Sunday 9 June 2013
Here we are again!
Well, it's been 3 years since writing my last blog (that being the run up to Ironman Austria). Here I am again faced with another Ironman Challenge, and again the plan is to record my last month's training before the race on July 14th at Roth in Germany.
I found, although it's a bit of a pain to keep updated, that a blog is a good way of keeping a diary and very useful to revisit on occasions.
If anyone does follow this link then be prepared to read about many bike rides, many miles of running and a little bit of swimming! It's got all the makings of a classic slumberfest! Best read at night for those wanting to get to sleep.
PLEASE IGNORE THE PUBLISHING DATES, I STILL HAVEN'T GOT THE HANG OF IT.
Steve G Challenge Roth 2013
Reading back at my old blog it was obvious that I was entering into the unknown at Austria. Yes, I obviously wanted to perform well but the major goal was just to get around within the cut-off times so I could call myself an Ironman. I'd tell people I'd be happy to finish under the 12 hr mark, which I would have been. But the nearer I got to the event I knew there was every chance I could sneak under the 11 hour mark. On the day I exceeded my own expectations and finished in 10 hrs 24 mins. It was tough but due to my ignorance I enjoyed it.
This time there'll be no sandbagging! I've had another 3 years of biking, swimming and running, the distance I've already done, and once again I've plumped for a fast course.
Sub 10 hours is the goal! It's got to be said, I'll be disappointed if I can't knock 25 minutes off my time from 3 years ago. This doesn't make it any easier! In fact now, the pressure is on, there's no comfort blanket of just pootling round to be called an 'Ironman', I'm already an Ironman! this time I will actually be 'racing it' rather than winging it. This could be the difference between eternal glory or suffering from endless bouts of depression for the rest of my miserable existence! No pressure then?
Before I start entering the rivetting tales of daily training. I'll quickly skip over my last 3 years as a Triathlete......
Saturday 8 June 2013
3 more years of TRI-ing.
What's happened then? Post Ironman I took a bit of time out catching up on family time and household jobs. I spent a lot of time at the back-burner sorting out all the jobs I'd been putting there. I still ticked over though as I wanted to maintain this new level of confidence and of course fitness. Many races came and went, some more memorable than others. I was slowly improving and results were getting better. The more memorable ones…. A 3rd overall and first in my age group at Hull Sprint was nice but still pointed to my running as a major weakness.
I seemed to be blighted with injuries that prevented me from running so the bike and swim, through default, would get more attention. Hatfield Sprint (7th), Cleveland Steelman 2011 (finished 10th); 2012 (finished 9th); Alan Smith Challenge winner 3 yr in succession and Lincsquad Time Trial champ 2011, 2012 I managed to have a small injury free period in 2011 which allowed me to qualify for GB in the Euro Champs at Eilat, Israel. Once again, on the run up to the race in 2012 I got a stress fracture to the ankle! I only managed 3 x 3 mile runs in as many months. Very frustrating! That said, I made the most of my experience and although I didn't set the world alight my swim and bike carried me to 7th place in my age group. Not bad all things considered.
Link to Euro race report............. http://www.lincsquad.co.uk/2012/04/if-carlsberg-did-triathlons/
My hopes of building on this were cruelly quashed a week later in the Grantham sprint when I had to pull out of the race during the run in agony with this damn ankle problem!
Another one to forget was a 500 mile round trip to Salisbury when I got second in my age group in a sprint. Well that was until you added on the 2 minute penalty I'd received for supposed drafting. I was distraught and demanded to see the Marshal for an explanation. I got even more irate when I found out the number of the guy I was meant to be drafting finished about 10 minutes behind me on the bike leg. Never had any sympathy with drafters in the past but that slightly changed my opinion.
Qualifying again for GB at Rother Valley for this year's Euro champs in Turkey and then getting 3rd overall at the Brigg sprint were fonder memories from 2012.
So this leads me up to this year and another crappy winter of long, wet, base miles combined with long, dry but boring turbo miles and several work's gym sessions. Swimming has been almost non existent through the winter as I seemed to have developed some allergic reaction with the chemicals in the pool. A half hour swim leaves me full of cold and a nose that just pours for hours! Very frustrating but I can live with it as I don't see swimming as particularly important anymore. These hours, for me, are better spent running.
Don't know why I'm tempting fate here but this year is the first six monthly spell where I've been free of running injuries. I'll stop there.
The Lincsquad 100 mile Sportive in April was the first chance this year to test my winter training and I was pleased with the results.
Training was further elevated toward the end of April when I and several other Lincsquadders attended a Triathlon camp in Mallorca run by Off that Couch fit and Real Fitness, AKA Clarky and Deano Kirkham. Contrary to popular belief this wasn't a 'Jolly boys outing'! It was a structured week with some quality training. Sea swims every morning, legendary bike rides on an island that's inundated with bike nuts. Peloton after peloton are there for the taking whilst infamous climbs like the 'Sa Colabra' are being abused on Strava by the pros.
These guys know their stuff and I fully recommend signing up for one of the 2014 dates if you want to take your training to the next level. Of course, I know these guys and you may think this is a deliberate plug for their business, it's not! I personally don't want anyone to attend because I can't bear to think that next year my friends/rivals will be getting this condensed week of quality training whilst I'm churning away on my turbo, too scared to ask the missus if I can go again.
I seemed to be blighted with injuries that prevented me from running so the bike and swim, through default, would get more attention. Hatfield Sprint (7th), Cleveland Steelman 2011 (finished 10th); 2012 (finished 9th); Alan Smith Challenge winner 3 yr in succession and Lincsquad Time Trial champ 2011, 2012 I managed to have a small injury free period in 2011 which allowed me to qualify for GB in the Euro Champs at Eilat, Israel. Once again, on the run up to the race in 2012 I got a stress fracture to the ankle! I only managed 3 x 3 mile runs in as many months. Very frustrating! That said, I made the most of my experience and although I didn't set the world alight my swim and bike carried me to 7th place in my age group. Not bad all things considered.
Link to Euro race report............. http://www.lincsquad.co.uk/2012/04/if-carlsberg-did-triathlons/
My hopes of building on this were cruelly quashed a week later in the Grantham sprint when I had to pull out of the race during the run in agony with this damn ankle problem!
Another one to forget was a 500 mile round trip to Salisbury when I got second in my age group in a sprint. Well that was until you added on the 2 minute penalty I'd received for supposed drafting. I was distraught and demanded to see the Marshal for an explanation. I got even more irate when I found out the number of the guy I was meant to be drafting finished about 10 minutes behind me on the bike leg. Never had any sympathy with drafters in the past but that slightly changed my opinion.
Qualifying again for GB at Rother Valley for this year's Euro champs in Turkey and then getting 3rd overall at the Brigg sprint were fonder memories from 2012.
So this leads me up to this year and another crappy winter of long, wet, base miles combined with long, dry but boring turbo miles and several work's gym sessions. Swimming has been almost non existent through the winter as I seemed to have developed some allergic reaction with the chemicals in the pool. A half hour swim leaves me full of cold and a nose that just pours for hours! Very frustrating but I can live with it as I don't see swimming as particularly important anymore. These hours, for me, are better spent running.
Don't know why I'm tempting fate here but this year is the first six monthly spell where I've been free of running injuries. I'll stop there.
The Lincsquad 100 mile Sportive in April was the first chance this year to test my winter training and I was pleased with the results.
Training was further elevated toward the end of April when I and several other Lincsquadders attended a Triathlon camp in Mallorca run by Off that Couch fit and Real Fitness, AKA Clarky and Deano Kirkham. Contrary to popular belief this wasn't a 'Jolly boys outing'! It was a structured week with some quality training. Sea swims every morning, legendary bike rides on an island that's inundated with bike nuts. Peloton after peloton are there for the taking whilst infamous climbs like the 'Sa Colabra' are being abused on Strava by the pros.
These guys know their stuff and I fully recommend signing up for one of the 2014 dates if you want to take your training to the next level. Of course, I know these guys and you may think this is a deliberate plug for their business, it's not! I personally don't want anyone to attend because I can't bear to think that next year my friends/rivals will be getting this condensed week of quality training whilst I'm churning away on my turbo, too scared to ask the missus if I can go again.
Friday 7 June 2013
2013 season starts, New forest, Brigg bomber and Time Trials
Two more TT's have come and gone and I feel I've steadily improved by knocking off 30 secs and then a further 5 seconds last week. The Ironman training may have put paid to hitting my PB potential for this year?
My first event this year was a trip down to my mate's in Salisbury for the New Forest Olympic distance race. This is one of the most picturesque Tris I've done. Feeling a little rusty, especially in Transition 1, I capatalised on a strong bike to finish with a trophy for 3rd place in my Age group.
The following week was the arrival of the Brigg Bomber Relays which I felt rather proud to be one of 20 work colleagues taking part. Some great camaraderie made for an enjoyable day in the baking sun. Although it was great to win the 1st prize with fellow Team mates, Lee McCarthy, Tyll Hasse and Rob Wood I found equal satisfaction in watching my own IPC workmates. Despite receiving a little gyp and being called a deserter for jumping aboard the 'Cherry Picked Trophy Hunters' ship ***the shame***. Top effort seeing as these guys Richard Taylor, Matt Riggall, Jaime Atkinson(SteveO excluded) don't normally compete in such events. An afternoon's drinking in Brigg with the McCarthy's leading to a late night Indian.
Thursday 6 June 2013
The Half Outlaw
In preparation for the full Ironman I thought doing a half Ironman would be a good idea to test my training. The Half Outlaw at Nottingham got mine and a number of other Lincsquadders' vote.
I've got to say this was a cracking event with over 1200 competitors sharing the lakeland course at Holme Pierrepoint.
Rather optimistically I parked myself at the front of the swimmers treading water in the hope I'd get a bit of clear water. For once I didn't get swum over, not because I was faster than those but more that there was plenty of room for overtaking. This is becoming a bad habit, the 1900m swim, again, was pretty uneventful and almost pleasurable, which means I'm obviously not giving it eyeballs out! With my lack of swim practice this year it seems I'm not anticipating coming out of the water with the front runners, so in a way I'm not getting disappointed. I guess if Stenno, Luke M and Clarky were racing then I'd be peed off if they got out a minute in front of me as that'd be an indicator to the fact I've been a slacker as far as my swimming is concerned. But, they haven't been in any race I've done this year! So ignorance is bliss, I'll carry on enjoying myself.
Into T1 and immediately onto the lakeland circuit where the fast from my swim wave meet the slow swimmers from the two previous waves. Winding up the speed, placing cold feet into shoes whilst trying to manoeuvre around the packed circuit wasn't easy, I had to remind myself it was a long race and getting in front of people could wait until out on the road. Whilst getting comfy a GB tri-suit flashed past, I noted his name/number 'Wilder'. I admired his early enthusiasm but thought I'll get you later mate. Next time I saw him was in a photo in the Tri247 article accepting his winners’ trophy! Hmmm!
Matey boy aside I did find myself overtaking a constant stream of bikers for the first couple of hours.
A schoolboy error of trying to knock it down into the small chain ring whilst on my limit saw me pushing my once trusty steed up the only noted hill of the race. As usual the stress of these actions are always worse than the actual time lost. Having at least 40 people who I'd already caught and overtaken breeze past me offering their false commiserations isn't good for the mind. Once back up and running the final half hour seemed a little lonely as fellow triathletes were few and far between. My 23.4 mph average dwindled away to 23.0 mph in the last mile or so as the course brought you over cattle grids and speed bumps through some stately home. The ride ended up being a mile long too, so my 2:29 wasn't as bad as I thought.
The obvious plus side of riding a little more conservatively is having that extra spring in your step for the 13 mile run. This was the case as I set off from T2 to the commentator's words echoing in my head…..'And here's another Lincsquadder, it looks like the race is on'. I'd already been tipped off by Sarah Binch in transition that Chris Spavin was only a couple of minutes in front. As Chris is a strong biker It meant I'd gone fairly well to make up the 14 minutes head start he had on me.
I had no tactic in the run except to run as fast as I could before the inevitable leg fatigue kicked in. Low seven minute miles eventually increased to 7:30 minute miles as I neared the 10 mile mark. The course was excellent for gauging your position and seeing fellow Lincsquadders (and of course rivals). Seeing the likes of Tony Philbin, Andy Veitch and Julian Newell all of whom are better runners than me kept me focussed all the more.
I even found myself 'racing' in the last half mile against a guy who'd been breathing on my shoulder for the last 400 yds. I kept thinking 'Come on mate you're obviously faster than me as you've managed to catch me up so just pass me now will you'. As if reading my thoughts, he did such! His balding head, grey moustache and elderly frame suggested one thing……He was in my age group!!! Two bands on the arm confirmed he was also on his last lap and was going to relegate me further down the finishing order. Look, I know I'm milking this but it's very unusual that a man with my limited running pace finds himself in this position, so bear with me. As I shadowed my new found advisory I realised our pace had upped and in the final furlong we both overtook another double -banded veteran. With 200 metres to go and probably more to do with Angie’s screaming I made my move, I went for it, I shot past him……… OMG, I'd shown my hand too early, My energy started to ebb somewhat, I was dying and the finish still seemed miles away, I felt sick, Angie's cheering was now silent and I was blowing out of my backside! I glanced over my shoulder and to my relief matey hadn't sensed that I'd shot my bolt. I beat him by 4 seconds and because we'd both overtaken another chap it meant my age group position was elevated by 2 places within the last 100 meters.
13th position overall and 5th in my age group (4th if you exclude a pro) was a satisfying result in such a big event, to do it on the run of all disciplines made it that so much sweeter. OK, I've hardly turned into Mo Farrah over night and obviously I was annihilated by the top boys but overtaking hundreds on the bike paled into insignificance compared to those two coming into the grandstand.
A great afternoon drinking with the missus at 'The Village' and an Indian in Long Eaton made for a messy night.
Link to race report
Wednesday 5 June 2013
One More Month of Training.
One More Month of Trainng.
Today I received an email from the Challenge Roth gang stating a 30 day countdown until the race!
Wow! That's come around quick! Right better get down to business.
June 11th.
Ride out today before work with Luke and Josh Jones and my relaiable winter's staple of riders SteveO and Matt. These two have featured in many of my winter rides. Having SteveO work the same shifts as me and also training for an Ironman in a few weeks has made for an obvious riding partner. Matt, although new to cycling, is full of enthusiasm and I've been fortunate to have them both share some of those cold winter rides.
A flat 60 ish mile including a café stop at the Wetherspoons at Lincoln before meeting up with Clarky on the return home saw a 20.3 mph average. Great effort from the talented young Josh who refuses to be dropped off the back. I bet he sleeps when he gets home. Wish I'd taken up cycling when I was his age, and was equally disciplined, and wasn't such a dosser!
June 12th
Luke and I decided we'd get some miles in today on TT bikes. After turning up nearly an hour late and still showing the effects from the previous night's beers (yep, that ain't changed) I finally arrived at Luke's. The 82 mile hilly route took on, in part, the Lincsquad Sportive route. A café stop at Jostlers in Caistor for yummy poached eggs on toast (my favourite Sally Army and JJs were shut). Luke, also a budding Ironman and all round good egg knows how to hurt himself on training rides so when given the choice of flat route, or hilly route home you know it's time to take a gel!
I'm going to deliberately mention the following as an aide de memoire for next year's sportive. After warning Luke of the dangerous descents into gravel at the bottom of Stainton Le Vale I then bored him with the story of several riders also getting punctures(Lee Mccarthy x 3 & SteveO) at this danger spot. Luke awoke from his sleep with a loud pop from my front tyre! Would you Adam and Eve it!! I was only just saying that!!
The cattle grid before Hatcliffe evened the score as Luke received the second blow out of the day.
Tuesday 4 June 2013
P66 Sportive
Thursday June 13th
Today was to be our Work's Cycling Club Sportive. Paul Fytche, Rob Wood and myself have been running the club for the last year or two and every now and then we attempt to get people out on their bikes, not easy! Of all days to pick! It'd been lousy all day with the IPC Terminal having to be shutdown for Lightning storms!
I suppose we'll never know how many people would have turned up if the weather was more favourable but with the help of a few Lincsquadders eleven of us braved the elements.
I'm not going to lie, it wasn't enjoyable, and although the weather finally brightened up it was too late we were ready for the pub. Mechanicals being the main cause of this misererable ride.
Dobber had to call his missus as his rear mech just snapped clean off. Big Mac Mcandless suffered a snapped chain and despite some expert link removal from Rob he later fell foul of the same problem and spent another 20 minutes with oily hands. Josh Jones' puncture was one of the happier times during this maintenance course/ride!
Friday June 14th
Laying on the bed after returning from my morning shift I'd almost convinced myself that a quick nap would be more beneficial than my weekly long run. I managed to jump up and start putting my shorts on before I started nodding.
The sun didn't help the pace particularly and I started to tire at the 11 mile mark as the legs began to protest. The last two miles of 13 were a struggle, my average reducing somewhat to finish with a 7:38 min/miles.
Saturday June 15th
Nil training! After work enjoyed a good night on the pop with Clarky, Stenno and the girls at Bellinis.
Sunday June 16th
Nil training! Father's Day so took my Mum and Dad to the Shires for tea. More ales and a DVD to follow.
Today was to be our Work's Cycling Club Sportive. Paul Fytche, Rob Wood and myself have been running the club for the last year or two and every now and then we attempt to get people out on their bikes, not easy! Of all days to pick! It'd been lousy all day with the IPC Terminal having to be shutdown for Lightning storms!
I suppose we'll never know how many people would have turned up if the weather was more favourable but with the help of a few Lincsquadders eleven of us braved the elements.
I'm not going to lie, it wasn't enjoyable, and although the weather finally brightened up it was too late we were ready for the pub. Mechanicals being the main cause of this misererable ride.
Dobber had to call his missus as his rear mech just snapped clean off. Big Mac Mcandless suffered a snapped chain and despite some expert link removal from Rob he later fell foul of the same problem and spent another 20 minutes with oily hands. Josh Jones' puncture was one of the happier times during this maintenance course/ride!
Friday June 14th
Laying on the bed after returning from my morning shift I'd almost convinced myself that a quick nap would be more beneficial than my weekly long run. I managed to jump up and start putting my shorts on before I started nodding.
The sun didn't help the pace particularly and I started to tire at the 11 mile mark as the legs began to protest. The last two miles of 13 were a struggle, my average reducing somewhat to finish with a 7:38 min/miles.
Saturday June 15th
Nil training! After work enjoyed a good night on the pop with Clarky, Stenno and the girls at Bellinis.
Sunday June 16th
Nil training! Father's Day so took my Mum and Dad to the Shires for tea. More ales and a DVD to follow.
Monday 3 June 2013
Handbags at Noon.
Monday June 17th
Eeeeek! A 5lb weight gain. Two days of zero exercise and meals at the pub have taken their toll.
Luckily my 82 mile bike ride with Clarky has offset that a bit.
Both on our TT bikes we could tramp on a fair bit whilst replicating race conditions that little bit more than on our roadies. Still had to stop at Epworth cafe for water replenishments and a tuna bun. Earlier on in the ride some 'Dick' in a big lorry ignored the little fellas and started to pull out infront of us. Some friendly gesturing still failed to catch his attention as he refused to look our way. Maybe he genuinely hadn't seen us? Oh yes he had! This was obvious when he accelerated past us giving us no more than a couple of inches clearance. Frightening when you're on your tribars! I still can't get my head around this mentality. Yes, I realise cyclists along with roller skaters and shopping trolley pushers feature very low down in the transport food chain and I also know the lycra attire with gay safety helmet isn't the most intimidating of get-ups. But to deliberately hold your line in an Artic so as to squeeze you into the gutter gets my goat! Big bully syndrome!
It's such a shame a good training ride (22.3 mph avg) for me has been remembered for the wrong reasons. I would normally have mentioned Strava segments/ KOMs, continuous through & offing and 22.3mph averages, (oh, I've already mentioned that) but, that is,.... for what happened next…...
Only a mile from home another incident almost left me rolling around in the dust with some chav. A lass in an oncoming car suddenly decided to pull right across my path and onto the grass verge bringing me to a halt. I then rode past shrugging my shoulders in disgust asking her what she was doing?
Jeeez!!! I almost fell off my bike as out of nowhere some facially tatooed youth straight from the set of 'Skint' started hurling abuse in my general direction. For some reason he was hell bent on, (and to quote him), ….. 'Ripping my head off!'.
It'd suddenly dawned on me, that Dangerous Daisy was pulling over to see her boyfriend who was now yomping down the middle of the road in hot pursuit. He obviously wasn't taking kindly to my gesturing at her inconsiderate driving.
I thought of doing the sensible thing and giving him my favourite 5 knuckle shuffle salute and then riding away at pace but curiousity got the better of me.
I stopped, unclipped, tore of my bike shoes and chucked my helmet and shades in the verge. I walked back, (in my socks) to confront him to see what his problem was and to why I was the reason for his veins popping out of his neck? Eyeball to eyball his shouts became softer and ranting slowly ebbed, it turns out he wasn't so eager to rip my head off as he first thought, Now make up your mind?. After a minute or two the brave Knight returned to his damsel, I hope, to give her a rollicking for her crap driving.
As soon as I got home it was trainers on for a 3 mile run at 7 min pace around the block. Always looking behind me I might add, in case I was being followed.
Eeeeek! A 5lb weight gain. Two days of zero exercise and meals at the pub have taken their toll.
Luckily my 82 mile bike ride with Clarky has offset that a bit.
Both on our TT bikes we could tramp on a fair bit whilst replicating race conditions that little bit more than on our roadies. Still had to stop at Epworth cafe for water replenishments and a tuna bun. Earlier on in the ride some 'Dick' in a big lorry ignored the little fellas and started to pull out infront of us. Some friendly gesturing still failed to catch his attention as he refused to look our way. Maybe he genuinely hadn't seen us? Oh yes he had! This was obvious when he accelerated past us giving us no more than a couple of inches clearance. Frightening when you're on your tribars! I still can't get my head around this mentality. Yes, I realise cyclists along with roller skaters and shopping trolley pushers feature very low down in the transport food chain and I also know the lycra attire with gay safety helmet isn't the most intimidating of get-ups. But to deliberately hold your line in an Artic so as to squeeze you into the gutter gets my goat! Big bully syndrome!
It's such a shame a good training ride (22.3 mph avg) for me has been remembered for the wrong reasons. I would normally have mentioned Strava segments/ KOMs, continuous through & offing and 22.3mph averages, (oh, I've already mentioned that) but, that is,.... for what happened next…...
Only a mile from home another incident almost left me rolling around in the dust with some chav. A lass in an oncoming car suddenly decided to pull right across my path and onto the grass verge bringing me to a halt. I then rode past shrugging my shoulders in disgust asking her what she was doing?
Jeeez!!! I almost fell off my bike as out of nowhere some facially tatooed youth straight from the set of 'Skint' started hurling abuse in my general direction. For some reason he was hell bent on, (and to quote him), ….. 'Ripping my head off!'.
It'd suddenly dawned on me, that Dangerous Daisy was pulling over to see her boyfriend who was now yomping down the middle of the road in hot pursuit. He obviously wasn't taking kindly to my gesturing at her inconsiderate driving.
I thought of doing the sensible thing and giving him my favourite 5 knuckle shuffle salute and then riding away at pace but curiousity got the better of me.
I stopped, unclipped, tore of my bike shoes and chucked my helmet and shades in the verge. I walked back, (in my socks) to confront him to see what his problem was and to why I was the reason for his veins popping out of his neck? Eyeball to eyball his shouts became softer and ranting slowly ebbed, it turns out he wasn't so eager to rip my head off as he first thought, Now make up your mind?. After a minute or two the brave Knight returned to his damsel, I hope, to give her a rollicking for her crap driving.
As soon as I got home it was trainers on for a 3 mile run at 7 min pace around the block. Always looking behind me I might add, in case I was being followed.
Sunday 2 June 2013
No Poached Eggs?
Tuesday 18th
I conveniently bailed at Clarky's invite to Ashbyville lake knowing I'd be made to pay for my slack attitude towards this year's swim training. The invite at least made me feel guilty enough to go down to the Ancholme on my tod and start the ball rolling. The wetsuit (literally, as I still hadn't dried it from the Half Outlaw a fortnight previous) was donned before getting in my car. Park up, goggles on, dive in, swim from Hibaldstow Bridge to Cadney Bridge and back almost 3 K ……………It wasn't as bad as I remembered and had certainly warmed up since a couple of months back when I last ventured in.
I'm going to have to make a habit of this.
Wednesday 19th
Quick turnaround is always a struggle to fit something in so I was fairly pleased with a 7 mile run before work. 7min 14 secs avg seems to be the norm now for that run. Not sure whether I'll benefit in the Ironman or not if I upped the training pace a bit?
Thursday 20th.
Great ride before work today with my two trusty sidekicks SteveO and Matt. Steve's just starting to peak as his Ironman nears making him all the more determined to do his fair share at the front. Fair play to Matt who must think 'What's happened to these two maniacs and our once pleasurable rides when we'd chew the fat and put the world to rights'.
There was plenty of time for that in our half hour café stop. That's twice I've asked the lovely ladies at the Alkborough café if they could do poached eggs rather than fried or scrambled! If looks could kill! Surely it's easier?
If anyone reads this and also finds themselves in that lovely café can you ask for poached? They'll have to cave in eventually, I can always lend them the recipe.
Despite full tums still managed to keep the average to 20.3 mph for the 60 mile.
I conveniently bailed at Clarky's invite to Ashbyville lake knowing I'd be made to pay for my slack attitude towards this year's swim training. The invite at least made me feel guilty enough to go down to the Ancholme on my tod and start the ball rolling. The wetsuit (literally, as I still hadn't dried it from the Half Outlaw a fortnight previous) was donned before getting in my car. Park up, goggles on, dive in, swim from Hibaldstow Bridge to Cadney Bridge and back almost 3 K ……………It wasn't as bad as I remembered and had certainly warmed up since a couple of months back when I last ventured in.
I'm going to have to make a habit of this.
Wednesday 19th
Quick turnaround is always a struggle to fit something in so I was fairly pleased with a 7 mile run before work. 7min 14 secs avg seems to be the norm now for that run. Not sure whether I'll benefit in the Ironman or not if I upped the training pace a bit?
Thursday 20th.
Great ride before work today with my two trusty sidekicks SteveO and Matt. Steve's just starting to peak as his Ironman nears making him all the more determined to do his fair share at the front. Fair play to Matt who must think 'What's happened to these two maniacs and our once pleasurable rides when we'd chew the fat and put the world to rights'.
There was plenty of time for that in our half hour café stop. That's twice I've asked the lovely ladies at the Alkborough café if they could do poached eggs rather than fried or scrambled! If looks could kill! Surely it's easier?
If anyone reads this and also finds themselves in that lovely café can you ask for poached? They'll have to cave in eventually, I can always lend them the recipe.
Despite full tums still managed to keep the average to 20.3 mph for the 60 mile.
23 days to go, Long run.
Friday June 21st.... 23 days to race day.
I wasn't really looking forward to today as this was pencilled in as a big run day. Finding jobs to do around the house still didn't bring the onset of rain which was the excuse I was looking for to bin it off.
I find it easier doing my long runs on unknown courses, the unfamiliarity of it prevents the boredom. Getting Josh to bike by my side with my water bottle also helped, even though I don't think he heard a word I said with his earphones in.
16 mile in total done at 7 min 40 secs average was near enough to plan.
It's no secret that I don’t care too much for the running but I have to say I'm probably running as good as I have been since starting out in triathlon. Mainly due to 3 reasons…..Weight loss, having 6 month injury free so I can train, and this last little nugget of info…..
During a training run in Mallorca Clarky and Dean would spend time running side by side with each person offering advice. It was Dean that spent some time with me, our conversation went like this………….
'Steve how tall are you?'
'6ft 2", I replied.
'Well I'm 5ft 9" why are we talking eyeball to eyeball?'
His point being that I was slouching whilst he was upright with an obvious spring in his step.
'Get your ass in under your body and lift that head!'. My pace increased immediately.
This simple piece of advice has helped me massively, don't get me wrong I'm still nowhere near being able to call myself a good runner and I still fall into my old 'natural slouch' when I lose focus but it certainly works for me.
My old viewpoint on running was you can't learn to be a 'natural' runner, unfortunately you are stuck with the cards you're dealt. I still do believe this for elite running, after all at school sports days nobody was taught to run but someone always romped home yards in front of everyone else. But, a few simple style changes can make a difference to some, and these, (along with shorter energy saving strides) has certainly helped me.
Had a great Friday night pub meal to replenish the calories at the Lincolnshire Otter with Angie's Uncle Darrel and family.
Saturday June 22nd. 22 days to race day.
Managed another 3K swim in the Ancholme after work, still dog slow though. I'm in desperate need of a new wetsuit. My Foor Quantam must be the cheapest suit on the market and is riddled with holes. It's the same suit I had when starting out and I weighed 3 stone more then so it can't possibly be fitting me correctly.
Got massive cramps on the return in both legs forcing me to float until it disappeared. I've never had it as bad as that before, it was horrendous, I was shouting in agony.
More beers watching a DVD before an earlier night to bed.
I wasn't really looking forward to today as this was pencilled in as a big run day. Finding jobs to do around the house still didn't bring the onset of rain which was the excuse I was looking for to bin it off.
I find it easier doing my long runs on unknown courses, the unfamiliarity of it prevents the boredom. Getting Josh to bike by my side with my water bottle also helped, even though I don't think he heard a word I said with his earphones in.
16 mile in total done at 7 min 40 secs average was near enough to plan.
It's no secret that I don’t care too much for the running but I have to say I'm probably running as good as I have been since starting out in triathlon. Mainly due to 3 reasons…..Weight loss, having 6 month injury free so I can train, and this last little nugget of info…..
During a training run in Mallorca Clarky and Dean would spend time running side by side with each person offering advice. It was Dean that spent some time with me, our conversation went like this………….
'Steve how tall are you?'
'6ft 2", I replied.
'Well I'm 5ft 9" why are we talking eyeball to eyeball?'
His point being that I was slouching whilst he was upright with an obvious spring in his step.
'Get your ass in under your body and lift that head!'. My pace increased immediately.
This simple piece of advice has helped me massively, don't get me wrong I'm still nowhere near being able to call myself a good runner and I still fall into my old 'natural slouch' when I lose focus but it certainly works for me.
My old viewpoint on running was you can't learn to be a 'natural' runner, unfortunately you are stuck with the cards you're dealt. I still do believe this for elite running, after all at school sports days nobody was taught to run but someone always romped home yards in front of everyone else. But, a few simple style changes can make a difference to some, and these, (along with shorter energy saving strides) has certainly helped me.
Had a great Friday night pub meal to replenish the calories at the Lincolnshire Otter with Angie's Uncle Darrel and family.
Saturday June 22nd. 22 days to race day.
Managed another 3K swim in the Ancholme after work, still dog slow though. I'm in desperate need of a new wetsuit. My Foor Quantam must be the cheapest suit on the market and is riddled with holes. It's the same suit I had when starting out and I weighed 3 stone more then so it can't possibly be fitting me correctly.
Got massive cramps on the return in both legs forcing me to float until it disappeared. I've never had it as bad as that before, it was horrendous, I was shouting in agony.
More beers watching a DVD before an earlier night to bed.
Saturday 1 June 2013
Becoming a struggle.
June 23rd
I had every intention to go for a run when I got back from work but yet again struggled with my mojo.
Making the Sunday roast saw me staring out of the window at trees being blown all over my garden. The felt came off the shed roof, that's it, too windy! I'll crack an Old Peculiar whist tending to these spuds. That pretty much set the trend for the night.
June 24th
Annoyed with myself today for not organising a ride and laying in until 10:30, nursing a thick head. The scales told the story and a quick look in the bin was evidence of a major pig out!
I do this often. I've got a regular habit of eating absolute crap when I'm having a few beers catching up on the boxing. Chipsticks, chocolate bars, cashew nuts and those little banana and shrimps kiddie sweets. Trouble is, sometimes I've got 8 hrs of boxing taped(still say taped, not recorded) so that's an awful lot of junk food.
Feeling slightly better now as I managed to do yesterday's proposed 10 mile run this afternoon, only a day late!
7min 17 secs per mile wasn't too bad especially as the pace drops to a crawl up Manton hill before enjoying the steady downhill home.
I had every intention to go for a run when I got back from work but yet again struggled with my mojo.
Making the Sunday roast saw me staring out of the window at trees being blown all over my garden. The felt came off the shed roof, that's it, too windy! I'll crack an Old Peculiar whist tending to these spuds. That pretty much set the trend for the night.
June 24th
Annoyed with myself today for not organising a ride and laying in until 10:30, nursing a thick head. The scales told the story and a quick look in the bin was evidence of a major pig out!
I do this often. I've got a regular habit of eating absolute crap when I'm having a few beers catching up on the boxing. Chipsticks, chocolate bars, cashew nuts and those little banana and shrimps kiddie sweets. Trouble is, sometimes I've got 8 hrs of boxing taped(still say taped, not recorded) so that's an awful lot of junk food.
Feeling slightly better now as I managed to do yesterday's proposed 10 mile run this afternoon, only a day late!
7min 17 secs per mile wasn't too bad especially as the pace drops to a crawl up Manton hill before enjoying the steady downhill home.
Big miles
June 24th
Met up with SteveO today for a proposed 100 mile ride without stopping.
Up to now most my rides are planned around cafe stops, invariably 45 miles in, so a rethink was in order. Normally I don't bother with any breakfast or gels but that's because I know a fuel stop isn't far away.
With Outlaw less than a fortnight away and knowing Steve was using these last valuable days getting accustomed to his TT bike position I thought I'd better take the better of my road bikes out to make it competitive. My winter workhorse isn't cutting the mustard anymore now he's peaking.
A lovely sunny day made for a pleasurable ride at pace. It must have been warm as a snake slithered across the road between Laughton and Blyton, think I've seen less than half a dozen in this country in my lifetime.
I did say the ride was a proposed non stop 100 miler! With 75 mile on the clock there was this awful silence and realisation that our average was starting to plummet. Somehow, within 5 mile, we found ourselves at JJ's in Rasen tucking into toasties, egg, beans and toast.
Ok, I know this option won't be available on race day but it had to be done. Once fuelled the legs suddenly came back to life and the average could be comfortably maintained.
This stoppage allowed a longest ever ride of 124 miles with an average of 19.7mph.
June 25th
After a days gardening and the effects of yesterday's ride My back and legs were aching.
A steady 7.5 mile cross country run before tea was all I could muster. The overgrown grass down the riverbank was making footing difficult. I always try to include a cross country run in my training. An old rugby player at work was convinced that his lack of foot injuries (compared to his team mates) was down to this strengthening of the ankles over rough ground. It's a double edged sword really because although I agree it does strengthen the ankle there's a lot more chance of stumbling over on the irregular terrain.
Ordered a new TYR wetsuit today, Chrissie Wellington's suit of choice.
Met up with SteveO today for a proposed 100 mile ride without stopping.
Up to now most my rides are planned around cafe stops, invariably 45 miles in, so a rethink was in order. Normally I don't bother with any breakfast or gels but that's because I know a fuel stop isn't far away.
With Outlaw less than a fortnight away and knowing Steve was using these last valuable days getting accustomed to his TT bike position I thought I'd better take the better of my road bikes out to make it competitive. My winter workhorse isn't cutting the mustard anymore now he's peaking.
A lovely sunny day made for a pleasurable ride at pace. It must have been warm as a snake slithered across the road between Laughton and Blyton, think I've seen less than half a dozen in this country in my lifetime.
I did say the ride was a proposed non stop 100 miler! With 75 mile on the clock there was this awful silence and realisation that our average was starting to plummet. Somehow, within 5 mile, we found ourselves at JJ's in Rasen tucking into toasties, egg, beans and toast.
Ok, I know this option won't be available on race day but it had to be done. Once fuelled the legs suddenly came back to life and the average could be comfortably maintained.
This stoppage allowed a longest ever ride of 124 miles with an average of 19.7mph.
June 25th
After a days gardening and the effects of yesterday's ride My back and legs were aching.
A steady 7.5 mile cross country run before tea was all I could muster. The overgrown grass down the riverbank was making footing difficult. I always try to include a cross country run in my training. An old rugby player at work was convinced that his lack of foot injuries (compared to his team mates) was down to this strengthening of the ankles over rough ground. It's a double edged sword really because although I agree it does strengthen the ankle there's a lot more chance of stumbling over on the irregular terrain.
Ordered a new TYR wetsuit today, Chrissie Wellington's suit of choice.
Friday 31 May 2013
New Wetsuit and 4 men in a boat.
June 27th
Wow, after placing my order yesterday afternoon I was surprised to get my wetsuit delivered the very next day.
As with all things new I delicately donned the wetsuit with all the love and care you'd give when handling a newborn baby. This won't last. In T1 it'll be frantically stamped on as i'm desperate to rip it from my skin.
It seemed very tight and figure hugging although not uncomfortable. I realise my previous wetsuit 'The Black Witch' (on the strength of it's made up of more Black Witch repair adhesive than neoprene), is too big! I think it cost me a meagre 75 quid back in the day.
Well, the acid test was a 3 K swim in the Ancholme and I was impressed. It seemed quicker although I never timed myself and I'm sure the placebo effect played it's part.
Open water swimming brings it's whole host of dangers, many of which I think i've got covered, however it was pointed out to me last night that I was completely oblivious to this one.
Aiden and his girlfriend took the dog down the riverbank some days back whilst I was swimming from bridge to bridge.
It wasn't until I finished that Aiden told me that some kayakers were trying to pass me!.....
'Well there's plenty of room for them to overtake me' I said, with some justification.
'Yeh but you was swimming down the middle Dad'.
'Son, you could get a dozen kayaks passed me even if I was hogging the centre!'
'I think they were frightened their big oars would hit you, they were trying to catch your attention, but you couldn't hear them.'
'Arrrhhh, big oars? How many kayakers were there?' I replied.
'Four kayakers in one boat Dad!'
'Oh dear, you didn't mean kayakers did you mate'
Bugger me, despite a scan up and downstream these rowers weren't in sight when I set off. Although I sight regularly I can't say I ever look behind me! Apparently Aiden was having a conversation with these guys as they jokingly asked if I was David Walliams, and how far was I going? With no choice, they did some manouevreing and returned the way they came. Whoops, sorry!
Wow, after placing my order yesterday afternoon I was surprised to get my wetsuit delivered the very next day.
As with all things new I delicately donned the wetsuit with all the love and care you'd give when handling a newborn baby. This won't last. In T1 it'll be frantically stamped on as i'm desperate to rip it from my skin.
It seemed very tight and figure hugging although not uncomfortable. I realise my previous wetsuit 'The Black Witch' (on the strength of it's made up of more Black Witch repair adhesive than neoprene), is too big! I think it cost me a meagre 75 quid back in the day.
Well, the acid test was a 3 K swim in the Ancholme and I was impressed. It seemed quicker although I never timed myself and I'm sure the placebo effect played it's part.
Open water swimming brings it's whole host of dangers, many of which I think i've got covered, however it was pointed out to me last night that I was completely oblivious to this one.
Aiden and his girlfriend took the dog down the riverbank some days back whilst I was swimming from bridge to bridge.
It wasn't until I finished that Aiden told me that some kayakers were trying to pass me!.....
'Well there's plenty of room for them to overtake me' I said, with some justification.
'Yeh but you was swimming down the middle Dad'.
'Son, you could get a dozen kayaks passed me even if I was hogging the centre!'
'I think they were frightened their big oars would hit you, they were trying to catch your attention, but you couldn't hear them.'
'Arrrhhh, big oars? How many kayakers were there?' I replied.
'Four kayakers in one boat Dad!'
'Oh dear, you didn't mean kayakers did you mate'
Bugger me, despite a scan up and downstream these rowers weren't in sight when I set off. Although I sight regularly I can't say I ever look behind me! Apparently Aiden was having a conversation with these guys as they jokingly asked if I was David Walliams, and how far was I going? With no choice, they did some manouevreing and returned the way they came. Whoops, sorry!
Monday 27 May 2013
The Peaks.
June 28
A sixteen year Wedding Anniversary meal at the 'Settlement' in Caistor for myself and the lovely wife kick started the weekend. Looking like part of the furniture the Plumes and Dobbers were enjoying their night in the bar.. Lovely touch to be told that our first round of drinks was paid for.. Thanks Mr & Mrs D.
Before this and knowing it would be another night of food and alcohol abuse I set up the IPad to watch a film whilst fat burning on the treadmill for an hour or so.
June 29th
Got an invite today to join Angie's brother Daz and 4 of his mates for a hilly ride in the Peaks.
After a bit of badgering I got Matt to join me as I knew he had a Sportive approaching, which is also around that part of the country.
I have to say when the weather's good you can't beat this part of England. Two cafe stops in some quaint little Hamlets splitting up the hilly miles into manageable chunks.
First time up Winatts Pass for me and I wasn't disappointed, the gradual ascent lures you into a false sense of security, you don't think it's too bad and then it bites you toward the end. With the headwind, I can see why two of our gang found it a little easier on Shank's Pony! I won't embarrass these guys by naming and shaming because they're relatively new to cycling and did exceptionally well on other demanding hills during the day, well done Daz and Matt. ;-)
A rather bizarre brush with the law took place when we were flagged over and had to endure a bollicking for momentarily riding two a breast! It seems the Copper was as much in the dark as us to the official rule on riding two abreast.
With seven of us all chipping in and giving our two penneth we were non the wiser to what we'd actually done wrong but all agreed he was only looking out for us. Although I personally think he was picking on us just cos I is black?
What is the official ruling, anybody?
Lazarus would have been in awe at the new lease of life Matt and Daz possessed in the final 5 mile back to the pub.
All in all a great day with a good set of lads. Good luck Daz, Seamus, Patrick, Paul and Andy with your charity coast to coast ride in Ireland.
Sunday 26 May 2013
Last big run & Holey wetsuit!
June 30th
After a few too many beers at a mate's party the previous night I reluctantly took off on my last big run in the baking Sunday afternoon sun. Angie kept me company by riding at my side and passing me some much needed water.
It wasn't deliberate but the pace was very slow, just about hovering around the 8 min /mile pace. I didn't mind though, I just blamed the weather for my lack of enthusiasm.
The 17.5 mile in total will have to do as far as running is concerned, I'lI just have to wing the final 8 to 9 miles on the day. As slow as the 8 min average was I'd gladly take that on the day.
July 1st
Another dip in the Ancholme before tea in the brand spanking new wetsuit?
But now it isn't is it!!!!!!!!!
I couldn't believe it but there are now two gashes, well, nail marks in my once immaculate suit!
I stared, at great length, wondering who could have sneaked in during the night and deliberately ruined my 'worn only once' wetsuit. It couldnt have been me! Could it?
It was a similar situation when I was accused of treading in mucky footprints (with a splash of dogshit) into the new carpet! Again, somebody must have deliberately wiped this foul soil onto the sole of my size 10's because I'm adamant I didn't stand in anything?!
With no explanation I had but no choice to reluctantly accept that somehow, during it's maiden voyage to the Ancholme I had torn it whilst putting it on! The wetsuit's value had halved! Not since having my wallet nicked on the plane out to Tricamp did I feel so physically sick.
The swim was just a swim! Saw a few fish, the end :-(
July 2nd
Biked to work and back. Pleasant ride in at 05:30 but crap coming back due to wind and rain.
Bit annoyed that I let the weather put me off going for a run.
July 1st
Another dip in the Ancholme before tea in the brand spanking new wetsuit?
But now it isn't is it!!!!!!!!!
I couldn't believe it but there are now two gashes, well, nail marks in my once immaculate suit!
I stared, at great length, wondering who could have sneaked in during the night and deliberately ruined my 'worn only once' wetsuit. It couldnt have been me! Could it?
It was a similar situation when I was accused of treading in mucky footprints (with a splash of dogshit) into the new carpet! Again, somebody must have deliberately wiped this foul soil onto the sole of my size 10's because I'm adamant I didn't stand in anything?!
With no explanation I had but no choice to reluctantly accept that somehow, during it's maiden voyage to the Ancholme I had torn it whilst putting it on! The wetsuit's value had halved! Not since having my wallet nicked on the plane out to Tricamp did I feel so physically sick.
The swim was just a swim! Saw a few fish, the end :-(
July 2nd
Biked to work and back. Pleasant ride in at 05:30 but crap coming back due to wind and rain.
Bit annoyed that I let the weather put me off going for a run.
Saturday 25 May 2013
TT night
July 3rd
I wasn't too sure how to spend my time today. Ideally I should have whacked an 100 miler in as 'long ride days' are running out. But that wouldn't have left me in great shape for the TimeTrial which I'm obliged to do to fulfil my 6 races to qualify for the league (work & hols getting in the way)
I didn't waste the day completely as I managed a 2 mile Ancholme swim in the afternoon. I've really no idea if I'm swimming well or not, I've done all my swimming on my lonesome and haven't bothered to time myself. We'll see on the day I suppose.
The TT was another full to (60) capacity event, it just goes to show the popularity of cycling.
I chipped another 12 seconds off from a month back for a time of 21:13 so must'nt grumble.
For the second race in succession I've drawn the first place spot with TT whiz, Stu Wells. What's the chances of that, exactly the same time, twice? Cue.... 'Twilight Zone' music....... Do do do do, do do do do! I had a concern, not for the first time when cornering near the Wheatsheaf pub, it felt like my tub was rolling off the rim, I managed to save it and then cranked over again only for it to do the same. My immediate thought was, SH*T, I've got a flat tyre! Once straightened up again there was clearly no puncture, weird! This has happened a few times in the past and is bloody frustrating, it leaves you with little confidence for cornering!
A 2 mile run after the TT to complete the days training. Then work.
July 4th
A 9 mile run at just below 7:30 min pace tonight. I guess I'm into my tapering stage now.
I wasn't too sure how to spend my time today. Ideally I should have whacked an 100 miler in as 'long ride days' are running out. But that wouldn't have left me in great shape for the TimeTrial which I'm obliged to do to fulfil my 6 races to qualify for the league (work & hols getting in the way)
I didn't waste the day completely as I managed a 2 mile Ancholme swim in the afternoon. I've really no idea if I'm swimming well or not, I've done all my swimming on my lonesome and haven't bothered to time myself. We'll see on the day I suppose.
The TT was another full to (60) capacity event, it just goes to show the popularity of cycling.
I chipped another 12 seconds off from a month back for a time of 21:13 so must'nt grumble.
For the second race in succession I've drawn the first place spot with TT whiz, Stu Wells. What's the chances of that, exactly the same time, twice? Cue.... 'Twilight Zone' music....... Do do do do, do do do do! I had a concern, not for the first time when cornering near the Wheatsheaf pub, it felt like my tub was rolling off the rim, I managed to save it and then cranked over again only for it to do the same. My immediate thought was, SH*T, I've got a flat tyre! Once straightened up again there was clearly no puncture, weird! This has happened a few times in the past and is bloody frustrating, it leaves you with little confidence for cornering!
A 2 mile run after the TT to complete the days training. Then work.
July 4th
A 9 mile run at just below 7:30 min pace tonight. I guess I'm into my tapering stage now.
Friday 24 May 2013
And then there were 3?
July 5th
Quick turnaround today and the plan was to get up for a swim and then bike to work. After finishing my nightshift I was tired and at 08:00 before going to sleep I set my alarm for 11:40.
The red digital figures of the alarm clock slowly hoved into view. However many times I rubbed my eyes and blinked, the display still showed 14:04! Shit! late for work as well as missing some valuable training!
July 6th
Did today what I should have done yesterday.
The same old 2 mile swim in the Ancholme seems slightly more enjoyable each time I do it. This is taking me about 45 mins although I haven't accurately timed myself I'm just using the clock in the car before and after. I still haven't swum the 2.4 mile race distance yet in training!
The bike to work was great and it looks like summer is finally here.
It's the Outlaw tomorrow, I hope the hot weather doesn't hinder people's predicted times too much. Germany is also experiencing some hot weather and next Sunday's forecast is 26 degrees. This sounds like Austria all over again. I haven't even considered a plan B! 'Operation sub 10' will no doubt be that much harder in the heat!
It isn't looking too good for Clarky at the minute who along with Kev Fish and Dave Hinch was joining me in Roth. It's transpired that his runnng injury is an internal fracture to the tibia and blood in the bone!
As Triathletes we all know how frustrating and depressing (and expensive) it is to suffer from these injuries. Steve will be devastated but hopefully can heal in time for Kona.
As well as the four of us, friends, Phil Binch and Chris Brown were to complete the Lincsquad posse in Roth.
Phil, after qualifying, decided to go toTurkey down the GB Euro champs route, something I'd strongly considered. This was a shame as Phil keeps me on my toes and I've enjoyed our friendly rivallry over the years. It would have been good to race him.
I'm almost certain that anybody reading this will know that Chris tragically lost his life earlier in the year whilst out training with fellow Lincsquadders.
Quick turnaround today and the plan was to get up for a swim and then bike to work. After finishing my nightshift I was tired and at 08:00 before going to sleep I set my alarm for 11:40.
The red digital figures of the alarm clock slowly hoved into view. However many times I rubbed my eyes and blinked, the display still showed 14:04! Shit! late for work as well as missing some valuable training!
July 6th
Did today what I should have done yesterday.
The same old 2 mile swim in the Ancholme seems slightly more enjoyable each time I do it. This is taking me about 45 mins although I haven't accurately timed myself I'm just using the clock in the car before and after. I still haven't swum the 2.4 mile race distance yet in training!
The bike to work was great and it looks like summer is finally here.
It's the Outlaw tomorrow, I hope the hot weather doesn't hinder people's predicted times too much. Germany is also experiencing some hot weather and next Sunday's forecast is 26 degrees. This sounds like Austria all over again. I haven't even considered a plan B! 'Operation sub 10' will no doubt be that much harder in the heat!
It isn't looking too good for Clarky at the minute who along with Kev Fish and Dave Hinch was joining me in Roth. It's transpired that his runnng injury is an internal fracture to the tibia and blood in the bone!
As Triathletes we all know how frustrating and depressing (and expensive) it is to suffer from these injuries. Steve will be devastated but hopefully can heal in time for Kona.
As well as the four of us, friends, Phil Binch and Chris Brown were to complete the Lincsquad posse in Roth.
Phil, after qualifying, decided to go toTurkey down the GB Euro champs route, something I'd strongly considered. This was a shame as Phil keeps me on my toes and I've enjoyed our friendly rivallry over the years. It would have been good to race him.
I'm almost certain that anybody reading this will know that Chris tragically lost his life earlier in the year whilst out training with fellow Lincsquadders.
Monday 6 May 2013
Christian
I feel I couldn't leave the last post without adding a few words about Chris.
I do feel slightly uncomfortable with this sort of thing, I don't know why, but I do.
Maybe it's because I know Chris had dozens of friends that were dearer to him than myself? So this leaves me thinking what gives me the right to start writing about him in a blog as if I was his best mate.
Maybe it's because I don't always agree with the way people posthumously elevate reputations, maybe it's the fear of thinking people would accuse me of doing the same.
Obviously I don't want to risk upsetting anybody, especially family, whom until the funeral I'd never even met.
It could be that it's just easier not to, maybe I don't want to bring it back to the fore?
But, the facts are, Chris' year, as far as triathlon was concerned was pretty much mapped out the same as ours, Majorca tri camp, some warm up races and ultimately Roth.
Chris was a very popular lad and immediately made his impression on the Lincsquad old guard. I took to Chris instantly( like most) and it wasn't long before He was training with a good, competitive set of Lads. Chris was always gleaning information from the fast lads and it was obvious he didn't want to just complete events, he wanted to 'race' them.
Being a strong rider and working a similar shift pattern he regularly joined us (not just me) on big rides. After all, this season we all shared the same goal......Roth.
Germany will be an emotional time for us all.
In Majorca you were sadly missed mate, i'd looked forward to our plan to have a few beers despite being under the watchful eye of our coaches and fellow 'seriously disciplined' athletes. I missed your company.
I have fond memories of my birthday night in Nottingham, thanks for coming and sorry about my driving making you feel ill on the way home.
Thanks for all the memories mate.
I do feel slightly uncomfortable with this sort of thing, I don't know why, but I do.
Maybe it's because I know Chris had dozens of friends that were dearer to him than myself? So this leaves me thinking what gives me the right to start writing about him in a blog as if I was his best mate.
Maybe it's because I don't always agree with the way people posthumously elevate reputations, maybe it's the fear of thinking people would accuse me of doing the same.
Obviously I don't want to risk upsetting anybody, especially family, whom until the funeral I'd never even met.
It could be that it's just easier not to, maybe I don't want to bring it back to the fore?
But, the facts are, Chris' year, as far as triathlon was concerned was pretty much mapped out the same as ours, Majorca tri camp, some warm up races and ultimately Roth.
Chris was a very popular lad and immediately made his impression on the Lincsquad old guard. I took to Chris instantly( like most) and it wasn't long before He was training with a good, competitive set of Lads. Chris was always gleaning information from the fast lads and it was obvious he didn't want to just complete events, he wanted to 'race' them.
Being a strong rider and working a similar shift pattern he regularly joined us (not just me) on big rides. After all, this season we all shared the same goal......Roth.
Germany will be an emotional time for us all.
In Majorca you were sadly missed mate, i'd looked forward to our plan to have a few beers despite being under the watchful eye of our coaches and fellow 'seriously disciplined' athletes. I missed your company.
I have fond memories of my birthday night in Nottingham, thanks for coming and sorry about my driving making you feel ill on the way home.
Thanks for all the memories mate.
Wednesday 1 May 2013
Road Trip to Roth
Tuesday and time to go.
Although the race wasn't until the Sunday we thought it less stressful if we arrived the earlier the better. Tuesday night Ange and I set off on the 850 mile trip with an overnight stop in Canterbury to break up the journey.
After catching the Eurotunnel at 05:50 it wasn't long before we were bumbling around Rothsee Lake trying to remember Dave's instructions on where to pitch the tent. It was no good, I had to ring him and Dave clarified we'd found the right place. Spaghetti bolognese was soon cooking on the camp stove. We found out the hard way that this was Mosquito country and bloody hot! It was also apparent there was a distinct lack of washing facilities/showers/ toilets on site too. Don't worry we'll ring Dave, he'll point us in the right direction?...............................something about there being a big shower block that they used last year???............this didn't exist! What did Dave(apart from smell) do last year? I think conveniently omitting the finer details was a clever ploy on Dave's part, he knew the girls wouldn't have entertained the idea if he'd have 'come clean', bum bum! (pretty proud of that one).
Thursday was the day Clarky, Em, Dave & Emm were joining us, albeit at midnight. I managed a 1.5 mile swim in the lake and then waited for the heat to diminish before running 6 mile around the lake. I felt great, really strong, my pace and recent running form suggested I was quite capable of a 3:30 marathon. I made the decision to set my Garmin for 7:45 min/miles expecting to slip down to 8 min/miles as the run took its toll. We also made the 5 mile trip into Roth to register, the atmosphere was bubbling and the typical bike envy at the trade stands, to my suprise prompted Angie's remark 'Steve we must sort you out with one of these Cervelo P5's, they look really nice'.
Yep, she definitely said that!
Just before midnight the travelling triathletes arrived in Dave's van, tip-toeing and 'shushing' around the camp as not to wake our neighbouring campers along with 3 month old baby!
Yet another dip in the lake the following morning to cool off and to stave off the lethargy. The serious swim was soon curtailed when a diving platform was spotted and Dave and I had a 'Dive off' showing our vast array of reverse somersaults with three and a half twists in the Free position, armstand back double tucks………..you know what I mean don't you? Belly flops!
Next to arrive, mid afternoon Friday was Kev and Alexa. A bit of car and van shuffling for Kev's tent ensured Lincsquad had laid claims to pretty much one corner of the field. With now another lady in camp wanting to wash, Hinchy was under serious threat to provide such! If not, it wouldn't be long before the women were revolting! (the old ones are the….worst).
Back into town on the bikes with the new arrivals to register and soak up the triathlon buzz, Angie again, insisting we looked at the Cervelo P5 stand, it's getting boring now!
After realising it wasn't in my triathlon box, the Expo did give me a fantastic opportunity to buy myself yet another £10 bento box! One day I'll remember who I've lent my previous two boxes to and ask for them back?
To finish the evening off we found a lovely restaurant in the local town for another variation of pasta. Beautiful eating complimented with sounds from a band at the neighbouring tavern.The most unusual of scenarios was pointed out when looking at the Iphotos. Not one of the boys had a beer in their hand? All diet cokes/lemonade,…. yet, and here's the funny thing, all the women were drinking beer! Remarkable, what's the likelihood of that?
Another guest joining the party and also arriving after midnight but on motorbike was the WAGs fifth member, Sporty Spice, Rob Wood. Rob is always a great asset to the team when away, his humour is great for moral, a good guy who's company and tales we always enjoy. Rob made nine stops for petrol on his journey across Europe to meet up with us. Maybe less if he'd not spent hours going around in circles?
Saturday, Race Day Eve meant getting bikes and bags prepared for racking.
Now this is an ordeal! You have an exact game plan already mapped out but oddly you start asking your mates what they're doing. This puts doubt in your mind and the previous month's carefully thought out plans go out the window. I was determined not to take as much food and water with me as last time. I didn't, but I still found myself taping things to my frame and attaching my rear bottle holder when someone said 'What if you miss a drink at the Aid station'. I don't know why but I even got duped into putting some spare socks in my run bag which I felt obliged to change into when in T2? After all my doubts I don't think I was quite as bad as IM debutant Kev Fish. Kev looked like he was holding some kind of Bike auction with cake stall attached.
Before taking the bikes there was just one final thing to do. Kev, very tastefully, had some stickers made for us all, saying………………….'Lincsquad.. Riding with Chris Brown'.
A sombre moment and time to think whilst attaching to bikes and helmets.
Although the race wasn't until the Sunday we thought it less stressful if we arrived the earlier the better. Tuesday night Ange and I set off on the 850 mile trip with an overnight stop in Canterbury to break up the journey.
After catching the Eurotunnel at 05:50 it wasn't long before we were bumbling around Rothsee Lake trying to remember Dave's instructions on where to pitch the tent. It was no good, I had to ring him and Dave clarified we'd found the right place. Spaghetti bolognese was soon cooking on the camp stove. We found out the hard way that this was Mosquito country and bloody hot! It was also apparent there was a distinct lack of washing facilities/showers/ toilets on site too. Don't worry we'll ring Dave, he'll point us in the right direction?...............................something about there being a big shower block that they used last year???............this didn't exist! What did Dave(apart from smell) do last year? I think conveniently omitting the finer details was a clever ploy on Dave's part, he knew the girls wouldn't have entertained the idea if he'd have 'come clean', bum bum! (pretty proud of that one).
Thursday was the day Clarky, Em, Dave & Emm were joining us, albeit at midnight. I managed a 1.5 mile swim in the lake and then waited for the heat to diminish before running 6 mile around the lake. I felt great, really strong, my pace and recent running form suggested I was quite capable of a 3:30 marathon. I made the decision to set my Garmin for 7:45 min/miles expecting to slip down to 8 min/miles as the run took its toll. We also made the 5 mile trip into Roth to register, the atmosphere was bubbling and the typical bike envy at the trade stands, to my suprise prompted Angie's remark 'Steve we must sort you out with one of these Cervelo P5's, they look really nice'.
Yep, she definitely said that!
Just before midnight the travelling triathletes arrived in Dave's van, tip-toeing and 'shushing' around the camp as not to wake our neighbouring campers along with 3 month old baby!
Yet another dip in the lake the following morning to cool off and to stave off the lethargy. The serious swim was soon curtailed when a diving platform was spotted and Dave and I had a 'Dive off' showing our vast array of reverse somersaults with three and a half twists in the Free position, armstand back double tucks………..you know what I mean don't you? Belly flops!
Next to arrive, mid afternoon Friday was Kev and Alexa. A bit of car and van shuffling for Kev's tent ensured Lincsquad had laid claims to pretty much one corner of the field. With now another lady in camp wanting to wash, Hinchy was under serious threat to provide such! If not, it wouldn't be long before the women were revolting! (the old ones are the….worst).
Back into town on the bikes with the new arrivals to register and soak up the triathlon buzz, Angie again, insisting we looked at the Cervelo P5 stand, it's getting boring now!
After realising it wasn't in my triathlon box, the Expo did give me a fantastic opportunity to buy myself yet another £10 bento box! One day I'll remember who I've lent my previous two boxes to and ask for them back?
To finish the evening off we found a lovely restaurant in the local town for another variation of pasta. Beautiful eating complimented with sounds from a band at the neighbouring tavern.The most unusual of scenarios was pointed out when looking at the Iphotos. Not one of the boys had a beer in their hand? All diet cokes/lemonade,…. yet, and here's the funny thing, all the women were drinking beer! Remarkable, what's the likelihood of that?
Saturday, Race Day Eve meant getting bikes and bags prepared for racking.
Before taking the bikes there was just one final thing to do. Kev, very tastefully, had some stickers made for us all, saying………………….'Lincsquad.. Riding with Chris Brown'.
A sombre moment and time to think whilst attaching to bikes and helmets.
Tuesday 30 April 2013
The Swim
Cometh the hour Cometh the man!
Race day, and it's that all too familiar sound of tents being unzipped, kettles feebly whistling and bushes being pee'ed on. Not Clarky's foliage though, Steve's been one step ahead of the game all week, plastic bottles! All marginal gains resulting in more valuable shuteye, Dave Brailsford eat your heart out. It's 04:15, what are we doing?
With coffee on the stove and a bigger than normal bowl of oats to get through it's time for last minute preps. A banana and a few rounds of toast with peanut butter and jam to add to last night's tuna pasta should put a few more calories in the bank.
'Can you do me a coffee please duck?' comes a yawning request from my tent.
'Sorry I haven't got time to be making coffees, too much on!!!'……….Whoa Steve!!!!, I've snapped and it's not deserved!! I don't realise it but I guess I'm in race mode and although I don't feel too nervous, I suppose I am, plus it's bloody early and I can't remember getting any sleep?
With the girls in tow all bright eyed and bushy tailed and fresh from being showered…………... oh nearly forgot didn't I, the SHOWERS! It appeared Dave wasn't far off the mark when remembering the 'shower block' he'd frequented the previous year! It's a very easy mistake to make (whilst experiencing the onset of Alzheimers disease). This so called 'block' was an outside European communal shower for bathers who've been swimming in the lake. Two shower heads in the middle of a field for Jorgen and Helga to show off their perfectly shaven bits I'm sure, is considered normal for our European cousins? We on the otherhand weren't quite so impressed! Although hats off to Jorgen, despite the freezing cold water was still sporting something the size of a baby's arm. I quickly dried and got out of there. Angie, not so quick.
The Swim
As the swim is often an unknown with too many different variables (sea swims, tidal rivers, distances being short or long, wetsuit/non wetsuit) I planned for around the hour mark. I'd have been elated with 55 mins but could live with 1 hr 2 mins, anymore and I'd be putting more pressure on myself to finish under the 10 hr mark.
Fortunately for Kev and I, we were starting in the same wave so could set up together. Despite Kev being a rookie at this distance I abandoned my original idea and detached my shoes from my pedals to follow his little nugget of advice. Being slightly more switched on than me at this early hour he'd noticed the green grass to which we stood, was sodden wet through! There was also gravel, fallen branches, (ok twigs) underfoot from the run from Transition tent.
I frantically snapped the laggy bands from my bike and asked the Marshal to put my shoes in my Transition bag. Nice one Kev, clean dry socks for the following 112 mile bike.
I didn't see much of Clarky as he was going 30 mins before me which was a shame because it turned out our times for the swim and bike were within minutes of each other, it would've given us both something to focus on. Dave pumped my tyres up after helping some German with Garmin issues. This may have explained why that in typical Hinchy style he missed his swim start by 10 minutes and had to join the next wave!
07:10 and Kev and Ikissed wished each other luck with a burly handshake. Into the warm water I positioned myself, as usual at the very front of the rope. The rope lifted and the jostling started, wow, yon bridge seemed a long way off.
I have to say as swimming venues go this wasn't the greatest. It was very warm and not sure how it qualified for a wetsuit swim. The water was murky so visibility wasn't great, a foot in the face was the first indication that you'd caught another swimmer. I suppose I'm comparing it to IM Austria's picture postcard blue lake. This was more akin to a broader Ancholme and with the two bridges set at similar distances just reminded me of my Hibaldstow to Cadney bridge training swims.
I can't really say anything exciting happened during this 2.4 mile swim, I just tried to find clear water and then switched off. I couldn't even soak up the atmosphere of the crowds lining the riverbank as I primarily breathe to the left so when you're swimming downstream on the righthand side you're looking at the furthest bank away from you and the people were out of view. When coming back upstream I'm looking away from them! That said, the crowds and the noise was everything and more that I'd been told, very impressive.
As I've said previously I really have been slack with my swimming this year, I can count on one hand how many times I've been to the pool in the last 6 months. This could have come back to bite me but fortunately my gamble paid off and even if I'd had invested tens of hours into swim training over the past half year I'm sure I wouldn't have been much more than a couple of minutes quicker.
My time, 59 minutes and a few seconds meant I was on track although I didn't actually know that at the time as I chose not to wear my Garmin for the swim.
Race day, and it's that all too familiar sound of tents being unzipped, kettles feebly whistling and bushes being pee'ed on. Not Clarky's foliage though, Steve's been one step ahead of the game all week, plastic bottles! All marginal gains resulting in more valuable shuteye, Dave Brailsford eat your heart out. It's 04:15, what are we doing?
With coffee on the stove and a bigger than normal bowl of oats to get through it's time for last minute preps. A banana and a few rounds of toast with peanut butter and jam to add to last night's tuna pasta should put a few more calories in the bank.
'Can you do me a coffee please duck?' comes a yawning request from my tent.
'Sorry I haven't got time to be making coffees, too much on!!!'……….Whoa Steve!!!!, I've snapped and it's not deserved!! I don't realise it but I guess I'm in race mode and although I don't feel too nervous, I suppose I am, plus it's bloody early and I can't remember getting any sleep?
With the girls in tow all bright eyed and bushy tailed and fresh from being showered…………... oh nearly forgot didn't I, the SHOWERS! It appeared Dave wasn't far off the mark when remembering the 'shower block' he'd frequented the previous year! It's a very easy mistake to make (whilst experiencing the onset of Alzheimers disease). This so called 'block' was an outside European communal shower for bathers who've been swimming in the lake. Two shower heads in the middle of a field for Jorgen and Helga to show off their perfectly shaven bits I'm sure, is considered normal for our European cousins? We on the otherhand weren't quite so impressed! Although hats off to Jorgen, despite the freezing cold water was still sporting something the size of a baby's arm. I quickly dried and got out of there. Angie, not so quick.
The Swim
As the swim is often an unknown with too many different variables (sea swims, tidal rivers, distances being short or long, wetsuit/non wetsuit) I planned for around the hour mark. I'd have been elated with 55 mins but could live with 1 hr 2 mins, anymore and I'd be putting more pressure on myself to finish under the 10 hr mark.
Fortunately for Kev and I, we were starting in the same wave so could set up together. Despite Kev being a rookie at this distance I abandoned my original idea and detached my shoes from my pedals to follow his little nugget of advice. Being slightly more switched on than me at this early hour he'd noticed the green grass to which we stood, was sodden wet through! There was also gravel, fallen branches, (ok twigs) underfoot from the run from Transition tent.
I frantically snapped the laggy bands from my bike and asked the Marshal to put my shoes in my Transition bag. Nice one Kev, clean dry socks for the following 112 mile bike.
I didn't see much of Clarky as he was going 30 mins before me which was a shame because it turned out our times for the swim and bike were within minutes of each other, it would've given us both something to focus on. Dave pumped my tyres up after helping some German with Garmin issues. This may have explained why that in typical Hinchy style he missed his swim start by 10 minutes and had to join the next wave!
07:10 and Kev and I
I have to say as swimming venues go this wasn't the greatest. It was very warm and not sure how it qualified for a wetsuit swim. The water was murky so visibility wasn't great, a foot in the face was the first indication that you'd caught another swimmer. I suppose I'm comparing it to IM Austria's picture postcard blue lake. This was more akin to a broader Ancholme and with the two bridges set at similar distances just reminded me of my Hibaldstow to Cadney bridge training swims.
I can't really say anything exciting happened during this 2.4 mile swim, I just tried to find clear water and then switched off. I couldn't even soak up the atmosphere of the crowds lining the riverbank as I primarily breathe to the left so when you're swimming downstream on the righthand side you're looking at the furthest bank away from you and the people were out of view. When coming back upstream I'm looking away from them! That said, the crowds and the noise was everything and more that I'd been told, very impressive.
As I've said previously I really have been slack with my swimming this year, I can count on one hand how many times I've been to the pool in the last 6 months. This could have come back to bite me but fortunately my gamble paid off and even if I'd had invested tens of hours into swim training over the past half year I'm sure I wouldn't have been much more than a couple of minutes quicker.
My time, 59 minutes and a few seconds meant I was on track although I didn't actually know that at the time as I chose not to wear my Garmin for the swim.
Friday 26 April 2013
The Bike
Sub 4 minutes for T1 was fairly slick compared to Austria. Each competitor had an assistant who'd empty your bag and pass you your socks and shoes etc. I chose to race in my trisuit so there was a bit of a saving there not having to join the fellow naked men and women that opted for cycling shorts.
The Bike
I located my bike as planned and headed out onto the bridge, I started my Garmin and quickly pressed the screen to display the time.. 08:14! In the panic to get pedalling it took a second or two to compute what that actually meant. I was quite disappointed initially as I'd bargained on a one hour swim and a 5 minute transition so I'd hoped to see 08:05 on my watch not 08:14! over 9 minutes behind schedule!
But, err hang on a minute! (an hour in the horizontal position and my brain was a little scrambled) I started at 07:10 that means it's actually 1 hr and 4 mins, not 1hr 14 mins, now that sounds a lot better.
This was a great boost, despite not timing my swim I knew I must have swum under the hour mark. I estimated I was a good 7 minutes ahead of my Austria time already. Now to enjoy these reputed fast roads.
I started off well and the gradual descent into town saw me pootling along at 28 mph. The streets were awash with spectators, the whole town was out lending their support with cowbells, marracas, whistles even an old wind-up air raid siren. You couldn't help smile as you took in the sights whilst continually passing a constant train of cyclists.
20 miles in and I'd still got an average of over 25 mph. I'd also got a German and an Austrian for company. Robert, the Austrian had great bike skills or maybe just local knowledge of the roads. I'd pass him on the flat and thought that I'd dropped him but everytime the course became technical, downhill or a bend he'd whip past whilst I was being overly cautious on the brakes.
Michael the German would find it hilarious to keep re-introducing himself with a 'Hiya Steve' everytime we encountered an uphill. I obviously had to repay in kind with a 'Hey-up Michael' on the descents.
Now, although playing these games with my two new buddies did help pass the time, after 40 miles it did start to dawn on me that I wasn't sticking to the game plan. This show of machismo to find out which nation had the stronger biker from the three had seen me riding a little above my Ironman comfort zone! The result being,.. I was buggered! I'd already lost(dropped) contact with Robert (although he'd reappear throughout the day in several guises) but Michael was about to say 'Hello again Steve', for the very last time. The next big hill was long enough for him to put a wide enough gap between us that I wasn't prepared to pull back. Boy, that guy could climb.
One of the reasons for me choosing Roth for an Ironman is the obvious fast bike course that people seem to rave on about. Now that still stands, it is fast but I never expected it to be so tough! For some reason I thought fast would mean flat and easy! Well it bloody isn't!
As the halfway point neared my average was drastically dwindling. The 24+mph was heading nearer the 23 mph mark and I still had another 50 odd mile to go. There was a lot of sighing at this pont and I was beginning to fear the worst. Again I hit the faster section of the course and raised the average a little but nothing like the cushion I had on the first lap. All of a sudden I was starting to get passed and I couldn't respond. Not that I needed to particularly but it just reiterated that I was waning.
I think I was experiencing the 'no-mans land' stage (a phrase I've made up) , about 70 miles in but still with another 2 hours of hard riding to go. It isn't a nice thought!
It wasn't all bad. The positives were that my nutrition was going well. I would eat anything I could grab at the aid stations, bananas, energy bars etc. This was complimented with my own flapjack which was as dry as Ghandi's flip flop and a peanut butter and ham tortilla wrap that Angie had made me. Jelly beans were a treat but slowly became a bit too sickly.
Another positve and the highlight of the ride is the famed Sollarberg. This, I think is a hill, well it must be as you're told by the DJ to get into your bottom ring. The thing is you don't really realise it's a hill because you're absolutely awe struck to the amount of people cheering you up. The crowds are like 10 thick at the bottom and this slowly tapers out as you climb through a thin channel left by the mentalists. They love it, and you really do get that Tour-de France feeling. Angie and the girls cheered me both times up there and on both occasions I couldn't make them out from the locals and I didn't realise they were there. You can get stuck here though, I lost what seemed like an age as the funneling at the bottom on both occasions left me behind two of the slowest hill climbers in the race, I think the female rider was just enjoying the limelight and thanking everybody, ok, I maybe being a little unfair.
With Sollar about to be done for the second time my concentration was interuptted with a 'Hello Steve, we go the same speed', it was Austrian Robert who I thought I'd dropped some 50 miles earlier. He looked strong!
My average had fallen below 23 mph by now and I still had another 15 of the tougher miles left. I must say I was out of the 'No-mans land' stage by now and about to enter the 'Light at the end of the tunnel' phase. For me, I do find myself drifting in and out of these phases during a long event especially in an Ironman. I had similar feelings in the swim and was about to get them in the run too.
Finally the miles counted up to just over 111 miles. I didn't start my Garmin immediately so I guess it was a pretty accurate course regards mileage wise.
Now this was a nice touch,…. as you rode into T2 you were greeted by a volunteer who took your bike off you to rack up, I would then continue to run to the Transition tent (whilst moaning about my legs) where I was handed my Run bag, very efficient!
My time showed 4 hrs 54 minutes (about 22.7 mph). I was 6 minutes under my approximate bike time so I was pleased with that but have to concede I did find it tougher than expected. Fast didn't mean easy!
With the 7 mins gained from the swim & T1 and now a further 6 minutes from the bike a fast T2 would see me 18 minutes up on my Austria time. The run, the discipline that I'd made the biggest improvements on was still to come! Things were looking very good if it wasn't for one thing,……... THE SUN!
Monday 1 April 2013
The Run
The Run
It's not as if it wasn't expected because by the sounds of it, most of Europe was in the midst of a heat wave. Ok, great for chucking a few shrimps on the Barbie whilst downing a Fosters but really not welcome whilst running 26 miles! I know as we left England the 'Outlaw' reports were pouring in with everyone commenting on the cruel conditions. These races are testing enough as it is without the added challenge from mother nature.
It's not as if it wasn't expected because by the sounds of it, most of Europe was in the midst of a heat wave. Ok, great for chucking a few shrimps on the Barbie whilst downing a Fosters but really not welcome whilst running 26 miles! I know as we left England the 'Outlaw' reports were pouring in with everyone commenting on the cruel conditions. These races are testing enough as it is without the added challenge from mother nature.
You find yourself looking for the positives.
'It's the same for everyone',
'At least it isn't blowing a gale'
'It's better for the spectators'.
These are all true of course but this doesn't help matters when you're trying to achieve a decent time. Yes it's the same for everybody but as the field attracts the very best and they're so ridiculously fast it's not as if I'd feature at the pointy end anyway. It is simply about the time!
Yet again I Spotted Rob as I shuffled out of T2 resetting my Garmin for the run stage. It turns out Rob wanted a piece of the action too so donned his Trisuit and joined in on a lap of the bike course to experience the race up close. I'm sure he raised a few eyebrows at the aid stations whilst enjoying the freebies without any race numbers attached.
My plan for the run was to average 8 minute miles to give me a 3:30 marathon. In training I didn't go much over 7:30 minute/miles albeit for shorter distances (a couple of 17 milers being the farthest). I decided to split it and set my virtual partner for 7:45 min/miles knowing I'd inevitably fade toward the end. Naively, I hadn't banked on the heat having such a say.
Once I found my feet I actually enjoyed the first 4 miles of the run, mainly because it was in shade through some woodland. Here I saw my second friendly face in Clarky who'd sensibly stuck to his plan of binning the run off and was now screaming words of encouragement at me. To suffer a stress fracture in the run up to Roth was such a cruel blow as I know what this event meant to him.
Steve, as most know, was coaching Chris for Challenge Roth. Again, as most know, Steve was also one of the four on the bike ride when Chris had his accident. For Steve, more than most, this was going to be a race like no other. So many personal reasons for putting on a good show! I truly know of his disappointment when given the news of his injury. The reality of not being able to fully race in his mate's name was a bitter pill to swallow. The fact I saw him by the towpath applauding fellow athletes was a big relief to me. Not just because he'd have kicked my arse but because he listened to that voice saying....
'I didn't travel all that way to Wales to help you in your Kona qualification for you to throw it all away by limping around in the sun at a 'B' race in Germany!'
Big respect.
My pace for the first 4 miles went like this 7:20 m/m; 7:39; 7:30 and then 7:45, I felt good and passed a few early stragglers, I stalked the faster guys that passed me and held their pace for as long as I could without killing myself. I was upbeat and was enjoying it, I had the energy to control my pace!
And that was it! All done! Just the first 4 miles that I was in control of! For the following 22 miles I was at the mercy of the sun!
I don't know how it happened but I suddenly found myself shuffling upon a white shingle canal path peering miles into the distance thinking to myself I'm never going to finish this. Where did it go wrong? Somehow, whilst emerging from that shaded woodland, a strong minded athlete with a race strategy had suddenly morphed into a 'jogger' a 'fun runner' who'll just be content to get around.
The boring straightness of the canal, the constant trudging through the shingle, knots in the stomach, the squelching of wet socks from the sponges and the relentless sun reflecting up from the white of the stones.
I couldn't find any positives, all negatives! I needed a toilet break, didn't I? I needed some quick fix to transform me back to a 'winner' again.
I had a wee, which helped relieve the stomach pains a little but still I couldn't shake this new negative me! This was about to get tough, mentally more than anything!
I couldn't find any positives, all negatives! I needed a toilet break, didn't I? I needed some quick fix to transform me back to a 'winner' again.
I had a wee, which helped relieve the stomach pains a little but still I couldn't shake this new negative me! This was about to get tough, mentally more than anything!
Nearing the 10 mile mark and without any warning I just stopped. I walked, I'd convinced myself I'm running that slow that walking wouldn't be much different. Sod the sub 10 hour the weather has put paid to that, I've got a good excuse now!
This was the familiar 'No mans land' phase that I'd encountered in both the swim and the bike rearing it's ugly head again!
A German supporter spyed my name on my belt and seemed to really hone in on me.
'Come on Steve, you can do it, don't give up'. Refusing at first I politely smiled as I walked past, but this guy wasn't having it, he continued to harangue me and I was still listening to him even when I was almost out of earshot.
'Hup, Hup, Hup, go Steve!' he blurted in broken English.
Shamed into doing so I reluctantly obliged and started to run again, if only to get him off my case.
A brief reprieve from this torture came when I spotted Kev about to embark on the same stony pathway I'd just come from. But he looked so strong! And in high spirits! This little acknowledgement helped with my thoughts for a while as I tried to work out what time Kev was expected to do. I was interrupted from this particular daydream shortly after when Dave, also seemingly in high spirits made himself known.
True to form, my familiar trend of hitting the 'No mans land' stage which in this case was between the 8 mile to 20 mile stage I'm glad to say was followed by the more preferable 'Light at the end of the tunnel' phase.
Seeing the '10k to go' sign was the catalyst for finally getting back to a game plan.. I quickly did the math and realised as long as I didn't walk or completely blow up I would comfortably get in under the 10 hour. I really started to focus on my small steps and raising my head and soon found myself hitting high 8 minutes, low 9 minutes again. I know this sounds slow but believe me it seemed like sprinting compared to the previous 10 mile. I was finally back in the race, mentally at least it's just a shame my legs were almost shot!
At about this time a familiar white Trisuit ran past me, it was Austrian Robert again.
'You a bit faster on bike Steve, but I a bit better runner, see you at finish'. Thanks Robert for stating the bloody obvious.
As never ending as these events seem they do eventually come to a finish! The beer mile through the enthusiastic(pissed) crowds would finally lead to a grandstand.
Once again my loving wife was among the crowds but I was still yet to see her. Apparently her and Em had their own day of exercise, walking 20k to the various vantage points to cheer us on. Top girls.
As I entered the finish chute a glance at the digital clock said 16:59, if I set off at 07:10 then I must have done it in 9 hrs 49 mins, I'd done it. My run time equated to 8:48 min miles 3:49 in total, a long way from my 3:30 target but almost admirable under the circumstances.
If I'm going to give anyone any advice on doing an Ironman it'd be this...... As soon as you finish, head straight for the soup stall. After Austria I spent an age feeling sorry for myself thinking I was dying. I couldn't hold down beer or pizzas. As soon as I had some soup it was like life came flooding back to me.
This time I still didn't head for the soup, I hadn't learnt anything from last time. I had a free beer and then went for a massage. Clarky found me and talking to him picked me up a little but I still wanted to dive outside the tent to be sick.
A familiar figure in Austrian Robert just so happened to be on the next massage table to me. We had a chat and although he drubbed me on the run it turned out he started before me and I'd passed him during the swim. He too was happy though as he sneaked under the 10 hour by a minute.
I finally made my way to the food and noticed the soup stall. Within two slurps I felt myself revitalising like I'd taken some magic potion, I could walk again.
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