I have been MIA. Mainly because not much has been going on except working long hours.
And no running. Because something is up with my knee, and for fear of being whiny and/or making it more than it is, I have tried to stay mum. I am taking care of it and listening to my body as best I can. There is no need to push it right now, it is way more important to get and stay healthy.
I went to LA. It rained. The trail run was canceled.
I have been riding more. A lot more. Which is probably best for me now anyway. I am very excited to have a more structured plan for 2010 (read: a coach, a plan, a schedule, and exciting goals), and I have basically been told 'It's all about the bike.'
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
World AIDS Day 2009
Take a moment today to reflect - on how lucky you are and on what you can do -
no matter how big or small.
The Global Fund
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Lusaka love.
Zambia has completely grown on me- we are having a little love affair.
This is the first time I have spent an extended period of time in Africa and actually been able to envision a life here. I have always has fleeting visions of being based here, but never had a concrete idea of what life may be like.
On Thanksgiving, I had a was lucky enough to be invited to a dinner party full of new friends - from all walks of life, working in various capacities in Lusaka. It was a small glimpse into what 'Mzungu' life may be like here (white-people, roughly translated).
This morning was the Dutch Reform Market, a huge open air market that is the last Saturday of every month. The weather was perfect (clear blue sky in the middle of rainy season), was great, I had some of the best steamed pork buns ever, and got most of my Christmas shopping out of the way.
Tomorrow morning (if it is clear) I will venture out for a run, hoping to not get too turned around in the streets filled with round-abouts that all look exactly the same.
Heading home in a few days, but very glad to be coming back for most of January (when I will actually stay in a guest house and not have to eat hotel food every day).
This is the first time I have spent an extended period of time in Africa and actually been able to envision a life here. I have always has fleeting visions of being based here, but never had a concrete idea of what life may be like.
On Thanksgiving, I had a was lucky enough to be invited to a dinner party full of new friends - from all walks of life, working in various capacities in Lusaka. It was a small glimpse into what 'Mzungu' life may be like here (white-people, roughly translated).
This morning was the Dutch Reform Market, a huge open air market that is the last Saturday of every month. The weather was perfect (clear blue sky in the middle of rainy season), was great, I had some of the best steamed pork buns ever, and got most of my Christmas shopping out of the way.
Tomorrow morning (if it is clear) I will venture out for a run, hoping to not get too turned around in the streets filled with round-abouts that all look exactly the same.
Heading home in a few days, but very glad to be coming back for most of January (when I will actually stay in a guest house and not have to eat hotel food every day).
Thursday, November 19, 2009
London.
After my first trip to London this past week, I have decided it won't be my last.
With vintage-loveliness like this:
Signs like these:
And love like this, the city is too good not to return. Very soon.
With vintage-loveliness like this:
Signs like these:
And love like this, the city is too good not to return. Very soon.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
2010 - Rev3 Knoxville OLY
The season is starting to take shape - Now I just need to make sure I don't buy my plane ticket to NASHVILLE, as I thought that is where the race was until I got the confirmation email.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Bummmmerrrr.
I emerged from my sick bed (nasty cold and cough hit the entire apartment- and I haven't even been AT the apartment since the marathon- on the road again for work/visiting the parents) to register for my next adventure.
I have made plans to visit LA in December and the weekend that worked best was also one of the Xterra SoCal Series trail runs (Crystal Cove). The plan was to do it with a good friend and her mom (and they are responsible and signed up promptly), but alas, went to register last night and it is SOLD OUT!! I just wrote a 'woe is me' email to the race director hoping he takes pity or that there is at least a wait list.
I was so excited :( And I have been dying for an excuse to finally get these trails shoes I have been lusting over forever!!
Head back to NYC tonight, hoping to kick the end of this cold before I am off again for wedding fun in London and then straight back to Zambia for work goodness.
I have made plans to visit LA in December and the weekend that worked best was also one of the Xterra SoCal Series trail runs (Crystal Cove). The plan was to do it with a good friend and her mom (and they are responsible and signed up promptly), but alas, went to register last night and it is SOLD OUT!! I just wrote a 'woe is me' email to the race director hoping he takes pity or that there is at least a wait list.
I was so excited :( And I have been dying for an excuse to finally get these trails shoes I have been lusting over forever!!
Head back to NYC tonight, hoping to kick the end of this cold before I am off again for wedding fun in London and then straight back to Zambia for work goodness.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
NYC Marathon 2009
I almost prefaced this by saying I don't think it will be one of my usual long, overly detailed race reports. But I am sure it will turn into that regardless...
I returned from Zambia on Wednesday, took Thursday off and bummed around the city, but by Friday I was DEAD tired and a walking zombie. I tried to ignore it, woke up early on Saturday and got in the last few easy miles around the Res. Marathon buzz was LOUD in the park, and in the span of 20 minutes, I ran past Brian Sell, Lance, and I think Ryan Hall and his little wife sped past- but they were moving a bit too quickly for me to be sure :)
I spent the rest the Saturday with the roomies- easy trip to Target to stock up on Halloween sock/arm warmers, throw away sweats, plus tons of other stuff I clearly didn't need. I had this strange feeling of indifference towards the race- I wasn't nervous, I wasn't anxious, I just....was. I didn't know what this meant, but I ate dinner, watched some bad TV, listened to the rest of Manhattan celebrate Halloween outside my bedroom window, and went to bed early.
Woke up later than last year thanks to the luxury of tickets to the VIP bus via my lovely roommate who works for one of the corporate sponsors. I still had a weird nonchalant feeling- we were on the bus by 6:45, and to Staten Island by 8am. Headed straight to the VIP tent with heat, food, and (relatively) clean bathrooms. Went through the usual motions- body glide, repeated visits to the bathroom and waited for the nerves to arrive. Nothing.
Headed over to the start. Still nothing. Was pushed around by loud, rude, smelly men while waiting for Wave 2 start. Was herded towards the start line, ran into friendly faces, and found myself only a few back from the very front of Wave 2. Decided the anxiety and nerves weren't going to come. Told me roommate (who started with me and stuck by my side for the next 26.2 miles) the plan: Ignore my splits the first two miles, find 8:45 and stick to it. She said 'Whatever you want' and with no warning, the cannon sounded and we were off.
The first half of the race went by in a flash. Every mile my watch chirped- I looked and announced "I need to slow down" My roommate agreed, but I felt comfortable and light on my feet and was having a ball. We chatted and joked down 4th Avenue, gave the firemen high-fives, and scared Jewish children in Greenpoint. We smelled pot in Williamsburg, saw friends and waved like silly girls- I was cruising. Around mile 8 I got a familiar ache in my hip - I tried to push it from my mind and took 2 Tylenol 8-hour and focused on getting to the halfway point.
Mile 9- LOVE the crowds in Park Slope.
We ran through half way in exactly 1:50. It was at this moment I opened my mind to the possibility of far exceeding my expectations for the day. All morning all I could think about was last year- On the Pulaski Bridge, I finally let that go. I pushed through Queens and was ready for the Queensboro Bridge- I was ready to kick its ass and prove to myself I could do it.
Running down the bridge hurt as bad as last year, but this year I trusted my legs to carry me through it. We turned onto 1st and I let my legs take over. My fastest miles (after the first few) were running up 1st: 8:08, 8:09. I knew I was pushing the pace, but remember thinking "What do I have to lose?" Even if I fell apart, I was going to reach my goals. I saw loads of friendly faces on 1st, including my Dad at 103rd, which was the only time in 26.2 miles I slowed down, but just enough to give him a quick hug and get on my way. I actually hadn't looked at my watch for the last 4/5 miles.
Waving hi to my Dad around Mile 19
When I saw my total time at mile 19, I realized running 10/miles the rest of the way would put me at 3:50. And for the first time all day my brain reeling: 9 /miles would put me....VERY close to Boston. And I hadn't yet run a 9 /mile. I stopped myself there- Ignore the math, ignore the time, just RUN. I had 7 more miles to get through, that is all that mattered. The Willis Ave Bridge got me bad. This was the first time the pace I was running became a bit of labored, but I held fast and tried to keep it together. It was also right around this time when I started catching the back of Wave 1 and had to start weaving. It was fun and a great feeling to be passing people left and right, but having to avoid those walking and having a tough time started to get as taxing as putting one foot in front of the other.
Leaving the Bronx, running back up 5th Ave and into Central Park, things got a bit blurry. I wanted to stop, 5th Ave felt endless, and I was counting the blocks until getting to Central Park: 20 blocks, 1 more mile. 10 blocks...less than 5 minutes. The climb seemed endless, and ironically this was the part I enjoyed the most last year.
Entering Central Park- totally out of it, didn't even see BC take this picture.
Into the park, all I wanted to see was the mile 25 marker. I was looking for friends who I missed on 1st Ave, but I didn't see them again. I tried not to get sad.
I don't remember running down Cat Hill. I remember my visor was starting to annoy the hell out of me. I remember holding back tears and willing my legs to keep moving. I dumped a cup of water on my head a bit after Mile 25. It felt great, but then got in my eyes and wasn't nice anymore. For some reason a bike was in the middle of the course and got in my way and I almost tripped on a curb turning on Central Park South. I remember just feeling SO close. The finish came, all I wanted to do was stop. I was overwhelmed at the end, I couldn't comprehend that I just ran a 3:42.
Both of my amazing roommates finished Kona a few weeks ago - one ran with me for 26.2 miles, even letting me finish alone a step before her, and the other jumped in on 1st and ran the last 10 miles. They pushed me when I wanted to slow down, we got each other water when it got crowded. I know I did the work get to the start healthy and prepared, but I'm not sure I would have put this race together without them, and I am SO grateful.
I returned from Zambia on Wednesday, took Thursday off and bummed around the city, but by Friday I was DEAD tired and a walking zombie. I tried to ignore it, woke up early on Saturday and got in the last few easy miles around the Res. Marathon buzz was LOUD in the park, and in the span of 20 minutes, I ran past Brian Sell, Lance, and I think Ryan Hall and his little wife sped past- but they were moving a bit too quickly for me to be sure :)
I spent the rest the Saturday with the roomies- easy trip to Target to stock up on Halloween sock/arm warmers, throw away sweats, plus tons of other stuff I clearly didn't need. I had this strange feeling of indifference towards the race- I wasn't nervous, I wasn't anxious, I just....was. I didn't know what this meant, but I ate dinner, watched some bad TV, listened to the rest of Manhattan celebrate Halloween outside my bedroom window, and went to bed early.
Woke up later than last year thanks to the luxury of tickets to the VIP bus via my lovely roommate who works for one of the corporate sponsors. I still had a weird nonchalant feeling- we were on the bus by 6:45, and to Staten Island by 8am. Headed straight to the VIP tent with heat, food, and (relatively) clean bathrooms. Went through the usual motions- body glide, repeated visits to the bathroom and waited for the nerves to arrive. Nothing.
Headed over to the start. Still nothing. Was pushed around by loud, rude, smelly men while waiting for Wave 2 start. Was herded towards the start line, ran into friendly faces, and found myself only a few back from the very front of Wave 2. Decided the anxiety and nerves weren't going to come. Told me roommate (who started with me and stuck by my side for the next 26.2 miles) the plan: Ignore my splits the first two miles, find 8:45 and stick to it. She said 'Whatever you want' and with no warning, the cannon sounded and we were off.
The first half of the race went by in a flash. Every mile my watch chirped- I looked and announced "I need to slow down" My roommate agreed, but I felt comfortable and light on my feet and was having a ball. We chatted and joked down 4th Avenue, gave the firemen high-fives, and scared Jewish children in Greenpoint. We smelled pot in Williamsburg, saw friends and waved like silly girls- I was cruising. Around mile 8 I got a familiar ache in my hip - I tried to push it from my mind and took 2 Tylenol 8-hour and focused on getting to the halfway point.
Mile 9- LOVE the crowds in Park Slope.Running down the bridge hurt as bad as last year, but this year I trusted my legs to carry me through it. We turned onto 1st and I let my legs take over. My fastest miles (after the first few) were running up 1st: 8:08, 8:09. I knew I was pushing the pace, but remember thinking "What do I have to lose?" Even if I fell apart, I was going to reach my goals. I saw loads of friendly faces on 1st, including my Dad at 103rd, which was the only time in 26.2 miles I slowed down, but just enough to give him a quick hug and get on my way. I actually hadn't looked at my watch for the last 4/5 miles.
Waving hi to my Dad around Mile 19When I saw my total time at mile 19, I realized running 10/miles the rest of the way would put me at 3:50. And for the first time all day my brain reeling: 9 /miles would put me....VERY close to Boston. And I hadn't yet run a 9 /mile. I stopped myself there- Ignore the math, ignore the time, just RUN. I had 7 more miles to get through, that is all that mattered. The Willis Ave Bridge got me bad. This was the first time the pace I was running became a bit of labored, but I held fast and tried to keep it together. It was also right around this time when I started catching the back of Wave 1 and had to start weaving. It was fun and a great feeling to be passing people left and right, but having to avoid those walking and having a tough time started to get as taxing as putting one foot in front of the other.
Leaving the Bronx, running back up 5th Ave and into Central Park, things got a bit blurry. I wanted to stop, 5th Ave felt endless, and I was counting the blocks until getting to Central Park: 20 blocks, 1 more mile. 10 blocks...less than 5 minutes. The climb seemed endless, and ironically this was the part I enjoyed the most last year.
Entering Central Park- totally out of it, didn't even see BC take this picture.Into the park, all I wanted to see was the mile 25 marker. I was looking for friends who I missed on 1st Ave, but I didn't see them again. I tried not to get sad.
I don't remember running down Cat Hill. I remember my visor was starting to annoy the hell out of me. I remember holding back tears and willing my legs to keep moving. I dumped a cup of water on my head a bit after Mile 25. It felt great, but then got in my eyes and wasn't nice anymore. For some reason a bike was in the middle of the course and got in my way and I almost tripped on a curb turning on Central Park South. I remember just feeling SO close. The finish came, all I wanted to do was stop. I was overwhelmed at the end, I couldn't comprehend that I just ran a 3:42.
Both of my amazing roommates finished Kona a few weeks ago - one ran with me for 26.2 miles, even letting me finish alone a step before her, and the other jumped in on 1st and ran the last 10 miles. They pushed me when I wanted to slow down, we got each other water when it got crowded. I know I did the work get to the start healthy and prepared, but I'm not sure I would have put this race together without them, and I am SO grateful.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Splits.
Garmin Splits (Garmin had me at 26.81 - ouch that's a lot of weaving!)
| 1 Mi | 8:20 | |||
| 2 Mi | 7:44 | Veraz. Bridge Downhill | ||
| 3 Mi | 8:07 | |||
| 4 Mi | 8:28 | |||
| 5 Mi | 8:26 | |||
| 6 Mi | 8:29 | (10k split: 51:46) | ||
| 7 Mi | 8:26 | |||
| 8 Mi | 8:19 | |||
| 9 Mi | 8:14 | |||
| 10 Mi | 8:19 | |||
| 11Mi | 8:28 | |||
| 12 Mi | 8:20 | |||
| 13 Mi | 8:25 | Pulaski Bridge (Half Split: 1:50:02) | ||
| 14 Mi | 8:12 | |||
| 15 Mi | 8:31 | |||
| 16 Mi | 8:40 | Queensboro Bridge | ||
| 17 Mi | 8:12 | |||
| 18 Mi | 8:08 | 1st Ave | ||
| 19 Mi | 8:09 | |||
| 20 Mi | 8:41 | Willis Ave Bridge | ||
| 21 Mi | 8:19 | |||
| 22 Mi | 8:30 | |||
| 23 Mi | 8:29 | |||
| 24 Mi | 8:58 | 5th Ave | ||
| 25 Mi | 8:32 | |||
| 26 Mi | 8:41 | |||
| 0.81 Mi | 6:17 |
3:42:56
Perfect day in every way. I don't have the words to describe how great I felt the entire race, including how incredibly awful I felt the last 3 miles.
Went out in 1:50 exactly and it wasn't until that point I let go and realized I would be OK. Ran my heart out coming up 1st Avenue and paid dearly for it coming back up 5th, but I wouldn't take a second back of the entire race. Not even saying 'I need to slow down' after each mile for the first 13.1 miles :)
There is absolutely nowhere to look back and find the 2 minutes between me and Boston. It will come eventually, but that was never the goal. 40 minutes faster than last year and running only a 2 minute positive split? Couldn't have written a better ending.
Went out in 1:50 exactly and it wasn't until that point I let go and realized I would be OK. Ran my heart out coming up 1st Avenue and paid dearly for it coming back up 5th, but I wouldn't take a second back of the entire race. Not even saying 'I need to slow down' after each mile for the first 13.1 miles :)
There is absolutely nowhere to look back and find the 2 minutes between me and Boston. It will come eventually, but that was never the goal. 40 minutes faster than last year and running only a 2 minute positive split? Couldn't have written a better ending.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Ready Steady Go
I have never been so happy to be able to look back and read my thoughts on last year's marathon, and believe me, I have read it several times over last few weeks.
I am SO ready for this weekend. I have learned from my experience last year, have put EVERYTHING into my training over the past 14 weeks, and am ready for whatever is to come on Sunday.
I am pacing for a 3:50. I WILL find 8:45/ mile and stick to it through halfway and then reassess how I feel. I will pick up a friend around mile 16 who will pace me for about 6-8 miles, get me to Central Park. She will push the pace if I want her to - it's up to me. Once in Central Park, I will hold nothing back, I know the road, I know the course, and am READY!
I am SO ready for this weekend. I have learned from my experience last year, have put EVERYTHING into my training over the past 14 weeks, and am ready for whatever is to come on Sunday.
I am pacing for a 3:50. I WILL find 8:45/ mile and stick to it through halfway and then reassess how I feel. I will pick up a friend around mile 16 who will pace me for about 6-8 miles, get me to Central Park. She will push the pace if I want her to - it's up to me. Once in Central Park, I will hold nothing back, I know the road, I know the course, and am READY!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Zambian Distraction
Just a quick trip to Zambia. Although I was worried about the added stress and travel before the marathon, I am hoping the trip and meeting will be a good distraction from the taper-induced anxiety that I have been dealing with - and so far so good. Last weekend during my 'logn' run, I decided that I didn't even want to run the marathon anymore, but I think the legs and mind are coming around.
This morning, I did an easy 8.5km on a treadmill that reset every 2km, and shocked me if I touched it. Unfortunately, the only 'new' treadmill in the gym was being used by a man doing sets of 30 second sprints+squats on the treadmill. He did this the entire hour I was in the gym.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
hello, legs
Dear legs,
I am sorry for yesterday. I know you wanted to be done at mile 9.5. I made you run 12.7. It still wasn't the 15 we needed to get done.
Please come back to me before November 1. Thanks, S
Taper is...taper. My legs feel worse than they have felt the entire 3+ months I have been focusing on this race. My long run yesterday was the slowest run I have done in weeks, maybe even months. But that's OK, the work is done. I just need to listen to my body.
I need to officially let go of 'my plan'. It has gotten me this far, healthy with more miles under my legs than ever before- but NOW I need to listen to my legs and body, and let them rest enough to be ready to carry me 26.2 miles on November 1. Because I know they can!!
I am sorry for yesterday. I know you wanted to be done at mile 9.5. I made you run 12.7. It still wasn't the 15 we needed to get done.
Please come back to me before November 1. Thanks, S
Taper is...taper. My legs feel worse than they have felt the entire 3+ months I have been focusing on this race. My long run yesterday was the slowest run I have done in weeks, maybe even months. But that's OK, the work is done. I just need to listen to my body.
I need to officially let go of 'my plan'. It has gotten me this far, healthy with more miles under my legs than ever before- but NOW I need to listen to my legs and body, and let them rest enough to be ready to carry me 26.2 miles on November 1. Because I know they can!!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
hello, taper
I am sick of running
my shins hurts
my hips ache
i am tired
i am hungry
all i do is eat, i want to lose 5 lbs
I hate the first week of taper, because you get all excited to 'rest' but really, you're not resting yet. I still am supposed to run 40-45 miles this week. I can't imagine being rested for race day. I am doubting the plan I have followed faithfully for the past 13 weeks.
I skipped my mile repeats this morning. With how my body felt last night, there was no way I was getting up in sub-40 degrees. I will try to get out the door for an easy hour after work.
blahhhh.
my shins hurts
my hips ache
i am tired
i am hungry
all i do is eat, i want to lose 5 lbs
I hate the first week of taper, because you get all excited to 'rest' but really, you're not resting yet. I still am supposed to run 40-45 miles this week. I can't imagine being rested for race day. I am doubting the plan I have followed faithfully for the past 13 weeks.
I skipped my mile repeats this morning. With how my body felt last night, there was no way I was getting up in sub-40 degrees. I will try to get out the door for an easy hour after work.
blahhhh.
Friday, October 9, 2009
The last push.
I am lacking some SERIOUS motivation. The past two mornings I have woken up and turned my alarm off and slept a few more hours. This is my biggest week, I have three more runs to get through - that's it!
But I find myself with the attitude "At this point, what harm will missing one, easy hour run do?" blahhhh
So I am hoping the power of positive thinking will help:
1. I will get the run I skipped this morning done after work. Even if it's a slow ass jog or even a walk on the treadmill.
2. I will do my last 20-miler tomorrow morning (SLOWLY!), go home, order the hamburger and fries I have been craving all week (Hello, Jackson Hole, Olivia!), then spend the rest of the day watching my 2 roommates and 3 other teammates TEAR IT UP! in Kona.
But I find myself with the attitude "At this point, what harm will missing one, easy hour run do?" blahhhh
So I am hoping the power of positive thinking will help:
1. I will get the run I skipped this morning done after work. Even if it's a slow ass jog or even a walk on the treadmill.
2. I will do my last 20-miler tomorrow morning (SLOWLY!), go home, order the hamburger and fries I have been craving all week (Hello, Jackson Hole, Olivia!), then spend the rest of the day watching my 2 roommates and 3 other teammates TEAR IT UP! in Kona.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Yassos
I did Yassos last year and really liked the workout. It was on my marathon 'plan' a few times this go-round, but I replaced it in previous weeks with team-workouts.
This morning, I did what was actually on the plan - 8x800 with 400 recovery. Aiming for your time goal for the marathon.
So I aimed 3:40-3:50, for ALL eight. I ran the lower loop of the park, so there are some uphills/downhills that makes holding a specific pace hard. Last year I started out too fast, was all over the place on the pacing, and hit the wall on #6.
Times were as follows:
3:43
3:50
3:26
3:29
3:36
3:29
3:35
3:25
I had some good company for the workout, not so sure what happened to #2, but overall I felt comfortable and controlled, and very happy with the pacing.
10 great miles in total this morning, en route to my biggest week ever. I am right on the verge, in that place where I begin to question if I really am ready for this again and totally mentally and physically exhausted, but I have to just keep plugging away.
This morning, I did what was actually on the plan - 8x800 with 400 recovery. Aiming for your time goal for the marathon.
So I aimed 3:40-3:50, for ALL eight. I ran the lower loop of the park, so there are some uphills/downhills that makes holding a specific pace hard. Last year I started out too fast, was all over the place on the pacing, and hit the wall on #6.
Times were as follows:
3:43
3:50
3:26
3:29
3:36
3:29
3:35
3:25
I had some good company for the workout, not so sure what happened to #2, but overall I felt comfortable and controlled, and very happy with the pacing.
10 great miles in total this morning, en route to my biggest week ever. I am right on the verge, in that place where I begin to question if I really am ready for this again and totally mentally and physically exhausted, but I have to just keep plugging away.
Amazing.
If you have not read Sarah Reinertsen book "In a Single Bound," I highly recommend it. I read some excerpts already available on Kindle, but the book version comes out soon and I will be picking up a version for sure.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Monday, October 5, 2009
Grete's 2009 Pics
Maybe if I am having this much fun I could have been running a bit faster??? :)
Mile 3
Mile 6ish?
Mile 3
Mile 6ish?Saturday, October 3, 2009
Grete's Great Gallop 2009
Last year. - 1:51:34 (8:30 pace)
This year - 1:44:33 (7:59 pace)- 4 minute PR!
My one and only goal going into this race was to get under 1:45. Based on my training, I knew this was possible, but mentally this week has been challenging and I wasn't sure it was in the cards. I also knew it was a tough 2-loop (clockwise) course of Central Park=hilly.
Thisis a huge step forward towards setting some realistic and stretch goals for the marathon. I am so super happy that I was able to put this together and to see some major returns on how hard I have been working. yay yay yay is how I feel :)
My garmin actually read 13.3 miles for the course (also, I started walking the water stations in the 2nd half as it was SUPER humid and I was feeling a bit lackluster). The only 2 miles over 8/mins are actually the same mile in the loops, the climb out of the north hills near Lasker Pool and then the false flat up to Engineer's Gate.
This year - 1:44:33 (7:59 pace)- 4 minute PR!
My one and only goal going into this race was to get under 1:45. Based on my training, I knew this was possible, but mentally this week has been challenging and I wasn't sure it was in the cards. I also knew it was a tough 2-loop (clockwise) course of Central Park=hilly.
Thisis a huge step forward towards setting some realistic and stretch goals for the marathon. I am so super happy that I was able to put this together and to see some major returns on how hard I have been working. yay yay yay is how I feel :)
My garmin actually read 13.3 miles for the course (also, I started walking the water stations in the 2nd half as it was SUPER humid and I was feeling a bit lackluster). The only 2 miles over 8/mins are actually the same mile in the loops, the climb out of the north hills near Lasker Pool and then the false flat up to Engineer's Gate.
| Distance | Time |
|---|---|
| 1 Mi | 7:57.92 |
| 2 Mi | 7:45.35 |
| 3 Mi | 7:42.72 |
| 4 Mi | 7:53.13 |
| 5 Mi | 8:01.35 |
| 6 Mi | 7:38.25 |
| 7 Mi | 7:43.06 |
| 8 Mi | 7:55.24 |
| 9 Mi | 7:58.03 |
| 10 Mi | 7:55.73 |
| 11 Mi | 8:09.65 |
| 12 Mi | 7:45.41 |
| 13 Mi | 7:57.6 |
| 0.28 Mi | 2:09.05 |
Monday, September 28, 2009
Week 12
Hit all my workouts last week, feeling great and the confidence is coming around as I enter the last three big weeks.
Monday, September 21, 2009
War on the Shore 2009
Short Version:
Swim: 7:54 (1/female, 9/overall swim)
T1: 2:00
Bike: 52:47 (20.5mph)
T2: 1:25
Run: 34:12 (6:51/mile)
1:38:15
3rd female overall
Long Version:
I signed up for this race totally last minute when it became a team race. I have ridden my bike about 3 times in the past 2 months, but have been swimming more and my run is coming together really great for the marathon, so I was very interested to see what I could do. The 'long course' version of this race is a 1/2 mile swim (with the current), 18 mile bike, 5 mile run, both pancake flat. My race plan: HAMMER.
I did 25 mile spin and a 80-minute open water swim on the Jersey Shore with one of the Kona-bound roommates the day before, and felt really great in the water and was hopeful for the morning. My legs had been DEAD all week, but I ignored them and hoped they would come around.
Race morning was un-eventful, other than some hoopla surrounding my coach and some 'special' racers he was coaching, but it was a great group down from NYC racing and the atmosphere was really exciting. The race venue was beautiful, the weather was absolutely perfect, and I was very impressed with the organization and race director. He put on a really great event overall.
Swim- It was a 1/2 mile swim. With the current. All female long-course racers started in the second wave, and I wanted to be first out of the water. I hopped out front and swam as hard as I could. Mission accomplished, first women out by a large margin, and I ended up having the 9th overall fastest swim of the day. Crazy fun experience hearing the cheers and realizing I was actually leading the race.
T1- slow, slow, slow. Had trouble getting my wetsuit off. My chip came off with it. My hands were cold.
Bike- I knew this was going to hurt no matter what, so I just got in my drops and rode. No computer, no idea of speed, cadence, nothing. I led the women's race for about 5 miles. Roommate passed me like I was standing still. There was tons of drafting going on in the mens race, as well as silly men trying to draft off little old me. I just rode my own race and only had to yell a few times at guys boxing me in.
Another teammate passed me I think right around 9 miles. I picked it up a bit to try to keep pace with her, but she slowly pulled away. With about 1 mile left in the bike, a third woman FLEW past me. I resisted the urge to hammer it home to hit transition with her, and spun my legs out and hoped my legs would be there on the run. My hip and back were aching a bit, but I was having so much fun, as evidenced by the goofy smile that makes all my bike pictures completely stupid and un-usable :)
Last race on my old steed- she treated me well :)
T2- I had a great spot in transition and was in and out.
Run- I ended up leaving transition with the female who had passed me on the end of the bike. She tried to make small talk, complained about numb feet (yes, mine were too, but I wasn't about to tell her that!!), and decided to push the pace to see if she could hang. She couldn't. I was able to see both teammates ahead of me at the first turnaround, and realized I was very solidly in 3rd place. There was a little lady in a orange speedo, cotton crop top, and scrunchy socks running in 4th, but no way was I letting her pass.
I didn't let up and tried to push the pace. The course passes transition and the finish-line for another mile long out and back, and a guy ran past and heard some teammates cheering my name and yelled out for me to get on his heels and "STAY THERE- COME ON, YOU CAN DO THIS!!" He definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone and tried to keep me with him, yelling encouragement and my name. I had no clue how much longer we had, so I tried to stick with him as long as I could. It was so helpful and made me realize that another gear was there, even as he slowly pulled away. I ran the last mile scared that I was going to get caught by the scrunchy-socks woman and lose the overall podium, and finished in more pain (but the good kind) than I have felt in a very long time.
Hurtin bad- about 1/4 mile left.
My teammates and I ended up placing 1-2-3 in the women's long course and there were lots of other age group awards for the team, in both the long and short course races. It was a really GREAT day, and a perfect way to end what has been an amazing season. I am lucky to be healthy and racing and also have the awesome support of a truly amazing group of athletes.
Clearly, the highlight of the day (week, month, season, year?) was the most amazing gift I received after the race. It's a really long story, but the gist is I am the new owner of a lovely, brand new 2010 Giant that is nicer than anything I ever expected to own. I have promised free swim-lessons for life to my fairy godmother, and am picking the bike hopefully tonight and getting fit next week.
A truly perfect way to end the season- I can't WAIT for the winter, to get comfy on the new frame and ROCK OUT next season!
Swim: 7:54 (1/female, 9/overall swim)
T1: 2:00
Bike: 52:47 (20.5mph)
T2: 1:25
Run: 34:12 (6:51/mile)
1:38:15
3rd female overall
Long Version:
I signed up for this race totally last minute when it became a team race. I have ridden my bike about 3 times in the past 2 months, but have been swimming more and my run is coming together really great for the marathon, so I was very interested to see what I could do. The 'long course' version of this race is a 1/2 mile swim (with the current), 18 mile bike, 5 mile run, both pancake flat. My race plan: HAMMER.
I did 25 mile spin and a 80-minute open water swim on the Jersey Shore with one of the Kona-bound roommates the day before, and felt really great in the water and was hopeful for the morning. My legs had been DEAD all week, but I ignored them and hoped they would come around.
Race morning was un-eventful, other than some hoopla surrounding my coach and some 'special' racers he was coaching, but it was a great group down from NYC racing and the atmosphere was really exciting. The race venue was beautiful, the weather was absolutely perfect, and I was very impressed with the organization and race director. He put on a really great event overall.
Swim- It was a 1/2 mile swim. With the current. All female long-course racers started in the second wave, and I wanted to be first out of the water. I hopped out front and swam as hard as I could. Mission accomplished, first women out by a large margin, and I ended up having the 9th overall fastest swim of the day. Crazy fun experience hearing the cheers and realizing I was actually leading the race.
T1- slow, slow, slow. Had trouble getting my wetsuit off. My chip came off with it. My hands were cold.
Bike- I knew this was going to hurt no matter what, so I just got in my drops and rode. No computer, no idea of speed, cadence, nothing. I led the women's race for about 5 miles. Roommate passed me like I was standing still. There was tons of drafting going on in the mens race, as well as silly men trying to draft off little old me. I just rode my own race and only had to yell a few times at guys boxing me in.
Another teammate passed me I think right around 9 miles. I picked it up a bit to try to keep pace with her, but she slowly pulled away. With about 1 mile left in the bike, a third woman FLEW past me. I resisted the urge to hammer it home to hit transition with her, and spun my legs out and hoped my legs would be there on the run. My hip and back were aching a bit, but I was having so much fun, as evidenced by the goofy smile that makes all my bike pictures completely stupid and un-usable :)
Last race on my old steed- she treated me well :)T2- I had a great spot in transition and was in and out.
Run- I ended up leaving transition with the female who had passed me on the end of the bike. She tried to make small talk, complained about numb feet (yes, mine were too, but I wasn't about to tell her that!!), and decided to push the pace to see if she could hang. She couldn't. I was able to see both teammates ahead of me at the first turnaround, and realized I was very solidly in 3rd place. There was a little lady in a orange speedo, cotton crop top, and scrunchy socks running in 4th, but no way was I letting her pass.
I didn't let up and tried to push the pace. The course passes transition and the finish-line for another mile long out and back, and a guy ran past and heard some teammates cheering my name and yelled out for me to get on his heels and "STAY THERE- COME ON, YOU CAN DO THIS!!" He definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone and tried to keep me with him, yelling encouragement and my name. I had no clue how much longer we had, so I tried to stick with him as long as I could. It was so helpful and made me realize that another gear was there, even as he slowly pulled away. I ran the last mile scared that I was going to get caught by the scrunchy-socks woman and lose the overall podium, and finished in more pain (but the good kind) than I have felt in a very long time.
Hurtin bad- about 1/4 mile left.
My teammates and I ended up placing 1-2-3 in the women's long course and there were lots of other age group awards for the team, in both the long and short course races. It was a really GREAT day, and a perfect way to end what has been an amazing season. I am lucky to be healthy and racing and also have the awesome support of a truly amazing group of athletes.
Clearly, the highlight of the day (week, month, season, year?) was the most amazing gift I received after the race. It's a really long story, but the gist is I am the new owner of a lovely, brand new 2010 Giant that is nicer than anything I ever expected to own. I have promised free swim-lessons for life to my fairy godmother, and am picking the bike hopefully tonight and getting fit next week.
A truly perfect way to end the season- I can't WAIT for the winter, to get comfy on the new frame and ROCK OUT next season!
No words.
Thanks to an incredibly generous and altogether amazing teammate, looks like I've got myself some aerobars....
I was so taken aback and speechless after an amazing race and the most amazing, generous and unexpected gift I have ever received, I honestly don't even know any details; I am pretty sure it's a 2010 Trinity Alliance 1 with some upgrades, and that beauty is MINE :) More later.
Update: She's an Aeryn Alliance, size S, with a total of 1.6 miles. I'm in love- her name is Lulu, short for 'Lucky Lucy', a testament to my fairy godmother :)
I was so taken aback and speechless after an amazing race and the most amazing, generous and unexpected gift I have ever received, I honestly don't even know any details; I am pretty sure it's a 2010 Trinity Alliance 1 with some upgrades, and that beauty is MINE :) More later.
Update: She's an Aeryn Alliance, size S, with a total of 1.6 miles. I'm in love- her name is Lulu, short for 'Lucky Lucy', a testament to my fairy godmother :)
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Race!
I am so excited- I was just able to add a final tri to my season in less than 2 weeks- War on the Shore. It's a 0.6 mile ocean swim, 18.5 mile bike, and 5 mile run, all FLAT FLAT FLAT on the Jersey Shore.
I will have to get my first 20 miler in one or two days prior, so we will see how that goes, but I am very excited.
Speaking of racing, my 2010 race calendar is filling up:
Decided against South Africa 70.3, (would much rather spend New Years in Africa than lug my bike to the race)
May- Rev3 Olympic in Knoxville
June- Eagleman
July- Bike trip in Switzerland/Italy
(my team is racing IM Switzerland, I have to be in Vienna the week before for work, so I am hoping to go watch/support in Zurich then spend a week riding in Northern Italy!!)
Sept- Possibly the new Syracuse 70.3
I will not be signing up for the NYC tri next year, which is totally fine with me. At this point, I am also not sure about a fall marathon, training has been going really well and I am excited for NYC on Nov1, then will decide about next year.
I will have to get my first 20 miler in one or two days prior, so we will see how that goes, but I am very excited.
Speaking of racing, my 2010 race calendar is filling up:
Decided against South Africa 70.3, (would much rather spend New Years in Africa than lug my bike to the race)
May- Rev3 Olympic in Knoxville
June- Eagleman
July- Bike trip in Switzerland/Italy
(my team is racing IM Switzerland, I have to be in Vienna the week before for work, so I am hoping to go watch/support in Zurich then spend a week riding in Northern Italy!!)
Sept- Possibly the new Syracuse 70.3
I will not be signing up for the NYC tri next year, which is totally fine with me. At this point, I am also not sure about a fall marathon, training has been going really well and I am excited for NYC on Nov1, then will decide about next year.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Still on my mind.
Turns out I have a work trip that will put in me in Southern Africa (Zambia) the week before the race, and it's only about a $300 plane ticket to East London.
I have until Nov 27 to decide.
I have until Nov 27 to decide.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
I love fall.
With amazingly cool temps, I kicked off September with a tempo run that turned out to be a 4-mile PR and the best pace i have ever run any race. ever. 7:19.
the miles are paying off. good stuff, super motivated.
the miles are paying off. good stuff, super motivated.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Good Bye UWS
Good bye 15x15 bedroom, 13' ceilings, and 3 closets. I will miss you. Be back in a few.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Training update
(Wanted to write this update mainly for myself to look back on when I think about maybe doing speedwork again anytime soon...)
It's been a pretty crazy/hectic/stressful few weeks, with a few more to go before I feel like my life settles down a bit, however I have been able to keep with my training and in general am happy with how things have been progressing. My best friend from HS got married last weekend at an estate outside of Charlottesville, VA and it was perfectly lovely. Then next weekend I am in a wedding of a good friend from graduate school that should be an epic event- she has informed me that I am in charge of entertaining all the navy-men who she is inviting that are making the sword arch for them post-ceremony (the groom is Navy). So I will have my hands full with THAT :)
I have been able to follow my marathon 'plan' pretty well with all the craziness that is going on, and am only a bit anxious that my long runs aren't really that 'long' yet. I bailed at mile 10 of my 14 last weekend due to humidity, and this weekend is finally 16, so we shall see how that goes. I was able to hobble through an easy 4 this morning, but still have some major tightness going on in my soleus, hoping to goes away before my long run this weekend. My feet and arches are weirdly sore too, but I am thinking it is their way of telling me it is time for some new running shoes.
I have been making an effort to get in the pool at least a few times per week and I have definitely felt it coming back around. I have not been as good on the bike, but the few (one?) times I have been on my bike since my last race felt great. The plan is to get fitted on a loaner tri bike from my coach ASAP for the fall and then to train on over the winter and possibly for next season- I am really looking forward to it, as I think my current bike size/fit may be contributing to some of the lingering tightness in my right leg, mainly in the hamstring.
In the non-training front, I move this weekend, and although I am stressed about the actual event, I am very excited. Downsizing/streamlining/de-cluttering has already been incredibly freeing and am looking forward to the end result.
I actually got a bit nostalgic on my run this morning (on my go-to 3/4/5 mile flat Riverside route), and it may be the thing I miss most when I leave the Upper West Side.
It's been a pretty crazy/hectic/stressful few weeks, with a few more to go before I feel like my life settles down a bit, however I have been able to keep with my training and in general am happy with how things have been progressing. My best friend from HS got married last weekend at an estate outside of Charlottesville, VA and it was perfectly lovely. Then next weekend I am in a wedding of a good friend from graduate school that should be an epic event- she has informed me that I am in charge of entertaining all the navy-men who she is inviting that are making the sword arch for them post-ceremony (the groom is Navy). So I will have my hands full with THAT :)
I have been able to follow my marathon 'plan' pretty well with all the craziness that is going on, and am only a bit anxious that my long runs aren't really that 'long' yet. I bailed at mile 10 of my 14 last weekend due to humidity, and this weekend is finally 16, so we shall see how that goes. I was able to hobble through an easy 4 this morning, but still have some major tightness going on in my soleus, hoping to goes away before my long run this weekend. My feet and arches are weirdly sore too, but I am thinking it is their way of telling me it is time for some new running shoes.
I have been making an effort to get in the pool at least a few times per week and I have definitely felt it coming back around. I have not been as good on the bike, but the few (one?) times I have been on my bike since my last race felt great. The plan is to get fitted on a loaner tri bike from my coach ASAP for the fall and then to train on over the winter and possibly for next season- I am really looking forward to it, as I think my current bike size/fit may be contributing to some of the lingering tightness in my right leg, mainly in the hamstring.
In the non-training front, I move this weekend, and although I am stressed about the actual event, I am very excited. Downsizing/streamlining/de-cluttering has already been incredibly freeing and am looking forward to the end result.
I actually got a bit nostalgic on my run this morning (on my go-to 3/4/5 mile flat Riverside route), and it may be the thing I miss most when I leave the Upper West Side.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Typical
Yesterday I did speedwork for the first time in...oh...hm, a year?
And now I can hardly walk. I don't get it. I have been running consistently more than ever before, doing hills regularly, and a little speed work (I didn't even do the entire workout) is still a SHOCK to my system and brings me a dead halt. As in, limping-sore-to-the touch quads.
The good news I guess is that the work out felt GREAT, and that last week's not-so-planned rest week was good for my legs (until I trashed them).
And now I can hardly walk. I don't get it. I have been running consistently more than ever before, doing hills regularly, and a little speed work (I didn't even do the entire workout) is still a SHOCK to my system and brings me a dead halt. As in, limping-sore-to-the touch quads.
The good news I guess is that the work out felt GREAT, and that last week's not-so-planned rest week was good for my legs (until I trashed them).
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Good or Bad?
Last night I set out for a very easy 6 miles in the Park, happily on the fourth week of following my training plan as close as I possibly could- and actually enjoying it!!
Can you guess at what point I ran into one of the new roomies in the Park and the run suddenly turned into a tempo run?
Other than the heat making my head want to explode, the drop in pace actually felt almost comfortable (further proof that maybe I should invest in a HR monitor...eh, whatevs). I don't move for another two weeks- and aleady these girls are either going to be a incredible boost to my running, or my marathon training just may crash and burn :) We will see!
Can you guess at what point I ran into one of the new roomies in the Park and the run suddenly turned into a tempo run?
Other than the heat making my head want to explode, the drop in pace actually felt almost comfortable (further proof that maybe I should invest in a HR monitor...eh, whatevs). I don't move for another two weeks- and aleady these girls are either going to be a incredible boost to my running, or my marathon training just may crash and burn :) We will see!
NYC Madness.
It's craziness like this that makes me wonder if I could ever live anywhere else....
Saw this live, in person yesterday about 4pm:
And last night's storm, starting around 10ish, was seriously the most intense thunder/lightning I have ever heard in my life. I guess it moved up the Hudson, which is about 800 meters from my window. It caused the most tree damage in Central Park in 30 years, blocking some of the roads/trials. It's a good thing I slept through my alarm :)
Saw this live, in person yesterday about 4pm:
And last night's storm, starting around 10ish, was seriously the most intense thunder/lightning I have ever heard in my life. I guess it moved up the Hudson, which is about 800 meters from my window. It caused the most tree damage in Central Park in 30 years, blocking some of the roads/trials. It's a good thing I slept through my alarm :)
Friday, August 14, 2009
hmmm...
I visit this website wayyyy too much. And it is looking like I may to be in Southern Africa for work in both January AND April.....
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Lean Back...
My planned Sunday bike route (zoom in once for a way better view) that will take me from my front door and hopefully land my ass right on the beach in Far Rockaway after 40 miles.
I am crossing my fingers that the 'Greenway' that is supposed to exist between miles 20 and 35 actually is completed and open and truly car-free
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Probably for the best...
Just as I am leaving the neighborhood, Whole Food has to go and open this around the corner....
probably for the best.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Monday, August 3, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Ch-ch-changes...
I have officially made a rash and not-thought-out decision, subletted my apartment for a year and will be moving across town. With all the travel on my schedule in the coming months, I could no longer justify the space and amount of my rent. I also just needed a change of scenery.
Nothing to make you feel like a black sheep like moving in with two speedy chicas who have qualified for Kona...
Nothing to make you feel like a black sheep like moving in with two speedy chicas who have qualified for Kona...
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Monday, July 27, 2009
NYCTri 2009
Short Version:
Swim: 17:06
T1: 5:17
Bike: 1:20:20 (18.6mph)
T2: 1:17
Run: 47:29 (7:39/mile- 10k PR!)
Total Time: 2:31:28
9/268 AG
Going into the race, I had very low/no expectations. I had one goal: PR the course, but had no clue how I was going to feel. I was able to get ample sleep the night before, even with a 4:15am wake up call. It was POURING rain when I woke up and quickly decided if the race was turned into a Duathlon I would NOT be leaving my house, let alone participating. Great attitude to start off the day. Luckily, the next time I looked out the window the rain has tapered off, and I tried to adjust my winning attitude :)
I don't know what I was doing at home, but felt quite rushed once I got to transition. I basically pumped my bike tires, threw down my shoes, and headed up to swim start. Upon arrival, they announced the start would be about 20 minutes delayed due to the storm that was moving through the area (it was still raining a bit off and on). I couldn't figure out my mood- I wasn't excited, but wasn't dreading the race. Just sort of was ready to start and see what was going to happen.
Swim- 17:06
The NYC swim is notorious for it's current. All I can say that my lack of pool time this season finally caught up to me in this race. My time was fine within my age group, but I just felt OFF. I struggled a bit with my sighting and had trouble finding a rhythm in the first 300-400 meters. I couldn't see many other people around me and had the feeling I was in for a very, very long day.
T1- 5:17
This is the WORST part of this race- about a 1/3-1/2 mile run (way more than the 400m they advertise it as) on pavement, barefoot to get to transition from swim exit. It sucks. But in transition there were not too many girls around me, so I was hoping my swim wasn't as off as it felt.
Bike- 1:20:20 (18.6 mph)
My bike almost ended before it started, as the bike out of transition and up onto the course is a bit hairy- it's a very narrow, crowded chute and I was perhaps being a bit too aggressive, but didn't want to sit behind and go the 10mph pace others in front seemed fine with. I almost took out not only a few other riders (who should have given me space to pass when I called 'on your left'), but I was also almost taken out by someone running towards transition (with only a row of cones separating the bike out and run in (in the opposite direction) from the swim.) She was on the wrong side of the cones, just for the record. Whoops.
I felt pretty strong from the beginning on the bike and the many girls from my age group I was waiting for to pass me never came. One from my wave passed me almost right away (finished 2nd in the age group), and two from the wave behind (also our age group, 2.5 minutes back) passed me with only a few miles to go. I was able to keep my spirits high and only went through a very small rough patch of dead legs. I had two gus on the bike and one bottle of water+nuun. I probably could have used more water if I had it.
I was able to drop 5 minutes from my time on this course two years ago. I think much of that has to do with knowing how to shift/ride my bike (big ring=good). But I also think this course is deceptively hard. It has a few climbs, but also some long, gradual inclines and is subject to some major winds. Being more comfortable on the bike this year let me attack the climbs, as well as the downhills in big gears, which I think made a lot of difference in my time.
(Apparently there was something quite interesting on my tire...)
I was lucky to be in an 'early' wave (ha- wave 11 is 'early') , with a somewhat open course, but the course was a MESS- flats all over the place and two wrecks on my team alone. In talking with our local bike shop after the race, who provided SAG, they said they actually ran out of tubes. Not sure if it was the wet/slick conditions from the early rain, the road conditions or the large amount of first timers/beginners on the course, but I felt lucky to get out unscathed.
T2- 1:17
This felt GREAT. I was able to repass two of the girls in my age group in who has passed me on the bike in T2. I had no clue again what my time on the bike was (probably time get the bike computer fixed!), but I only saw about 4-5 bikes on my rack in transition and freaked out a bit. I think it was this point that I finally realized I was having a GREAT day.
Run- 47:29 (7:39/mile)
I can honsetly say this was the most fun 10k I have ever done- off the bike or ever. I knew that the two girls I passed in transition woudl be hot on my heels, but I stopped and got two full cups of water before the steep climb out of transition. After the climb there was a huge group from my team cheering which put a smile on my face that woudln't leave the entire run. I felt great, my stride felt strong and long, and running across 72nd during this race is perhaps one of the coolest things ever. I think having a smile on my face made it 100% better, people were cheering and calling out my race number and team name and I was waving all over the place :)
I made a conscious decision to not start my watch or wear my Garmin for this run (for fear that it was going to be ugly!). I knew I was feeling good. I decided to walk the aid stations to be sure I was taking in water, as I think that dehydration/lack of fluids has been a problem for me in past races. Around Mile 1, I was passed by someone in my age group- one of the girls I had passed in transition. The hills in the northern end of the park came and went- I felt great. The volunteers were amazing and I kept the smile on my face and thanked them for their support. Around mile 4 I passed two girls from my age group that seemed to be struggling. I passed them at an aide station- the only one I didn't walk to take in two full cups of water. I was able to pick up my pace towards the end and crossed the line feeling GREAT. I had no clue my run time or overall finish place, but I didn't care. It was the most fun I have had racing.
Almost at Mile 1- about to enter Central Park
Post Race:
It took me about 10 minutes to feel like I wanted to die :) I was starving and cold and thankful my jet-lag waited to show up until after I finished. After wandering around and chatting with teammates (and cute pros and their cute agents) I had to sit in the grass for awhile because I really thought I was going to die. After about 45 minutes of being out of it, I had rested enough to walk the mile back across 72nd to transition, stopping for well-deserved PinkBerry (extra kiwi please) on the way.
Looking back, I have a twinge of regret about walking the aid stations- could I have broken 47 on my 10k? Who knows...
As of now, this was the last tri on my calendar for the season. I am hoping to add at least one more race to my schedule, but am going to wait to make any decisions. For now, I am sticking to my marathon training plan and am going to try to stay on the bike a few times a week, and we will see....
Swim: 17:06
T1: 5:17
Bike: 1:20:20 (18.6mph)
T2: 1:17
Run: 47:29 (7:39/mile- 10k PR!)
Total Time: 2:31:28
9/268 AG
Going into the race, I had very low/no expectations. I had one goal: PR the course, but had no clue how I was going to feel. I was able to get ample sleep the night before, even with a 4:15am wake up call. It was POURING rain when I woke up and quickly decided if the race was turned into a Duathlon I would NOT be leaving my house, let alone participating. Great attitude to start off the day. Luckily, the next time I looked out the window the rain has tapered off, and I tried to adjust my winning attitude :)
I don't know what I was doing at home, but felt quite rushed once I got to transition. I basically pumped my bike tires, threw down my shoes, and headed up to swim start. Upon arrival, they announced the start would be about 20 minutes delayed due to the storm that was moving through the area (it was still raining a bit off and on). I couldn't figure out my mood- I wasn't excited, but wasn't dreading the race. Just sort of was ready to start and see what was going to happen.
Swim- 17:06
The NYC swim is notorious for it's current. All I can say that my lack of pool time this season finally caught up to me in this race. My time was fine within my age group, but I just felt OFF. I struggled a bit with my sighting and had trouble finding a rhythm in the first 300-400 meters. I couldn't see many other people around me and had the feeling I was in for a very, very long day.
T1- 5:17
This is the WORST part of this race- about a 1/3-1/2 mile run (way more than the 400m they advertise it as) on pavement, barefoot to get to transition from swim exit. It sucks. But in transition there were not too many girls around me, so I was hoping my swim wasn't as off as it felt.
Bike- 1:20:20 (18.6 mph)
My bike almost ended before it started, as the bike out of transition and up onto the course is a bit hairy- it's a very narrow, crowded chute and I was perhaps being a bit too aggressive, but didn't want to sit behind and go the 10mph pace others in front seemed fine with. I almost took out not only a few other riders (who should have given me space to pass when I called 'on your left'), but I was also almost taken out by someone running towards transition (with only a row of cones separating the bike out and run in (in the opposite direction) from the swim.) She was on the wrong side of the cones, just for the record. Whoops.
I felt pretty strong from the beginning on the bike and the many girls from my age group I was waiting for to pass me never came. One from my wave passed me almost right away (finished 2nd in the age group), and two from the wave behind (also our age group, 2.5 minutes back) passed me with only a few miles to go. I was able to keep my spirits high and only went through a very small rough patch of dead legs. I had two gus on the bike and one bottle of water+nuun. I probably could have used more water if I had it.
I was able to drop 5 minutes from my time on this course two years ago. I think much of that has to do with knowing how to shift/ride my bike (big ring=good). But I also think this course is deceptively hard. It has a few climbs, but also some long, gradual inclines and is subject to some major winds. Being more comfortable on the bike this year let me attack the climbs, as well as the downhills in big gears, which I think made a lot of difference in my time.
(Apparently there was something quite interesting on my tire...)
I was lucky to be in an 'early' wave (ha- wave 11 is 'early') , with a somewhat open course, but the course was a MESS- flats all over the place and two wrecks on my team alone. In talking with our local bike shop after the race, who provided SAG, they said they actually ran out of tubes. Not sure if it was the wet/slick conditions from the early rain, the road conditions or the large amount of first timers/beginners on the course, but I felt lucky to get out unscathed.
T2- 1:17
This felt GREAT. I was able to repass two of the girls in my age group in who has passed me on the bike in T2. I had no clue again what my time on the bike was (probably time get the bike computer fixed!), but I only saw about 4-5 bikes on my rack in transition and freaked out a bit. I think it was this point that I finally realized I was having a GREAT day.
Run- 47:29 (7:39/mile)
I can honsetly say this was the most fun 10k I have ever done- off the bike or ever. I knew that the two girls I passed in transition woudl be hot on my heels, but I stopped and got two full cups of water before the steep climb out of transition. After the climb there was a huge group from my team cheering which put a smile on my face that woudln't leave the entire run. I felt great, my stride felt strong and long, and running across 72nd during this race is perhaps one of the coolest things ever. I think having a smile on my face made it 100% better, people were cheering and calling out my race number and team name and I was waving all over the place :)
I made a conscious decision to not start my watch or wear my Garmin for this run (for fear that it was going to be ugly!). I knew I was feeling good. I decided to walk the aid stations to be sure I was taking in water, as I think that dehydration/lack of fluids has been a problem for me in past races. Around Mile 1, I was passed by someone in my age group- one of the girls I had passed in transition. The hills in the northern end of the park came and went- I felt great. The volunteers were amazing and I kept the smile on my face and thanked them for their support. Around mile 4 I passed two girls from my age group that seemed to be struggling. I passed them at an aide station- the only one I didn't walk to take in two full cups of water. I was able to pick up my pace towards the end and crossed the line feeling GREAT. I had no clue my run time or overall finish place, but I didn't care. It was the most fun I have had racing.
Almost at Mile 1- about to enter Central Park
Post Race:
It took me about 10 minutes to feel like I wanted to die :) I was starving and cold and thankful my jet-lag waited to show up until after I finished. After wandering around and chatting with teammates (and cute pros and their cute agents) I had to sit in the grass for awhile because I really thought I was going to die. After about 45 minutes of being out of it, I had rested enough to walk the mile back across 72nd to transition, stopping for well-deserved PinkBerry (extra kiwi please) on the way.
Looking back, I have a twinge of regret about walking the aid stations- could I have broken 47 on my 10k? Who knows...
As of now, this was the last tri on my calendar for the season. I am hoping to add at least one more race to my schedule, but am going to wait to make any decisions. For now, I am sticking to my marathon training plan and am going to try to stay on the bike a few times a week, and we will see....
Typical.
Arrived bright and early at work to find I didn't have my building ID or keys to my office.
So I found a bench, enjoyed the NYC view, and finished this months' book club book.
So I found a bench, enjoyed the NYC view, and finished this months' book club book.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
READY!
After 18+ hours in the air, I landed without incident yesterday morning at JFK. After a shower and some much needed espresso, I headed straight to the NYC Tri Expo to check in.
I am ready to race. No excuses. I was able to run much more than I expected while away and got on the indoor bike a few times, too. I didn't swim. But, hey, I didn't really swim before Philly either.
Although I may not have the best opinion of this race in general (cost, size, I could go on...), I am really excited to race. The swim start is about 400meters from my front door, and there are probably 30+ people racing my from team. It's a really fun day, and am looking forward to it much more than I expected.
My main goal is to smash my time from NYC 2007 (my first OLY tri): 2:43:16
(17:19/1:25:54/53:24) I was never happy with this time, and think I am capable of much better, all around. I won't define 'smash', but I am hoping to improve by at least a few minutes in both the bike and run. With the swim current, a rumored 'long' bike and a much hillier run course, it is impossible to judge where my time may be based on my results in Philly a month ago.
After a quick run today, 3 load of laundry and two cups of coffee, I am wondering if it is time for a nap yet??
I am ready to race. No excuses. I was able to run much more than I expected while away and got on the indoor bike a few times, too. I didn't swim. But, hey, I didn't really swim before Philly either.
Although I may not have the best opinion of this race in general (cost, size, I could go on...), I am really excited to race. The swim start is about 400meters from my front door, and there are probably 30+ people racing my from team. It's a really fun day, and am looking forward to it much more than I expected.
My main goal is to smash my time from NYC 2007 (my first OLY tri): 2:43:16
(17:19/1:25:54/53:24) I was never happy with this time, and think I am capable of much better, all around. I won't define 'smash', but I am hoping to improve by at least a few minutes in both the bike and run. With the swim current, a rumored 'long' bike and a much hillier run course, it is impossible to judge where my time may be based on my results in Philly a month ago.
After a quick run today, 3 load of laundry and two cups of coffee, I am wondering if it is time for a nap yet??
Saturday, July 18, 2009
8 miles in two hours.
What it looks like to wander around a mountain for two hours in South Africa.
I would have kept going, it was actaully fabulous, but a lack of water and food forced me to stumble down back towards (what I thought) was the direction of the hotel.
I would have kept going, it was actaully fabulous, but a lack of water and food forced me to stumble down back towards (what I thought) was the direction of the hotel.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Happy Basitlle Day!!
Yes, I took this from my incredible, unforgettable view last night for the 14th July Fireworks in Paris. Insanity.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
...Au revoir...
Last night I got in ART and a hilly 7-mile run (4x Harlem Hill loop clockwise), this morning I got in my monthly swim, and tomorrow I am...
...LEAVING ON A JET PLANE for a week of vacation bliss!!
After a drive through Provence, a weekend in Nice (sadly missing le Tour by a week), marathon training officially starts in Paris.
Fueled by pan de chocolat, cafe, and baguettes, running by the Seine will be supplemented by bike 'training' around the city on one of these:
I can't even describe how insanely excited I am.
...LEAVING ON A JET PLANE for a week of vacation bliss!!
After a drive through Provence, a weekend in Nice (sadly missing le Tour by a week), marathon training officially starts in Paris.
Fueled by pan de chocolat, cafe, and baguettes, running by the Seine will be supplemented by bike 'training' around the city on one of these:
I can't even describe how insanely excited I am.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
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