No Try Tri

The Blog Must Go

2008-08-23T06:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday went fantastically! I met with Dr. Coyle, found out what classes I am taking, found out what classes I am teaching (4 sections of Weight Training), and found out about the research projects they are working on that I am welcome (and encouraged!) to help with.

Between all that... possibly training for an Ironman (IMAZ '09), and still working with 8 awesome coaching clients from Cycle U and doing 5 (more like 10) hours of other Cycle U duties, I'm taking a proactive look at my schedule and seeing what I can do to maintain my sanity. I know myself well enough to know I will blog when I should be doing other things... um, like now!

Since I started blogging for a road trip back in summer of 2005, it seems fitting that this one ends after another road trip. I will keep the Facebook going, so anyone who is distraught (haha) about my blogging departure should try to connect with me there.

I will be making the occasional contribution to the Cycle U blog, and the Cycle U Tri Team blog, so keep those on your blogroll if you're so inclined.

Thanks! See ya over on facebook....
T.

OH WAIT.... one last thing!
Best wishes for a STELLAR race to the following friends:

Sweet Baboo is doing a 100-mile Ultra-Running event on Sunday! Good luck my friend! You've got it!!

Ironman Canada....

My bestest friend Je-say-say! GO JESSI GO!!! And remember, I'm WATCHING YOU!

Good friends Stephanie & Jerry, not first-timers, but some BIG GOALS that are backed up by a lot of long, hard training miles! GO GET 'EM you two... you are gonna ROCK THAT COURSE!!! YAY!!!

And Jessica... another first-time Ironman-er who is going to do AWESOME!

Big Day Today!

2008-08-22T06:24:00.000-07:00

I've been in Austin for 2 days now, and am already feeling good here. I'm settled into my temporary digs in the Abercrombie neighborhood, which I'm told is the "organic hippie" part of town. I'm renting a room from a friend of a random acquaintance of a friend while I get my bearings, and decide where I want to live. It's a great little house, and I feel very welcome here.

This morning I'm going to see a garage apartment in Hyde Park, which I'm told is "the place" to live if you're a grad student at UT. Apparently these accommodations are in high-demand, and I found out about this one through some new friends here. The roads aren't great in Austin, and the drivers are completely insane, but from Hyde Park there is a bike lane all the way to campus, or so I'm told. But honestly, it's so freakin' hot and humid here that I have a hard time imagining riding my bike to school. I'm sure I'll adapt though.

After that I'm heading to campus to meet Dr. Coyle, my advisor, for the first time. He was out of town when I came down to visit the campus last year. I've heard great things about him from many people, and am a big fan of his research, so am looking forward to finally meeting him.

Next there is a TA meeting from 1-4pm where I'll get to meet more faculty and fellow-students, and learn all about UT policies and procedures, what classes I'll be teaching, etc. So far all I know is that I'm slated to teach a weight training class.

So... a big day today! and an EXCITING day! Wish me luck! :))

Oh, and Jimbo... the first thing I did when I got to town was stop in at the Student Co-Op to drown myself in burnt orange!

HOOK 'EM HORNS!!! YAY!!!!!

Austin, TX

2008-08-20T04:49:00.000-07:00

Ok, not there yet... but I will be later today. So far I've put over 2,200 miles on my car skipping around visiting family and friends... and something occurred to me the other day. I'm stalling. The closer I get to Austin, the more the reality of what lies ahead grows. Logically, I know I am going to love going to graduate school. I know I am going to love Austin; the people, the music, the triathlon. But non-logically, I am in freak-out mode!

Maybe I'll just go back to Taos and find myself a teepee to live in for the rest of my life. Yea, that's it. No stress, no drama... just hiking everyday, drinkin' at the local pub, and letting the universe provide. Ah, that's the life. I would love it.... for about a week.

(*insert scream here*). OK! Suck it up!! Get ahold of that irrational fear and kick it's butt! Austin awaits! Everything is going to be fine... better than fine.... everything is going to be INCREDIBLE! This is the life you want. Now get over yourself and get on the road!

Ok. Thanks. I feel better now.

Day 6-7: Tucson to Albuquerque, and some Taos

2008-08-18T08:12:00.000-07:00

I was excited about getting to Albuequerque to visit my long-time pal Howie who relocated here from Seattle over a year ago. I met Howie through cycling and Team in Training... we have a lot of interests in common and have been close friends for many years.

I was warned that the drive would be uninteresting, but I found it to be gorgeous. So gorgeous in fact, that I took the scenic route and added about 1.5 hours to my drive. Ssshh... we shall speak of this no more!

In addition to the gorgeous mountains and foiliage along the way, I was treated to a brutal storm system. I could see if coming for miles... the clouds dramatically draping over the mountains and the mist streaking down that indicates rain. There were at least three different cloud formations going on, and it was a sight to behold. I finally drove through it and the outside temperature went from 84F to 60F like THAT (*snaps fingers*). The rain came down in sheets so heavy I could barely see the lines on the road, and the wind was fierce! I could see the blue sky ahead, as storms in this area blow through quickly. It took a few minutes to get out of it, but I emerged unscathed into the beautiful sunshine yet again as if nothing had happened. It was amazing! I love storms.

I finally arrived at Howie's around 7pm, gave him a big hug, and hit the shower to wash off the 8 hours of car funk before heading out to meet Misty. The three of us had a nice, but short cuz I was tired, chat, and Misty and I planned to meet again for lunch on Monday.

The next morning Howie & I headed up to one of my favorite spots, Taos! I heart Taos!! We went on a 3-hour hike, got a little lost a couple times due to poor trail markings, and ended up racing a lightning storm down the mountain. Luckily we had both packed our superhero capes (I mean, rain ponchos) as we got pelted when the storm system moved in. We both survived, though it was not very reassuring to hear the thunder and see the lightning oh so close as we raced by trees blackened by lightening strikes.... but it makes for a good story!

After the hike, we stopped in at Eske's Brew Pup in Taos (a place I visited back on my road trip in 2005) for some beer... oh, and food.

Pictures below of hike in the sunshine, and what it looked like at the end:

Above you can see the storm in the far distance.

8,304 feet! Whew!! Good thing Howie's out of shape or I would've been in trouble!

Above: Here comes the storm, and we are on top of the peak!!!

Above: But no rush. Take your time Howie... ;)

This does not do it justice! The rain was coming down in buckets, and thunder & lightning were all around us. Good times! Weeeeeee. Let's do it again!!

Day 5 - 6: Escondido to Tucson

2008-08-18T06:48:00.000-07:00

Ok, where did we leave off? I had a later-than-expected departure from Escondido on Friday morning after thinking I had locked my keys in my car. I actually hadn't locked my keys in the car, but it took the tow truck driver to point that out. It's a long story, but we shall speak of it no more. Ssshh... I said we shall speak of it no more!

Due to the late start I decided to cut out the detour to Scottsdale for lunch with Momo. I didn't want to disrupt her schedule any more by being late, and wanted to be on time for dinner with Fe-Lady and hubby. This was the right decision, as I was able to relax and enjoy the drive without worrying about being late for anyone. I hope to meet the amazing Momo some time in the near future.

The drive was gorgeous, and divided into 3 distinct terrains. First I went through an area that looked like mountains made by someone meticulously stacking rocks into piles. There wasn't a good place to stop to take a picture, so I guess it didn't happen. Cheryl later told me her daughter calls this area "dinosaur poop", and that seems to describe it perfectly.

Next were sand dunes. With not much shoulder on the highway, I had to wait for a rest stop to get a picture, and this does not do it justice, but it's something. The dunes go on for quite a while and are very awe-inspiring.

And finally, what you would expect to see driving to Arizona, mountains and cacti. Gorgeous!

I arrived in Tucson around 3pm. Cheryl & Brant took me out for some fabulous sushi, then a tour of the Socorro Nat'l Park. I uploaded some pics below, but you can see more on her blog as well.

The next day we got up at 5:30am for a "bagel run" before temps soared. The streets were filled with cyclists and runners, all getting in their workout while the weather was still bearable. We went through the university, and past the Frog n' Firkin where I have enjoyed a few pints post-El Tour de Tucson's past. When we got home, we enjoyed a fabulous breakfast before I hit the road for Alba-quirky.

I had such a great time in Tucson with Cheryl & Brant. Like Cheryl says on her blog, it was like we had known each other for years. They were so hospitable and fun that I really didn't want to leave... but my journey awaited. Thanks again you two! Hope to see you soon.

Miscellaneous Tucson pics...

Day 3 -4: SLO to Escondido, CA

2008-08-14T07:54:00.000-07:00

I rolled out from SLO around 6am and hit the road to Escondido. Google maps told me it would take about 5.5 hours, everyone else said much longer and recommended alternate routes. I decided the less freeway changes I had to make in unknown territory with limited visibility (due to my carload of "memories"), the better, so stuck with the 101 to the 405 to the 5 to the 78 route. There was a short slow down on the 405 in LA, but it cleared rather quickly, and I ended up making the 5.5 hour mark.

When I got to Nana's, I had some quick lunch (all I'd had up to that point was a latte and apple fritter... not good), and Annie and I headed out to the San Diego Wild Animal Park. We love this place. They have done so much for animal conservation, and take such great care of the animals. Here's a few of my fav pictures from the day:

Today I have to get some Cycle U work done, but mostly I'm just going to lounge around with family and relax. The run I'd planned to do with Rachel & the San Diego Tri Team got moved to another date, so I'll probably do a short run on my own later.

I head out bright & early tomorrow morning to find Momo for lunch, then dinner & accomodations with FeLady. Should be another great day.....

Day 1-2: Seattle to San Luis Obispo

2008-08-12T14:23:00.000-07:00

I left Seattle at about 1:30 Sunday afternoon. My eyes got a little teared up as I passed by the Space Needle for the last time... for now anyway.

That first day I made it all the way to Southern Oregon. I had planned to stay in Medford, but a friend told me the Best Western in Ashland was only $48/night! What she didn't know was... it's Shakespeare Festival time in Ashland! $95 for what ended up being 4 hours of sleep.

Onward...

Got to Walnut Creek for a fabulously prepared lunch with 21st Century Mom, who by the way is one hawt little lady. Her pictures do not do her justice. I'll have to keep an eye out for hotties in Austin to set her up with in the future! Because she is going to visit me in Austin... Right?!?! :)

I got from Walnut Creek to San Luis Obispo (SLO) in about 4 hours... and was happy that as I hit SLO, the temps dropped down into a very familiar and comfortable 70-degree range. Ahhh.

Above: Subaru heaven

Above: They put me to work right away!

Above: The beautiful & fabulous Beth
Below: Me & Davey-Mo with our Scooby Doo Party Hats on!

Above: Davey-Mo is a master chef. Dinner was amazing!
Below: Davey-Mo saves the planet every day, by riding to his high-power corporate job.

Above: The boys at Art's Cyclery replaced my broken cable & housing, and also let me test ride a Specialized Tarmac. Droooool! When do those student loans arrive?!?!

Below: Where I rode today. For 45 minutes I was on this dirt road, mostly climbing. Good times. The bike shop sent me off to Santa Margarita for some climbing, but I was on the 101 and saw a "bike route" sign, so followed it thinking it would be a paved road beside the freeway. WRONG! I almost turned around and got back on the freeway, but some locals assured me this was much better. I cursed them for the next 30 minutes. The grade was steady, but the dirt was loose in spots. I was in my easiest gear, going over threshold for about 40 minutes. Stopped once and almost hurled. If you see a cyclist in SLO with a tat of a chili pepper on his right arm, kick him in the balls for me! :))

Above: I came back down on the 101, where I passed a semi truck! (they have to go 35mph).

Above: Lunch stop in SLO
Below: You know I had to get a tat shot in! This is day 6 of healing... not as pretty right now, but healing nicely! My artist did a great job.

Ok, one more night here in SLO. I'll go for a run later tonight. Then off bright & early to Escondido to spend a couple days with my aunt Ann, and my Nana. YAY!!!.....

T-0.... Au Revoir, Seattle!

2008-08-10T05:52:00.000-07:00

I roll out later today. Here's a look at the kind of riding I'll be missing out on in the near future:CLICK HERE. Unfortunately, it took me 13 years to find it! sigh.

"See ya later" my Seattle friends. Stay in touch!

T.

RAMROD Light

2008-08-09T06:38:00.000-07:00

On Thursdays, a bunch of us played hooky from other life responsibilities, and headed up to Mt. Rainier with Coach Craig for a climbing Suffer-Fest. We met at the Crystal Mtn turn-off, and climbed from there up to Sunrise. Craig said, "Some people might want to time themselves from the gate... but anything under 2 hours is good". There were 14 of us, and I was the slug of the group for sure. I made it in 1:16, including a 2-minute stop to down a PowerBar and question my sanity. Luckily for my ego, there was a guy riding up the mountain with about 50+ lbs of baggage attached to his bicycle, and I was eventually able to pass HIM! The fastest in our group made this climb in 40 minutes.

After a short rest at the top (at least for me), it was time to roll out. Time to redeem myself! "Ok, who wants to race DOWN, beyotches?!?" I wasn't first down, but I was hangin' with the big dawgs. Charlie says he got some sweet video of my pro descent, but I've yet to see it. I'll direct you to the Cycle U url when it's up.

Next we took a right out of Sunrise, heading toward Chinook. I'm not sure where everyone started timing that one. It was billed as "shorter, but steeper", and there was some road construction thrown in just for fun. I was bonking before we even got to the climb, and was WAY off the back. I must say, I don't think I've ever done this much climbing in one shot, and I don't think I was nutritionally prepared. I was so dead, I had planned to wait at the base of the next climb for the group to come back down, but when I got there, there wasn't a good waiting place, so I trudged on... slowly.... here's a picture of me climbing Chinook ---->

Right before the top there is a sign, "Welcome to Wenatchee Nat'l Forest". Holy C@#^! We rode our bikes to freakin' Wenatchee?!?! The view was amazing. The view was amazing all day! I am so glad I went. And the descent back to the car was rockin'!

Ride Time: 4:15
Ascent: 5,700 feet!
Elevation: 2850 - 6300+
Fun factor: Off the charts

My carpool decided to stop for refueling on the way home. We found Mad Dogs Cafe in Bonney Lake, where I enjoyed French Toast, 2 eggs over medium, 2 slices of bacon, and a Heiffeweizzen. Mmmmm.

My Ironman Tattoo.... is done!

2008-08-06T16:54:00.000-07:00

Today was the day. I did it. At first, I felt nothing.... that lasted about 2.3 nano-seconds. Then it hurt like bloody hell for most of 45 minutes. And as I say in the video, it's a lot like Ironman. When you're in the middle of it, you say "What the ^#&@ was I thinking?!?" but it's too late to stop. And when it's over, you say, "That was @*#^ awesome!"

Special thanks to my Iron-pal Stephanie for the moral support & excellent photography skillz! And thanks to Chris @ Slave to the Needle in Wallingford (Seattle), for putting up with this high-maintenance first-timer, and creating an awesome piece of artwork!

Blogger is being a pain... if you were linked to me on Facebook, you'd get to see a video! Oooooo.

Champion Cyclist Turns Tri-Geek, Part 2!

2008-08-05T13:01:00.000-07:00

The long-awaited Part 2 in the Coach Craig does an Oly Tri series is now posted!!
An alternate title suggested by Matt would be, "On your left, on your left, on your left...."

Check it out on the Cycle University Triathlon Team blog!
And btw, the awesome photography is by moi.. in case you were curious. ;)

Time...

2008-08-04T10:36:00.001-07:00

...where does it go?

I'm gearing up for my final week in Seattle. The past few weeks have been great, and without planning to do so, I've ended up doing a lot of things I've never done here, and spending quality time with friends. It's nice when things just work out that way.

Yesterday I took my Starbucks Tri Training group on a ride up the stair-climb hill from hell (the final climb in Flying Wheels), then enjoyed a great day at Safeco Field cheering on the Seattle Mariners (Yay, they won one!) with Coach Craig & family. I got to practice being an Aunt with Craig & Joy's son Matthew.

...We interrupt this broadcast for the following announcement....

My little bro called me from Germany on Saturday to announce that my SISTER-IN-LAW IS 5 WEEKS PREGNANT!!! I'm going to be an Auntie! Yay!!!!

...we now return you to your normally scheduled programing....

Today is a work day (I'm procrastinating)... Wednesday I am finally getting my Ironman tattoo! My friend Stephanie is coming along for moral support, and probably to tell me how crazy I am for deciding to put it on my leg. Stay tuned for pics. Steph, don't forget the tequila for deadening the pain... or using the bottle to knock me out when I start screaming, whichever.

Thursday I am going on an EPIC RIDE with Coach Craig and a few others. Billed as "RAMROD Light" this ride will encompass Crystal Mtn, Sunrise, and Chinook Pass... all places I have NOT ridden. Geesh, I really need to get out more!

Saturday I am leading my own hill climbing suffer-fest for the Cycle University Triathlon Team in the Cougar Mtn area... Team HPC powered by Cycle U inspired me! There is talk of some kind of a send-off for me after this ride. It may involve large amounts of beer. Feel free to join us on this ride, as it is open to all... Meeting in Leschi at 8am!

Sunday I leave. Right after I do a short clinic for Team HPC powered by Cycle U before they roll out at 7:30am, and after I co-coach a Danskin course preview from 8:30-11am, and after I go to Heather's place to load up my car! Whew! Sunday is gonna be a long day, but I think the excitement of what lays ahead will keep me energized.

T-6 days...

Champion Cyclist turned TriGeek!

2008-07-30T16:20:00.001-07:00

My boss, the famous Coach Craig, made a commitment to do a race every month this season. Furthermore, he decided it would be a good idea to try out every discipline that we coach here at Cycle U. This month, he did his first Olympic-distance triathlon at the Federal Escape! He did one sprint-distance event 3 years ago, but none since.

Part one, the most "entertaining" part, of his race report is now posted here on the Cycle University Triathlon Team blog.

Go read it! Most of us will relate...

Seattle Century

2008-07-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I rode the new Seattle Century ride with Lynn K., one of my coaching clients. It turned out to be a great send-off tour for me. It was raining all morning (specially arranged since this is the SEATTLE century afterall), and the route encompassed a lot of the routes I trained on when I first started riding, with a few roads I have never ridden thrown in for good measure (a 1-mile long old brick road.... interesting, yes... fun on a bike, not so much).

There was a rest stop every 12 miles, featuring great local food. We skipped the first stop, the second stop was fried chicken at Marymoor Park, then pie a la mode in Carnation (the pie was local, but the "a la mode" was from Houston, TX - go figure), then we had gourmet sandwiches (I opted for turkey w/cheddar & a pickle). There was pasta at another stop, which I declined, as I was saving room for.... strawberry shortcake! Mmmm. Lynn declined hers, so I had two. Not sure I burned more calories than I consumed on this ride, especially since the pace was zone 1-2 for me, but what the heck.

At the pie stop I had the pleasure of watching a small deer run across a field, then jump a fence and disappear into the woods. Early on along the Burke we saw a rooster and a bunny. Locals know this spot in Bothell... watch out for those WILD CHICKENS!!

I got to see a few old friends, and a certain someone drove by yelling out her window "Go Tammy, Go!", and later cheered on the roadside doing her infamous 'Go Tammy Dance' before starting her run workout for the day. Carla from the Cycle U Triathlon Team was there, as was Michelle from Team HPC powered by Cycle U.

At the end of the ride we were treated to free local beer, salmon, chocolate brownies with berry sauce, asparagus, .... and a serenade by the Seattle Symphony.

My arms and shoulders were a bit tired from riding so long at a lower pace than normal, but I was otherwise feeling good. That made me think about my very first century ride, El Tour de Tucson 2002, and how I thought some of our friends who were ready to go party post-ride must be insane. The cycling shoe is on the other foot now!

Eight-Legged Freaks!

2008-07-25T18:42:00.000-07:00

Hold the presses!! No one told me there were tarantulas in Texas!

After seeing this article, I did a little google-ing and found out there are 1,001 species of spiders in Texas! ONE THOUSAND AND ONE!!

That's it... the move is canceled.

Coach Craig can start doing his happy-dance now ;)

Knick-knacks & Stuff

2008-07-22T12:32:00.000-07:00

When I roll out of Seattle in a just 19 days, I’m only taking with me what will fit in my Subaru wagon (Well, I’m shipping one bike because the bike box won’t fit in my car, but that’s it). From some perspectives that is very scary. If everything I own fits in a car, what does that say about me? For some, it may say that I am poor, or “unsuccessful”, while for others it may say I am a free spirit, living in the moment, and unattached to “things”. From my perspective, it goes back and forth between the two.

Over the past few years I’ve found that one of the hardest aspects about making life change such as this is letting go of how others judge your situation; Living for yourself. It’s amazing how little we actually “need” to live a full life. As I look around the house at the numerous piles of boxes, I realize I am definitely attached to some things; Maybe too many. I was lunching with a friend a while back, discussing this topic, and I remember her saying, “I hope I never have knick-knacks”. I found that to be an odd statement, because to me knick-knacks are memories, and while we don’t necessarily need physical things to have memories, it certainly helps keep the memories more vibrant and alive.

I have knick-knacks. Every time look at these things, or hold them in my hands, I remember where I was when I got them, who I was with, and how I felt at the time. It may be a recent memory such as a wood-carved monkey from South Africa, or the very distant memory of a stained-glass jewelry box from a lost love. However new or old, these are things that define who I am, or at least the memories attached to them do. Could I live without them? Of course I could, but for now, I like to carry them along on my journey as a reminder of where I’ve been, and who has been alongside me on this journey called life.

I’m also a bit of a book whore. Ok, I’m a big book whore. After two big trips to Third Place Books to part with the books I still love, but am fairly certain I will never read or refer to again, I still have several boxes full of books. So worst-case-scenario, if my trial packing run at the end of the month shows me that I really cannot fit 10 pounds of crap into a five pound bag, then God bless the US Postal Service and their affordable book shipping rate! No book shall be left behind! Not on my watch.

Some day, when I finally settle down and start growing roots somewhere, I will have a house with one room that has bookcases for walls. There might even be one of those ladders that runs along the wall. I can see it now… oh yes, it will be grand!

Until then, just call my gypsy, with my wagon full of memories...

T-Out.

Yes, that is my ass. Thank you.

2008-07-20T16:57:00.001-07:00

Got it handed to me again today by Team HPC powered by Cycle U.

Rolled out from downtown @ 8am for a climbing suffer-fest on Cougar Mountain. I kept saying I was going to cut it short... ok, last hill for me.... yea, I'm beat and going to limp home.... but I kept following them. I'm not sure why. I was on auto-pilot. Usually my auto-pilot takes the easy way. What the heck is going on here?!?!

Downtown Seattle, out to Factoria, then up "Honda Hill", out down and back up Newsome (?), then up 164th hill. Down past the park and up Newcastle Golf Course hill (wow, what a spectacular view!), then back past the park, and a right somewhere took us up another hill I don't remember, then a screaming descent that I skooled them on.... around and BACK UP 164th (just for fun). Then on the way home, a "bonus hill" up Somerset. Standing room only. Don't puke. You can make it. Wow. Limped back home. Oh yea, did I mention this was the "easy" route? Most of the group did a much more insane... I mean challenging... course.

My Polar says 3,600 feet of elevation gain. Tom says probably 5,000 feet. I like Tom. I'm going with Tom. My body feels like Tom is more accurate. Including the ride out and back, total time was 3.5 hours and mileage of 45. Most of the elevation was done inside of the middle 2 hours. I averaged high zone 3, including the limp home.

Finally home. Showered. Cheerios w/strawberries & soy milk. Go comatose for 2 full hours. Come back to life. Mexican food. Life is good.... I'm still tired. Good night Gracie.

Picture is at the top of Sommerset Hill... for another perspective, visit the Team HPC powered by Cycle U leader's blog HERE.

We interrupt this blog...

2008-07-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

....for more Cousin Bobbie updates! Woohoooo Bobbie!!!!
(Hey, I gots ONE family member who shares my passion, I'm going to brag her up every chance I get!):

Hi!

Hope you had a great weekend! I sure did......ok...kind of.

As you know I'm training with the Team In Training and raising money and awareness for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Well, I decided to deviate from my training schedule this weekend and just go for it! "Go for what?" you ask?

Well, last year at this time I was training for my first triathlon and started getting the "bug" as it were. I noticed that the local town here hosts the "Shawnee Mission Park Triathlon" here at the Shawnee Mission State Park. Last year I knew it would be too much, too soon.

Well, this year I found out a few gym rats that I knew and someone from work (for his first time) were going to do it so I thought "what the heck!" "It kind of falls within my training schedule." The funny thing though there is a short course (.31 mi Swim, 9 mi Bike, 2.4 mi run) and a long course (.62 mi Swim, 18 mi Bike, 4.5 mi run).... I thought, "humm, I did longer distance at Cali last year"... Needless to say, my eyes and body got greedy. So I signed up for the long course!

The day started out with my heat at 7:15 a.m. in a fairly decent lake temp of 80 (air temp was about 55). The swim was actually quite pleasant. I was (of course) passed by the next heat that went after me, but I was enjoying the swim. Besides, I could barely see where I was going with the extreamly bright sun light coming up across the lake on the way back from the 1 loop I had to make. I got out, looked at my watch and thought "30 min, not so bad, I didn't panic or gasp for air like last time in the ocean" and besides no threat of sharks or kelp to pull myself through... Then came the bike ride......

Now reminding you, most of my training has been indoors due to lack of time, kids, schedules, and whatever... For any of you who have tried riding your bike around SM park or even driven around it, you will notice the... ummm... HILLS!!!! UGH!!!! Not just one or two... but one really steep one, then it goes into a gradual climb for about 1/4 or so mile, then a (short) repreve, then another climb, then some downhill fun, then another huge hill, then another cool downhill (40 mph or so) fun, then another excruciating (so it seemed by then) steep hill, then it's gradual downhill and flatness (so you can finally take a drink break while coasting moment)... but that's like at the last 1/2 mile of a 4.5 mile loop. So you have to go back and do it all over again.... 4 times!!!!

So anyway, I'm sure you get the picture. By the time I got to the run.. oh by the way, had to run UP that same really steep hill from the bike ride...UGH! Or really walk/ crawl in my case (so it seemed). My steam ran out! The run stunk! I was being passed by bugs crawling faster than I. Though a beautiful day (about 80 or so and sunny), the run through the woods and mostly sunny fields just killed me. I pooped out and ended up walking most.

For anyone who cares about the details... Here you go..
Swim - .62 miles - 33.06 minutes
Bike - 18 miles - the timer ran out!!! (approx. 1 hr 30 min)
Run - 4.5 miles - 57.56 minutes
Total: 2:59:02......officially 5th from last overall, 4th from last in my age group....not dead last like I thought....

For those GE'ers... there's my baseline for next year. There's lots of room for continuous improvement. Maybe we can do a DOE on my training? Hey, even better, can I make this a Black Belt project for certification? "How to improve Black Belt performance and cycle time through triathlon training"..... Ok.. now I'm sounding like Jeremy...:0)

So, back to business and Team In Training. This Saturday I get to do it all over again with the team training for the upcoming Washington DC triathlon. We have a 1/4 mi swim, 10 mi bike, and 3 mi run for practice... I think I need it...

Back to my goals and the purpose. I'm 95% there in my fundraising!! Yippee! Please help if you haven't already! My goal is $4,800 for this Nations Tri. Please help raise awareness and much needed funds for those suffering through leukemia and blood cancers! You can make a difference! Just CLICK HERE GE'ers, any donation over $25 is 100% matched! GE has already donated over $1,600 for this cause through my fundraising efforts!

By the way, I was the only one out there yesterday at the triathlon donning the official "Team in Training" tri-suit!! I plugged TNT and got lots of "Go Team!"... That was great encouragement to keep me going. Even though I did this one on my own, I took it as great training for the big one coming up in September where there will be over 1000 Team In Training recruits raising millions of dollars to help those with cancer in need. I kept reminding myself "it's all about finishing the race"...

Thank you for your support and encouragement!

Roberta (Bobbie)

Workouts & Furry Friends

2008-07-12T18:39:00.000-07:00

My less-than-stellar, but exactly-as-deserved performance at Lake Stevens 70.3 last weekend seems to have gotten me all fired up! I took a day off, then was back at it. The most notable sessions have been a 3.5-hour bike on Thursday, with the last hour at race pace to get home before sunset. Then this morning we had our weekly brick session for the Cycle University Triathlon Team. I led a group around the South end of Lake Washington loop, followed by a 20-minute run along the water. I've definitely been tired, but my schedule has allowed me to take naps (yay, naps!). The only other thing that seems to be suffering is my digestion, but that might have something to do with being too tired to cook, and relying on protein shakes, etc. for meals. ("etc" = corn chips).

Ok, on to something more fun...

This week I've been house/pet-sitting for my friends Dan & Diane. It feels like coming home in a way, because I lived here for a few months back in 2005, and I sit for them often. I spent Thanksgiving here back in 2005, and my brother & sister-in-law also joined us. They have a gorgeous home on the eastside, very close to my alma mater, Bastyr University.

Here's some pictures from my time with "the kids"....

Above is the family cat, "Link".
I'm not sure where that name comes from. I should ask them sometime.

Above is "Tuckerman"... a.k.a. Tuckeroo. He's a big teddy bear!

And here is Vela, the Mexican princess.
They brought her and her littermates back with them from a trip to Mexico. They found homes for all her siblings, but she stayed on with the family. She's quite timid, but a very sweet girl.

I'll miss these guys. I'll definitely have to find some friends with pets to live vicariously through. Life is too hectic for pets of my own, so I rely on friends to get my fix. Can't wait to meet the stoner dog!

Seattle to Austin - The Plan

2008-07-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

Now that Lake Stevens 70.3 is behind me, I can focus all my energy and excitement on my upcoming move to Austin! YAY!!!! (Don't know why I'm moving to Austin? Read this!).

I was planning to take the shortest route to Austin, since I'm not leaving until August, even though there would be no one to stop and visit along the way. Then I realized something... to go south down the coast, thereby having the opportunity to visit friends & family along the way, I would only be adding 200 miles to my journey!! No-brainer.

Here's the route I will take when I depart Seattle on August 10th:

2,600 miles.

No trailer or moving van... just me, my Subaru, and all the things I think I can't live without.

Along this journey I will get to meet the infamous 21st Century Mom.

I will get to reconnect with two very good friends, David & Beth, currently residing in San Luis Obispo. Maybe Beth will even let me ride her horse while Dave makes us some of his world-famous margaritas! (In that order only. The other way around would be very dangerous).

I will get to spend a couple days with my closest relatives, my aunt Ann & Nana in San Diego.

If I'm lucky, I might even get another workout in with Rachel & the San Diego Tri Club.

I will lunch with Momo, and have dinner with FeLady!! (May her blog be resurrected soon).

See, all this cool stuff I'll get to do, and great people I'll get to connect with, just for adding 200 measley little miles onto my drive! It's barely more than an Ironman. Seriously.

And finally... I will arrive in Austin.

Ah, Austin.

Texas Hill Country.

Live Music Capitol of the World.

Triathlon "mecca" of the Southwest.

Home of my future alma mater, University of Texas at Austin.

Home of my favorite stalker.

And new home of Little Miss Runner Pants, too!

I'm going to love Austin. I just know it!

Lake Stevens 70.3 Race Report - 2008

2008-07-06T19:03:00.000-07:00

First, the numbers...

Overall Finish time: 6:41:18
(HR Avg 157 / Max 179)

Swim time: 44:49 (HR 147 / 158)
T1: 2:23
Bike Time: 3:23:02 (HR 148 / 170)
T2: 2:46
Run Time: 2:28:18 (HR 161 / 179)

While I did not PR the overall, or the bike from last year... I did PR the swim by 7 whole seconds! And I PR'd the run by 5 minutes and 41 seconds... so I'm happy with that.

What went wrong?

Maybe I should have trained for this event... ? Nah, I was "le tired" from IMSA! And I had to do this race again before moving away.

Did not arrive as early as I had planned, and had to park further away than last year... THEN, when I was halfway to the transition area, I realized my helmet was back in the car. I did a good job of remaining calm, but almost forgot to pump my tires. Since I was running latex tubes, that would be very bad... but I guess "almost" doesn't count, right?

Ended up way off course on the home stretch of the swim. I just got into the rhythm of my stroke and breath, "1, 2, 3, breathe. 1, 2, 3, breathe..." and must have zoned out for a few minutes. I'm sure that cost me dearly, as I was feeling strong on the swim up to that point. I also stopped to pee... gotta learn how to swim and pee at the same time. LOL! Had I arrived as early as planned, I would have gotten a swim warm-up and taken care of that little issue before the race started (you can see on the chart below where my HR drops off during that time). And if you think that's too much information, you obviously don't visit Amanda Lovato's blog.

My wetsuit would NOT come off. I could not get my hands out. I have no idea what the drama was. I lubed up the arm and leg holes with spray oil as I always do. So I'm in transition, cursing under my breath (at least I hope it was under my breath), just hoping no one is witnessing this ridiculous scene, and what do I hear? "Go Tammy! Go Tammy!" Haha.

Got the bright idea from watching "Transitions" DVD to put vaseline on the sides of my saddle. My enormously muscular thighs do rub a bit at times, and it seemed brilliant. But when you grab your bike to head out, where do you grab it? Aahhhh, by the saddle. So it was fun to do the bike with vaseline all over my hands. Really tough to keep a grip on the bars and shift. sigh. This definitely slowed me down at times. Nothing new on race day. Do as I say, not as I do. That's all I'm sayin'.

My bike saddle came loose about 10 miles into the bike. There are two "clamps" on this seatpost, and whomever designed it... well, let's just say I haven't been amused since day one. The rear clamp came loose, but the front one felt ok so I opt'd to keep riding versus stopping and loosing a bunch of time messing with it. It stayed attached (barely), but every time I would roll onto the nose, the saddle would fall forward... good times. Can't say for sure if it really cost me any time, but it was definitely a concern/distraction.

Run went good after the first mile or so. I stopped at the first port-a-potty and was 2nd in line. I think I lost a good 5 minutes there, but it had to be done. Onward.

What went right?

Having last year's race report to refer to.

Nutrition - 4am: 4 blueberry pancakes (made night prior) and one big cup o' joe. 6am: 1 powerbar. 6:40 am: 1 powergel & water. 7am: SWIM! On the bike: 2 bottles w/1 nuun tablet, 2 powergels, and one scoop CarboPro each, about 1/2 bottle water, and 1/2 bag Clif Bloks. On the Run: 5 powergels, lots of water, and about one whole orange (Mmmmm, those oranges were heavenly!). Immediately post-race: 1 slice cheese pizza, 1 bunch green grapes. Then tummy upset... hmm, why would that be? I wonder. Ha. Good nutrition plan overall. Was not hungry until near end of run. But still feeling a little pukey right now... 7pm. Blek.

No injuries or biomechanical issues! Let's hear it for strength training!!

Carrying a little tube of sunscreen on the run. Let's hear it for NO SUNBURN! YAY!!

Cheering for and helping others pace the run had a hugely positive impact on my mental state, and helped me PR the run. It actually wasn't until I embraced the fact that I was NOT going to PR anything, that I found the juice to have a solid run. Funny how that works. If anyone knows Chris from Portland, give her a shout out! She helped me find my run mojo.

Friends cheering from the sidelines! Thanks you guys... It really makes such a huge difference! Stacy, David, Mac, Susan, Jen.... and all the volunteers & random spectators... YOU ROCK! And thanks Monique for tracking me online and calling to congratulate me on a "solid day".

Friends who were also racing and cheering! Eric (Congrats on your first HIM finish!!! Yes, next time you need to go 70.3 miles you can take your car), Mandy (Congrats on your first HIM finish!!), Carla (congrats on your first HIM finish!!), BrIronman (Congrats on kicking my ass! Rematch in Austin, then again in N'awlins!), Paul (Congrats on your first HIM finish!!).... Bill... Jason... Larry.... Chuck... the list goes on.

--------

So overall a decent day. As is always the case with these types of events, I learned a ton! Not just about long-course triathlon, but about myself. I'm not always happy about what I learn, but that's part of the journey, and what keeps me coming back.

Congrats to all! Now if you'll excuse me, I think I'll pass out for a while. :)

Quadzilla?!?!

2008-07-03T09:55:00.000-07:00

I just got an update regarding the Longhorn 70.3 I signed up for, and this quote was within:

"Quadzilla, the hill of truth, will be rockin! Hill Country Running Company will be out there, with a spectator area, spectator tent, live music, and more for you all".

So my question is.... what kind of a hill qualifies to be called "Quadzilla" in the grand ol' state of Texas? Is it a speed bump, or is it a Oh-my-gawd-what-have-I-gotten-myself-into kinda thing? Several friends from Seattle will be joining me in this event, so whatever size the hill, it's going to be a blast!! (Roll Call: IronMonique, BrIronman, Lindsey, Lindsey's TriDad, Brenna,...more?)

I have plenty of time to get nervous about THAT because right now... I have to remove myself from the state of denial. I am doing a 70.3 on SUNDAY! Lake Stevens 70.3, baby! I have very low expectations given my current regime of de-training. Last year it was my first half, and I made a vow to relax and have fun! I accomplished that mission (race report here). This year I hope my increased base of fitness & perspective from IMSA training will allow me to meet that same goal, and also PR. It's going to take some serious mental focus to overcome to lack of physical focus I've had lately.

I'm also planning to sign up for the New Orleans 70.3, as so many people I know are planning to be there; Stephen, Mary, BrIronman (ok, he'll be at every event in the world, so just list him whenever you take roll for any race), and I know there were more... I just can't remember right now.

Swim Love

2008-07-01T06:05:00.000-07:00

Monday I swam at the Coleman Pool in West Seattle for the first time. I am in LOVE with this pool! I didn't know Seattle had anything like this.

Stats:

50 meters long! (Length matters).
8 lanes (width matters, too).
Outdoor pool
Views of the Puget Sound
Heated (to 85F)
SALTwater!

And get this... it's a CITY pool! $3.75 to swim. Sweeeeet!

Downsides are: City pool = lots of kids (no, really... LOTS!), outside = more burn marks on my poor back. And it's on the shoreline of Lincoln Park, so you have to hike a descent distance to get to it. Oh, and it's only open in the summertime. Come on... if Boulder, CO can have an outdoor pool all year long, why can't Seattle??

The pros definitely outweigh the cons, and even though the lap swim lanes were crowded, it didn't feel that crowded because there is less turning, and everyone was very friendly. I guess being outside in the sunshine is good for people's disposition. I know it's good for mine ;)

Lance Armstrong is Stalking Me

2008-06-30T08:26:00.000-07:00

It's true, and I'm just not sure what to do about it.

Lance heard I gave up bike racing to train for a marathon in 2005-06. At that point, he was still contractually obligated to race the tour, but as soon as he recovered from his 7th win, what did he do?... he began training for, and completed, a marathon. Coincidence? I think not.

The whole time he was training he kept emailing me, asking if we could go for a run together, etc. I had to tell him, that while I respect him as a athlete, and acknowledge him as a symbol of hope to so many who's lives have been touched by cancer, that's where it ends. "And besides," I told him, "it really grosses me out that you dated one of the babies from Full House".

So lately he's been trying to get to me through my friends.

Early on, he was schmoozing with my boss, Craig, asking him to "put in a good word" for him.

Next, he sent his buddy Floyd out to work on my friend & co-worker Heather. Look at him buttering her up right before he asked if he could get my cell number for Lance. Shameless. Heather didn't crack. She's tough.

Well, now he's heard that I'm moving to Austin, and it's starting all over again. He arranged a meeting with my friend Matt (a.k.a. Cancer Guy) this past weekend down in Portland. I hear the conversation went something like this:

"Come on! Give me her number. She's moving to Austin, so she'll need someone to show her around."

He even convinced Matt to take this picture with his phone, saying, "Show her how firm my glutes are!"

Matt assures me he did not divulge my private number, but I've been getting some very interesting voice mails and text pictures lately that tell me different. Sigh. What's a girl to do??

Well, if he starts training for Ironman, I might have to reconsider.

Random Thoughts

2008-06-28T07:35:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I posted. I could tell you it's because I've been soooo busy working, training for Lake Stevens 70.3, and preparing for my impending move to Austin in T-6 weeks, but that would be a lie. In actuality, work has been steady, I've been busy DE-training myself for Lake Stevens, and well, I guess I have done a few things to prep for the move, but not as much as I could have.

I've been thinkging of putting together a list of Things to Do/See Before Leaving Seattle. But let's face it, I've been here almost 13 years... if I haven't done/seen it by now, I probably won't. Besides, I'm not entirely sure this is "good-bye" to Seattle, so much as "see ya later alligator".

If the forecast through next weekend is correct (I'm dreaming, right?), the weather gods are on my side. This weekend = very hot (I may have to redefine my definition of "very hot" in 6 weeks), so the lakes are finally warming up. Next weekend - RACE WEEKEND - is forecast as a high of 70F & partly cloudy. YES! *crossing fingers* In the words of Jean Luc, "Make it so!"

So I made the mistake of hitting the weight room a little too hard on Thursday (I did warn you these would be "Random Thoughts"!), and now it hurts to move... at all... seriously hurts. Difficult to do those taper bricks when you can't lift your leg. I'm surprised at how much it hurts, but I guess I took a little too much time away from no-neck land. I think I'll swim today, and hopefully be functional enough to get a short brick in by tomorrow.

I'll get a little cross-training in today as I'm heading out to Issaquah to help do yard work for a friend with Parkinson's. And if you don't already know this about me, know it now... I DETEST yard work. But a friend in need... as they say.

And one last random thought. I'm seriously considering THIS RACE as my 2009 rematch with the man of Iron. Yes, I finished IMSA, but I thought it might be fun to see how well I could do without flying halfway around the world and racing with bronchitis. I'll be closely watching the event this November to see how it plays out. By going to this locale, my aunt (who is really more like a mom to me) will be able to come watch, and she's really excited about that prospect. Plus, it's the closest IM to TX. Plus, my Mom says she'll be living there by then (but we'll see if that really happens). PLUS, I have a client who is planning to do it. So... if you know of anyone doing this event this year, leave me a comment so I can follow their adventure & read their reports.

Ok I lied, one more random thought. I lifted this from Momo's blog. It's important to have a "Why?" for events like Ironman, and Momo has her's nailed down. I like it:

"I do Ironman because I need to. I need to. I need to push myself there, out of my comfort zone, out of that safe place, on my couch in my house, that I would rather stay in. I need to feel scared. I need to feel doubt. I need to believe that I can overcome. Conquer. Be strong. Believe."

Thanks for reading my randomness!
Now get outside & play (shamelessly stolen from the Luna Chix).