tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89191471653852920242024-03-14T04:02:18.626-04:00The Road to 70.3Here we go...a new adventure into the world of Triathlons...This blog will follow my training for my first Half Ironman on July 7,2012 in Muncie Indiana.lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.comBlogger160125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-16827183415349946522012-08-02T09:34:00.000-04:002012-08-02T09:34:52.152-04:00July ReviewEarly in July I began my taper for Muncie 70.3...
Then Muncie 37.2 happened....I honestly was not prepared to put more intense time in the pool, bike and running...I was and still am a bit worn out....However I knew in my heart I needed to attempt another 70.3 and so I have registered for...<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mCQauwqYBs4/T_2BgulnOWI/AAAAAAAACSQ/OufARrcZ6QA/s1600/Steelhead_70.3.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mCQauwqYBs4/T_2BgulnOWI/AAAAAAAACSQ/OufARrcZ6QA/s1600/Steelhead_70.3.jpg" width="360" /></a> <a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"></a><br />
July In Numbers:<br />
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Swimming: 8000m (This is probably closer to about 11000m or 11k...I had 4 outdoor 20minute swims...probably 750m each minimum). Not as high as I would have liked and well it is Aug and I haven't even been to the pool yet...it is what it is....the swimming is about finishing for me...totally not time...<br />
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Cycling: 449km This is my highest cycling number to date. Most likely because of the MS bike tour...I am feeling good about this and happy with where I am....<br />
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Running: 116km VERY low for me....eek.....not great....I wish I had run more....but alas it is what it is...actually I have had some good tempo runs recently....I know that I will get my speed back after the 70.3. Night now it is about feeling comfortable, steady and strong after rides....<br />
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17 more days until Steelhead. I am battling a pretty bad Sinus infection at the moment...So I have missed the pool 2x this week and may not get there tomorrow...the pressure is very uncomfortable...my goal is simply to finish with a huge smile on my face at Steelhead...I have no time goals just have fun!
Now here are some pictures of my Muncie Race...the Hubby did an amazing job. Also a HUGE shout-out to my next door neighbour who organized the BEST welcome home party a girl could ask for :)<br />
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Happy August Everyone!!!! <br />lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-55768442457620351172012-07-09T12:10:00.000-04:002012-07-09T12:10:52.913-04:00Muncie Race ReportMuncie <strike>70.3</strike> 37.2 Race Report : This is long...bear with me....Will do a separate post with pics...Just wanted to get this out there....<br />
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So the hubby and I left early Friday morning to head to Muncie Indiana. I felt ready...I knew that it was going to be hot but I felt VERY ready. I have trained in the heat, I have run two Marathons and two 30k races in a ton of heat and humidity. The day before the race we were sent an email stating the the start of the race has been moved up 30mins to help accommodate the heat. <br />
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We arrived to the Expo and Packet Pick-up. I checked in, grabbed my stuff bought some stuff at the Ironman Store....No one there said ANYTHING about changing the race. All the official maps were up....people were excited...everyone thought it was going to be a half-ironman. It was very busy there...<br />
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We left and headed to the Olive Garden so I could begin the carb-load fest...while at the Olive Garden another athlete approached me in the bathroom and told me the "News" that is that been shortened to an Olympic Distance Race...I am not going to lie...I cried...I ran back to the table and was in tears....<br />
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I had trained my butt off since January, had registered for the race in AUGUST of last year...I felt robbed...I was mad at Ironman for the way they told us (I could go into a huge rant about them but I am not...I am too tired and don't want to waste any energy on that). <br />
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We went to the Athlete Mtg. learned of the changes and then headed back to the hotel...It really does suck when the choice is made for your by something like the *Weather. I really did try and remain as positive as possible about the whole thing and wanted to focus on having a good time. When in that environment it is pretty darn easy to get caught up in a lot of the negativity. It came down to it wasn't just about the Athletes we also had to think about the volunteers and support crew....<br />
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We took my bike to check in and toured around the site for an hour. I dipped my legs into the water and it was around 89 degrees. It was HOT...It was basically like a giant bath tub...<br />
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We pre-purchased from a house across the street a parking pass for $10...it was WELL worth it....So easy on race morning and it allowed the hubby to go back and forth to the car very easily...also at the end of the race we had no issues getting out and loading the car...<br />
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I went to bed late knowing I wouldn't get a good night sleep. The alarm went off at 3:15am. I got up, had a coffee, a banana with pb and that was all. I was still super full from the olive garden and knew I didn't really need any crazy amount of calories. <br />
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We arrived at the race start, I set up my transition area and we waited for the race to start. 45mins before I ate a Honey Stinger Waffle. <br />
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My swim wave started at 7:10am. I parked myself right at the back of the pack...<br />
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The swim went well..no pressure, no panic...just kept moving forward. The water was about 86-88 degrees. It was hot...not refreshing....just hot...I felt like I had a comfortable swim and was very happy...<br />
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<b>Swim 1600m: 37:51</b><br />
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<b>Transition 1 5:27:</b> All was going great...it was a VERY long run from the water to my bike then out the bike start...very long...I did everything pretty quickly got halfway to the bike out and my aero bottle broke...I RAN it back to my transition area and left it there...so crappy that it broke but better now than loose it completely on the bike...<br />
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<b>Bike 30miles :1:32:22: 30km/h</b> Super flat and fast...I loved it...had a great time and just relaxed and enjoyed myself. I put a Canada Flag tattoo on my leg and when people passed they said "Go Canada". I will do this again for sure. I didn't even notice the heat. I had half of a bottle of gatorade G2 and two gels. <br />
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<b>Transition 2: 3:01:</b> I was a little slow due to people taking up huge amounts of bike space in transition...rude...anyway...it is what it is...I forgot to take off my bike gloves so I ended up stuffing them in my pack pocket...I know for the future...Again...the run to the Run Out was fairly long compared to other events I have done. I took a gel here...<br />
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<b>Run 10km: 1:00:12: </b>Holy Hot batman! I really noticed the heat! I slowed considerably and just ran to the aid stations. I took ice and water at each station and alternated with taking ironman pre-form and cola. I had two Rocket Candies on the run...nothing else...it was too hot and I didn't want to get sick as my stomach was starting to get upset....People were passing out and walking right left and centre. I basically ran the entire time except walked the aid stations. <br />
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<b>Total Time: 3:18:52</b><br />
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<b>Thoughts: </b><br />
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-I have the best husband...he is the best support crew and Sherpa around. He was so understanding and supportive and just let me vent, made me laugh and bought me ice cream when I was feeling like crap. He immediately said that my journey is not over and that he'll be at my next race and helped me to pick it out...What a guy! He just rocks! <br />
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-The volunteers were AMAZING...I can't thank them enough...they were out there in the heat and loving it and so supportive....They truly made the race...I would go back to Muncie again just for that support group...<br />
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-My journey is not OVER...I will attempt to race another race this season. It will be a risky race as in the past the swim has been cancelled a few times. I am already setting myself up for the worst so that I won't be disappointed come race day...I will be doing<a href="http://ironmansteelhead.com/"> Ironman Steelhead </a>on August 19, 2012. I looked at all my race options and this is the only one that will work with my schedule. I basically have 6 weeks to prepare. I am feeling great after the race...some soreness but no pain...I am going to do an active recovery week this week and take it easy on all of my workouts....<br />
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Thanks for reading...sorry this is so long....<br />
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Lish<br />
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<br />lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-46331710827546745512012-05-07T11:36:00.000-04:002012-05-07T11:44:06.787-04:002012 Gooflife Toronto Marathon Race ReportYesterday I ran the <a href="http://www.torontomarathon.com/">Goodlife Toronto Marathon</a>. This was my 5th Marathon and also my 1st Marathon!! To put things into a bit of perspective...I ran my first Marathon in 2007. This race was actually held in the fall at that time...Here is a picture of me and my friend Lindsay prior to the race...I trained and it was VERY tough...I also weighed 50lbs more than I do now...I finished that race in 5:39:48...It was tough and I am so proud of that race and finishing and having it start my love of running...
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So now it is 2012. I have had quite a bit of success the past two years in running and have seen my times improve. My big breakthrough I think came this year when I ran <a href="http://www.aroundthebayroadrace.com/">Around the Bay</a> a challenging course and completed it in 2:56:38. When I finished that race I felt AMAZING! I was a little sore that day but nothing crazy....That was actually workout #18 for the week...no taper...heavy Half Ironman Training...very positive energy. I knew that would set me up for potentially a Sub 4:15:00 full at Goodlife.<br />
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I came home and typed those numbers into the <a href="http://www.mcmillanrunning.com/index.php/calcUsage/calculate">McMillan Running Calculator</a> It said a 4:12:XX Marathon. I have always been over by about 2min with those so I thought a 4:15:00 depending on the conditions etc. that it would be possible and I would be thrilled. I started to follow the McMillan pace suggestions for Long Runs, Tempos etc. I was feeling great, continued to swim and bike and also was doing yoga min once a week (after the 30 day challenge)and tried for 2 times by doing the Yin (Deep Stretch Class on Sundays after a long run).<br />
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So the Friday Night:
The hubby had left early Friday morning to participate in the NYC 5 Borough Bike Tour so I had the house to myself!! I worked a 10-6pm shift, came home and picked up my favourite sushi. I walked the dog, watched some TV and headed to bed around 10-11pm. I had an okay night sleep...not the best but when I did eventually wake up I felt pretty good which was a bit of a relief. I did an easy 3km run and the legs actually felt fresh and ready to go. I came home packed and met Lindsay who was my Sherpa for the Race and she drove us to Toronto.<br />
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We went immediately to the Expo at the Direct Energy Centre. The expo was okay but like some others said there was a weird mix of vendors: make-up, cooking demos, lots of protein bar/drink people. I do like though that TO Marathon always has clothing of their own for very reasonable prices. I picked up a cute pull-over. My one disappointment was that they ran out of Women's Specific Tech shirts. So annoying when you pre-order your shirt. I picked up a men's shirt, the colour is great but the fit kind of sucks...whatever...they did give us the opportunity to have a free shirt from a previous years race...so I took 2 and so did Lindsay :)
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<a href="http://www.kathrineswitzer.com/index.shtml">Katherine Switzer</a> had a booth as she was the key-note speaker for the event. I purchased a cute bracelet from her and she gave me a running charm. We were listening to her and asking her questions with a few other people and she was so nice and felt like you were speaking with a close friend telling you all the good gossip!! She then told us about the significance of the charm and did her little ritual for it:<br />
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I am REALLY into it at this point. She told me I was going to have a big PR and I believed it. I knew I was going to get that sub 4:15:00. I need to read her book now...It was just lovely meeting her and speaking with her...felt so normal, not fake and just very intimate...<br />
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We then headed to our hotel in Downtown Toronto. It worked out that our close friend Liz works about 2mins from the hotel. She stopped by before work and was a BIG help with directions, route info and general TO stuff. I wanted a plain and simple meal and she suggested Spaghetti Factory as it was only a 10min walk away...While using the Hotel Lobby Computer, Liz came back and told us her shift had been cancelled so she was able to join us for dinner. Even better as we knew we wouldn't get lost...I had a great dinner and felt satisfied...soon after we headed back to the hotel...and I was setting out my race stuff...and getting ready to go to bed...or so I thought. I got a call from my good friend Rebecca who was on her way home from Dinner and staying at the hotel across the street...she and her partner came and stopped by...we made plans to meet for the morning...this was a huge relief. Rebecca was my first Running Instructor ever, we also worked together and is a good friend. I was so happy to not be going alone to the start...we made plans to meet in the lobby for 6:15am...<br />
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I had a good sleep...set the alarm for 5:00am and woke up feeling nervous but excited...I had my usual breakfast of a banana, pb on a white bagel and coffee. It all tasted delicious. I got ready and Lindsay came to take pictures of us in the lobby! Rebecca paced me to my first ever sub 3:00:00 30k race. This was Marathon #11 for her and she was the one who got Lindsay and I to run the first...so it felt so awesome to have her there...and also to have Lindsay there....Lindsay is pregnant and due this August. I can't imagine doing races without her...<br />
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This is my sweet Mickey Mouse Collard throw-away that I have been trying to get rid of since Chicago 2010. All my races have been too warm to wear it!!! Haha...my Hubby will be relieved once he knows this is no longer in the house!<br />
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It was a short bus ride (20mins) to the start. I sat with Rebecca and we had a good chat. I was feeling good...I quickly checked my bag (no issues...was SUPER FAST) and headed into the North York Civic Centre to use the real toilets. I had a bottle of G2 throughout the morning and was starting to get nervous....My stomach was off but not in a "I need to go kind of way" just a weird way...<br />
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We quickly said our goodbye's and went to line up with our respective pace bunnies (Rebecca rocked her race)<br />
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I started with the 4:15 pace bunny. They were nice and started out crazy fast...I kept up with them but also knew that they were a little all over the map...I was not going to do a run/walk...my plan like most races is to grab water or Gatorade at every station and walk to take it....usually no more than 20-30 secs.<br />
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The first 5km went REALLY smoothly....I was feeling good and felt like a 4:15:00 would be a possibility. I was running by feel and trying to not worry to much about my pace and let it happen naturally...at 8km I saw an open Porter-Potty and went for it....I lost a bit of time but was able to catch up and pass the 4:15:00 pace bunny....There was one big hill, Hogs Hollow...it was fine...no problems...all good...<br />
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Shortly after this I saw <a href="http://www.marleneontherun.com/">Marlene</a> on the course...I got a High-Five from her...She looked FAB in her rainbow Tu-tu and Boston Marathon Orange Jacket...<br />
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I crossed the 21k mark at 2:02:48...my current half PR is 2:04:53 so I was surprised that I was running as fast as I was....<br />
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My only stress was that I was getting cramps with Water, gatorade and any type of nutrition...I was just having small sips...I knew I ate an awesome breakfast, and had gone to the bathroom at 8k so I prayed that I could be sustained for the race on that...<br />
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I saw my friends, Lindsay, Liz and Keely at the 22k mark...they gave me a HUGE boost and I think I surprised them with how fast I was going...I told them I would be slowing down as I couldn't keep anything down....<br />
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I went on my way....They race is beautiful...you go through downtown, nice neighborhoods...I can't describe them all as I have no memory of what came when....I felt like I was just in the zone and telling myself to BE STEADY and that I am a 4:15:00 marathoner....I kept repeating this over and over again...I got to the lakeshore and knew that it was basically 30mins out, turn around, 30mins back and then 2.2k to the finish....I spent last night and this morning reminding myself of that...I had big trouble the first time around with the out and back...I saw Rebecca's partner Larry (who rocks and also is my acupuncture Doc :)...he is great). He was also surprised that I was running so fast...at this point I thought I was around the 4:12:00 mark...I was trying to do math in my head and even simple math when running does NOT happen for me...<br />
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Prior to this many of those in the half were passing me so my gamin was off...I wasn't really looking at the total time part...just my lap pace average...when I hit the 30k it said 2:52:XX...WHAT??? Seriously...that was faster than ATB by about 4mins....I saw Marlene again...which was an awesome boost....<br />
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The out and back was hard...I tried to take sips or water, gatorade and even tried a gel...got cramps so I backed off....I hit the 35k at 3:24:07 and knew that I was slowing significantly....I wanted to hold on for that last 7.2k and not blow up...<br />
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I was sooooo SURPRISED when I saw my friends at 39-40k mark...<br />
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They were cheering like CRAZY and it gave me the boost I needed....I also gave them my little fuel belt that was packed with my nutrition that I did not eat....it lightened me up and I went on my way and knew I would be seeing them at the finish...<br />
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At this point I was hurting...the last 2.2k are a blur...I was so sore...my quads were on FIRE....I didn't think downhills really affected me but they were starting....the crowds got thicker and were a great support...I basically went into this crazy zone...and also saw my overall time at the 41k mark and knew if I dug deep I could get a sub 4:10:00....I had been denying to myself the whole race that a sub 4:10:00 was possible...and that I shouldn't be greedy with a huge PB and just aim for that 4:11:00 or 4:12:00 and assumed that would be my time as I knew I was slowing down big time....I think this was my way of ensuring that if I didn't get that sub 4:10:00 I wasn't going to be disappointed. A coping mechanism basically...<br />
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When I saw that 41k sign I knew I wanted that sub 4:10:00 and I wanted it badly and knew I was going to get it....I started to tear up as I could see the stop light where I was going to be turning right and heading right to the finish...I had an amazing last 1.2k....I was so happy...the crowd was awesome and just took it all in...<br />
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I crossed the finish line with a 4:08:59....An 18min PB (Mississauga was a 4:27:53)....Larry was at the finish waiting for me...we found Rebecca and celebrated...I had a chocolate milk and it was tasty...still in a weird zone...did this really happen???...I could barely walk....wow I was sore...I picked up my bag and found my friends...<br />
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The best cheer squad a runner could ask for!!<br />
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Lindsay and I like to dress the same! Just because she is pregnant doesn't mean that can't still happen!!! Love that we still dressed the same today!<br />
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Check out the MASSIVE bling...<br />
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We headed back to the hotel via Shuttle Bus and I had a bathroom baby wipe shower and we headed to lunch....Lindsay and then headed back to London....All in all it was a great experience....I am on cloud 9 and feel like the hard work is starting to pay off and that I am in a good place for Muncie in July...I plan on taking the week off to rest and recovery...I can barely walk today...haha...sitting down and going downstairs is quite difficult...I know I left it all out there on the course! <br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-35532460672251400012012-04-21T20:04:00.000-04:002012-04-21T20:04:58.507-04:00Hi,
So from March 10, 2012 to April 8, 2012 I participated in the <a href="http://london.mokshayoga.ca/home/">Moksha Yoga London</a> (and <a href="http://london-west.mokshayoga.ca/">London West</a>) 30 day Yoga Challenge. I have been going to this Hot Yoga Studio for a few years off and on and have always enjoyed myself and found it beneficial. I attended 31 days of Yoga in a row (I went to the night before the challenge started so I actually did 31 days). There were days that it was tough...I mean on Thursdays it was my 4th workout of the day! But I did love every minute of it...
Here is a little letter I did on my experience...
Although I run and am currently training for a full marathon and a half-ironman I often neglect other parts of my training that are crucial to optimal performance. While attending a Friday night class at Moksha Yoga London West I was speaking with D. and amazing instructor. We had a short but powerful conversation about the benefits of daily yoga and bringing that practice into our every day lives. She encouraged me to sign up for the 30 day challenge. I laughed a little, as I the runner, who loves to come to 1 yoga class a week and struggles in that class I thought there is "no way I could ever do that!". I looked at D. again and I realized she was serious. I thought about all the reasons why I continue to come back to Moksha; I feel safe, comfortable, challenged and encouraged. I knew that like Marathon Training this 30 day challenge would be about the process and not the end result. I took that leap and signed up on the spot.
I never thought that doing this challenge would have such an impact on my life. I find I do not react as quickly. I take that minute to pause, reflect and appreciate the silence. I am way more efficient in my training as a result of focusing on my breathing. This has helped with tough workouts while swimming, running and cycling. My body has completely changed. In those 30 days I lost 9.2lbs. I ran a very challenging 30km race and last year when I completed it I thought I was in the best shape of my life. It took me 3h12min, this year I went in with no expectations but to trust my training focus on my breathing and enjoy the run. I completed in 2h56mins. I often struggle with knee injuries including the week before the challenge started. I have not had a single issue. For those 30 days "I trusted my Gut" and listened to my body and not what my training scheduled said. I challenged or eased off when my body needed. In the past I would follow that piece of paper and listen to it to tell me how I had to perform. This lead to burnout and injury. Yoga has really taught me to listen to my body. I feel like I am so much more self aware these days.
Hot Yoga is not for everyone. I tried many different classes but due to the training schedule I usually did a 60min standard class. Moksha Yoga is a green, clean, hot yoga series that stretches, strengthens and tones the muscles while detoxifying the body and calming the mind. While all classes are rooted in the Moksha Yoga series, teachers are encouraged to bring their own unique knowledge and experience every time they enter the room to teach.
From their Website:
For your bod
Moksha Yoga builds upper and lower body strength, balance and flexibility, and cardiovascular health. The series also focuses on treating and preventing commonly cranky areas of the body like the lower back, knees and bellybutton lint. The cool part is that every body is welcome and everybody will benefit.
For your brain
A regular Moksha practice gives us the rare opportunity to slow it all down. The stress reduction associated with yoga helps to calm and balance the nervous system, increase blood flow to the brain, and help you remember where you left your keys.
For your breath
The average person takes 900 breaths an hour. Moksha Yoga encourages you to make each and every one of them count, on and off the mat.
For your being
The word Moksha means Freedom. A regular Moksha practice gives us the chance to explore what this means for each of us; whether it's finding freedom from chronic pain, freedom from self judgement, or freedom from playing Angry Bird marathons
I am continuing to attend at least one weekly class. I am trying for 2 one 60min Moksha Class and then one 75 or 90min Yin class after my Sunday Long Runs. Check out the Moksha Website for locations near you and more info on the classes!
~Namaste :)
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-47408584640566035832012-03-30T21:51:00.000-04:002012-03-30T22:00:40.878-04:00Around the Bay Race Recap<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"></a>Last Sunday I ran the <a href="http://www.aroundthebayroadrace.com/">Around the Bay Race</a> in Hamilton...30km...
Muncie 70.3 training is going well but basically consuming my life...I am also participating in an amazing and life changing <a href="http://london.mokshayoga.ca/classes/schedule/">Moksha Yoga </a>30 Day Challenge...once it is finished I will do a post about my experience there...
I had no plans to RACE Around the Bay...In fact the race was workout #17 for me that week. I did not taper or do anything differently. I went to my niece's 2nd bday party the night before and had lots of yummy pizza and multiple cupcakes. Slept in a hotel...had a brutal sleep because people were loud and stupid but I got up with plenty of time to eat a piece of toast with PB and some Gatorade, shower and feel pretty good..<br />
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<ul>
<li> Race:
I lined up with the 3:00:00 10:1 pace bunny </li>
<li>Clock starts: Bunny goes flying and I think "I'll never catch him"</li>
<li>0-5km...Super easy...legs feel VERY fresh...I am chatting with random people. It is still congested...I ate a Rocket</li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li>5km-10km: I ran that in under an hour...still feeling quite amazing...just going with it.... </li>
<li> 15km: Take a GU...now this is where the hills start...still feeling good...but slow the pace just a little because of hills</li>
<li>20km: Wow I ran that under 2hours...this won't last...I should be really tired...I trained all week...this is workout #17...hey look at that cute dog...I like that shirt....Ahh the sun is great...</li>
<li>My mind was so positive and RELAXED...I have NEVER been this relaxed</li>
<li>25km: Took more rockets which are my go to running treat now...I knew the BIG hill was coming up...pace was still great...</li>
<li>Get to big hill...power up 97% of it...take a small walk break...start running at top...</li>
<li>27km...WOW 3km left...IF I keep this pace I might get under 3 hours...</li>
<li>28km...wow I am passing a lot of people...still really crowded...hmmm...I might actually get a PB but I can't do math while running...getting confused...</li>
<li>29km...I see my BFF Lindsay who couldn't run because of nasty stomach flu...she surprised me and took photos!!!!! She rocks....I see her...she tells me to Keep going...I think...Oh right race!</li>
<li>30km: 2:56:38 PB!!!!!!!</li>
</ul>
I am still in shock...and just so happy...I have never felt that relaxed...I didn't put pressure on myself...the weather helped as I could wear shorts and a t-shirt....It was a GREAT day and everything just came together...It was challenging don't get me wrong but also very natural and zen like...no inner battles...I am so happy and this has given me some confidence for my next marathon and the half ironman...<br />
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All in all..good race...sorry I haven't been blogging...training is going well but so time consuming...once 30 day Yoga challenge is complete I'll write a review...I basically think it has made ALL the difference...I am injury free and doing awesome...<br />
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Now the big PB also has to do with Weight Loss....Since January 1, 2012 I have lost 24.4lbs. I still have another 10lbs to go before I get to an ideal racing weight...I am in no rush and am taking my time (I have until July 7th, 20212)...but man...I get it...I get why there is such thing as racing weight....for the first time in my adult life I am in the healthy BMI range (even though I do that that BMI range is mostly complete crap and not a good definition at all...but nonethe less it feels good). I feel lighter on my toes and my knees have been behaving...<br />
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All in all...I am in a good place and need to just continue to make all these things a habit....bike is still on trainer...swimming is slowly improving...yoga is inspiring and life changing....<br />
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ME jumping...I got some pretty decent air for after 30km :)
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Sweaty, Done and HAPPY!lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-88501807431593101062012-02-27T09:04:00.000-05:002012-02-27T09:04:45.773-05:00St. Vincent and the GrenadinesGreetings from the Island of St. Vincent! St. Vincent is located west of Barbados (45mins by air) and it is South of St. Lucia and north of Grenada. St. Vincent and the Grenadines has a population of about 104,000 and approximately 100,000 people live on the Island of St. Vincent. <br />
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St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a parliamentary democracy and a member of the Commonwealth. The Queen is head of state...like Canada they have a prime minister and a governor general. It is a volcanic island and it is non-touristy. There are no large hotels or shopping areas. The main industry is agriculture-banana and exotic flowers also it is the largest grower of marijuana in the Eastern Carribean. Tourism is related to sailing and scuba diving. <br />
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The Flag<br />
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The colours represent the blue of the ocean, the green of the land, the yellow of the sun and the diamonds represent the multiple islands that make up the country. <br />
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This is my 4th time visiting the island. My dad teaches at the Medical School and has been coming here for 2-3weeks twice a year since 1988. This has become a very special place for my dad and the family. The Island is wonderful and although it is not touristy there are a lot of places to explore :) Yesterday we went on a hike with another professor from the school. I am not doing any training this week so this hike was wonderful cross training. St. Vincent is EXTREMELY hilly. It is a very green island because it is a Volcanic Island. The highest peak of the island is the volcano-La Soufriere-which last erupted in 1979. <br />
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Here are some pics from the hike and where I am staying...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FJIdORWQpdE/T0uH2f6w86I/AAAAAAAAAgc/RDaM4tc7qH8/s1600/St.%2BVincent%2B2012%2BAlicia%2527s%2BCamera%2B014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="180" width="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FJIdORWQpdE/T0uH2f6w86I/AAAAAAAAAgc/RDaM4tc7qH8/s320/St.%2BVincent%2B2012%2BAlicia%2527s%2BCamera%2B014.JPG" /></a></div><br />
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I hope to post more pictures this week....but for now I need to go and get some Vitamin D and catch up on some reading and resting :)<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-57920153668238290952012-02-19T21:49:00.000-05:002012-02-19T21:49:08.661-05:00LONG WEEKEND :)Here in Ontario it is a LONG weekend! Wooohooo....love it...Even though I did take Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday off this week..hehe...Vacay 3 days, work 2 days then only a 4 day work week this week...I am spoiled...plus I am on vacation the following week...really spoiled...<br />
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Anyway...Week in Review...<br />
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Last Sunday after my 20km run in the middle of a blizzard the weather cleared up nicely and the Hubby and I headed to Muskoka for a few days...It was wonderful...<br />
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Monday: We went Downhill Skiing...I love downhill skiing (I used to be a Certified Instructor and also worked with the <a href="http://www.londontrack3.ca/index.php">Track 3</a> program...It teaches kids with different abilities to ski...I loved it and miss is a lot...<br />
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Tuesday: 6km Tempo<br />
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Wednesday: 10km Tempo<br />
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Thursday: Hot Yoga<br />
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Friday: 8km Steady/Hot Yoga<br />
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Saturday: 1 hour Trainer ride on the bike<br />
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Sunday 23km LSD (Long Slow Distance)<br />
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I did my usual weigh in on Sat. and after all of the cottage feasting I was worried but I did loose another 1.8 lbs for a Total Loss of 15.2 lbs since January...<br />
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I must say that I am doing a great job of eating clean, having a well balanced diet...I have no eliminated a single thing...Everything in moderation, I am watching my portion sizes and WOW what a difference when you eat healthy...I have so much energy and I also feeling like I am eating a lot and often...I do try and get my 8 glasses of water in each day and more if I have a tough workout...I tend to drink a lot of<a href="http://www.nuun.com/"> Nuun </a>on workout days....<br />
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I found this picture on my Camera that I had TOTALLY forgot about...On December 31, 2011 my mum and I participated in the Resolution Run...I was so proud of her as this fall she completed the 10km Walking Program at the Running Room...I ran the 10km and she walked it that night...Beyond proud of her!!<br />
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Anyway this week is technically my first week of 70.3 training...there is NO turning back now :)<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-5712393893278898822012-02-19T20:42:00.000-05:002012-02-19T20:42:13.575-05:00Pure Fit Nutrition Bar ReviewLike some other bloggers out there I was contacted by <a href="http://www.purefit.com/">PureFit Nutrition Bars</a> to do a review of their gluten-free sports nutrition bars...<br />
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I going to start off by saying that I am NOT a bar person...I have tried almost every bar out there and almost every GU/GEL/BEAN/Chew etc...I have a very sensitive stomach and have trouble eating anything before a run/ride/swim...<br />
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I was pretty hesitant about these bars and I find that most bars actually taste plastic like and have a weird shiny glaze on them...totally not natural..<br />
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Anyway...<br />
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<a href="http://www.purefit.com/">PureFit Nutrition Bars</a><br />
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<ul><li>NO Hydrogenated Oils</li>
<li>NO Animal Products - Vegan</li>
<li>NO Cholesterol or Trans Fatty Acids</li>
<li>NO Wheat or Gluten</li>
<li>NO Artificial Sweeteners</li>
<li>NO Hidden Carbohydrates</li>
<li>NO Sugar Alcohol</li>
</ul><a href="http://www.purefit.com/index.php">PureFit Nutrition Bars</a> are specifically designed to give you sustained energy and help stabilize blood sugar.<br />
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I immediately liked the packaging...All the information I needed was right there, easy to ready and I did not feel like they were hiding anything...also one neat thing is on the back of the bar...<br />
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Hard to read in that picture but is says "Adopt Your Next Dog or Cat" with a little blurb....love that and there are so many animals out there in need of a home!<br />
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On to the taste: 30mins prior to my 6km Tempo Run on Tuesday I took half of the Almond Crunch Bar...I love how it was easy to break in half as usually I cannot tolerate a full bar, it was soft, not too dry and there was no plastic taste or "sheen". They were full of flavour..it really tasted pretty amazing... I was pleasantly surprised. It was DELICIOUS...The best part was when I did my run and had ZERO digestive issues...BIG BONUS!!! When I got home I immediately ate the rest of the bar...I found the bars to be filling as well.<br />
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They sent me 5 bars and here is the order in which I liked them best:<br />
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1. Peanut Butter Crunch<br />
2. Chocolate Brownie<br />
3. Almond Crunch<br />
4. Granola Crunch<br />
5. Berry Almond Crunch <br />
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The<a href="http://www.purefit.com/index.php"> Purefit</a> website is great...There is a lot of info there including a local retail finder. I am lucky that a health food store here in London sells them...I definitely plan on using these in my Half-Ironman training!<br />
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<i><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><b></b></span></i><u><a href="http://www.purefit.com/index.php">Pure Fit Nutrition Bar</a>s</u> has provided me with a coupon code that will<b> save you 25%</b> off your first order. Enter code <b>PROMO25</b> at checkout to receive the discount.<br />
Follow PureFit Bars on Twitter -> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><b><a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/PureFitBars">@PureFitBars</a></b></span><br />
Follow PureFit Bars on Facebook -> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/PureFit">PureFit Nutrition Bars</a></b></span><br />
<i>*PureFit Nutrition Bars provided me five nutrition bars to taste and review. I was not compensated for this review otherwise. All opinions expressed here are my own.*</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-18003260822369155852012-02-13T10:24:00.000-05:002012-02-13T10:25:58.723-05:00Character Building Run<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KZJfGYUlb2k/TzkriHz1iGI/AAAAAAAAAfU/7uIJ6Tovv3w/s1600/%253D%253Futf-8%253FB%253FSU1HLTIwMTIwMjEyLTAwMzQ3LmpwZw%253D%253D%253F%253D-758724"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KZJfGYUlb2k/TzkriHz1iGI/AAAAAAAAAfU/7uIJ6Tovv3w/s320/%253D%253Futf-8%253FB%253FSU1HLTIwMTIwMjEyLTAwMzQ3LmpwZw%253D%253D%253F%253D-758724" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708641867880826978" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQYZc0E_DB8/TzkrifaAucI/AAAAAAAAAfg/xSmq0fXv-dg/s1600/%253D%253Futf-8%253FB%253FSU1HLTIwMTIwMjEyLTAwMzQ2LmpwZw%253D%253D%253F%253D-761395"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQYZc0E_DB8/TzkrifaAucI/AAAAAAAAAfg/xSmq0fXv-dg/s320/%253D%253Futf-8%253FB%253FSU1HLTIwMTIwMjEyLTAwMzQ2LmpwZw%253D%253D%253F%253D-761395" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708641874214959554" /></a></p><p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ez1O7PjwmEw/Tzkri1KLcwI/AAAAAAAAAfw/ecujHWpXi7U/s1600/%253D%253Futf-8%253FB%253FSU1HLTIwMTIwMjEyLTAwMzQ0LmpwZw%253D%253D%253F%253D-763443"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ez1O7PjwmEw/Tzkri1KLcwI/AAAAAAAAAfw/ecujHWpXi7U/s320/%253D%253Futf-8%253FB%253FSU1HLTIwMTIwMjEyLTAwMzQ0LmpwZw%253D%253D%253F%253D-763443" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708641880054133506" /></a></p>Yesterday was a tough run BUT I am happy I finished...it was slow...not pretty and I had to take some walk breaks but it is done....now I am rewarding myself with a few days vacation with the Hubby in beautiful Muskoka :). Today we are going to go skiing..hoping to post a video later...Happy Monday!lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-19036728335710522772012-02-11T16:35:00.000-05:002012-02-11T16:35:47.765-05:00Here We GoI can't believe that it is already February 2012! It feels like yesterday that I was injured...not running and starting to think about training plans for Muncie 70.3. Well the time is here and although my 20 week training plan doesn't officially start for another 2 weeks I am trying my best to ramp up my training...<br />
<br />
The next two weeks are a challenge as I am away for the first few days...wrapping up things in my current job in order to start a new job after a week away in the sun with my dad...haha 2nd week of training and I am going away where I will have no access to a bike or be able to run...BUT there is a pool so I plan on doing some intensive pool training and will probably bring a couple work out DVD's and do core work...so I will be happy come March 6, 2012 when my life will go back to somewhat of a routine...<br />
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My big goal is to get down to a better racing weight...I think that for the past two years I have justified my overeating with the fact that I was marathon training...this lead to an 18lb weight gain...boo urns...Starting January 4, 2012 I have a good weight loss plan in place and am looking forward to getting down to a BMI that is within a healthy weight range...Like this season on the Biggest Loser...2012 is the year of NO EXCUSES!<br />
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To date I have lost 13.4lbs. (9.6lbs to go for my min goal but will most likely try for more) I am happy with that so far and continue on my journey. I have a great and supportive husband who is totally on the ball...we've been making lunches and eating out WAY less for the past month and a half...also another person that is so motivating is my dad....since October he has lost 50lbs!!! 50lbs! Just amazing...and I am so proud of him. <br />
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<br />
This Past Week:<br />
<br />
Sunday: 18km Run<br />
Monday: 30mins on bike trainer and 1000m Swim<br />
Tuesday: 6km Tempo<br />
Wednesday: REST<br />
Thursday: 10km Tempo<br />
Friday: 8km Steady<br />
Saturday: 1h on the bike trainer<br />
<br />
Tomorrow I will head out for a 20km run...<br />
<br />
Happy Training!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-51164736164462547362011-12-09T18:19:00.002-05:002011-12-09T18:25:11.225-05:00Update: Good and BadWell I went to the Doctor yesterday:<br /><br /><br />The Good: No ligament issues...no swelling etc...+++ I was most worried about this and luckily it looks like all is good...No stress fracture<br /><br />The Bad: Just because it didn't show stress fracture doesn't mean it might not exist...<br /><br />So basically I am starting Physio on Thursday for an LCL strain?? He really does not know what it is...although my IT band is tight it isn't necessarily presenting that way...I am going to continue to roll and stretch but I have been given the go ahead to start doing a bit more...Lots of unknowns and I am hoping physio will be a big help!<br /><br />my heart aches for running....but I know that this is going to be a process...one I will learn a great deal from!<br /><br />Tonight I got on the bike trainer for 30mins and although the knee felt off there was no pain...so that is good...I have a work Holiday Party tonight and hoping to make the 8:30am Yoga Class...we'll see if it happens! <br /><br />Thanks for listening to my ongoing complaining and disclosure of my depression related to not running! <br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-30435634038772828382011-11-30T21:18:00.002-05:002011-11-30T21:28:30.883-05:00Not good at waiting....I am a very inpatient person...I hate waiting...so not good at it! Sooo here is the thing...I need to wait until December 8th for some results...I finally broke down and went to a Sports Med Doc...<br /><br />Last week I had two amazing acupuncture sessions...I am so impressed and will have a full review and videos I took of it in a few weeks...BUT I still was having pain that is with me pretty much throughout the day...I drive stick and so I notice it when I use the clutch...and after walking long distances or doing some of my core workouts I noticed it...I went for one run last week and again noticed it....not good...not good at all..<br /><br />I am pretty fortunate to have access to one of the best sports med clinics in all of Canada. I had an appointment we had a discussion...I cried telling him how running was my life...and did a few tests on my left leg...felt around...and then said those dreaded words all runners hate...<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">STRESS FRACTURE <span style="font-size:85%;">or some type of ligament issues but he is treating it like a <span style="font-size:180%;">stress fracture</span><br />no running and he is letting me try cycling...I have serious doubts that cycling will be pain free...basically I can pinpoint some direct pain and then my knee just aches all over...ugh...everything is tights and uncomfortable...so I wait until December 8th, 2011 when the results of my xray and ultrasound come back...we discussed a bone scan but I declined as I do not think the amount of radiation I would be exposed to is worth it...<br /><br />Anyway...that is what is up with me....I am going back to acupuncture which excites me big time and I will need to book a massage for December to help out as well! <br /></span><br /><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-37341668916597420012011-11-24T17:26:00.006-05:002011-11-24T17:49:42.863-05:00Allied Medal Disply Review and Photos!Remember way back in the early summer when I got a tattoo? Here is a pic just in case you forget :)<br /><br /><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oJwNGGr5gkU/TfzXe3GfHGI/AAAAAAAAAYc/tLr1JWwtiY4/s320/%253D%253Futf-8%253FB%253FTG9uZG9uLTIwMTEwNjE3LTAwMDg5LmpwZw%253D%253D%253F%253D-766315" alt="" border="0" /><br /><br /><br />After many months of trying to figure out how I wanted to display my race medals I gave in and decided that I needed a Medal Hanger. There was no question where I was going to go...I knew immediately that <a href="http://medalhangers.com/">Allied Medal Displays</a> would be for me!<br /><br />Before finalizing my decision I contacted Joel at Allied Medal Displays and he answered all my questions and was speedy about it too!<br /><br />I meant to take a picture of the wonderful packaging but I was WAY too excited and opened it immediately!!<br /><br />I have been pretty down about not being able to run the past few weeks...this was the PERFECT pick me up...The handy hubby of mine installed it for me in about 2mins flat!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kPA10tHYso8/Ts7IJqocCrI/AAAAAAAAAeg/Awe6hQDBYJE/s1600/Medal%2BHanger%2B002.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kPA10tHYso8/Ts7IJqocCrI/AAAAAAAAAeg/Awe6hQDBYJE/s320/Medal%2BHanger%2B002.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5678696248549051058" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />So back to my tattoo....well the Medal Hanger Matches :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-44mvQq3EORk/Ts7Iaqx85lI/AAAAAAAAAes/L7bVEN13d7c/s1600/Medal%2BHanger%2B004.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-44mvQq3EORk/Ts7Iaqx85lI/AAAAAAAAAes/L7bVEN13d7c/s320/Medal%2BHanger%2B004.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5678696540646729298" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rB3kyBpTlwQ/Ts7IldZum4I/AAAAAAAAAe4/dbrpjmumduE/s320/Medal%2BHanger%2B006.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5678696726034029442" border="0" /><br /><br /><br />I am so please with how it turned out <a href="http://medalhangers.com/">Allied Medal Displays</a> was wonderful to work with, the quality is amazing...and it looks super sleek and just play awesome! If you haven't checked them out I def' would...get those Medals out of your drawers and shoe boxes and put them on Display!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-41488676599595670392011-11-12T15:34:00.002-05:002011-11-12T15:37:47.139-05:00I Ran :)I ran 5km...super slow...pain free...have been stretching and am keeping my fingers crossed that I can begin to slowly add some km...I am doing strength training exercise classes at work which are awesome and kicking my butt...as well I hope to get the bike on the trainer this week...<br /><br />woohoo...feeling some relief but I also know that I am no where near out of the woods...<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-25329043560923919142011-11-01T18:11:00.002-04:002011-11-01T18:24:57.945-04:00Goodbye October and Hello NovemberHi Everyone,<br /><br /><br />October has been a bitter sweet month for me...I had an amazing time in Chicago and was able to celebrate my 30th birthday! Although I am so proud of finishing Chicago I also know that it was not my best race...<br /><br />The week after I felt amazing...did a very slow recovery run 4 days later and had NO PAIN...it felt great...<br /><br />The Sunday after I did a 24km run...my plan was to run the Road2Hope full marathon...my body was feeling great and mentally I was doing even better...near the end of that run I started to have some weird knee pain...I stretched out my legs and finished and felt fine...I chalked it up to not so great shoes....I switched back and took a solid rest day...<br /><br />I then ran a 5km and 10km runs both had more knee pain...I took the rest of the week off and even skipped my long run...I made the executive decision to switch from the Full Marathon to the Half. I ran a great 5km and had no pain for 4.8km and suddenly that twinge came back...I immediately stopped and walked home...(during this time I have been stretching like MAD and rolling and icing). <br /><br />I did yoga and I also saw my massage therapist....She basically thinks that EVERYTHING is tight...IT band, Quads, Calves and Hamstrings...It was a painful session that is for sure...I took MORE rest days then on Sunday I attempted a VERY slow 12km...it was okay a little off...later that day and since then my knee feels like garbage...I am basically benching myself from running for a minimum of two weeks...Then I'll attempt to SLOWLY increase my mileage...If things don't get better I'll go to the sports doctor...I am pretty sure this is just an overuse injury and a few other this..but most importantly my body needs rest from running...<br /><br />So in the mean time...I will continue to get my Yoga on...I've started a pushup challenge with girlfriends and I am taking FULL advantage of the awesome fitness classes offered through my work...today was Tanktop Arms and tomorrow is some strength and conditioning and stability classes...I will beat this but not beat myself up over it....I will be back in full force in time for January training...I know I have a sub 4:27:53 marathon in me...I also know I am so close to a Sub 2:00h marathon....<br /><br />Now that Halloween is over I need to find my self control again, keep moving, eat less and get my sweat on...this will only make me stronger!!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-14106318643877775602011-10-16T18:00:00.000-04:002011-10-16T18:17:33.774-04:00Chicago Marathon Race ReportWow...I can't believe another year has passed and that I've completed my fourth marathon...I would have NEVER thought that back in 2006 when I graduated grad school that this would be the life I have...It is pretty darn wonderful...<br /><br />So Lindsay, Catherine and myself piled into the car and made the 4-5hour drive to Kalamazoo, MI for our first stop. We decided that since we wanted to head to the expo bright and early on the Friday and to be as rested as possible that it might be best if we drive part way...It was the BEST idea ever...Thursday ended up being extremely hectic at work and some other things going on...I was so relieved when we got in the car and were on the road...It was an easy drive and we soon tucked ourselves in for the night...<br /><br />We woke up and enjoyed the complimentary breakfast and were soon on our way...We arrived in Chicago around Noon and pre-registered at the hotel and we were on our way to catch the Expo Bus near Niketown!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sb_jmOsrwNw/TptSVAfuloI/AAAAAAAAAag/lYe6jyyIMwo/s1600/1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sb_jmOsrwNw/TptSVAfuloI/AAAAAAAAAag/lYe6jyyIMwo/s320/1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664211477212337794" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Once at the expo we picked up our kits, shirts and started to pick up as many free samples as possible! I may have picked up 3 huge (and heavy) bottles of coconut water :) Lindsay was not too thrilled when they made her plastic bag break a la Kevin from Home Alone...Don't worry...I helped her and got her another bag....<br /><br />We then got in line where I met Ryan Hall...American Marathon Record Holder....<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UVsGsB4XRf8/TptQ6QJQC6I/AAAAAAAAAaU/rrcS54tHMhU/s1600/chicago%2Bblog.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UVsGsB4XRf8/TptQ6QJQC6I/AAAAAAAAAaU/rrcS54tHMhU/s320/chicago%2Bblog.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664209918044933026" border="0" /></a><br />He was beyond nice...It was really pretty awesome meeting him.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zi-rcoHBsiU/TptSbpFQVoI/AAAAAAAAAas/zVjiKP85qo0/s1600/Chicago%2B2011%2B011.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zi-rcoHBsiU/TptSbpFQVoI/AAAAAAAAAas/zVjiKP85qo0/s320/Chicago%2B2011%2B011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664211591186372226" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NnI1rwV59gA/TptSh5jKstI/AAAAAAAAAa4/sKQqTPzWoCE/s1600/Chicago%2B2011%2B015.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NnI1rwV59gA/TptSh5jKstI/AAAAAAAAAa4/sKQqTPzWoCE/s320/Chicago%2B2011%2B015.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664211698686014162" border="0" /></a><br /><br />We then headed for a fabulous dinner at Webber's Grill...The next day me and Lindsay toured the city....and just took it easy before we met Catherine for a pasta dinner....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hmc_mVV6xZM/TptSpWfpyII/AAAAAAAAAbE/Yc_z_Qsu0sU/s1600/Chicago%2B2011%2B038.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hmc_mVV6xZM/TptSpWfpyII/AAAAAAAAAbE/Yc_z_Qsu0sU/s320/Chicago%2B2011%2B038.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664211826714986626" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BL5VXp9sH9M/TptSxmGwpXI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/VQEth61cWoo/s1600/Chicago%2B2011%2B049.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BL5VXp9sH9M/TptSxmGwpXI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/VQEth61cWoo/s320/Chicago%2B2011%2B049.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664211968344499570" border="0" /></a><br /><br />We headed back to the hotel nice and early and just relaxed watching TV before we headed to bed...Here is my race outfit...I don't have too many pictures of the race itself yet....When I get more I'll post...<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F1Yvx4iYb7I/TptS4N3vACI/AAAAAAAAAbc/-RsEGKR8-ts/s1600/Chicago%2B2011%2B059.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F1Yvx4iYb7I/TptS4N3vACI/AAAAAAAAAbc/-RsEGKR8-ts/s320/Chicago%2B2011%2B059.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664212082098110498" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Race:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span>Well there is not much to tell....we got to the start line at the same time as last year but this time around it was PACKED...I couldn't make it to where the 4:15:00 pace bunny was and in fact I couldn't make it into the Open Corral...I was too scared to jump the fence....so I waited and started with the 5:30:00h group...All was good and then my garmin singnal messed up after about running for two minutes...I always know that this could happen and especially in Chicago but the pace was not just a little off it was WAY off...I used the pace band and my general time...<br /><br /><br />Splits:<br /><br />5km: 30:48 6:07 per km or a 9:55 per mile **This isn't too bad...passsing people<br />10km: 1:00:30: 6:03 per km or 9:34 per mile ** Wow it is hot...lots of people<br />15km: 1:31:01: 6:04 per km or 9:50 per mile **I am stuck I can't pass anyone...it is so HOT<br />20km: 2:02:29: 6:07 per km or 10:08 per mile **Okay settle in...you can do this...<br />21.1km: 2:09:32 *Not great let's got for a 4:30h as it is hot<br />25km: 2:35:56 6:13per km or 10:45 per mile *I am stuck again...can't pass...MOVE PEOPLE<br />30km: 3:11:59 6:23 per km or 11:43 per mile **I am too hot...I am fading....<br />35km: 3:50:39 6:35 per km or 12:27 per mile ** Have to walk because of stomach cramps...<br />40km: 4:30:52 6:46 per km or 12:57 per mile **PLEASE let me beat last years time...<br />42.2km: 4:47:00 6:48 per km....*VERY happy to be done...<br /><br />Basically I crashed and burned...I was passing too many people couldn't run a tangent...and the biggest thing was the Heat...I am trying to not beat myself up too much over this as I am so proud to have finished but after my great results at Mid-Summer and my 10km tempos....I was hoping to beat my PB of 4:27:53....This fall was not it...<br /><br />I have run a few times since Chicago and am struggling with some knee pain...I have no idea of what my next plans are but I do know that in the spring I'll be running another full...there is no doubt in my mind....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SyAO81SxW4A/TptS-V8P7VI/AAAAAAAAAbo/8DfLGaRya8k/s1600/Chicago%2B2011%2B061.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SyAO81SxW4A/TptS-V8P7VI/AAAAAAAAAbo/8DfLGaRya8k/s320/Chicago%2B2011%2B061.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5664212187343744338" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-22950260018015034622011-10-06T09:36:00.002-04:002011-10-06T09:45:40.396-04:00Chicago GoalsHi There,<br /><br /><br />I can't believe a YEAR has passed and I am returning to Chicago....I am really proud of the training that I have done in a year...I have made great strides and am so proud of the accomplishments I have had this year (PR's in ALL distances)<br /><br />This week I have faced many challenges...I have been very busy at work, have a sick grandma and I am also sick myself...I am not going to lie...I will be really relieved once I am in the car and starting my trek to Chicago...<br /><br />I will keep this simple...here are my goals...I have re-evaluated them after this cold that I have...<br /><br />D: Finish Upright and Smiling :)<br />C: Beat Last years time of 4:49:xx<br />B: Sub 4:30:00<br />A: PR (Current PR is 4:27:53 from May 2011 at Mississauga Marathon)<br />A+: Sub 4:20:00<br /><br />I have had an incredible training cycle...lots of great tempos, a 30km PR and a 10km PR...I just hope that after this week I can pull off a great run...I am not going to lie...I am physically, mentally and emotionally exhausted...I also know myself in that I might perk up pretty quickly once I hit the car :) No matter what, PR or not I have a lot to be proud of...I have come so far over the past year...Running is a passion for me...It is part of who I am and what I need...In the end Sunday is one race in a list of many...<br /><br />Good luck to all of those racing!!! <br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-41330570532032533592011-10-01T08:04:00.002-04:002011-10-01T08:12:35.399-04:00September RewindThis month was a great month...<br /><br />I ran 232km....I am happy with this...I only missed one 10km and that was on Thursday...my legs have not been acting nice the past few weeks...I went to my massage therapist for a tune up....let me tell you...it was PAINFUL...she even had to use a tool to get at certain parts of my legs...That was Thursday and today is Sat. I am still feeling the effects of the massage...although my legs are recovering I can def' notice a difference...<br /><br /><br />Current Focus....I will be running my 4th Marathon in 8 Sleeps!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn.babble.com/babble-chicago/files/2011/02/Chicago_Marathon_Logo.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 433px; height: 280px;" src="http://cdn.babble.com/babble-chicago/files/2011/02/Chicago_Marathon_Logo.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I will continue to use the next week to fuel and rest my body....am I nervous? Yes...I will do a post about my goals...It seems so surreal that it has been a Year and I will be heading back to the Windy City and trying to improve from last year...<br /><br />I am off to do 16km...feels weird to be running this distance on a Saturday...<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-37583288637473354962011-09-19T20:45:00.005-04:002011-09-19T21:09:31.036-04:00The Hubby Races Too!!!The Hubby (Conor, Con-Bon, Con-Bon-Jovi, Condor)...found a cycling race...I was so excited for him when he signed up...On Friday after work we headed to Collingwood, Blue Mountain resort for the Centurion Cycling Series of races...We were able to get there in time for him to pre-register and we also stopped by the Centurion Brand shop and we picked him up a toque, a shirt and a water bottle...It was really nice atmosphere...I was looking forward to visiting the shops the next day...After registration we quickly checked into the hotel, had a bite to eat then headed to bed...<br /><br />We woke up in the morning and Conor had the feeling that most of us have on race day...the combo of nervousness and excitement...I was so proud of him and just really happy that he would be able to have a race that just he was doing...it was his day to celebrate!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lk_UBHXpFoM/TnfiRYO_9yI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/eAyuHdasmiw/s1600/019.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lk_UBHXpFoM/TnfiRYO_9yI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/eAyuHdasmiw/s320/019.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654236645377963810" /></a><br />Arriving at the Event<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L-HwanlJ32o/TnfkqYcb5CI/AAAAAAAAAaE/m_IyTd4p5XY/s1600/024.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L-HwanlJ32o/TnfkqYcb5CI/AAAAAAAAAaE/m_IyTd4p5XY/s320/024.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654239273954305058" /></a><br />Pre-Race<br /><br /><br />Now I turn over the rest of the race report to the Hubby:<br /><br />This morning as the cool early day's mist was still present, I knocked off yet another one of my life long dreams from my never ending bucket list. As cycling road races go, the Blue Mountain Centurion road race boasts some of the steepest climbs, strongest winds, and most picturesque views one rider can ever endeavor and witness. Initially, the profile of the ride appeared to me to be a long climb straight up, a turn around point, followed by a rewarding decent toward the village and red flapping flags below. This I can assure you, was not the case. It seemed just as I crested one relentless climb, the big blue threw yet another vertical my way. Part way through the race I was wondering what I had landed myself into. It wasn't until the tour back after the u-turn that I became so proud of how far I had come, not only on this day but with my overall cycling successes. I was so proud of myself. Don't get me wrong, although I was pumped when I saw the end of the road in my sights, this event was also very humbling. I was among not only my fellow cycling enthusiasts and amateur racers, but I was quick to feel the swoosh as the true pro racers ripped past. I only had mere seconds, and an ever so slight chance to ride within their speedy draft. The race started out very fast, tires millimeters apart as we approached climb number one. I was told by many to 'start slow and save your juice for the hills', but I couldn't help resist the temptation to spin spokes along side the best of the best, dreaming that I too am among the sponsored Cervello or Cannondale Canada teams. A guy can dream no? Nonetheless, I finished 185th out of 652 participants and 137th place in my gender of 394 men. So not in pro time by far, but also not DFL (dead FN last). The best part of the day was obviously the finish line, not for just the obvious reasons, but primarily because of a cute missy, dressed in her bright pink hoodie, cow bell in one hand and camera in the other, smile from ear to ear, waiting for her hubby at the end of his challenging road. Lishy, was my inspiration for this days road race. She herself passes numerous finish lines at her marathons, triathlons, etc. and I now understand why she puts herself through the agony of her day after day of strenuous training. Its all for that millisecond when you realize... you did it... for you...to run, ride, or swim or whatever...with the elite, the pinnacle of your sport, and also just because... it feels great to clear one more of the challenges of life.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k0WzqQtmSWs/Tnfly_lMAZI/AAAAAAAAAaM/f89_g3VrTfI/s1600/045.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k0WzqQtmSWs/Tnfly_lMAZI/AAAAAAAAAaM/f89_g3VrTfI/s320/045.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654240521410576786" /></a><br />Just Finished and Still Smiling!!!<br /><br /><br />We had a wonderful time....As a spectator it was so much fun! I loved cheering for riders as they came in....Blue Mountain is a wonderful venue...I wasn't able to see him on the course so I had an hour before the riders were coming back in...I was able to visit some of the shops and grab a coffee...<br /><br />I loved being a spectator and was so proud of Conor...I know that this is just the start and he now has the racing bug...maybe a duathlon in the future? Congratulations CONOR! I am so proud of you and love you so much!lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-38085755103921583022011-09-01T17:40:00.005-04:002011-09-01T17:52:05.207-04:00August Rewind<span style="font-size:100%;">Stats:
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<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;">I </span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:100%;" >ran</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">264km this month!!!! This is a huge monthly mileage PR for me...I am pretty rootin tootin happy about this...It just goes to show that when I slowly increase my mileage I don't get hurt...slow is best...
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<br />I <span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">rode<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> 164km not my best but I also wasn't really focused on cycling this month...
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<br />I <span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">swam </span>3km this month...haha...I decided that after my Tri I would stop swimming because of logistics...I will start this up again in the late fall after Chicago Marathon...
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<br />I ate a lot of this:
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.mominmanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/blizzards.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 395px;" src="http://www.mominmanagement.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/blizzards.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>
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<br />Honestly....why are Blizzards so freakin good?!?!?!? Ugh....I could eat one EVERYDAY...I have already had 2 this week...:)
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<br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51);"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">BIGGEST NEWS:
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<br />I signed up for:
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.everymantri.com/.a/6a00d83451b18a69e201348736690c970c-800wi"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 290px; height: 133px;" src="http://www.everymantri.com/.a/6a00d83451b18a69e201348736690c970c-800wi" alt="" border="0" /></a>
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<br />I am scared/anxious/excited/pumped....every emotion...I am pretty much in shock................... so on JULY 7, 2012 I will be in Muncie Indiana!!!
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<br /></span></span></span>Bring on SEPTEMBER!!! ONLY 38 more sleeps until Chicago Marathon!
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<br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-50726404198727578882011-08-22T21:27:00.007-04:002011-08-22T22:27:49.132-04:00A Mid-Summer Night 30km Race ReportOn Saturday Night I competed in my second Mid Summer Nights Run...Last year I rocked it in 3:09:53 and this year I was hoping for a 3:03:00..
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<br />We drove down to Toronto on Saturday after a really nice morning where I could sleep in!! Love sleeping in...
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<br />The night before we went to a local Spaghetti Place and I stuffed my face!!! So good...this was a good strategy for me as I knew that with a 5:30pm race start it would be tricky for me to eat before...I drove down with<a href="http://catherinegoestofitnessridge.blogspot.com/"> Catherine</a> and<a href="http://myadventuresatfitnessridge.blogspot.com/"> Lindsay</a> and we had a great time as usual...My brother and Sister-In Law were actually away this weekend so we were able to crash at their place which was awesome! We hung out there and took our time getting ready and headed down to the race start...we picked up our race kits and then chatted with friends (Lot's of local London Runners: Angela, Amanda,Madeline, Meghan, Kellie, Erin, Camille, Scott, Rebecca and Gillian).
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ueg251tBWeQ/TlGw8qtWPkI/AAAAAAAAAbw/01nxjQCH67M/s1600/Map+30k+route.png"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 538px; height: 447px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ueg251tBWeQ/TlGw8qtWPkI/AAAAAAAAAbw/01nxjQCH67M/s1600/Map+30k+route.png" alt="" border="0" /></a>
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<br />Here is a Map of the 30km Run
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<br />Right before the Start I saw <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.marleneontherun.bogspot.com">Marlene</a> and I know there were a WHOLE bunch of other bloggers there as well who I missed...Next year we need a BIG BLOGGY meet up!!!
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<br />So before the start I had told my former Clinic Instructor and Friend Rebecca that I had thought I wanted to do a 3:03 and if feeling up to it potentially a 3:00h...She is an amazing pacer and decided to take on the task of helping me get there...We lined up with the 10min Run/1min Walk 3hour pace bunny...We started off with him but he started his walks at a different time...we ended up getting thrown off and she restarted her watch and we stayed with them for about 10km....At this point we were feeling steady and strong and pulled ahead slightly...
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<br />The heat and humidity were tough...but I felt REALLY steady we ended up catching up with the 3hour continuous pacer...I have no idea of what was going on but most of the Pacers were well off...This is probably due to the fact that the course was measuring short by 500m-600m...ugh...
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<br />Anyway...The first 10km went by easily...we hit the 15km mark and Rebecca took a quick pit stop and encouraged me to go on...I was NERVOUS...she was great company for the first half and I had fun catching up with her...I soon passed the 3hour continuous pace bunny and tried to hold on for dear life...
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<br />With Rebecca I was consistently taking walk breaks every 10mins....After Rebecca left I only took walk breaks at the 3 remaining rest stations...I had one or two GU chomps the entire time...I had a water belt with G2 but my stomach was having none of it...It didn't want anything...I was starting to slow down because of the humidity by the time I left Tommy Thompson park there was no breeze...As I headed into the Leslie Spit and into Ashbridges Bay Park I thought the route would be changing as the km markers were so off..this began to make me a little confused like many others...I decided to just keep focusing on my Average Pace...I was steadily at a 5:56/km for the first 23km but had dropped to a 5:58/km for the next bit...after completing the loop and knowing I only had 3km left I was desperately trying to keep and hold that pace for a strong finish...I was totally going to bonk as I could not take in as much water and Gatorade as I should have...
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<br />about 100m before the finish Rebecca caught up to me and said she had been running behind me and was there "just in case" but kept telling me how strong I was and that I was going to have a "2" as the first number in my finish time...
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<br />Chip Time: 2:55:50
<br />Race adjusted time would be about a 2:58:50 to a 2:59:59 soooo........SUB 3HOURS!
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<br />I cannot tell you how ecstatic I was...I know the end I let my pace down a bit but I did not have good nutrition during the run and my walk breaks weren't consistent...I am so happy with this run...I PR'd by 9mins and am feeling more confident about Chicago...It makes me really believe that I created a great training plan and am having some success this cycle despite the heat and triathlon training...I am so lucky to have great friends...I was also pumped for Lindsay who pulled out a huge PR and for <a href="http://catherinegoestofitnessridge.blogspot.com/">Catherine</a> who completed her FIRST 30km race...
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ki79hA0UwU4/TlFj4EIMFQI/AAAAAAAAAbk/hyLWvMZUJio/s1600/photo.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 480px; height: 640px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ki79hA0UwU4/TlFj4EIMFQI/AAAAAAAAAbk/hyLWvMZUJio/s1600/photo.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>
<br />The 3 of us after the race with our HUGE Bling and awesome race shirts :)
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DGCHLcP7_wM/TlMLvclJeTI/AAAAAAAAAZs/WwPsAIyfQK4/s1600/Midsummer%2BNight%2BRun%2B4.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DGCHLcP7_wM/TlMLvclJeTI/AAAAAAAAAZs/WwPsAIyfQK4/s320/Midsummer%2BNight%2BRun%2B4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643867667779123506" border="0" /></a>
<br />Me, My pacer Rebecca, Gillian and Lindsay
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<br />I might actually have to order my race photo...I am pretty happy with this one:
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dtYbnP8RfkU/TlMM6sMJHaI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/IUvD_vWdUtU/s1600/mid.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dtYbnP8RfkU/TlMM6sMJHaI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/IUvD_vWdUtU/s320/mid.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643868960459398562" border="0" /></a>
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<br />Happy Running....Only 47 days until Chicago Marathon
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<br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-1705014295436412232011-08-22T20:19:00.010-04:002011-08-22T21:11:44.590-04:00Niagara Sprint Tri Race ReportOn August 7th, 2011 I participated in the <a href="http://www.trisportcanada.com/niagara.php"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Niagara Sprint Triathlon</span></a>
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<br />750m Swim
<br />25km Bike
<br />7km Run<span style="display: block;" id="formatbar_Buttons"><span onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 8);ButtonMouseDown(this);" class="" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_CreateLink" title="Link"><img src="http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif" alt="Link" class="gl_link" border="0" /></span></span>
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pre-Race</span>: The night before the race I headed out to dinner with friends and found out my favourite sushi restaurant had shut down :( So we headed to a different restaurant and I had some pasta...When I got home I had planned to pack up and go to bed very early...I got home and had very unexpected call from work needing some on-call assistance. I wasn't required to go by any means but I thought it would be good if I did to assist...so I headed into work for a few hours...got home and quickly packed...
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<br />While I was at work my amazing Hubby washed and cleaned by bike and tuned it all up...I have the BEST race Sherpa ever!
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Morning Of: </span>The hubby and I left the house by 5am to head to Niagara and I had a coffee and bagel...we loaded up the car and got to the Transition area with plenty of time to set up, and get body marked...
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<br />We checked out the swim area...I decided not to do a warm up as I thought that would get me a little more anxious...I knew that since it was a wave start I would have lots of time to get in the water and get adjusted!
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fGdHxSlSeXQ/TlL04-31o6I/AAAAAAAAAZE/L1K5c7GHN7Q/s1600/Niagara%2BSprint%2BTri%2B002.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fGdHxSlSeXQ/TlL04-31o6I/AAAAAAAAAZE/L1K5c7GHN7Q/s320/Niagara%2BSprint%2BTri%2B002.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643842542835704738" border="0" /></a>
<br />I opted to wear a Tri-Suit for the race...was super happy I did..despite it being not the most flattering...lets be honest...tri clothes in general aren't the most forgiving...
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7yp-jZ-pTNg/TlL1P5hWJGI/AAAAAAAAAZM/zRNDQQygORU/s1600/Niagara%2BSprint%2BTri%2B007.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7yp-jZ-pTNg/TlL1P5hWJGI/AAAAAAAAAZM/zRNDQQygORU/s320/Niagara%2BSprint%2BTri%2B007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643842936536179810" border="0" /></a>
<br />Loved that I had a Pink Cap!
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<br />The Swim:
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<br />I was totally anxious about the swim...I am a strong swimmer but not a FAST swimmer...I got anxious with the swim and ended up swimming the majority of it with breast stroke...not the best and I know as I swim more I'll get more comfortable...I was happy with my time considering it was with breast stroke pretty much the whole way...
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">SWIM TIME: 17:52 pace/2:23/100m 17/25 in Age Category
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7GxPeH8V2ds/TlL1bsU736I/AAAAAAAAAZU/isZTj1oCo7U/s1600/Niagara%2BSprint%2BTri%2B018.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7GxPeH8V2ds/TlL1bsU736I/AAAAAAAAAZU/isZTj1oCo7U/s320/Niagara%2BSprint%2BTri%2B018.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643843139152895906" border="0" /></a>
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">T1:2:05</span>
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<br />Transition went well...It is still a learning process...I got my socks, bike shoes, bib, helmet all on and just gave'r....I had great placement with my bike and found it easily...
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Bike: </span>
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<br />I knew that I was going to have a HUGE hill called the "Best of the East" right away...I really practiced my hill climbs in Muskoka the week before and was feeling confident...I got to the first part of the hill...it was a BEAST they weren't lying...I changed gears but kept going and despite it being challenging I was moving really well and passing a number of people....everyone was going slow or walking the hill...as I was passing a man he lost all momentum and fell over on the bike directly on me...I was SOOO LUCKY I was able to clip my one leg out and save myself from a fall...
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<br />I was pretty upset as the pitch of the hill was too steep for me to get back on...I started to RUN up the hill as there was a bit of a plateau...I got back on and slowly started to recover...and then all of a sudden the SAME thing happened again...two woman collided as they could not get momentum up the hill and it caused another collision with several riders...I had un-clipped but had to walk the rest of the hill...This dropped my average pace to 16km per hour...
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<br />I was really disappointed that this happened...the entire hill was carnage...I learned that for the next time I need to really watch my surroundings a big more and STAY away from slower riders...
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<br />This next part is where I called it operation get my speed back...I passed quite a few people and was able to finish the bike extremely strong...
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">25km: 56:54: 26.4km/hour 16/25 in my age category </span>
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I72klBewL1w/TlL4-pxBz8I/AAAAAAAAAZc/hChBqDumgJQ/s1600/Niagara%2BSprint%2BTri%2B026.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I72klBewL1w/TlL4-pxBz8I/AAAAAAAAAZc/hChBqDumgJQ/s320/Niagara%2BSprint%2BTri%2B026.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643847038295723970" border="0" /></a>
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">T2:</span> 1:25 I grabbed my visor, switched shoes and grabbed a gel and some fruit snacks...then I headed into the run...
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Run: </span>I hadn't had anything beside G2 on the bike...so I took a gel as soon as I hit the road...my garmin did not hook in right away so I pace was a little wonky...At this point it was REALLY hot and humid...the aid stations were every km due to the course being an out and back loopy thing...I dumped water on me to help get my heart rate down and alternated between water and gatorade...my legs felt tired for the first little bit but I soon figured it out and got going...it was nice being able to see runners coming back in...it was mostly residential but parts went by the water and in a cool little trail...I don't really remember too much...the whole experience just flew by...
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">39:54 (5:42 km)</span>
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TOTAL: 1:58:09</span>
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WbTHzA7RAY4/TlL62tN8eVI/AAAAAAAAAZk/9uUqI1JBZ-o/s1600/Niagara%2BSprint%2BTri%2B030.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WbTHzA7RAY4/TlL62tN8eVI/AAAAAAAAAZk/9uUqI1JBZ-o/s320/Niagara%2BSprint%2BTri%2B030.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643849100806617426" border="0" /></a>
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Overall Thoughts: </span> I LOVED it....I had such a blast...and I cannot wait to do it again!!! I know that with more training I could get better and feel more comfortable...During the week of the race I had done 2 long runs (26km and 19km), speed work(6km) and a hill workout(12.45)...I look forward to the day when I can focus more on one race as opposed to fitting one in during marathon training...
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<br />A special thanks to the Hubby for being the best support ever! As well as a close friend of ours Fraser for coming out! We also ran into a close friend who was doing the Tri so it was nice to have her there and her husband kept my Sherpa company. I was so fortunate to have great cheerleaders on the course!!!
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<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">In Summary: </span> I think I might have a triathlon problem :)
<br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-2620599792942065302011-08-01T21:41:00.008-04:002011-08-01T22:09:41.535-04:00July 2011 in PicturesI have TOTALLY been failing with the blog...I think that I have been just so busy with summer, training, spending time with family and friends and training that I haven't been able to make this a priority....I am sorry for that...here are some pictures to recap my amazing month of July...<br /><br />I ran a total of 192km this month...I am REALLY happy with that number...I only missed out on running about 30km total for the month...I skipped that because of the MS bike tour(88km the first day and 77km the next)...I cycled 288km this month (more than that actually because I don't count my cruiser bike KM or my KM to work and back)! Happy with that number for sure! I also have been swimming :) <br /><br /><br />We bought Cruiser bikes (because we don't own enough with mountain and road...) and we completely fixed them up...we ride them everywhere! <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oP-rRl5Vi9c/TjdXiAuExmI/AAAAAAAAAYk/bRMKcoWywQ0/s1600/Conor%2BBike.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oP-rRl5Vi9c/TjdXiAuExmI/AAAAAAAAAYk/bRMKcoWywQ0/s320/Conor%2BBike.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636069700497884770" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PLpz3a7LFbU/TjdXzzc8AWI/AAAAAAAAAYs/xHxmfXeZIsM/s1600/me%2Band%2Bbike.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PLpz3a7LFbU/TjdXzzc8AWI/AAAAAAAAAYs/xHxmfXeZIsM/s320/me%2Band%2Bbike.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636070006173991266" border="0" /></a><br /><br />This is us on Canada Day!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X-wAPyN7O2g/TjdYIiW9EmI/AAAAAAAAAY0/gLsT2Q_ZhuA/s1600/U2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X-wAPyN7O2g/TjdYIiW9EmI/AAAAAAAAAY0/gLsT2Q_ZhuA/s320/U2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636070362362745442" border="0" /></a><br />We went to the U2 Concert :)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UHIsVokBZbE/TjdYwYMhmHI/AAAAAAAAAY8/NCt1kQ5x0yE/s1600/MS%2Bbike%2BTour.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 179px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UHIsVokBZbE/TjdYwYMhmHI/AAAAAAAAAY8/NCt1kQ5x0yE/s320/MS%2Bbike%2BTour.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636071046829414514" border="0" /></a><br /><br />We completed a two day bike tour...88km the First day followed by 77km the next...we biked from Grand Bend Ontario to London and back the next day...The Hubby started a team this year called <a href="http://www.onyourleft.ca/">"On Your left"</a>. He did an amazing job..check out the sweet jersey's he designed...let me say...we looked AWESOME on the big day...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.onyourleft.ca/uploads/5/8/3/4/5834491/8851001.jpg?715"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 715px; height: 476px;" src="http://www.onyourleft.ca/uploads/5/8/3/4/5834491/8851001.jpg?715" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.onyourleft.ca/uploads/5/8/3/4/5834491/1477134.jpg?704"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 700px; height: 467px;" src="http://www.onyourleft.ca/uploads/5/8/3/4/5834491/1477134.jpg?704" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />I have not only been training for Chicago Marathon but also the Niagara Triathlon: 750m Swim, 25km Bike, and 7km Run...I am really nervous and excited at the same time...I knew that eventually I would do a triathlon...I love swimming and I really started to get into cycling last year with the MS ride and the purchase of a Road Bike...I thought that this one best fit into my Marathon Training Cycle...Sunday is going to be an exciting day!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://trisportcanada.com/trisportcanada.com/UserFiles/2011-niag-lg.gif"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 825px; height: 475px;" src="http://trisportcanada.com/trisportcanada.com/UserFiles/2011-niag-lg.gif" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />This years MS ride gave me a lot of confidence for the actual bike ride...if all goes well with this race and I can see myself enjoying the sport I know that I would love to do a "Half Ironman" next summer so...we will see what Sunday Brings!!<br /><br /><br />After the Bike Ride I headed straight up to Muskoka for the Week...I spent time with my family...It was much needed....I don't want to Taper too much so I will play this week by ear...I am hoping to get at least one more swim in this week! <br /><br />Happy Running Everyone!!!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-83943112974567316382011-07-07T18:44:00.002-04:002011-07-07T18:48:48.132-04:00I am ALIVEHi All,<br /><br /><br />I am still around...really haven't been blogging at all but have been reading lots...<br /><br />I will post pictures of: The awesome Cruiser Bikes my Hubby and I restored (more to come)....basically when not running I have been biking to try and get in as many KM's as possible for the MS ride and just to keep on our sweet bikes...<br /><br />I have been biking to work 3-5 times per week (total round trip is 5km...hehe...REALLY close)<br /><br />Running Wise things are going great...I think the reason for lack of blogging is because I have added an extra day...I am finding it tiring but rewarding...so far I am right on track for Chicago Marathon...<br /><br /><br />Happy Running...sweet pics to come!<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/71/2D7D0C861F7DA91ECD661C7A781AA5F4.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>lishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8919147165385292024.post-34155365765359254522011-06-18T12:50:00.000-04:002011-06-18T12:51:06.315-04:00I Got Inked!<p class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oJwNGGr5gkU/TfzXe3GfHGI/AAAAAAAAAYc/tLr1JWwtiY4/s1600/%253D%253Futf-8%253FB%253FTG9uZG9uLTIwMTEwNjE3LTAwMDg5LmpwZw%253D%253D%253F%253D-766315"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oJwNGGr5gkU/TfzXe3GfHGI/AAAAAAAAAYc/tLr1JWwtiY4/s320/%253D%253Futf-8%253FB%253FTG9uZG9uLTIwMTEwNjE3LTAwMDg5LmpwZw%253D%253D%253F%253D-766315" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619603360238738530" /></a></p>Sorry I haven't posted in a while...training is going great...just wanted to share a pic of the tattoo I got yesterday :)<br>Sent from my BlackBerry device on the Rogers Wireless Networklishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01553395019880091430noreply@blogger.com7