

2008-06-27T18:33:00.002-06:00

The over-all race went pretty well for me. My over-all goal was to be able to finish and if I could finish I wanted 13 hrs but missed it by 35 minutes or so. The whole race I was in check with myself telling me not to go too hard because it was going to be a long day. The last thing I wanted to do was bonk in the last 3 miles. I was worried about the 2000 plus pack of people at the start of the swim but I moved toward the front and lined up with the bouys. I figured less people in front of me the better and if they wanted to go around me they can. I swam a nice pace the whole time. The water was 59 and I didnt think it was too bad until the end I started feeling cold and just wanted it over with. 2 loops on the swim. Much different than the Sprint tri's in that you dont really rush through the transitions, At least I didn't. The volunteers were great helping with everything. The bike was awesome heading out of town it was like I was in a TT you see on TV flying down the streets lined with people cheering behind barricades. About 40 miles in we started hitting hills, some pretty steep, others gradual, two loops so I knew miles 80-100 were going to be tough. The scenery was spectacular whenever I took a moment to look. I stayed very hydrated because I had to stop and pee a total of 5 times while on the bike. I was afraid that would drop my speed but I had to go. Towards the end of the bike my lower back was killing and I kept thinking I still need to run so stay calm. Finally in transition with volunteers at your beck and call with wet towels helping with your bag and your bike. I thought I was at a day spa(ha ha). I exited transition immediately started running and decided to do a run/walk tempo run3min walk 1. But I lost track of that with aid stations every mile so I just jogged from aid station to aid station and walked through each one hydrating and eating. Again I kept telling myself not to push too hard. I wanted too be able to run to to the finish. The run was two loops. Coming back into town and hitting mile 25 I couldnt believe I had made it. The crowds were nuts and you could see the finish banner in the distance. It was almost an emotional experience for me when I crossed that tape and the medal goes around your neck and you know you are an Ironman!! I took a good 30 minutes to recover in medical with a massage, a piece of pizza and a coke.

Final Week to Ironman

2008-06-17T18:00:00.003-06:00

5 days to go and my mind is abuzz with anxiety as the big race nears. I cant wait!!
I found out you can track an athletes progress during the race at Ironman.com. Check it out if your bored Sunday!!

Summer Games Triathlon was last week!! I sat it out and cheered the wife to a Bronze medal in her age division. She was fast. My brother finished well considering he has been dealing with bone spurs in his neck and no feeling in his left arm.

Day at the Lake

2008-06-10T19:50:00.002-06:00

I rode out to Sand Hollow and swam along the shoreline from bouy to bouy. The kids played on the beach for hours and the wife rode the bike course in prep for her Summer Games triathlon this weekend. I am skipping out on this tri since it probably is not a good idea to do a race a week before the Ironman. It will be nice for a change to cheer from the sidelines.

I found this pic of last years start of Ironman Coeur d'Alene. Wow, where is the best spot to be? I think I see Waldo.Photo by ASI - www.asiorders.com

Blazing Saddles S to S (Santaquin to Springdale)

2008-06-07T19:29:00.007-06:00

Our 2 day 195 mile bike trip turned out to be quite the adventure. Day one started in Santaquin at 5am and ended in Panguitch many many hours later. We had to battle 30mph headwinds at times which made our speed slow way down. We had an awesome support crew that met us with drinks and goodies every 20 miles or so. Day two was pretty nice. The first group left early to get a head start and I waited for the bro-inlaw to join us who drove in from Lehi early this morning. The scenery was amazing as the road snaked along the Sevier river. As the bro-inlaw and I started our climb out of Mt Carmel he had a little accident when he was following to close and clipped my rear tire. As soon as I felt my rear tire get nudged I knew it wasnt good. I heard the bike crash over and looked back to see him holding his elbow in pain. We continued on and eventually caught the other group. Luckily our support crew was near and he got bandaged up. We were so close to Zion that we continued on and finished our ride in Springdale.

Here are some pics..

Tour de Utah

2008-06-04T20:02:00.003-06:00

Thursday morning bright and early we will set out on a two day 235 mile bike ride stretching from Santaquin to Springdale. Highlights will be scenic towns such as Salina, Circleville, Bear Valley, Panguitch, Mt Carmel, and Zions Park. Pictures to come....stay tuned.

What to eat?

2008-06-02T17:01:00.002-06:00

So what does one eat during a race that can take anywhere from 9-17hrs? I have been trying to figure this out for many days now. I think I finally have a good idea of what I am going to do. I hope it works as well as it has been in training. 20 days to go!!
Congrats goes out to AJ who finished IM 70.3 in Boise in under 5 hrs!! Dang Fast!!

Ahhhh The Mtn Bike.

2008-05-24T19:30:00.007-06:00

It was nice to put the road bike away for a day and get the mtn bike out. The bro in-laws are in town so we went and shredded up and down the Zen and Bearpaw for a few hours. The weather was perfect with a slight overcast. We saw a cool snake lounging next to the trail just waiting for us to pass by. Lampropeltis g. californiae or California Kingsnake I believe.

We almost made it with no wrecks until my one bro in law just got done riding a knarly downhill section and made it out to the flat section not more than 100 yards he hit a rock throwing his handlebar into his groind taking him down for the count. 5 minutes later and with a ripped pair of cycling shorts he was back on the bike and we kept riding.

It is always good to get out on the mtn bike for a change.

Schools Out For Summer!!!!!!

2008-05-23T16:27:00.002-06:00

Time to bear down and get my last few weeks of training in. 30 days to go till IM!! 2 1/2 months off of work, hmmmm its gonna be nice.
2hrs 40 minutes of running today.... I hate running.
This weekend I will do a practice half I/M distance. Hope the weather holds.
Good luck to Rico the road racer/Mtbkr turned singlespeeder this weekend at the race Monday. It shouldnt even be close!!

SLC visit and Women of Steel

2008-05-21T19:08:00.002-06:00

For the 2nd time since we moved south we made the trip back to our old hometown. We stayed in the Magna Mansion courtesy of Team Rico and family. The Women of Steel triathlon was good to the wife as she placed a 6th in her age of 115 and 13th over-all of 458.
I spent friday afternoon chasing Rico around the shoreline trail and then again on the Stane Crane mem race course in Draper. I want to do that race on Monday but dont want to pay 4$ per gallon to drive up again.

Long week of training in progress. 18 hours is the goal. I tried a new running plan. Run for 3 minutes, walk for 1. I ran 8miles today and felt pretty good at the end. I will try it again and see how it works for a longer distance this weekend.

Windsurf,Bike,Run

2008-05-11T18:10:00.002-06:00

20 plus mile an hour winds greeted us as triathletes entered the water for the SGtri. Swimming into 3 foot waves made it a challenge for just your regular triathlon swim. I kept swimming and swimming and told myself I would make it. A dissapointing swim for me. As soon as I got in rhythm a wave would throw me off track again and again. I finally made it out 8 minutes longer than I was expecting. The run was mediocre as my goal was to run a 7:45 min mile and ended with an 8:24min mile. I had to pee the whole time on the run and didnt want to stop.
The swim for the 900 Sprint athletes was xld and turned into a Biathlon. The wife hammered out an awesome race averaging over 17mph on the bike and running a 7:57. min. mile. She did very well. Next week for her is the Women of Steel tri. Maybe I should be getting her the tri bike!!

Refreshing!!

2008-05-04T16:54:00.002-06:00

I made the ride out to Sand Hollow to test the water for next weeks huge triathlon. The water was definitely refreshing as I took my first few strokes out into the bay. I forgot how cold water can pierce my eardrum with pain as it enters and exits my ear canal.( reminder to put earplug in right ear) After 30 seconds with a wetsuit on it was nice. I ran the sand course shortly after. If I can run what I am capable of I should do ok in this one. The wife biked the course and timed it in 4 minutes faster than her last years race time!! Wait till race day, she may knock another minute off. I hope this Ironman training will pay off in this shorter event. Stay tuned....

Which Sounds Better "2 months or 8 weeks"?

2008-04-26T15:21:00.002-06:00

The 20 week training to IM is half over. 2 months to go. I am not sure how my body should feel. 3 weeks ago I was slow and sluggish and last week and this week I felt like a perpetual machine. The next 3 weeks will be very demanding and peaking at almost 17-18hrs for one of the weeks.

Playing Softball causes sore muscles?

2008-04-19T18:03:00.002-06:00

So I ran over 35 miles last week with one of those being a wonderful 16 miler while being chased by a skunk. This week is my favorite training week which will give me over 120miles on the bike. Leading up to Thursday I hardly have a sore muscle on my body. Thursday night I decide to go play 2 games of softball with some buddies. What happens? The next two days I can barely walk. Explain that one to me.
4 hour ride tommorow. Anyone want to join!!

40$ mtn bike ride.

2008-04-13T19:44:00.003-06:00

I decided at the last minute to register for the Cholla Challenge, I pre rode the course the week before and told my self I would not do it. It was a good course up until 7 miles into the course when you navigate through sand wash after sand wash. I decided to do it anyways feeling I would regret watching it from the sidelines.
The race started out ok as I was in second place leading the pack out for the first 3 miles. The first place guy was gone gaining miles ahead of all of us and probably should not of been riding in the sport group. Soon after mile 4 I faded back a few spots and just tried to keep the leaders in sight. As the first loop was about to finish with abour 1000 yds to go I came out of a gravel wash with a flat front tire. I pulled off to fix it and rider after rider passed by and I soon told myself it was over. I debated to toss the towel in since I was at the beginning of the second loop but I thought I just as well get a ride out of the day and try not to take last. I caught a few guys and still finished. The wife put in a great race and finished 2nd. She had first and lead the whole race but got caught and passed the last mile to the finish. She was mad!!

I still needed to get my swim so we took the kids to the pool and put in 1000 yds in the pool.

Swim week sunshine!!

2008-04-02T17:28:00.002-06:00

Half way through my swim week and no gills yet. It has been nice though. The pool I have been training in is outside and the weather has been nice to go along with it.
I think I have had at least 20 or more days of riding outside with perfect weather.

Fish Evolution

2008-03-30T17:46:00.002-06:00

This week requires over 15,000 yards in the pool. I may sprout gills and webbed feet before the end of the week. Nice thing is, the pool is outside and the weather will be nice.

TOTALS

2008-03-23T20:39:00.000-06:00

WEEK 14
SWIM 6900YDS
BIKE 107 MILES
RUN 21MILES

The "old" but now "new and improved" Rocket

2008-03-22T18:01:00.004-06:00

The old o5 sworks has evolved into a triathlon machine. Thanks to Rico's bike shop and his expertise in bike building. She is fast, at least I think she is.

15 hr training this week. Next week is a rest week down to 8 hrs. 3months to go till Ironman CDA

Podium for two please

2008-03-08T16:22:00.003-07:00

After a much anticipated wait for the racing season, the first Mtn Bike race of the intermountaincup arrived. The wife took a first place victory in her division and I pulled out a 3rd place victory myself.
The Triathlon training for me is coming along well and it definitely is a good way to avoid getting too bored from just doing one sport all the time.

Does walking around Disneyland count as part of my training?

Adding it up as of 2-4-08 to 2-24-08

2008-02-24T19:25:00.004-07:00

Swam 13,200yds

Biked 240 miles

Ran 47Miles

Swim Bike Run Swim Bike Run

2008-02-23T19:43:00.003-07:00

Training log to date
Feb 4th to Feb 17th
Swim: 7400 yards
Bike: 187 miles
Run: 29 miles

Intermountain Cup MTB starts 3-1-08
I will have to fit the first race into my schedule!!

Monday It Begins

2008-02-03T14:28:00.000-07:00

Monday is the first full-on training day for the 20 weeks leading to Ironman. It calls for a 5-6 mile run and a 2000yd swim workout. Hmmm I hate to see what week 6 looks like.

"It's 64 degrees and I'm riding my bike, what are you doing"?

2008-01-26T18:09:00.000-07:00

Race Course Today
It was sweeeet!!

Thats all.

New Personal Record

2008-01-20T13:42:00.000-07:00

Final time 1:41:16 at a 7:43 min/mile for the 1/2 marathon Saturday. I amazingly beat my time from 2 years ago by 6 minutes. The wife even beat her time by 6 plus minutes. Must of been the Bajio food the night before!!
I had to skip out on the bike ride with rico and aj after the race due to the babysitter pass already being used up for the day with grma. It was probably better off, who wants some amateur holdin up the elite anyways.
I took the road bike out today for a short ride to get the tight legs loose from the race yesterday. Now its time to sit back and watch the Chargers game.

Big Run

2008-01-17T16:25:00.000-07:00

SG 1/2 marathon Saturday. I need to fit a bike ride in as well.
goal 1:47:00,
prediction 1:47:00

actual time tba....

Saturday

2008-01-13T16:07:00.000-07:00

8 mile run in the desert.
40 mile road ride up to Gunlock with Big R.
55 degrees!!
Not bad,not bad at all.

Thanks goes out to Rico for fixin the noise in my hub!!

Spudman Joke

2008-01-08T18:43:00.000-07:00

My attempt to register 5 family members all at once for the Burley Spudman Triathlon at noon on Monday before selling out failed. The website kicked me out after entering all information. Frustrated I started to re-enter one by one. I got myself entered and went to register my wife and the race was booked at max capacity. 1600 triathletes in 30 minutes. I am now somewhat dissapointed that only I got in. We like to make it a family trip to Idaho. I probably wont be able to get a refund at this point either. Oh well, If I go I will join all the other cheaters that draft off of each other during the bike like last year and probably join in with them.

In Good Company

2008-01-04T16:33:00.000-07:00

Team Rico and the Rasmussen clan finally made their way south and stayed with us for the remaining days of the holiday. It was nice. The kids got to play and the bike legs got worked over trying to keep pace with Rico on his brand spankin new but now soon to be sold hardtail. I dont blame him. We rode everyday but one and I missed the day with slyfox. Thats ok, I would have slowed them up anyways.
1/2 marathon in 2 weeks and Ironman training will start Feb 4th to start my 20 week grind.

The Day The Earth Stood Still

2007-12-25T18:01:00.000-07:00

For some insane reason I got up at 5:45am so I could joining the running crew on their daily 6 mile run. The roads and side streets were traffic free and you could not here anything for miles. Only on Christmas Morning I guess. Very peaceful and everyone still in bed waiting for Santa to leave. I almost went biking in the afternoon but the wind came up and it felt a little too chilly for me. I needed to figure out my new GPS toy I got anyways.
Merry Christmas.

S"no" white Christmas!

2007-12-23T17:59:00.000-07:00

It's the first year I will actually celebrate Christmas without snow and I like it. Actually I like being out of the inversion even more. You can actually wake up in the morning and go for a run or ride without breathing toxic haze from an inversion. I think I will celebrate the 25th riding Stucci Springs!! Hmmm maybe I will do the race course then Stucci!! hmmm maybe I'll ride the road bike!! Well I have a day or so to decide.
I cant wait to see the kids open their presents.

Race Course for the dogs!!

2007-12-09T14:12:00.000-07:00

I went and rode the race course today. I decided to get my dogs out for some exercise. I saw a bear and thought I need that on my doorstep. The eagle was pretty cool too. I dont think it would sit too well with my neighbors though. The wash was full of water and the dogs loved it.

And the desert shall soak up the rains!!

2007-12-02T13:44:00.000-07:00

After 6-8 hours of much needed rain in the desert, the coast was clear for the Poppy Trail. I even signed in on the new visitor log they have at the entrance. 90% of the people signed in were here to mtn bike. I just never see them. They better add some more pages for me. I did have to start out with my arm warmers but soon after starting they did their job and were not needed until the downhill.

I bet the race course would have been fun as well with the rock wash full of water.

I'll probably head over their Monday or Tuesday and try a few laps before dark.

I gotta make a Christmas list. If anyone reads this blog tell me your #1 Christmas wish?

Cyclists in St George?

2007-11-25T09:57:00.000-07:00

After showing up for a group ride at the bike shop that consisted of only me showing up, I headed out on my own again for a ride up Snow Canyon State Park. To my surprise I met up with three other riders heading up the same way. It turned out to be Whitney, Toni, and Brad all from Salt Lake. All three whomm I already know from family. Brad is a well known Mtn biker on the Intermountain cup and Toni a not too shabby triathlete. We began our climb up Snow Canyon at a pretty good pace. Brad and Toni were on a tandem so they were slow and steady but made it too the top not too far behind. Descending back down was a different story as they descended like a semi with no brakes, too fast for me to even try to hold on their wheel. That ride is awesome if you take some time to look at the scenery for 5 minutes. Their were people rockclimbing up the face of a 200 foot cliff that looked pretty fun (not).
It was good to get out and burn that excess Thanksgiving feast.

If I were a Christmas Tree!! This is the one I would be!!

2007-11-19T17:48:00.000-07:00

Desert Running and Afternoon Riding

2007-11-18T11:52:00.000-07:00

I was convinced to get out of bed on a Saturday to go run in the desert with the Desert Rat running crew. I am glad I did. They have a new route out near a mtn bike trail that I have yet to ride called "church rocks". The sun was still below the horizon as we started our 7 mile out and back run. The sunrise over Zions off in the distance was amazing and we could see Sand Hollow reservoir peaking just over a ridge. We take our dogs and often the dogs outnumber humans on these runs. They are in puppy paradise especially for huskies that love to run. The geology and rock features are amazing and tell some kind of geologic story.
That afternoon I hooked up with the owners of Sunset Cycles for a road ride out to Kayenta. It's funny because they close up shop and lock their doors and go riding.

"It's 6:00pm and I am riding in 68 degrees?" "Inconceivable"!!!!

2007-11-14T20:24:00.000-07:00

Title says it all. I rode out to Stucci today wearing my normal summer gear in November. Sweeeeeet!!

Epic Weekend

2007-11-11T19:25:00.000-07:00

Green Valley RC.

Saturday was primo as I enjoyed 3 hours in the morning riding the Tarmac around the northern parts of SG and then meeting up for lunch with the fam for a "Cheeseburger in Paradise" at Island Broiler (one of my favorite eating establishments in SG).

Saturday night the wife and I got away from reality and spent the evening at the Coyote Inn at Green Valley. Very nice place themed around complete rest and relaxation. However after sleeping in, it wasn't all rest. We brought our mtn. bikes to ride the what is now endangered Greenvalley Racecourse. We have to take advantage of this course before the land developers go crazy with homes. The weather was so perfect we decided to continue our ride and rode back to the house via the Bear Paw Poppy trail. If you ever want to get addicted to mtn biking, this is the trail that will do it.

Ohh, funny how I miss the kids just from being away for a night.

Solo Sunday!!

2007-11-04T19:35:00.000-07:00

I couldnt pass up the nice day and decided to take the epic out to stucki springs today. I am just getting over a little cold I must have got from one of the little ones. I didnt see any one else on the trail. I am pretty sure I am the only one in SG that rides a bike.

Nothin Much

2007-10-29T16:48:00.000-06:00

Not alot happening lately other than riding as much as possible in the afternoons. The weather is perfect except for a little smoke coming over from California. I am getting bored of riding solo and need to start some kind of club down here. I sometimes think I am the only cyclist down here and then on occasion out of the blue I see someone cruising on a bike more exspensive than my two cars put together. Maybe I will make some group ride business cards and pass them out when I see someone on a bike.

Another day of fun in the warm sun!!

2007-10-22T17:32:00.000-06:00

The wife and I together conquered the 100 miles of the Tour de St George Saturday. The day could not of been any better for a ride across the desert. Although I miss a racing atmosphere, It was nice to relax and this was good time. I even felt like I could run a few miles afterwards but I didnt. Mile 70-80 was challenging mentally climbing up Snow Canyon. However the food we had at all the rest-stops must of kicked in on the descent down because I had plenty of energy to finish.

Next race....Saturday, Summit Triathlon...

100 Miles of Fun

2007-10-18T20:06:00.000-06:00

Saturday is the big ride of the Tour de St George 100 miler with 6000 feet of climbing. The weather forcast is planned to be in the 70's and plenty of sun! I am excited to put the new Specialized rig through it's paces. The start and finish has moved to the new Town Square which will provide a more relaxed area to start and finish. Those who come to cheer will have a place to relax. Much better than the parking lot gathering they had last year. Seven friends and family members are planning on riding together. It should be a good old time.

I'll post a ride update after the race, I mean ride.

Carlesbad Cali!!

2007-10-15T16:55:00.000-06:00

I'll be back again!!

To Carlesbad that is. This is my 2nd time to Carlesbad. The first time was for a guys only family trip last year for the lack-luster performance of Utah vs UCLA football game. So this year I decided to take the wife and kids. Where do I start with the highlights?

Vegged out on the clean sandy beach with perfect boogie boarding waves.

Watched awesome sunsets with the family.

Drooled over wave after wave of road cyclists as they cruised by our hotel in groups of 10-20 every 2-3 minutes. (Where did they all come from, I have never seen this many).

Actually took my bike out and put some miles in as well on the new Tarmac. !!! No wonder everyone rides out here. Riding along the coast is pretty cool!

Collected seashells with the wife and kids.

Built sandcastles with the kids and destroyed them.

Ate awesome pizza from the Pizza Port. (Or as wife would say "Pick-up a date port")

Excellent Mexican place called Pollo's Maria.

Visited the Wild Animal Park!! Kids loved the animal merry-go-round. Lions were cool. No crowds.

Rode my bike some more along the coast. Realized I was riding with a group that were riding in the MS150.

Watched Fletch in the hotel room.

Stayed across the street form the beach in a 2 star hotel with a 4 star location, staff and breakfast. Surf Motel!!

Avoided all heavy traffic driving home.

Yeah plans for next spriing are in the works!!

50!! Years Young. Something to Look Forward to.

2007-10-10T21:58:00.000-06:00

It may be 16 years away, but turning 50 may not be so bad. In October it means you can compete against the fiercest, fastest, quickest and friendliest seniors in the world. The events include: cycling, mtn biking, triathlon and even one of my talented secrets: ping pong!!

For the next two weeks, SG will be home to 10,000 athletes from around the world. I plan on attending some volleyball matches and may try to get some pointers by watching some ping pong. They even have a road bike criterium race right off of Bluff street. Here are a few pics from the opening ceremonies and more to come!! Meanwhile I will be relaxing on the beach in Cali. Enjoy!!

I'll just watch this one

2007-10-06T19:47:00.000-06:00

Bro-in-law and I rode up to mile marker 17 of the SG marathon to cheer on sis-in-law who is running in her 3rd SG marathon. It was amazing how 6800 people can stretch out mile after mile after mile. It brought back memories of my first marathon 2 years ago. She finished just over 4 hrs and is still walking tonight. Tommorrow morning may be a different story. I actually thought for a moment that I wished I were running in the race. I quickly changed my mind and was very content to just be enjoying the bike. Maybe next year after the Ironman I will be ready again.

Moonlighting with the Minewt

2007-09-30T21:37:00.000-06:00

I took the Minewt nite light out for a test ride on the Bear Paw Poppy trail this weekend. The moon was full so I thought it would be a good weekend to try it. I am amazed that a light smaller than a cell phone can light up a trail. This trail is quite interesting in the dark since it has rolling hills that resemble the longest rollercoaster in the world. I will be out again soon to take the Stucci Springs route. That will be real intense since coming back you can reach speeds close to 30mph. Them Coyotes better watch out!!

Burst my Bubble

2007-09-24T20:33:00.000-06:00

The St George Bubble couldn't hold off the rains this Saturday as we started our swim in Sand Hollow for the long anticipated 40 minute delay of the Kokopelli Triathlon. All was well with just a gentle breeze from the south and the bubble doing its job holding the clouds at bay to the west. I knew the rains had arrived as every breathe I took had the smell of summertime rain in the air. Some 30 plus minutes later I came out of the water and sprinted as fast as I could up the ramp. I slowed to many dissapointed and confused looks on everyones face as they were all in a hold positon waiting for the rain to subside or stop. The rain didnt bother me since I was already soaked from the swim. 5 minutes later as I was ready to go on the bike, they announce the race is cancelled. The excitment turned off like a light switch and everyone packed up and left in a record time to get home and get dry.
Sunday I got out on the single track with Rico blazin the Stucci Springs trail. One of the best trails in Utah I would say.
Later today I realized I dont have any races planned in the near future, other than the century tour of SG. I better get ridin again!!

Ogden tri

2007-09-17T00:33:00.000-06:00

In education a 93 % will get you an "A" in most classes. So I look at my race on Saturday this way: I am one happy student if I can finish faster than 93% of the 538 tri geeks that came out for Saturdays triathlon at Pineview reservoir. A huge event for the sprint that has almost tripled in the last 3 years.
I was ready.... The swim started out nice as I felt like I was near the front until everyone seemed to collapse near the first bouy turn 300meters out. My goggles were fogged at that point so i was relying on instinct and other bodies around me to keep me on track. I had a fast transition to the bike and a fairly good bike split passing people is alot funner than being passed by them. Coming into t2 I had some trouble locating my spot to rack my bike....arrrggghhh and lost precious seconds running down two rows before I found it. I need a helium balloon next time. The run was an avg run for me at 8 min miles. I need to step that up a little more. In the end I came out 9th of 43 in age group and 38th of 538 over-all. Great over-all race!! We even had the best parking spot. I forgot to take pictures.

The bikes in the shop getting a makeover to see if I can save some seconds next week at Kokopelli. That is gonna be a long one.

"I like Running 1/2 marathons"? Add this one to the "Have to do List".

2007-09-02T14:36:00.000-06:00

Did I just say what I thought I said?
Mother nature welcomed us as we arrived at the shuttle bus parking lot just before sunrise on Saturday morn. A quick 5 minute lightning storm and downpour showcased as if it were part of a pre race show. Lucky we were still sheltered in our car and avoided becoming drenched. Soon it passed as the sunrose and the SG weather bubble prevailed with blue sky.
We arrived by shuttle at the start line and all filed off like school children getting off at their bus stop. Bus after bus arrived and soon more than 200 people that enjoy this running thing arrived to kick our butts.
The wife and I decided to run together for the first 5k and then the race was on from their. Mile by mile flew by and so did the scenery. The body was feeling good at 4 miles in and I decided to kick it up a notch. Knowing I still needed to pace myself to survive 9 more miles, mile by mile seemed like minute by minute. Before I knew it mile 12 and 13 were near and I could see the last turn to the finish. My goal was to beat 2hrs. At mile 12 I knew I had it beat but decided to keep my same pace going to see if I could beat 1:50:00. I crossed the line at 1:49:33 and a 10th place in age group. Not far behind was the wifey at 1:57:50 beating her 2 hr goal and a 7th place spot for her. This one will go on the "Have to do" 1/2 marathon lists. The route also makes a top list for scenic beauty.
Hmmm my legs are sore!! Time for a recovery ride.

Insane in The Membrane

2007-08-29T17:02:00.000-06:00

Yeah I have decided to run the 1st innagural Trails Run 1/2 marathon this Saturday. Don't ask me why. Just because its another challenge I guess. I will be competing against the wife who signed me up. Here is a profile of the course. It starts at Gunlock and runs downhill to and out to Ivins somewhere. At least it will be scenic. The legs are definitely gonna be feeling it on this downhill course. Hopefully it will prep me for the Ogden and Koko tri's, at least endurance wise.