On the mend!

Medal made by one of my patients, to make up for not achieving my goals in Kona. Love it!!

Gammy Leg!!!!

Been to see Doctor, been ultrasounded and x-rayed.

Result - confirmed stress fracture and the wearing of this lovely Aircast splint for the next couple of weeks on doctors orders.

I was hoping it wasn't a stress fracture, but my Physio suspicions told me it was, I was just in denial.

As a Physiotherapist shouldn't have even started running the marathon. But as a Ironman competitor - Glad I gave it my all, even through hobbled the majority of the marathon and walked the last 14 miles!!!

Plans to qualify for 2010, are already in progress, and I'm not even going to running for another 6 - 10 weeks.

Aloha!

Apologies for my slackness. While away I didn't even attempt to find a computer. Hawaii was amazing - hot humid and windy like everyone says, but also very magical and full of energy - even out in the middle of the lava fields! Simon and I had an awesome time both pre and post race both on the Big Island and on Oahu.

I had not run since my shin pain had started and had given myself lots of physio treatment in the proceeding weeks. It had not got a lot better, but i was hopefully that it would by race day.

Arrived late on Thursday, 9 days before the race. Stepping off the plane, hit by the heat and humidity and almost immediately started sweating. The condo we rented was perfect - beautiful, relaxing and quite. Just out of town but less than a mile from the swim start. Dean and Sherrie's website Kona Hula Girl says Aloha, welcome to paradise. And it most definitely was.

In the week prior to the race, relaxed on the beach, relaxed in the condo, relaxed in the coffee shops. Nothing strenuous. We did hire a car for a few days and drove the bike course and also go to the volcano. Built myself a luck stone pyramid, for good luck along the Queen K Highway.

Simon did the underpants run - managed to run next to the legend that is Scott Tinely.

I wasn't nervous, just very excited to be in Kona to race in the Ironman World Championships. But come race morning, it was a different story and Simon had to cope with the nervous wreck I became. Once I got onto the pier 15 minutes before the start, I became relaxed and eager to start the day. Pro's off at 6:45. I then started making my way into the water for a short warm up and float. Swimming is normally my least favourite part of the Triathlon day. But I found myself really enjoying this one. Warm and clear blue water helps! The first 5 mins were hectic with a few punches and kicks received and dished out. But that's all part of the fun. I managed to find myself a good pair of not too kicky feet to sit on all the way to the turn boat. Where I was knocked into a few times and tangled up in the lane rope to the next buoy and lost my draft. Heading back, I managed to get myself in another good spot and arrived back at the pier in 1:09. Not fast on the grand scale, but fast for me!

Heading out onto the bike - I was so exited the crowds through town were amazing! Pele dished out a cruel day for us athletes. The 20 miles before the turn is rolling and known for being windy. Today the cross/head wind was blowing. Gusting at what felt like 100mph. On one uphill drag i was going about 8mph! Somehow I managed to get myself a drafting plenty. (Anyone who knows me, knows i hate riders who draft in races) so I'm very embarrassed about this! Served my plenty - which rather than 4 minutes, was actually closer to 5:30 mins due to incompetent of the race officials in the penalty tent. Back on the road, descending in the cross winds I made up some time, overtaking lots of people not happy in the wind. Some how at Kawaihai the tail wind, switched to a head wind and made the way back to town a bit of a slog. I was hoping to have good quicker on the bike in all honesty, but had felt heavy legged when working harder, so had eased back, so not to ruin my legs for the run.

2.4 mile swim, 122 mile bike completed, I skipped into Transition 2 feeling full of beans, still excited and riding the wave of excitement. Onto the run all well until about mile 2, started to feel my shin burning. Kept running, but pace slowed a bit. I started running as far as i could, the walking when it hurt too much. Eventually it became painful all the time. I ran up palini road - determined to do that. Couple of miles later 11/12 ish every time i landed on my right foot, i received a stabbing pain in my lower leg and my knee almost gave way. So I pretty much walked from there on in, for the rest of the marathon. I did keeping trying to run, but my hobbling only lasted about 50m each time, before almost tripping over my own feet and falling on the floor. Cross the finish line in 12:21:02!

So i didn't have the race i wanted to race. Everyone keeps telling me that Kona is a place were only a very few have their great race. But i feel upset still that injury prevent me, from seeing what i could do. The race was an amazing experience. When i finally accepted i was walking to the finish, i started to enjoy it again. As the sun set and people started to run with glow sticks on the run, I started cheering people just starting on the queen K as i was hobbling back into town. Even though i walked the last 13 miles, i still ran the last 400m and hobbled across the line - which felt so good.

Swim 1:09:43

Bike 6:06:59

Run 4:58:33

I've had a great season training and racing. Had lots of fun, made some good friends and had great performances along the way. I started the season hopping to place in the top 10 of my 25 - 29 age group, I was a long way off that on race day. But hopefully will get another shot! Probably not next year, but hopefully in 2010. At the moment I'm looking forward to being able to walk more than 10 minutes without limping, getting back to training and next season.

Thanks to everyone who gave me their best wishes and has supported me over the season. Especially Simon and Loz in the Tri store, Brad Goggin - coach, Pete - Science in Sport, for fueling me, Martin Bramfoot - DJM Products (Zoot and Bodyglide, for great tri clothing and preventing chaffing!).

Mahalo!

Two more sleeps!

Yes getting excited. Bike is sitting in bike box and rest of kit is packed. Last day at work tomorrow, then drive to my folks - Dad's taking us to the airport. You have to love Dad's!!

Feeling well and relaxed about racing in 11 days - am I counting! Except for dodgy calf, putting me out of running for last week. But trainings all done and in the bank. My fingers are crossed it gets better with rest, Simon's massages, acupuncture and lots of stretching.

If Gebrselassie can run a 2:03:59 Marathon, breaking his own world record having had a dodgy calf and not run for a week two weeks before Berlin - Anything is possible. That man's amazing he looked so relaxed running - Crazy!

Final big weekend - Taper from here on in!

So last weekend was my last race simulation brick. In the back of my head this session was important to do. Despite knowing I'd done lots of good training. It's funny how the brain works and can play silly games with your confidence.
10km run, 40km bike very hard, 10km run, 40km bike steady and 10km run - The runs getting faster each time. Wearing lots of layers and a hat! This was the session i was meant to do a few weeks ago when my seat post bolt sheared and I had to abort. Despite some people belief (KW, you know who you are), I had wanted to complete this session. The session went really well. But i must have looked a complete fool running along Eastbourne seafront in tights, long sleeve and woolly hat. Hopefully will pay off in Kona!

Nearly killed myself in DIY heat chamber last week. Humidity and temperature in bathroom (which i wasn't measuring- already had knuckle slapped by physiologist friend). was way too high. I now have a measuring device on loan from Olly Freemann and the subsequent session was not a near death experience.

Hopefully post once more before i fly on the 2nd.

Two weeks today!

Since last post not very much exciting stuff has happen, to write about.
Training going well and no serious injuries from fall off bike!
Received new Speedzoot, from Zoot USA. The new 2009 long legged version, which only the pro's have. Very excited! Tried out in Eastbourne sea last weekend. Managed a 20 min and 15 min swim. But took me two hours to warm up afterwards. Later found out water not even 17 degrees.
Started humidity/heat training in the bathroom, with wall paper steamer and heater last night - only did 20 mins and that felt hard going. Tonight is 45 minutes!!!
Two weeks today we fly, so that puts race day in 24 day!

Kitchen Bike Crash!

Who would have thought that riding your bike on the turbo could be so dangerous!

My session yesterday morning was meant to go something like this run 10km @ 7:45min/mile pace, bike 40km very hard, run 10km @ 7:35, bike 40km steady then finally run 10km @7:25.

First run went well. wearing winter hat and lots of clothes to stimulate getting hot. Didn't look to much of an idiot, since pissing down with rain and windy. Hopped of turbo. 15 minutes in the bolt sheared off the seat post, saddle came off and I fell off. Shoulder meeting corner of washing machine, head against kitchen worktop before hip hitting the ground. I think I may have even lost a bit of time!!

Dazed and tearfully I attempted to continue with training session swapped race bike for road bike and made an effort to carry on. Kind of a half hearted attempt. Out on second run started to feel left groin pull a bit (think i pulled it when i toppled off) and head was really hurting from the knock. Welcome break from running when my first aid skills were called int0 action, in assisting a young boy, who had fallen off his bike. Tears stopped and no serious injury I took a detour and ran along side him on the way back home to mum, a bag of frozen peas and some chocolate - for him not me unfortunately ;-). It was nice to have a chat, made me forgot I was feeling so rotten! Back on turbo for steady ride, missed out the last run due to sore leg.

So today was my first training session which i haven't done as I'd like. Okay so external factors (broken seat post) made me come off, but also mentally and physically starting to fatigue from week of training, and not completely focused on pushing myself. So how did I handle this - Badly! In a grumpy and tearful mood all afternoon and evening.

Simon came home with some parts, but not a quick job. So race bike remains out of action :-(

Training on the sunshine coast - or not!

When the coach first suggested I did another week large week of training immediately after racing the world long course championships. I did question his logic, starting to think all the flying may be killing off brain cells. But he reassured me I'd be nice and rested prior to the worlds and it would be great timing for kona!


So crash week number 2.


Monday - easy run when we finally got home after getting very confused with french diversions. Decided to take a different route, see some sights, stop somewhere nice for early lunch as had plenty of time to spare. Diversions and Road closures everywhere -Travelled a zillion extra miles, missed ferry, had to wait 2 hours for the next!


Tuesday - Yoga, eating, sleeping, yoga, eating and massage- The rest day


Wednesday - 60 min swim with 400m efforts, 2.5 hour steady bike, 70 min run with last 10 mins tempo. Legs felt great! Must be Nocte and Green and Black's Hot Chocolate combo! And my cupboard full of Science in Sport Goodies that keep me going strong.


Thursday - 5 hour bike (wet and windy, came home looking like a drowned rat). I was riding through a couple of inches of water on one stretch of road. Looping past home about 4:20 into ride the heavens opened. Already very cold and wet, now my chain started squeeking. Tempted by the warmth of home, swapped tarmac for turbo for the last 40 mins. Treadmill run with steady efforts, recovery in the sauna between. Everyone in the gym must have thought i was a fruit loop. Again a very wet session - but this time sweaty wet, not rain wet! The aim, to get used to being in the heat, before i start exercising in my heat acclimatisation chamber! Bathroom, with wallpaper stripper running to create heat and humidity - are my instructions from the Dr Jamie Pringle.


Friday - 60 min swim, 3 hour bike (even wetter and windier- I recon i was carrying an extra 5kg of water just in my overshoes) What doesn't break me, will make me stronger! - apparently!

Forcast for the weekend dosen't look much better - rain and wind continues. On the positive side it's giving my killer sunburn from racing on sunday a chance to heal.

Long Course World Championships - Almere, Holland 31st August 2008

We drove over to Holland on Thursday (I say we loosely because I mainly slept and Simon drove). The normal hellish traffic around Antwerp made 100% worse by a multiple lorry smash up on the southbound side and everyone rubber necking. Finally arrived at the campsite, having left home 13 hours earlier. Campsite just 5km from race start etc. Better than almost 20km away in centre parc's were 'Team GB' were based. I love camping and on this trip had the bonus of meeting and making friends with 'Dan', an athlete from the USA and having good camping weather.

Dan in Transition pre race

Friday was registration and Saturday was bike racking. Other than that lazying, drinking coffee and short training sessions (or reconnaissance -checking out 90 corners on the bike course). Legs felt good and rested and mind was eager to race.

Race day - relatively social start at 9:00am. Pros sent off at 8:30am (pro men) and 8:35am (pro women). Age group men 8:55am. Swim was total carnage. Even though it was only age group women sent off together, it felt worse than IM Florida mass start. Was kicked in the head and chest a couple of times. I did my fair share of Cat fighting to jostle for position! We than were catching the slower Age group men pretty quickly - Now having burly men to swim through and get kicked and semi-drowned by! The swim wasn't pleasant. Out of the first loop - apparently 1.3km in 27 mins. Dreadful swim or very long 1.3km. More Carnage and choppy waves on the next loop and then more again on the way into the harbour. Never felt comfortable on the swim. Finally emerged all wrinkly from the swim in 1:28. I was aiming for 1:10. Reports coming out are it was between 4.5 - 5km. Pro women out in 1:10 ish - either very slow or long. Out of the water in 15th place in my age group. I was always going to be down out of the 4km swim, being a relatively week swimmer. But the swim being even longer meant i had even more ground to make up.

Out on the bike, my legs didn't feel like pedalling for the first 50km. Really enjoyed the bike, even though flat and windy. Constantly reminded of the wind by the wind turbines everywhere. Biked 3:28. 2nd faster bike in women's 25- 29 age group. Moved up to 4th place in my age group.

Out on to the run, started off running 7:30 min/miles as planned. But it was getting hot. Race day 29 degrees with minimal cloud cover - pretty much the single day of summer weather I'd seen this year. Water and cold sponges over my head at every opportunity. Managed to hold run together. Was slowly catching 2nd and 3rd place as they were slowing, but had lost 5 plus minutes to those girls in the swim. Finished 30km run in 2:23. Overall time 7:26:45. 4th place.

Even with long swim, beat 2006 time by almost 40 minutes. Happy with race performance overall, after initial disappointment of missing out on podium place by 3 minutes. Especially since finished in front of girls who had beat me at 2006 and 2007 Europeans. Also just to big nyself up a bit more was the 1st British age group female finisher. 2nd british female finisher - only 1h10 behind Chrissy wellington!

Dan finishing - actual time 9:22:23 11th in men's 60 - 65 age group - A true legend in my eyes.

Simon with Chrissy -

Busy week! watching the olympics!

Finally get around to adding a post this week. Been a busy week with work, training and Olympics highlights watching. It's now Saturday morning, just got in from an easy ride in the morning sun. Sitting here eating one of my many favourite breakfasts! Slice Banana and peanut butter on toast with freshly made coffee. Comes very close to bacon and banana on french toast with maple syrup - A Kiwi special!

Anyway since last post. Simon rode the National 12 Hour Time Trial. I was the support crew! It rained for the first 3 hours, but he was riding well and later the sun came out. New 100 mile PB and Ironman bike split (112 mile)PB on the way to clocking approximately 245miles in total. I think he enjoyed it. He couldn't quite face riding his bike till Thursday! I had fun. Dancing in my wellies on the side of the road! My present for supporting (and shouting allez allez allez!)all day a new fancy pants saddle!

My weeks been pretty uneventful - training, working, training, eating, watching Olympics on BBC iplayer (don't have a TV -Probably a good thing, or I'd be a couch potato). Repeat for 5 days.

Taper for long course has started - only 8 days till race day. I was feeling well till I had a little accident on my last long run. Nice evening, decided to do one of my favourite off road runs. Glare from low sun in between trees, blinded me - missed a tree root up ahead. trip. Face planted and rolled. My right and and elbow took the most of the impact. Had a little cry, gave myself a good talking too, picked myself up and finished my run. Thank goodness for the gel in my hip holster pocket - with burst (very sticky and messy) but saved my greater trochanter from some nasty soreness. Little chunks of skin are missing from my hands, thumb is very bruised and sore, elbow a bit tender on tri bars, shoulder and knee and grazed. No more off road running for me till after goal races.

Looking forward to the bank holiday weekend - racing 25 mile TT on Sunday (borrow disc and have no power tap data vs Hed singer 60's and data)and marshaling (my first) at Ringmer Triathlon on Monday.

Weekend Fun!

So thought it was about time I wrote up my race report from the weekend. Been pre-occupied this week with Olympic highlights viewing courtesy of BBC Sport website - There's been some great swimming to watch. Lucky we don't own a TV otherwise I'd become a couch potato.

So Worthing Triathlon. Well due to our lovely! British weather the race became Worthing Duathlon. The wind stirring the water up into waves great for surfing, not swimming. Having not raced very many short races, I was really nervous. My fingers and nail beds are still sore, 5 days on from excessive biting. I ran with the front women on the first 5km run, and entered T1 with a small group of women, just under 1 min back on the first women and 30 sec behind second. Managed to pull my bike shoe off my pedal when attempting to put my foot into it. Had to stop, get off, rectify and get back on. A challenging rolling bike course separated the field more. Wasn't please with bike leg - I had jelly legs - from 2 weeks for run focused training and not tapering for race. I came into T2 almost at the same time as the 3/4/5th place women. 1st and 2nd place were already 1 minute up the road. I started the run in 5th place, 30 seconds back on 3rd and 4th. We caught the 2nd place girl within 2km, moving up one place each. I maintained the gap until 7km in, when I started closing. We ran together for 2km. juggling 2/3/4th place. 4th place dropped off the back. It was quite exciting, racing for placing. Pushing one another along, working out when to break away - all a bit serious! In the last km 2nd place women , pushed the pace up and bridge a gap. I had nothing fast moving left in my legs. I finished in 3rd, 12 seconds behind.

Simon was there at the finish, having endured the head wind to ride over from Eastbourne. Reward for racing was Sunday lunch with Simon's Family to celebrate his Mum's forthcoming birthday. Photo below of Nephew doing crazy jumping - Maybe trying to budge the 1p he'd swallowed the day before!

Photo looking oh so cute, but very tired - holding the Captain Scarlet card we made him for his birthday - He's particularly fond of Destiny. Also his crazy brother - who can now proudly dive into the water! Simon planning for his 12 hour Time Trial this weekend. I'm already mentally rehearsing the bottle change overs!

Apparently he's is 10 years my senior!

But you wouldn't know it from the dinner he made!
Chicken and Butter bean salad - complete with carrot top hair and cucumber eyes.
An insight into the "oh so helpful Simon" from the Tri Stores real character.

White Van Man Road Rage!

My cycling time trials rarely go smoothly. There's normally a glitch in my racing. Sunday's 50 mile Time Trial was no exception. One week after crash week and National 100 mile TT I was either going to have an awesome race or a shocker. To be honest wasn't really sure if my legs and mind were recovered. But Sunday was a good day! Almost perfect conditions and on a good course - went 2:05:23. New PB for myself by 9 and a bit minutes. Smacked it to myself in the last 25 miles.
But, I had a run in with a white van driver during the race. which made me less than happy! I don't have anything against white van drivers in general. My dad drives one for work (Actually he's has also cut me up before, overtaking me on a descent near their house, not realising how fast i was travelling). This driver, of said white van driver (similar size and shape to Renault Kangoo) was not having as good as morning as me and decided to burst my little racing bubble. At about 25 miles, negotiating roundabout, back onto the A27 said white van driver overtook me about 5-10 meters from roundabout. My lesson learnt- should have been further over in the lane earlier. Anyway, he like me was taking the first exit, so pulled in front of me at the entry of the roundabout. Sending me swerving into a patch of sandy gravel almost coming off, but saved by the fact I hit the side of the van. I carried on riding not to lose any more time. White van driver had not had enough. He drove along side me for a bit, blocking both lanes of dual carriageway at 8:25am on sunny Sunday morning, when people were making there way to the beaches! Then he decided to pull in front of me. slow down and weave across the lane, every time I tired to overtake. This however did give me a chance to taken down his number plate. Unfortunately, i'd forgotten the last half by the time I got back to the HQ. The diver had the cheek to complain to the race organised about me landing on his van and request my details. So straight to the Chichester Police station I went to make my compliant. Rahh Rahhh Rahh! I could rant for so much longer!!

Rest of Day made better by plying 'chase' with my boyfriends 2 and 5 year old nephews. Entertaining while 'Mum' prepared lunch and 'Dad' finished last minute packing for holiday. Then sitting outside with Simon's Mum and Dad, Sue and Tim. Enjoying Lunch in the Sun, Coffee, Homemade Muffins and the last stage of The Tour de France.

End of crash week and National 100 Mile Time Trial

Last Thursday was my last hard day of training. I think by the end of Thursday morning the lady that lives in the flat above must have thought I was going mad as I did a multiple brick session. 5km run, 20km bike, 5km run, 40km bike, 3km run. Really love this type of session. Maintaining the intensity thought out the session, without the mental fatigue that might occur otherwise. Gives me confidence that I might do okay in some duathlons, which I'd like to dip my toes into next year. Long pool swim in the evening rounded off my training week.

Friday as rest day - travelled to Stroud and stayed the night at one of Simon's school friends - Rachel and her two children. They were kind enough to let us crash on their floor to break up the journey to Llandovery, Wales. Venue of the National 100 Mile Time Trial.

In Llandovery we had booked a cute bed and breakfast, which was also a lovely coffee shop, to stay at.
http://www.penygawse.com/
Lynne and Allan the owner's were fantastic, even getting up early on Sunday morning to provide us with breakfast. Not just cereals and toast, but go faster for longer, scrambled eggs.

Feeling full, head off 1/2 mile down the road to race HQ. Simon also racing but starting almost 90 minutes after me, so had someone to organise me.

Race report - Race to my wattage plan. Very tough rolling course, some long drags and some steep sections also. But very Pretty! Had a very embarrassing moment at 60 miles in. Had hidden some bottles at the exit of a lay by. Car belonging to David Collard Berry of A3crg was parked right in front. Slowed down, but but not enough. Back wheel slid on some loose stone and I landed on my right lower back and bum, Ouchh! Moments of flustering. Made DCB's day i think as he had to rescue a lady in distress - pick me up, sort out my brakes and put me back on my bike. Shouts out to the A3crg ladies (and men) out in force supporting their riders and anyone else that happened to pass. Enjoyed the last 25 the most. At this point being passed by the really fast men - Prebble and the likes. Also had stuck with my wattage plan, and something left to pick up the pace in the last 25 miles and gave it my all. Finished in 9th place 4:43:53. Beat my previous PB by almost 1 minute, on a much tougher course, after a heavy training week. Pleased. Simon also had a good ride PB beaten by 51 seconds for a 4:22:08.

Now looking for a flat 100mile TT, to really compare my previous 100 mile Time to !!!

This weeks been a recovery week, good job as my right hip, both knees and left elbow are all very bruised and tender. Not quite sure how I landed to sustain that pattern of bruises.

Very excited as I've received the new Zoot 2009 Catalogue and been told to put together my wish list!! I'd recommend anyone looking for new training or racing kit takes at look at their products. Great fabrics, innovations, colours and styling. Very excited!! It' like putting your christmas list together!

Post to follow soon!

My blog has been offline for a few days while the kind folks managing Blogger, have been deciding weather or not my blog contain malicious and people scamming content. Picked up for possibly containing nonsensical text! more likely to be my dyslexia!

Anyway, they have obviously decided I'm not clever enough to be trying to scam people and are allowing me to continue to bore/amuse people.

Report of crash week and National 100 mile Time Trial to follow soon!

Crash week - day 3

Two posts in one day! Yes forgot to post the one I wrote yesterday.

My day started early with meeting Yvette at 7am, for the 5 hour ride ahead of us. I'm a slightly stronger biker than Yvette (she kills me in the swim and run!). Yvette just finished 9th Pro Woman in Ironman France. Self inflicted pressure to ride strong and well was on. Praying that my legs would hold good and I'd have a better ride than yesterday.

Unfortunately my power tap stopped working an hour into the ride, unable to remember how to switch it to bike computer only, so rode on perceived exertion for the rest of the ride. We covered a lumpy 86 and bit miles. See map below. Rode out to Tunbridge wells - remembered why I don't often go that way. steep little lumps and rubbish road surface. Then across to East Grinstead - making the route up as I went along. The down through Ashdown forest, joining A22 to head back to the coast. My legs held good. Sat on the front all morning. Just kept taking in the carb's and drinking plenty.



Once home guess what Rego and a sleep. Now I have to go to the laundrette (sit with the Chav's, not making eye contact). Our washing machine is broken. Not good with all the training and kit I'm getting through this week. Then to the pool for a long-ish swim set!

Crash week, so far!

Last week was a nice recovery week from Half Ironman race last weekend and some preparation for the week ahead - The Crash Week. A week off work to enjoy lots of riding, with some swimming and running thrown in for fun.

So Saturday 3.5 hour ride steady, then 60 min sea swim in the evening. Sunday was a easy 2 hour ride and an opportunity to clear my to do list, for the week ahead. Joined good friend Helen for a ride on Monday. We rode for almost 2 hours steady, prior to me venturing off along the A259 to do 3 x 8 min efforts at threshold - fun. Quick transition and 60 min at 75% off the bike. Home to Rego and a little nap. Joined Bodyworks xtc for sea swim in the evening. I say joined them. These talented youngsters were swimming in the same ocean as me! Probably swam twice as far and twice as fast as me! Didn't mind I had prepared myself mentally for that occurring.

Tuesday - Drizzling in the morning. So geared up for my 4 hour ride with knee warmers, arm warmers and gillet. With jacket in back pocket just in case it got heavier. After about 20 minutes the drizzle stopped and it warmed up. So my bike jersey pockets gradually became very full. Rode out to Rye. Mistake as had an increasing strong head wind home (well it felt that way - as I started flagging. Hungry, dehydrated and tired I arrived home after 4h 15 mins. Legs felt empty. Home to more Rego and another little sleep - Its all about the recovery - felt much better afterwards. Legs still very tired. Hoping a massage tonight will help them feel a little fresher for tomorrow. Arranged to ride with Yvette Grice for 5 hours tomorrow! Another sea swim this evening. Steady 45 minutes, with 2 x 10 mins at race pace. Not quite sure I achieved this as all my sea swims feel like hard work.

2 more hard days, then 2 easy days prior to National 100 mile Time Trial on Sunday. Not sure racing off the back of a training week was such a great idea.

Club 7.2 mile Time Trial

Obscure distance I hear you say. Eastbourne Rovers club 7.2 mile Time Trial which starts just east of Birling Gap and winds it's way uphill to and over Beachy Head, before a steep descent into the Village of East Dean. Sharp left at the bottom of the hill to head back to Birling Gap, then onto the finish. 7.2 miles of thigh hurting pain. Wasn't brave enough to tackle the sharp turn on my time trial bike, so headed out on my much loved Road bike. Almost missed my start (due incorrect time on power tap display and spent too long watching the surfers at Birling Gap - much grovelling required to Dave Cox, TT Secretary post event for my tardiness). Sprinted to the start line as well as the finish. 22 and bit minutes of hurt. Can't say I enjoyed it. But really pushed my climbing limits. Spin home and a bit more. Then quick transition run - 6 mins hard. Felt like hard work! Still have last Sundays race in my legs.

Now off work for 1 week. To enjoy lots of training and relaxing. Hopefully will get some of the sunshine, that Eastbourne is apparently famous for.

Cowman Half Ironman Race Report

I travelled up to my parents on Friday afternoon, to break the journey up to Milton Keynes and also to collect my tent. after loaning it out. On putting my tent up in their garden on Saturday morning, to check all was intact. Discovered it was growing it's own Eco system inside. Last minute change of plan. Borrowed my younger brother, Jamie's tent. Which my other brother Simon had used at Glastonbury last weekend. Didn't have chance to check the state of this one - Hope would be sleep-able.

Drive up to Milton Keynes was uneventful. Arrived at Emberton Park (race venue and camp ground) and set up camp alongside Brighton Esporta Triathletes; Sharon, Teressa, Barry, John and Hildi, who shop in the Tri Store. Tent up (minimal traces of Glastonbury) and registration followed by quick drive around bike course, dinner, race prep, some chat and then bed. Life's exciting for a triathlete, no camping BBQ or beers I'm afraid.

Race morning. Consisted of the usually plenty of time, then oh my goodness race briefing is about to start and I'm still in transition with no wetsuit on. When will I learn.

Swim, My best yet in 33:40. 6 mins behind the first women out, but improvement of 3 mins since my last half ironman. Made myself start right at the front and exposed myself to the carnage that is a mass start. Found myself a good draft, but lost her when started catching slower men who started off 5 and 10 mins in front.
Exited the swim, to what I thought was a slow T1 - struggled with arm warmers. But actually only 1.27. I put it down to my bike mounting skills - which I've been practising and pulled off successfully for once. Not sure I'll ever have the confidence to do a Olly Freeman style mount!
Once on the bike, took a good 8 miles to feel comfortable. Stuck to my planned wattage. Passed only 7- 8 women the bike. Was starting to worry as normally pass a lot more. Later found out I came out the swim in 9th place! So had moved into 2nd place by half way through the bike. Only found out I was in 2nd towards the end of the first lap of the run. Bike course was a bit challenging - rolling, windy and wet. Proudly I posted the fastest women's bike split 2:47:23. Bike dismounted almost like a pro. Quick T2 and on to the run. The less said about the run the better. Felt dreadful initially. Heavy legs and knew I hadn't taken on enough carb's on the bike (rainy and cold = not enough Go energy drink consumed). Lesson learnt - if weather bad need to have calories from more gels, than drinks). Settled into pace, but never felt happy. Found the run a challenge mentally. Gradually uphill though village, then more uphill off road in tractor trials, a bit of a downhill, before entering the park, to run around the lake x 4. Halfway though second 5km lap couldn't feel feet. They had gone completely numb and i started to get some Lateral foot pain. I'd ran and raced in these shoes before but not half marathon or off road - maybe the combination wasn't good. Ran 1:37:48. Was aiming for 1:35. Never will know but may have been, if not having to stop and mess with laces/shoes or stop for a wee!!

Glad to cross the finish line - holding onto 2nd place. Congraulations to Sophie Witworth - women's winner and Brighton Esporta Triathletes for a day of PB's.

Full Results -http://www.pgix.net/bigcow/results.asp?EventID=116&CourseID=33#E

No photo's I'm afraid. I forgot my camera. The event photographers aren't very good - so not buying and Simon (boyfriend) was not in attendence as was working in the Tri Store Saturday.

Frontline News Item

Thought I'd just quickly post a copy of the Frontline (Professional magazine for Members of The Chartered Society of Physiotherapists) article which came out today. Some details are a little incorrect - like missing out on 3rd by 12 seconds at Ironman Florida. That was at the 2007 Europeans Long Course Championships. And long course championships should read 120km , not 20km. Unfortunately they chose the picture where I look like I'm power walking not running!! Trust me I ran the whole marathon. Didn't stop or walk, not even at aid stations. To scared. Had my coaches voice in my head saying. Don't walk the aid stations, you could lose a minute. 26 aid stations, that's 26 minutes lost!

5 days from race day and full of cold!

Feeling a bit low and sorry for myself today, Because as from yesterday evening I have a cold. I'm blaming one of my patients for the germs!!! Hoping that forced rest from training today, will help my body recover for Sunday - due to be racing Cowman Half Ironman. Also hoping it will go as quick as it arrived. I had no pre-cold warning signs. No headaches, bunged up nose, sneezing nothing! 30 mins after yesterdays evening steady run (comfortably hold 7:20 min/miles - feeling very good and confident about form) standing in Waitrose - nose started streaming.

Did contemplate a short sea swim to clear my nose out, but riding home from work was an effort. Could hardly breath when doing yoga.

Having said that i'm feeling a bit sorry for myself, not going to stress too much as what happens happens. Midweek out from Ironman Florida came down with cold (breathing recycled cabin air) and had a good race there. Next post will be cowman race report.

Me and my Zoot Kit!

Finally got round to posting some pictures of my lovely Zoot clothing.


Picture opposite is from East Grinstead Triathlon 08. Wearing my Ultra Tri suit. Most comfortable, stretchy in all directions, but supportive where required suit I've tried. Most importantly matches my bikes colour scheme!










Zoot bag - My boyfriend calls this my Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles bag as it's gigantic. Carry's all my race kit and work/swim kit on a daily basis.

All Zooted up. Bike Jersey, shorts, socks, visors, Ultra Shoes. Would put SpeedZoot on over the top, but might be excessive

My longest cold Bath to date!

Call me a freak! but I like (okay too strong - see and have experience the benefits of) Ice Baths after a hard training sessions, especially hard runs. On Sunday after two hours on the bike and 70 min running at half ironman race pace, in warm UK weather, my legs were roasting. So plunged myself into a cold bath. Decided to make good use of time and call my Dad and wish him a happy birthday (It being midday and leaving it any later would mean I was neglecting my daughter duties!) Talking away and distracted from the cold - last almost 25 mins. I'm sure my Dad already thinks my sporting activities are un - natural, for a twenty something female. That I should be going out and getting drunk every weekend! The Sunday am training, protein shakes in ice bath would just confirms it.

Finally got my arse in the sea - actually went in twice back to back on Saturday. I think my fear of sea swimming has resolved. Went in first with two Friends (Andy and Sue) as we were getting out another two (Jan and Kevin) were getting in so joined them. My bright yellow almost neon Zoot swim hat ensured I was seen amongst the waves.

Training been going well, not a lot of riding - see previous post if interested, but I think I've grossed a few people out. Sorry Todd! Todd's jumped on the blogging band wagon - http://toddleckie.blogspot.com/) I think we may be in competition for number of blogs, and amount of press coverage. Not that us Triathletes are the least bit competitive in nature! I think he may win having place 4th at U23 Worlds in Vancouver 2 weeks ago. Congrats again Leckie x

Did a monster swim set with friend and swim coach, Jan last Friday. You know it was hard when you lying in bed and your arm muscles are twitching spontaneously! Really lifted my confidence. Even the pure swimmers didn't want to join in the fun! Not that I swam fast, but fast and consistent for me! Jan's website has set details but main set 2 x 400m off 7 mins. 4 x 200m off 3:45. 8 x 100m off 1:45. Held 6:15 for 400m, 3:07 for 200m and 1:30/1:31's for 100m. Still slow relatively to good swimmers, but I'm improving on my weakest area. Even if progress is slower than I'd like.

Training been effected negatively my lack of sleep and stress at work - so decision made to take evening off training and sort ever mounting list of 'to do things' out. Clear my head and to do list.

Positively booked flights to Hawaii, this week!

Should girls really be riding Race bIkes!

The answer is of course yes. But this latest title is fuelled by the discomfort I felt during a 50 mile TT at the weekend. Okay, so the soreness had be building slowly, but reached its peak last Sunday. Been riding the same make of saddle now for a while. Now however, my saddle and girl bits(!!) do not agree with one another. My stubbornness and continued riding has resulted in trip to the doctors and a 5 day course of antibiotics being prescribed.

Back to the 50 mile TT. According to the Time keeper I set a new PB of 2:13:23. This would be quite impressive on a day when I was less than satisfied with my performance, as I'm now back to being a triathlete racing time trials with less than fresh legs (weights midweek and steady ride on Saturday). Oh and going round a roundabout completely rather than taking the first exit (It got a little confused, when trying to avoid collision with horse trailer. I had a "do I go or not" moment). My PowerTap read 2:15:23. I know which I believe. Especially since the race start was delay by 10 minutes (which was actually more like 8 and a half minutes!!), as the timekeeper was late!!!

Time trailling is great, because once race is over, the rest of the day can be enjoyed. Planned to meet fellow Eastbourne triathletes, Andy and Sue for coffee at Java and Jazz in Forest Row, for post race coffee and cakes. (Andy and Sue have decided not to race at the long course championships this year. They shall be missed by Simon and me. They stayed at the same campsite as us in Almere in 2006 for the Europeans and were great camping company. I'm sure that since camping next to us a cafetiere and coffee has been added to Andy's packing list :-)! Camping will be a bit more lonely I'm sure) Disappointingly they (Java and Jazz) didn't open till 11am and it was not yet 9:45am. While Andy and Sue headed back to Eastbourne. Simon and I headed off in search of a Sussex coffee shop. Our search led us into Uckfield. Just as we were about to resort to Costa and sitting outside next to some Chav's and a Wheelie Bin. I spotted the Hop Barn cafe/ restaurant just around the corner. Secluded suntrap of a garden, greenery, quiet, great coffee and selection of cakes and good service. Coffee and large slice of carrot cake enjoyed!!!

My Zoot package, contained some lovely items. New cycle jersey in bright pink and orange. I'll take a picture and post when I finally stop washing and wearing it. Also included was some new bike socks, bright bright yellow swim hat (no losing me in the sea!) and casual t - shirt. So now I'm all Zooted up. Thanks Martyn

National 25 Race Report

Writing this post later than I'd hope to have done. Work has been getting in the way this week. Ahh! I need a rich man, so I can give up work and ride my bike all day.

Travelled up from Eastbourne to Sawtry, near Cambridge last Saturday morning. Forgot to pick up directions to Race HQ and Hotel, that I'd printed off that morning. Managed to arrive in the correct place and with plenty of time to spare. With my time keeping and directional skills that was a miracle. Anyway why the need to arrive on time? I'd planned to meet fellow Science in Sport team mate Helen Carter and some of the ladies (and guys) Helen coaches from a3crg. The plan being to check out the course. After a back and leg loosening spin, checked into 'home for the night'.

The rest of the afternoon was spent changing brake blocks over and adjusting brakes to make room for the borrowed Zipp Sub 9 Disc (again). Quick check and adjustment of gears required. Very proud that I managed to do this, without a call for help to my boyfriend. Although I can do these sort of bike things myself, Simon does this for a job and is much more efficient. Double check of race kit. I'd purchased some new pink bike mitts from The Tri Store the day before, for the occasion. Do not quite match my kit! But were a must.

Celebrated my new found confidence in brake and gear adjustments with coffee. However, spoiled by the fact I had two journals to read. I said work was getting in the way.

Race morning. Managed to come out of hotel and turn onto A14, not A1. Prime example of my lack of navigational skills. Realised 15 minutes up the road. Therefore, arrived late and flustered. Shorter than I like turbo warm up and spin to start. Customary last minute wee required. Then the off.

Rode well, catching riders ahead and not being caught. Good ride in my mind. Wasn't riding to power (Normally use a PowerTap hub, but as using disc wheel unable to). Had heart rate for feedback, but mainly went off perceived exertion like at the National 10. Feeling strong. As a triathlete, normally riding Time Trials for training, fresh legs racing is a strange sensation. I'd say all was going well, on route to new PB. Until.... Punctured tub on disc wheel on the entry to the Sawtry North roundabout, about 2.5 miles from the finish. So slowed a little to check okay to carry on. Lost focus. Just kept thinking Simon (Boyfriend) will kill me if i damage the disc. Rode like a Granny on an upright around the corners and had to shift my weight to the front of the bike. As the Finish got closer, the bumps I was feeling from the disc wheel got more predominant. Dilemma, do I pull out or carry on. I'm stubborn. Carried on. At the risk of being killed later. Finished 1:04:43. Just 3 seconds outside of PB. Puncture aside feel I rode well. I didn't start off too hard in my usual way, and built up throughout 25 miles. I quote my friend Martyn " Pace and Patience"!

Journey home, was joined by friend and swim coach Jeanne. Made the journey home seem much quicker. Despite missing junction off M25, and taking the scenic route cross country via East Grinstead home! There's a common theme to my driving!

The rest of the week has been work and some light training. Ran steady for the first time this morning, in what seems like ages due to focusing on cycling for 3 weeks. It's a good feeling to be running again.

Finally paid my entry fee for World Long Course Championships. £160 to British Triathlon. Not happy about having to pay a management fee, due to the lack of support we 'self sufficient, non Nirvana' athletes receive.

On a happier note. A package arrived from Zoot sports today. Will post some pictures of my new goodies soon!!!

First post (First of many)

I can't believe it's already June. I've been saying I'll start a blog since the beginning of the year. Well finally got round to it. Hope to post updates regular about my training, racing and journey to the 2008 Hawaii Ironman World Championships.


I qualified for the 2008 Ironman World Championships at the Florida Ironman on 3rd November 2007. Wow that was some time ago now. Florida was my first attempt at the Ironman Distance (okay i lie, but New Zealand 06, doesn't count. As gale force wind halted my effort). I had a great race day with most things going to plan and training all coming together (thanks to coach, Brad!). Crossed the Line in 10:35. Placed 4th in my age group. Couldn't turn down the Kona spot. However, definitely can't afford it. But hey, plenty of working years ahead to pay off the credit card.

So why blog and bore or entertain people with my training, racing and crazy thought! As a way to reflect on my training and racing, the positive and negative aspects. To say a big thanks to my supporters - The Tri Store, in Eastbourne. Thanks Loz and Simon. Thank goodness they opened the store in Eastbourne. Without them I would have never entered into the crazy sport of Triathlon, met my current boyfriend (partner/ bike mechanic/ masseur/ dish washer - upper) Simon or still be living and working in Eastbourne. Also thanks to Ian at Jim Walker for sticky training tyres for my training wheels and racing tubs for my bling wheels. Thank you to Martin Branfoot at Zoot sports Europe (DJM Products) for kitting me out in fabulous racing kit and "I want" Accessories (Ultra Tempo race trainers, Zoot training bag, Speedzoot, visors, socks etc etc). Finally. Thank you to Science in Sport, for letting me join their womens Time Trial team giving me better access to their great range of sports nutrition.

I know it's June already so here's a quick run down of my year so far. Having had November off all structured training. December and January was all about easing back in and focusing on my running. February I ran a new Half Marathon PB at Tunbridge wells Half 1:33:39. (Simon and I won the couples prize. So Gourmet burgers for post race lunch and coffee and cakes, a cyclists staple.) Then beat it again at Hastings in March with a 1:32:37. Running on heavy legs from a weeks training Holiday in Spain. Started time trialling in March. Opened the season with a 2 up time trial, with the boyfriend. The idea being you alternate riding closely in front on one another, so you go really really fast. I let the team down. There wasn't much alternating and most of the time i was way off the back. Heavy weights session midweek before a time trial is not a good idea.

Cycling mileage picked up as the weather became warmer and I joined up with Science in Sport (SiS), to ride as part of the women's team. My training kit has grown, to include some fabulous black and white SiS team clothing. Unfortunately the red doesn't quite match the pink colour scheme of my bike. Thinking of starting a one women campaign to change the company logo from red to pink. Thanks to Helen Carter (SiS Team Mate and Exercise Physiologist) for helping me get my foot in the door. Check out Helen's website. http://www.helencarter.info/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1

Early morning and evening training to fit around full time work, and weekends spent doing either long rides or time trials. My focus for this block of training is the National 10 and 25 mile time trials. However, managed to sneak in my first triathlon of the year - East Grinstead Sprint on May 16th. A good opportunity to test early fitness and transition skills, which were a bit rusty. Pre-race preparation isn't a forte of mine. A loose cleat on my bike shoe meant my left foot was moving forwards and back. Not good for efficient power transfer. This almost beats my disastrous 50 mile time trial last year where I put right and left cleats on the wrong side, so I couldn't clip in. You'd think I'd learn. Loose cleats aside, posted fastest senior women's bike split and held in on the run to take 2nd place to Yvette Grice. Very happy with that result.

National 10 mile time trial. Rode on a borrowed disc wheel (Simon let me borrow his new Zipp sub 9 disc, even though he had been unwell and not yet ridden it - He still has a hold over me for that). So with that pressure and the fact this was my first real outing as a SiS gal, I had to go fast and do and PB. Rode 22:46. Finish in 25th Place. Very pleased. The SiS girls took the team prize Just missed being a counter by 20 seconds.

So just had a couple of easy weeks, building for the National 25 Mile TT, this weekend. Watch this Space.