I thought I had addressed my Achilles issue well enough from October until now by taking October to December off, and then by introducing running to my training gradually, as well as icing, rolling, and stretching. Today my Achilles was sore the entire run. It was never terribly painful, but sore nevertheless. So, I've decided to take 3-4 weeks off to ice and "rest" it. Therefore, I'll be picking up my cycling milage to take up the fitness slack.
I am discouraged, and aggrivated, truth be told, but I'm going to try to keep a positive outlook and move forward the best I can.
Peace,
~Sam
My Book
Find at Amazon.com
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
Gaining Ground...in the Water
I'm finding more confidence in the water. This morning after warming up, I did what I'm calling a half-mile time trial, albeit, the distance was really 900 yds. I was committed to bilateral breathing during this time and it seemed to go well. Granted, in the last 200 yards, I determined that more air would be good, so I "cheated" occasionally and took air from the right on consecutive strokes. However, I went back to bilateral breathing because the quick "cheating" gave me the reprieve I needed to get back at it. It was a failry challenging swim, but I wasn't just putzing back and forth either...well for my ability anyway. I managed a time of 14:33. I looked back into my training logs to see what time a "typical" effort for this distance was but, in my brief search I didn't see anything. Apparently, I mostly went to time trials of 1000 yards in the past couple years.
Regardless, when I left the pool in the darkness of 6:00 a.m., I walked across the parking lot in the crisp winter air, with a smile on my face. I had gone farther and more comfortably with bilateral breathing than ever before. Was it far?...no. Was it fast?...maybe not. Was it a step in the right direction?...I think so.
I'm not sure if bilateral breathing in and of itself is making me a faster swimmer per se, but I can tell a difference in the efficiency of my stroke mechanics. It is an interesting new challenge for me and I'm enjoying the transformation.
Peace,
~Sam
Incidentally, I've noticed that I have a few more followers. Thank you for taking an interest. I hope my posts are reasonably entertaining, inspiring, and/or informative.
Check out the most recent interview with John Hibler below if you get a chance.
Regardless, when I left the pool in the darkness of 6:00 a.m., I walked across the parking lot in the crisp winter air, with a smile on my face. I had gone farther and more comfortably with bilateral breathing than ever before. Was it far?...no. Was it fast?...maybe not. Was it a step in the right direction?...I think so.
I'm not sure if bilateral breathing in and of itself is making me a faster swimmer per se, but I can tell a difference in the efficiency of my stroke mechanics. It is an interesting new challenge for me and I'm enjoying the transformation.
Peace,
~Sam
Incidentally, I've noticed that I have a few more followers. Thank you for taking an interest. I hope my posts are reasonably entertaining, inspiring, and/or informative.
Check out the most recent interview with John Hibler below if you get a chance.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Ironman Louisville: Interview with age-group Athlete John Hibler
John Hibler is a 40-45 age-grouper from Lafayette, IN and is a veteren triathlete of the sprint distance, but decided he wanted to dive in headfirst into the world of Ironman. He’ll be challenged with balancing a very busy schedule, and he’ll be testing his resolve after recovering from knee surgery, at the 2011 edition of Ironman Louisville.
TS: How many years have you been doing triathlon?
JH: I did three sprint triathlons about five years ago. The next year I think I only did one. I took a couple years off and then did one sprint last year. I wasn’t really training for them, but they were a races I wanted to try. Last year I wanted to get serious about training for a half-ironman, but had knee issues that required surgery five weeks ago.
TS: What got you interested in triathlon?
JH: I wanted to test the limits of my body and ability. I have a few friends that are Ironmen (women) and they are always excited to talk about their training and races.
TS: What is your best discipline (swim/bike/run)?
JH: Running, by far.
TS: Why do you want to do an Ironman?
JH: I want to see how far I can push my body. I have run numerous marathons and the thought of swimming 2.4 miles and riding 112 miles before one sounds like an interesting challenge.
TS: Why Ironman Louisville?
JH: I wanted my first Ironman to be close to home. I was on the fence between Louisville and Florida. My friends are doing Florida. I watched a youtube video of the Louisville swim start. I thought it looked more my style instead of the mass swim start of other Ironman events where you get beat up. I am sure I will get hit during the swim in Louisville but I don’t think it will be as bad as others. If I can make it out of the water, I believe I will finish the race even if I have to roll across the finish.
TS: What do you expect to be greatest challenges in preparing for IMLOU?
JH: Time. I work around 50 hours a week, I have three kids under the age of eight, I serve as VP of my kids school board and church, and I’m very involved with other community activities. If I don’t work out in the morning, I don’t work out at all. Five hour bike rides will be hard for me to fit in on Saturday’s that are already packed with soccer, gymnastics, and other activities. My wife always works. Our schedules are very complicated. Most days I am up by 4am so I can get a good workout in.
TS: What would your best case scenario be on race day in general?
JH: Best case scenario would be getting off the bike ready to run a sub-four hour marathon.
TS: What is your most critical piece of equipment for each of the three disciplines?
JH: Swimming, right now is my pull buoy. After I had surgery, I couldn’t kick the way I wanted to, so I bought a pull buoy. I have found by accident that the upper workout I get from it has really helped me. I have a problem with my swim form and this helps me align my body in the water. Biking: My Cervelo bike. I am pretty sure everyone will pick their bike on this question, but it is critical for me. I have a smaller frame and wheels but the bike fits perfect. I can’t express enough that proper bike fit has meant a lot to me. Running: My Timex watch. I never leave home without it on a run. I am a watch hound. I log every mile pace and every track workout time trial. I have forgotten my watch a couple of times and I feel lost without it.
TS: What triathlon professional(s), if any, inspire you?
JH: I really don’t have a professional that has really inspired me. If I had to pick someone, I think I would pick Dick and Rick Hoyt. Dick has pushed his son through multiple Ironmans, marathons, and century rides. I think their story is very inspiring. There is also a triathlete in Indianapolis named Michael Smith that has inspired me. He is not a pro but usually wins many of the races (Tri’s and Running races) in the area. He is in his 40’s, owns his own running store, has two kids, and he’s very involved in the Indy running community. Everyone knows him. I have done a lot of duathlons and races where he is there and he always finds time to speak with anyone who wants to talk to him. He gives great advice and is just an overall nice person.
TS: Other than Ironman Hawaii, what is a major “bucket list” triathlon on your radar?
JH: I want to do an international Ironman. I have a friend that has done Cozumel and Germany. I think traveling to races that are outside of your comfort zone is a neat experience. Before kids, I use to travel all over the country running different races. Ironman Australia really appeals to me. I like the idea of running and biking along the coast line.
TS: Which would be a better triathlon rig, a classic Big Wheel or strap on roller skates with wooden wheels?
JH: The roller skates with wooden wheels because I like being on my feet more than being on my bottom.
TS: Which would be worse, losing your cycling shoes in T1 or your running shoes inT2?
JH: My running shoes. I have run in Brooks Adrenaline for years. I don’t think I could run in anything else. I can bike in sandals. I actually have.
TS: Which is more important, the finisher’s t-shirt, or finisher’s medal?
JH: The t-shirt. The medals get put in a box in my basement. I don’t see a need to have awards out but a T-shirt can get worn everyday. I like the idea of having the M-dot on my shirt and people asking me if I have completed an Ironman.
TS: What song or artist would you love to hear blaring at mile 20 in the Ironman run?
JH: Maroon 5 – Misery
TS: Who will you contact first to let them know that you are an Ironman?(Given they are not in attendance)
JH: If my family wasn’t there, I would contact my wife first. If they were there, I would contact my sister first. She is the one that has inspired me the most for all of my life. We always challenge each other in events. Year ago she got me into adventure racing on a dare.
John…enjoy your experience and rock it out.
TS: How many years have you been doing triathlon?
JH: I did three sprint triathlons about five years ago. The next year I think I only did one. I took a couple years off and then did one sprint last year. I wasn’t really training for them, but they were a races I wanted to try. Last year I wanted to get serious about training for a half-ironman, but had knee issues that required surgery five weeks ago.
TS: What got you interested in triathlon?
JH: I wanted to test the limits of my body and ability. I have a few friends that are Ironmen (women) and they are always excited to talk about their training and races.
TS: What is your best discipline (swim/bike/run)?
JH: Running, by far.
TS: Why do you want to do an Ironman?
JH: I want to see how far I can push my body. I have run numerous marathons and the thought of swimming 2.4 miles and riding 112 miles before one sounds like an interesting challenge.
TS: Why Ironman Louisville?
JH: I wanted my first Ironman to be close to home. I was on the fence between Louisville and Florida. My friends are doing Florida. I watched a youtube video of the Louisville swim start. I thought it looked more my style instead of the mass swim start of other Ironman events where you get beat up. I am sure I will get hit during the swim in Louisville but I don’t think it will be as bad as others. If I can make it out of the water, I believe I will finish the race even if I have to roll across the finish.
TS: What do you expect to be greatest challenges in preparing for IMLOU?
JH: Time. I work around 50 hours a week, I have three kids under the age of eight, I serve as VP of my kids school board and church, and I’m very involved with other community activities. If I don’t work out in the morning, I don’t work out at all. Five hour bike rides will be hard for me to fit in on Saturday’s that are already packed with soccer, gymnastics, and other activities. My wife always works. Our schedules are very complicated. Most days I am up by 4am so I can get a good workout in.
TS: What would your best case scenario be on race day in general?
JH: Best case scenario would be getting off the bike ready to run a sub-four hour marathon.
TS: What is your most critical piece of equipment for each of the three disciplines?
JH: Swimming, right now is my pull buoy. After I had surgery, I couldn’t kick the way I wanted to, so I bought a pull buoy. I have found by accident that the upper workout I get from it has really helped me. I have a problem with my swim form and this helps me align my body in the water. Biking: My Cervelo bike. I am pretty sure everyone will pick their bike on this question, but it is critical for me. I have a smaller frame and wheels but the bike fits perfect. I can’t express enough that proper bike fit has meant a lot to me. Running: My Timex watch. I never leave home without it on a run. I am a watch hound. I log every mile pace and every track workout time trial. I have forgotten my watch a couple of times and I feel lost without it.
TS: What triathlon professional(s), if any, inspire you?
JH: I really don’t have a professional that has really inspired me. If I had to pick someone, I think I would pick Dick and Rick Hoyt. Dick has pushed his son through multiple Ironmans, marathons, and century rides. I think their story is very inspiring. There is also a triathlete in Indianapolis named Michael Smith that has inspired me. He is not a pro but usually wins many of the races (Tri’s and Running races) in the area. He is in his 40’s, owns his own running store, has two kids, and he’s very involved in the Indy running community. Everyone knows him. I have done a lot of duathlons and races where he is there and he always finds time to speak with anyone who wants to talk to him. He gives great advice and is just an overall nice person.
TS: Other than Ironman Hawaii, what is a major “bucket list” triathlon on your radar?
JH: I want to do an international Ironman. I have a friend that has done Cozumel and Germany. I think traveling to races that are outside of your comfort zone is a neat experience. Before kids, I use to travel all over the country running different races. Ironman Australia really appeals to me. I like the idea of running and biking along the coast line.
TS: Which would be a better triathlon rig, a classic Big Wheel or strap on roller skates with wooden wheels?
JH: The roller skates with wooden wheels because I like being on my feet more than being on my bottom.
TS: Which would be worse, losing your cycling shoes in T1 or your running shoes inT2?
JH: My running shoes. I have run in Brooks Adrenaline for years. I don’t think I could run in anything else. I can bike in sandals. I actually have.
TS: Which is more important, the finisher’s t-shirt, or finisher’s medal?
JH: The t-shirt. The medals get put in a box in my basement. I don’t see a need to have awards out but a T-shirt can get worn everyday. I like the idea of having the M-dot on my shirt and people asking me if I have completed an Ironman.
TS: What song or artist would you love to hear blaring at mile 20 in the Ironman run?
JH: Maroon 5 – Misery
TS: Who will you contact first to let them know that you are an Ironman?(Given they are not in attendance)
JH: If my family wasn’t there, I would contact my wife first. If they were there, I would contact my sister first. She is the one that has inspired me the most for all of my life. We always challenge each other in events. Year ago she got me into adventure racing on a dare.
John…enjoy your experience and rock it out.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Ironman Louisville: Interview with age-group Athlete Jeremy Talkas
Jeremy Tulkas, a 25-29 age-group triathlete living in Central Indiana is no stranger to Ironman Louisville and isn’t known to shy away from a challenge. He took Ironman Louisville on in 2010, in the sweltering heat. He is an accomplished swimmer and is going to use this skill to assist him when he takes on the event again in 2011.
TS: How many years have you been doing triathlon?
JT: Three, though my first year I did no training and just competed in one sprint, so two years of actual training and doing Ironman.
TS: What got you interested in triathlon?
JT: Some of my teammates on my college swim team did them and suggested I try it since I was a fast runner and swimmer. I also heard of Ironman for the first time when I was an Ocean Rescue lifeguard on the Outer Banks, NC. A friend told me about it and I thought it was stupid. However, I couldn’t help feeling that I wasn’t a true athlete until I did one.
TS: What is your best discipline (swim/bike/run)?
JT: Swim, but I hate swimming (9 years of two-a-days will do that to you). My favorite is cycling, though I am very inexperienced at it.
TS: Why do you want to do an Ironman?
JT: I am addicted!
TS: Why Ironman Louisville?
JT: It's close to home, and my wife is a teacher who only gets three personal days per year, this allows her to do the race with me.
TS: What do you expect to be greatest challenges in preparing for IMLOU?
JT: Injury prevention, and fitting my training plan into my work schedule as a full time overnight shift police officer.
TS: What would your best case scenario be on race day in general?
JT: To feel as though I reached my potential and didn’t have any heat related problems like last year.
TS: What is your most critical piece of equipment for each of the three disciplines?
JT: Swim – snorkel (I only use it for training but it provides an invaluable benefit in balancing out my stroke, I use it every practice). Bike – rear view mirror attached to my sun glasses (again, only used in training, but it allows me to safely cycle alone on the straight flat central Indiana roads with 55 mph speed limits without constantly having to slow down and look behind me). Run – Garmin watch (allows me to run wherever I want and always know my pace and distance, really makes me push myself).
TS: What triathlon professional(s), if any, inspire you, and why?
JT: Chrissie Wellington – For one, triathlon is a sport where males are supposed to have a significant advantage over females but she can beat most of the pro men on any given day. Also, she always has a smile on her face, even though I know she HAS to be in a lot of pain going that hard.
TS: Other than Ironman Hawaii, what is a major “bucket list” triathlon on your radar?
JT: St George – Have you seen the photos from that race? Absolutely beautiful! However, it will require a lot of traveling for me and I believe the climbs might be too much for someone who trains on roads where I regularly ride 100 miles without a single climb of more than 30 feet (literally).
TS: Which would be a better triathlon rig, a classic Big Wheel or strap on roller skates with wooden wheels?
JT: The big wheel, because you can sit down. That would be way too long to stand on skates.
TS: Which would be worse, losing your cycling shoes in T1 or your running shoes inT2?
JT: Cycling shoes definitely. I have tried pedaling barefoot on my pedals and I hurt…bad! Running barefoot, however, is quite enjoyable for me. True story, I actually ran my first marathon barefoot! When I was an Ocean Rescue lifeguard, me and three other guys decided to run a barefoot marathon on the beach. We decided over drinks on night and ran the marathon THE NEXT DAY and with a total of five water stops and only one Powerbar. It probably wasn’t safe, but hey, nobody died and we all finished together in great time, with a negative split!
TS: Which is more important, the finisher’s t-shirt, or finisher’s medal?
JT: The shirt, because I never wear medals out in public, and the only t-shirts I ever wear are race shirts.
TS: What song or artist would you love to hear blaring at mile 20 in the Ironman run?
JT: The Final Countdown by Europe. If that song doesn’t get you motivated then nothing will!
TS: Who will you contact first to let them know that you are an Ironman?(Given they are not in attendance).
JT: My wife wasn’t at my first race and I called her as soon as I crossed the finish line (and yes, I was crying…).
I have a feeling Jeremy has a lot of stories he could tell about his experiences. I’m sure this Ironman Louisville will allow him to generate another epic story of determination and triumph.
TS: How many years have you been doing triathlon?
JT: Three, though my first year I did no training and just competed in one sprint, so two years of actual training and doing Ironman.
TS: What got you interested in triathlon?
JT: Some of my teammates on my college swim team did them and suggested I try it since I was a fast runner and swimmer. I also heard of Ironman for the first time when I was an Ocean Rescue lifeguard on the Outer Banks, NC. A friend told me about it and I thought it was stupid. However, I couldn’t help feeling that I wasn’t a true athlete until I did one.
TS: What is your best discipline (swim/bike/run)?
JT: Swim, but I hate swimming (9 years of two-a-days will do that to you). My favorite is cycling, though I am very inexperienced at it.
TS: Why do you want to do an Ironman?
JT: I am addicted!
TS: Why Ironman Louisville?
JT: It's close to home, and my wife is a teacher who only gets three personal days per year, this allows her to do the race with me.
TS: What do you expect to be greatest challenges in preparing for IMLOU?
JT: Injury prevention, and fitting my training plan into my work schedule as a full time overnight shift police officer.
TS: What would your best case scenario be on race day in general?
JT: To feel as though I reached my potential and didn’t have any heat related problems like last year.
TS: What is your most critical piece of equipment for each of the three disciplines?
JT: Swim – snorkel (I only use it for training but it provides an invaluable benefit in balancing out my stroke, I use it every practice). Bike – rear view mirror attached to my sun glasses (again, only used in training, but it allows me to safely cycle alone on the straight flat central Indiana roads with 55 mph speed limits without constantly having to slow down and look behind me). Run – Garmin watch (allows me to run wherever I want and always know my pace and distance, really makes me push myself).
TS: What triathlon professional(s), if any, inspire you, and why?
JT: Chrissie Wellington – For one, triathlon is a sport where males are supposed to have a significant advantage over females but she can beat most of the pro men on any given day. Also, she always has a smile on her face, even though I know she HAS to be in a lot of pain going that hard.
TS: Other than Ironman Hawaii, what is a major “bucket list” triathlon on your radar?
JT: St George – Have you seen the photos from that race? Absolutely beautiful! However, it will require a lot of traveling for me and I believe the climbs might be too much for someone who trains on roads where I regularly ride 100 miles without a single climb of more than 30 feet (literally).
TS: Which would be a better triathlon rig, a classic Big Wheel or strap on roller skates with wooden wheels?
JT: The big wheel, because you can sit down. That would be way too long to stand on skates.
TS: Which would be worse, losing your cycling shoes in T1 or your running shoes inT2?
JT: Cycling shoes definitely. I have tried pedaling barefoot on my pedals and I hurt…bad! Running barefoot, however, is quite enjoyable for me. True story, I actually ran my first marathon barefoot! When I was an Ocean Rescue lifeguard, me and three other guys decided to run a barefoot marathon on the beach. We decided over drinks on night and ran the marathon THE NEXT DAY and with a total of five water stops and only one Powerbar. It probably wasn’t safe, but hey, nobody died and we all finished together in great time, with a negative split!
TS: Which is more important, the finisher’s t-shirt, or finisher’s medal?
JT: The shirt, because I never wear medals out in public, and the only t-shirts I ever wear are race shirts.
TS: What song or artist would you love to hear blaring at mile 20 in the Ironman run?
JT: The Final Countdown by Europe. If that song doesn’t get you motivated then nothing will!
TS: Who will you contact first to let them know that you are an Ironman?(Given they are not in attendance).
JT: My wife wasn’t at my first race and I called her as soon as I crossed the finish line (and yes, I was crying…).
I have a feeling Jeremy has a lot of stories he could tell about his experiences. I’m sure this Ironman Louisville will allow him to generate another epic story of determination and triumph.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
It's Mid-January...How's it Goin'?
My pre-season training is actually going fairly well. I'm experiencing some setbacks, but I'm still moving forward and building.
I would like to see more endurance gains in my swimming, and I have a plan for doing as much, in which I will start next week. I'm feeling more confident with bilateral breathing and I believe the drills I am doing are helping me be a more efficient swimmer. That being said, I still need to work on going the distance. I consider myself on schedule for my swimming. In the off-season, when I set up my plan for swimming, I don't have myself scheduled to start yet, so when I remember that, I feel even better about my progress.
Cycling has been pretty consistent, but my bicycle has had some issues. To begin with, the bike shop had to do a lot of work fixing a "chain suckage" issue. I won't get into ths details of that. I have to check it again, but I believe the issue has been resolved. The next thing I need to do is get my position ironed out. I'm still feeling discomfort in my right tricep and forearm and I'm going in to Village Bike to have this looked at on Monday.
My running is progressing, but not without a hitch. I've had some Achilles tendonitis I've been dealing with, but it's been relatively minor. I've been icing, stretching, and rolling it, and I've been paying attention to it. So far I've been able to progress with it as is. During my last run, I had to concentrate on it to notice any discomfort. This of course is a good sign.
I've had some lower back pain as the result of straining some muscles while doing squats, but this is already almost resolved.
So, how's it goin'? I think pretty well. I'm enjoying the process of building my Iron-fit body and mind.
Peace.
I would like to see more endurance gains in my swimming, and I have a plan for doing as much, in which I will start next week. I'm feeling more confident with bilateral breathing and I believe the drills I am doing are helping me be a more efficient swimmer. That being said, I still need to work on going the distance. I consider myself on schedule for my swimming. In the off-season, when I set up my plan for swimming, I don't have myself scheduled to start yet, so when I remember that, I feel even better about my progress.
Cycling has been pretty consistent, but my bicycle has had some issues. To begin with, the bike shop had to do a lot of work fixing a "chain suckage" issue. I won't get into ths details of that. I have to check it again, but I believe the issue has been resolved. The next thing I need to do is get my position ironed out. I'm still feeling discomfort in my right tricep and forearm and I'm going in to Village Bike to have this looked at on Monday.
My running is progressing, but not without a hitch. I've had some Achilles tendonitis I've been dealing with, but it's been relatively minor. I've been icing, stretching, and rolling it, and I've been paying attention to it. So far I've been able to progress with it as is. During my last run, I had to concentrate on it to notice any discomfort. This of course is a good sign.
I've had some lower back pain as the result of straining some muscles while doing squats, but this is already almost resolved.
So, how's it goin'? I think pretty well. I'm enjoying the process of building my Iron-fit body and mind.
Peace.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Ironman Louisville: Interview with age-group triathlete Thomas Troncosco
Coming from Lancaster, PA, the 40-44 age grouper who has only been in the sport of triathlon for two years, Thomas Troncoso will be battling his biggest rival at the 2011 edition of Ironman Louisville. A rival he can never escape…himself. After giving it a crack in 2010 he is back for more and he is on a mission to better his performance.
TS: What got you interested in triathlon?
TT: I got interested in triathlons when a buddy of mine told me he was doing triathlons. He told me I needed to try one. A week later I signed up for a sprint distance event, and the rest is history.
TS: What is your best discipline?
TT: My best discipline or at least the one that comes most naturally to me is the swim. Swimming was my first sport growing up. I like the other two, but I seem not to have any worries when it comes to swimming.
TS: Why do you want to do an Ironman?
TT: I want to do an Ironman because it is a constant challenge. A challenge in life, a challenge in pushing my body and myself and every single detail that goes along the way to make it happen.
TS: Why Ironman Louisville?
TT: Last year I competed in Ironman Louisville and I want to be able to compare my performance from last year.
TS: What do you expect to be greatest challenges in preparing for IMLOU?
TT: The greatest challenge in preparing for IMLOU is juggling family, work, and making the time for the workouts.
TS: What would your best case scenario be on race day in general?
TT: I would love a super hot day with exceeding heat index warnings, and a personal best for all three disciplines.
TS: What is your most critical piece of equipment for each of the three disciplines?
TT: The most critical piece of equipment for swimming would be the tri-suit(would not want to swim naked)- on a serious note, it would be my goggles because I wear contact lenses. For the bike I would say it is my hydration cages for the speed fill, and bottle cages on back of bike). The piece of equipment most critical for the run would be my Fuel Belt for the Infinit sports drink I need.
TS: What triathlon professional(s), if any, inspire you?
TT: I really don’t have a particular pro that I watch, but I like to see or follow those that excel in a particular discipline. Honestly, the athletes that really inspire me are the age-groupers that struggle and overcome the obstacles to finish an Ironman. I also draw inspiration from those with physical disabilities.
TS: Other than Ironman Hawaii, what is a major “bucket list” triathlon on your radar?
TT: New Zealand, Australia, Spain, flip a coin .
TS: Which would be worse, losing your cycling shoes in T1 or your running shoes inT2?
TT: I think it would be worse to lose my cycling shoe in T1. I don’t think I could handle biking on one shoe with clip-on’s for 112 miles. However, running barefoot/socks is doable for 26.2 miles.
TS: Which is more important, the finisher’s t-shirt, or finisher’s medal?
TT: Honestly, neither- it is the self accomplishment that means the most to me, but for posterity purposes, I would stick with the medal. The medal will last longer, and it is easier to display.
TS: What song or artist would you love to hear blaring at mile 20 in the Ironman run?
TT: Mama Said Knock You Out! (L.L. Cool J.).
TS: Who will you contact first to let them know that you are an Ironman?(Given they are not in attendance)
TT: My Mom.
Thomas will face his toughest competitor daily while training and ultimately in Louisville. I’m sure he will make his mom proud.
TS: What got you interested in triathlon?
TT: I got interested in triathlons when a buddy of mine told me he was doing triathlons. He told me I needed to try one. A week later I signed up for a sprint distance event, and the rest is history.
TS: What is your best discipline?
TT: My best discipline or at least the one that comes most naturally to me is the swim. Swimming was my first sport growing up. I like the other two, but I seem not to have any worries when it comes to swimming.
TS: Why do you want to do an Ironman?
TT: I want to do an Ironman because it is a constant challenge. A challenge in life, a challenge in pushing my body and myself and every single detail that goes along the way to make it happen.
TS: Why Ironman Louisville?
TT: Last year I competed in Ironman Louisville and I want to be able to compare my performance from last year.
TS: What do you expect to be greatest challenges in preparing for IMLOU?
TT: The greatest challenge in preparing for IMLOU is juggling family, work, and making the time for the workouts.
TS: What would your best case scenario be on race day in general?
TT: I would love a super hot day with exceeding heat index warnings, and a personal best for all three disciplines.
TS: What is your most critical piece of equipment for each of the three disciplines?
TT: The most critical piece of equipment for swimming would be the tri-suit(would not want to swim naked)- on a serious note, it would be my goggles because I wear contact lenses. For the bike I would say it is my hydration cages for the speed fill, and bottle cages on back of bike). The piece of equipment most critical for the run would be my Fuel Belt for the Infinit sports drink I need.
TS: What triathlon professional(s), if any, inspire you?
TT: I really don’t have a particular pro that I watch, but I like to see or follow those that excel in a particular discipline. Honestly, the athletes that really inspire me are the age-groupers that struggle and overcome the obstacles to finish an Ironman. I also draw inspiration from those with physical disabilities.
TS: Other than Ironman Hawaii, what is a major “bucket list” triathlon on your radar?
TT: New Zealand, Australia, Spain, flip a coin .
TS: Which would be worse, losing your cycling shoes in T1 or your running shoes inT2?
TT: I think it would be worse to lose my cycling shoe in T1. I don’t think I could handle biking on one shoe with clip-on’s for 112 miles. However, running barefoot/socks is doable for 26.2 miles.
TS: Which is more important, the finisher’s t-shirt, or finisher’s medal?
TT: Honestly, neither- it is the self accomplishment that means the most to me, but for posterity purposes, I would stick with the medal. The medal will last longer, and it is easier to display.
TS: What song or artist would you love to hear blaring at mile 20 in the Ironman run?
TT: Mama Said Knock You Out! (L.L. Cool J.).
TS: Who will you contact first to let them know that you are an Ironman?(Given they are not in attendance)
TT: My Mom.
Thomas will face his toughest competitor daily while training and ultimately in Louisville. I’m sure he will make his mom proud.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Having Faith
I've got issues, but who doesn't? My most recent issues are swimming and my bicyle. The issue is not swimming with my bicyle mind you, that would present a whole different set of issues. However, in both cases I have put my faith in others to help me deal with my issues. I whole-heartedly believe I have chosen wisely and that I am in good hands. This doesn't mean that fixing my swimming stroke and adjusting to the fit of my bike will be easy though. In fact, all it means so far is that I am good at choosing. I still have issues.
My swimming coach has me doing things I previously thought impossible for me to do. For example, I can now bilateral breathe. Granted it's not pretty, but I'm not drowning, and though I am taking in a little water at times, I am also receiving the benefit of air when turning to my left side and my right. Who knew?
My coach seems to think that now that I've got bilateral breathing down on a three stroke count, that I can breathe on a five stroke count. I tried this, this morning and I think my face might have turned a shade of blue while anxiously waiting for my next breath. However, I have faith.
I have a long way to go with my swimming. No, really...by August I need to be able to cover 2.4 miles, and at very least, comfortably, and at best somewhat quickly. Truly, I would be perfectly happy with comfortably, but if I happen to sneak in a little bit of quickly, I won't complain. Anyway, I'm not swimming very far right now. I'm doing drill work and doing short spurts, but not-so-much anything particularly long. It's ok though, it's early, and I have faith.
My GURU bicycle, yes the bitchin' machine you see draped over my shoulders in the photo, at the top of this page is custom made for me. Many hours were put into measuring, questioning, adjusting, plotting, and designing. Most of these actions were done by Tom at The Village Bike Shop in Cascade. I have a lot of faith in Tom because he's intelligent, meticulous, knows bicycles, and can ride like a mo-fo. However, he has me in a position that is fairly different than my previous experience on my former bitchin' machine (my Litespeed). It's taking some getting used to and I'm still trying to get used to it. In fact, I've been having tightness in my right tricep/upper shoulder which I'm not used to. I asked Tom about this and he provided some suggestions. I tried one of his suggestions last night when I rode and it seemed to help. My hope is the next few times I ride this change will continue to work. The next step will be to either make an adjustment with my aerobars myself, or to have Tom do the adjustment. (I vote for Tom). Tom does not seemed concerned about this positioning glich because he believes it can be worked out. I am concerned about this matter, but I have faith in Tom, so I too believe it will be worked out. The difference is that I'm anxious to have it worked out and Tom does not need to be anxious about it. This is not to be confused with Tom not caring...he cares. The bike is right, I just need to be right-ed on it.
All things considered, I think I am progressing nicely. I've made gains in my swimming and I'm beginning to become one with my bike. I'm not there yet with either swimming stroke or my bike position, but I have faith.
Peace.
Be sure to read the interview with Dan Johnson below.
My swimming coach has me doing things I previously thought impossible for me to do. For example, I can now bilateral breathe. Granted it's not pretty, but I'm not drowning, and though I am taking in a little water at times, I am also receiving the benefit of air when turning to my left side and my right. Who knew?
My coach seems to think that now that I've got bilateral breathing down on a three stroke count, that I can breathe on a five stroke count. I tried this, this morning and I think my face might have turned a shade of blue while anxiously waiting for my next breath. However, I have faith.
I have a long way to go with my swimming. No, really...by August I need to be able to cover 2.4 miles, and at very least, comfortably, and at best somewhat quickly. Truly, I would be perfectly happy with comfortably, but if I happen to sneak in a little bit of quickly, I won't complain. Anyway, I'm not swimming very far right now. I'm doing drill work and doing short spurts, but not-so-much anything particularly long. It's ok though, it's early, and I have faith.
My GURU bicycle, yes the bitchin' machine you see draped over my shoulders in the photo, at the top of this page is custom made for me. Many hours were put into measuring, questioning, adjusting, plotting, and designing. Most of these actions were done by Tom at The Village Bike Shop in Cascade. I have a lot of faith in Tom because he's intelligent, meticulous, knows bicycles, and can ride like a mo-fo. However, he has me in a position that is fairly different than my previous experience on my former bitchin' machine (my Litespeed). It's taking some getting used to and I'm still trying to get used to it. In fact, I've been having tightness in my right tricep/upper shoulder which I'm not used to. I asked Tom about this and he provided some suggestions. I tried one of his suggestions last night when I rode and it seemed to help. My hope is the next few times I ride this change will continue to work. The next step will be to either make an adjustment with my aerobars myself, or to have Tom do the adjustment. (I vote for Tom). Tom does not seemed concerned about this positioning glich because he believes it can be worked out. I am concerned about this matter, but I have faith in Tom, so I too believe it will be worked out. The difference is that I'm anxious to have it worked out and Tom does not need to be anxious about it. This is not to be confused with Tom not caring...he cares. The bike is right, I just need to be right-ed on it.
All things considered, I think I am progressing nicely. I've made gains in my swimming and I'm beginning to become one with my bike. I'm not there yet with either swimming stroke or my bike position, but I have faith.
Peace.
Be sure to read the interview with Dan Johnson below.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Ironman Louisville: Interview with age-group athlete Dan Johnson
Dan Johnson is a three year veteran of triathlon from Hilliard, Ohio. He competes in the 35-39 age-group when he is not caring for his family as a father or his community as a police officer. He made a decision to become fit and now he has plans for taking on Ironman Louisville in August, 2011.
TS: What got you interested in triathlon?
DJ: After several years of doing absolutely nothing, gaining weight, drinking too much, and feeling like a slob in the making, I decided that I needed something to motivate me to get going. I signed up for the Police Unity Tour, which is a 250 mile bicycle ride from Chesapeake, VA to Washington, D.C. over a three day period. The ride is in honor of law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty the previous year. Another piece of motivation for me to do this ride was because my department lost an officer in the line of duty, and I would be riding in his honor. I purchased a bike and began training. In preparation, I signed up for a local duathlon, which was later cancelled. I ended up transferring my registration fee to a sprint tri race. I began training for the swim, did the race, and the rest is history.....I'm officially a tri junkie!
TS: What is your best discipline (swim/bike/run)?
DJ: I don't really have a best. I suck equally at all of them. Seriously though, if I had to choose a best it would be the run. Not because I'm fast, but because I feel like I can choose a pace that works for me and run that pace all day. I'm actually a slower runner, but I feel I have a good grip on my run endurance.
TS: Why do you want to do an Ironman?
DJ: I want to do an Ironman because when I first started doing triathlons, I viewed the distance as something that I could only imagine. I viewed the folks who attempted the distance as athletic freaks of nature - I want to be an athletic freak of nature! Just kidding. With how I viewed the distance when I began my journey, to the first sprint triathlon, and to be where I am today, I want to prove to myself that I can do it. I also want it to serve as a demonstration to my children that you can do anything you want to do with the drive, determination and discipline.
TS: Why Ironman Louisville?
DJ: I selected IM Louisville because it's the closest Ironman event to where I live. It's roughly 4 hours from me, so I don't have to fly or arrange to ship my bike.
TS: What do you expect to be greatest challenges in preparing for IMLOU?
DJ: Hill training will be my biggest challenge. I live in a very flat area, so I'll have to travel to ride hills. Hills on the bike are my kryptonite! The slightest incline on the bike taxes my legs immensely. I'm really going to need to work on this if I'm going to have a successful bike in Louisville.
TS: What would your best case scenario be on race day in general?
DJ: That I cross the finish line! My secret goal is to finish while it's still daylight out.
TS: What is your most critical piece of equipment for each of the three disciplines?
DJ: Swim - goggles, bike- bike, run - shoes :)
TS: What triathlon professional(s), if any, inspire you, and why?
DJ: They are all inspirational, but the pros aren't the ones who truly inspire me. It's those who do this distance with a disability, or one who have experienced a great deal of adversity in their life and they come out and get across that line.
TS: Other than Ironman Hawaii, what is a major “bucket list” triathlon on your radar?
DJ: Other than Hawaii and Louisville (for obvious reasons), I don't really have one.
TS: Which would be a better triathlon rig, a classic Big Wheel or strap on roller skates with wooden wheels?
DJ: The big wheel is out! It would cost you a lot of wasted effort to get anywhere. However, the roller skates, even with wooden wheels, would be my pick. I just think it would take less effort to go forward on the skates. Plus, when I'm wearing spandex, I feel way hotter on skates than I do on a big wheel. Ahem.....not that I've ever tried either of them :)
TS: Which would be worse, losing your cycling shoes in T1 or your running shoes inT2?
DJ: Losing my cycling shoes would definitely be worse. I would have t steal a slower swimmer’s cycling shoes, and that could create some real issues. One, I would have to make sure I stole a pair that fit. Two, I could get arrested or DQ'd for stealing. By the time I get to the run there will be tons of people that are already done and I could "borrow" a pair of shoes from someone.
TS: Which is more important, the finisher’s t-shirt, or finisher’s medal?
DJ: Definitely the medal. The shirt will fade and wear out. The medal will last forever.
TS: What song or artist would you love to hear blaring at mile 20 in the Ironman run?
DJ: Der Kommissar by After the Fire. I love 80's music!
TS: Who will you contact first to let them know that you are an Ironman?(Given they are not in attendance)
DJ: My father in law.
Dan, you are already a good example for your children, and they are going to absolutely love being able to call their dad an IRONMAN!
TS: What got you interested in triathlon?
DJ: After several years of doing absolutely nothing, gaining weight, drinking too much, and feeling like a slob in the making, I decided that I needed something to motivate me to get going. I signed up for the Police Unity Tour, which is a 250 mile bicycle ride from Chesapeake, VA to Washington, D.C. over a three day period. The ride is in honor of law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty the previous year. Another piece of motivation for me to do this ride was because my department lost an officer in the line of duty, and I would be riding in his honor. I purchased a bike and began training. In preparation, I signed up for a local duathlon, which was later cancelled. I ended up transferring my registration fee to a sprint tri race. I began training for the swim, did the race, and the rest is history.....I'm officially a tri junkie!
TS: What is your best discipline (swim/bike/run)?
DJ: I don't really have a best. I suck equally at all of them. Seriously though, if I had to choose a best it would be the run. Not because I'm fast, but because I feel like I can choose a pace that works for me and run that pace all day. I'm actually a slower runner, but I feel I have a good grip on my run endurance.
TS: Why do you want to do an Ironman?
DJ: I want to do an Ironman because when I first started doing triathlons, I viewed the distance as something that I could only imagine. I viewed the folks who attempted the distance as athletic freaks of nature - I want to be an athletic freak of nature! Just kidding. With how I viewed the distance when I began my journey, to the first sprint triathlon, and to be where I am today, I want to prove to myself that I can do it. I also want it to serve as a demonstration to my children that you can do anything you want to do with the drive, determination and discipline.
TS: Why Ironman Louisville?
DJ: I selected IM Louisville because it's the closest Ironman event to where I live. It's roughly 4 hours from me, so I don't have to fly or arrange to ship my bike.
TS: What do you expect to be greatest challenges in preparing for IMLOU?
DJ: Hill training will be my biggest challenge. I live in a very flat area, so I'll have to travel to ride hills. Hills on the bike are my kryptonite! The slightest incline on the bike taxes my legs immensely. I'm really going to need to work on this if I'm going to have a successful bike in Louisville.
TS: What would your best case scenario be on race day in general?
DJ: That I cross the finish line! My secret goal is to finish while it's still daylight out.
TS: What is your most critical piece of equipment for each of the three disciplines?
DJ: Swim - goggles, bike- bike, run - shoes :)
TS: What triathlon professional(s), if any, inspire you, and why?
DJ: They are all inspirational, but the pros aren't the ones who truly inspire me. It's those who do this distance with a disability, or one who have experienced a great deal of adversity in their life and they come out and get across that line.
TS: Other than Ironman Hawaii, what is a major “bucket list” triathlon on your radar?
DJ: Other than Hawaii and Louisville (for obvious reasons), I don't really have one.
TS: Which would be a better triathlon rig, a classic Big Wheel or strap on roller skates with wooden wheels?
DJ: The big wheel is out! It would cost you a lot of wasted effort to get anywhere. However, the roller skates, even with wooden wheels, would be my pick. I just think it would take less effort to go forward on the skates. Plus, when I'm wearing spandex, I feel way hotter on skates than I do on a big wheel. Ahem.....not that I've ever tried either of them :)
TS: Which would be worse, losing your cycling shoes in T1 or your running shoes inT2?
DJ: Losing my cycling shoes would definitely be worse. I would have t steal a slower swimmer’s cycling shoes, and that could create some real issues. One, I would have to make sure I stole a pair that fit. Two, I could get arrested or DQ'd for stealing. By the time I get to the run there will be tons of people that are already done and I could "borrow" a pair of shoes from someone.
TS: Which is more important, the finisher’s t-shirt, or finisher’s medal?
DJ: Definitely the medal. The shirt will fade and wear out. The medal will last forever.
TS: What song or artist would you love to hear blaring at mile 20 in the Ironman run?
DJ: Der Kommissar by After the Fire. I love 80's music!
TS: Who will you contact first to let them know that you are an Ironman?(Given they are not in attendance)
DJ: My father in law.
Dan, you are already a good example for your children, and they are going to absolutely love being able to call their dad an IRONMAN!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)