The final blog of the year is coming all the way from Falls Creek...and what a place to bring in the new year! Falls is one of my favourite places on earth. The scenery is something else, the riding amazing and the running awesome.
We have just spent the final day of 2011 doing a stellar ride down the back side of Falls Creek to Omeo and return. A big day in the saddle, and totally worth it...we even got to see some wild brumbies in our travels!
2011 has been a huge year full of travel, training, racing, and most of all good times. I also achieved two of my major goals of the year, one being going back to Uni (even if it is only part-time!), and the other racing my first World Champs race at the pro level. It has also been one tough year learning and observing first hand the amount of hard work, dedication and sacrifice it will take to become a successful athlete. The lessons I have learnt throughout the year and the adventures I have had will stay with me forever.
2012 is looking to be another great year with some exciting races and travel planned. I am so lucky to have the support of family and friends, and so thankful that I can share all of life's adventures with Sam.
It has definitely been an experience doing 52 consecutive weeks of blogging. However, I will make sure to keep the blog alive into 2012 (just not so frequent!).
Until next time,
Happy New Year!
Friday, December 30, 2011
Thursday, December 22, 2011
The (almost) End Of An Adventure
As 2011 is rapidly drawing to a close, so is my epic weekly blogging adventures. As some may recall at the beginning of the year I boldly pronounced "I shall blog every week for the next year!" Oh, why do I always come up with these ideas that seem amazing at the onset...
At the time this seemed like a simple task, however upon reflection it has been exhausting! Thinking of something to write (worth reading) week in week out is like writing an assignment for uni or school over and over again. Now don't get me wrong, I have enjoyed this blogging experience, however I am not the greatest when it comes to sitting and concentrating for a whopping 30 minutes of weekly blog writing. Anyhow, it has been a fun adventure and it will be nice to have a years worth of blogs to read back on in the future when I am bored out of my mind, looking for something to read.
I must say though that I have become increasingly less punctual with my blogging schedule. What was once supposed to be Sunday funday blog day, turned into Monday blog day then Tuesday, Wednesday and now Friday!! However I have not missed a single week in this whole adventure which is truly exciting for me (however, according to my calculations, there is still one more week to go...and anything can happen in a week, so I'm not out of the woods just yet).
Thinking of topics to write about has been the most stressful part of this blogging journey. However, as I have learnt, one can really blog about anything...take now for example, I am blogging about blogging. And as boring as this may seem, there still appears to be something to blog about when blogging about a blog.
I have tried to keep the weekly blog topics varied, from race reports to training updates, photos blogs to recounting the various misadventures I find myself in. Some weeks I find myself grappling for stories to blog about, then at the very last minute right before that moment when I am about give up, and proclaim to the world that "it was just too hard", I walk into the perfect blogging situation...so it is in these instances that I must thank blog worthy topics such as swooping plovers, hungry bears, YouTube, self-obsessed gym junkies, race reports and training adventures.
In conclusion to this riveting blog, it must be noted that deep down I do actually enjoy blogging and as such I will make a concerted effort to continue to keep the blog alive into next year (but maybe just not so frequent!).
However, before the year is out and this adventure is complete, there is still one more blog that must be written on a topic that is yet to be decided but is almost guaranteed to be the most riveting blog of all.
Until then, Merry Christmas!
At the time this seemed like a simple task, however upon reflection it has been exhausting! Thinking of something to write (worth reading) week in week out is like writing an assignment for uni or school over and over again. Now don't get me wrong, I have enjoyed this blogging experience, however I am not the greatest when it comes to sitting and concentrating for a whopping 30 minutes of weekly blog writing. Anyhow, it has been a fun adventure and it will be nice to have a years worth of blogs to read back on in the future when I am bored out of my mind, looking for something to read.
I must say though that I have become increasingly less punctual with my blogging schedule. What was once supposed to be Sunday funday blog day, turned into Monday blog day then Tuesday, Wednesday and now Friday!! However I have not missed a single week in this whole adventure which is truly exciting for me (however, according to my calculations, there is still one more week to go...and anything can happen in a week, so I'm not out of the woods just yet).
Thinking of topics to write about has been the most stressful part of this blogging journey. However, as I have learnt, one can really blog about anything...take now for example, I am blogging about blogging. And as boring as this may seem, there still appears to be something to blog about when blogging about a blog.
I have tried to keep the weekly blog topics varied, from race reports to training updates, photos blogs to recounting the various misadventures I find myself in. Some weeks I find myself grappling for stories to blog about, then at the very last minute right before that moment when I am about give up, and proclaim to the world that "it was just too hard", I walk into the perfect blogging situation...so it is in these instances that I must thank blog worthy topics such as swooping plovers, hungry bears, YouTube, self-obsessed gym junkies, race reports and training adventures.
In conclusion to this riveting blog, it must be noted that deep down I do actually enjoy blogging and as such I will make a concerted effort to continue to keep the blog alive into next year (but maybe just not so frequent!).
However, before the year is out and this adventure is complete, there is still one more blog that must be written on a topic that is yet to be decided but is almost guaranteed to be the most riveting blog of all.
Until then, Merry Christmas!
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Gatorade Tri Series Race #2 - Elwood
Yesterday was the 2nd race of the 2011/12 Gatorade Triathlon Series. After sitting out race #1 I was looking forward to getting out there and racing as part of Team Barefoot again. After spending the best part of 8 months racing the half ironman distance, I was really keen to do be doing a shorter local race with less pressure.
Both races in the series so far have been of the duathlon format since the swim has been cancelled...and I was quite happy we weren't getting into the bay yesterday, it was filthy!
As the focus for me is next year I went untapered into this race, so the legs weren't feeling their freshest! The first 1.4km run went out at lightening speed and the pace was on, my Brooks T7 Racers were perfect for the speedy start. I had a good transition in T1 and went out onto the bike in first place with a group of 3 other girls. The wind on the bike made for tough riding, and the tailwind out was complimented by a strong headwind on the return. My new Malvern Star Oppy C7 road bike felt awesome in its first race workout.
The girls behind us rode really well to bridge the gap, and by the time we hit T2 we were a group of 7. Erin Densham motored out of T2 and ran on for the win, I ended up crossing the line in 3rd place elite female.
It was a fun day out and I love racing just 5min down the road from home! Big congrats to Sam on his stellar 2nd place in M25-29.
I am heading home to Tassie at the end of the week for Christmas followed by some good training time up at Falls Creek over new year. Then it's full steam ahead into racing for 2012!
Both races in the series so far have been of the duathlon format since the swim has been cancelled...and I was quite happy we weren't getting into the bay yesterday, it was filthy!
As the focus for me is next year I went untapered into this race, so the legs weren't feeling their freshest! The first 1.4km run went out at lightening speed and the pace was on, my Brooks T7 Racers were perfect for the speedy start. I had a good transition in T1 and went out onto the bike in first place with a group of 3 other girls. The wind on the bike made for tough riding, and the tailwind out was complimented by a strong headwind on the return. My new Malvern Star Oppy C7 road bike felt awesome in its first race workout.
The girls behind us rode really well to bridge the gap, and by the time we hit T2 we were a group of 7. Erin Densham motored out of T2 and ran on for the win, I ended up crossing the line in 3rd place elite female.
It was a fun day out and I love racing just 5min down the road from home! Big congrats to Sam on his stellar 2nd place in M25-29.
I am heading home to Tassie at the end of the week for Christmas followed by some good training time up at Falls Creek over new year. Then it's full steam ahead into racing for 2012!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Perfect day for the Dandy's!
The sun was shinning, the birds singing and the sky was blue...must be a day for a spin in the Dandenongs. Sam knows all these roads like the back of his hand so I played follow the leader. Great ride!!
Some pretty fields
The leader (Sam)
Another pretty field
View from the top...Melbourne City is out there somewhere
Sam again...as you can see, I spent very little time on the front!
Me and my mate :)
Some pretty fields
The leader (Sam)
Another pretty field
View from the top...Melbourne City is out there somewhere
Sam again...as you can see, I spent very little time on the front!
Me and my mate :)
Thursday, December 1, 2011
People Watching
Racing back-to-back Australian and US seasons is tough going. From what I have learnt over the past few months is that for long-term success it is crucial to have some down time and to make sure an off-season is incorporated into training. As such, I am currently in the midst of my off-season (which definitely feels a little odd considering I would normally be coming into top fitness at this time of year).
However, this is a great opportunity to work some other areas of fitness into my training cycle, including gym work. The majority of top athletes I race against hit up the gym. It really is that crucial 4th aspect of training that is so important in injury prevention and building strength, and as such I can't ignore it for any longer! So gym it is.
It has been quite a few years since I last stepped into a gym to work my ab and get big (never going to happen!), so it has been great to do training that is little different to the norm and to add variety to the program.
The first challenge in the whole exercise was to find a gym that was a). cheap and b). close to home. So you can imagine my excitement when I stumbled across the local PCYC gym...three buks an entry! However, one does get what one pays for...which is a gym on the smaller side of small, full of very sweaty men with very big muscles and copious amounts of testosterone floating around the place.
It's safe to say that over the past 2 weeks I would have stumbled across 3, possibly 4 people of the female variety in this gym, so it's no wonder that I get some seriously strange looks when I trot into the gym in my shorty shorts and swinging pony tail. However it does have its advantages, like getting first dibs on a machine if there's a queue (ladies first!) and prompt assistance if I am struggling with a weight.
Two of the main things I have noticed in going to the gym is 1). it bloody hurts! and 2). it is a hilarious place to people watch (and I do love some good people watching). The majority of men in this gym are pumping some serious iron, whilst doing some serious self-viewing in the many mirrors plastered around the place. Seriously, I have never seen so many people so obsessed with their own image in the mirror before!
However, I must say that this self-obsession does add to the people watching entertainment. Nothing is more entertaining than watching someone who is watching them self in a mirror thinking that nobody else is watching them, when actually they are being watched. Considering that going to the gym is quite boring, it is the smallest things like people watching that are quite amusing and help to pass the time.
However, one must be extremely cautious not to be spotted people watching as this has the potential to result in a number of consequences...and by the size of some of those biceps I'd rather not find out!
Well I'm just people watching
The other people watching me
And we're all people watching
The other people watching we - Jack Johnson
However, this is a great opportunity to work some other areas of fitness into my training cycle, including gym work. The majority of top athletes I race against hit up the gym. It really is that crucial 4th aspect of training that is so important in injury prevention and building strength, and as such I can't ignore it for any longer! So gym it is.
It has been quite a few years since I last stepped into a gym to work my ab and get big (never going to happen!), so it has been great to do training that is little different to the norm and to add variety to the program.
The first challenge in the whole exercise was to find a gym that was a). cheap and b). close to home. So you can imagine my excitement when I stumbled across the local PCYC gym...three buks an entry! However, one does get what one pays for...which is a gym on the smaller side of small, full of very sweaty men with very big muscles and copious amounts of testosterone floating around the place.
It's safe to say that over the past 2 weeks I would have stumbled across 3, possibly 4 people of the female variety in this gym, so it's no wonder that I get some seriously strange looks when I trot into the gym in my shorty shorts and swinging pony tail. However it does have its advantages, like getting first dibs on a machine if there's a queue (ladies first!) and prompt assistance if I am struggling with a weight.
Two of the main things I have noticed in going to the gym is 1). it bloody hurts! and 2). it is a hilarious place to people watch (and I do love some good people watching). The majority of men in this gym are pumping some serious iron, whilst doing some serious self-viewing in the many mirrors plastered around the place. Seriously, I have never seen so many people so obsessed with their own image in the mirror before!
However, I must say that this self-obsession does add to the people watching entertainment. Nothing is more entertaining than watching someone who is watching them self in a mirror thinking that nobody else is watching them, when actually they are being watched. Considering that going to the gym is quite boring, it is the smallest things like people watching that are quite amusing and help to pass the time.
However, one must be extremely cautious not to be spotted people watching as this has the potential to result in a number of consequences...and by the size of some of those biceps I'd rather not find out!
Well I'm just people watching
The other people watching me
And we're all people watching
The other people watching we - Jack Johnson
Saturday, November 19, 2011
From the Sidelines
If I have learnt one thing today, it is that spectating is exhausting.
I am currently flat out on the couch after a morning down at the local Gatorade Triathlon...and no I wasn't even racing! My body needed a little extra time to recover after last weeks half ironman at Shepparton, so for a change I was the one on the sideline and Sam was the triathlete.
I never realised how stressful it actually is being a spectator. So many questions! What to wear? When to arrive? Where to park? Where to stand? How loud to cheer? When to cheer? When to clap? How many claps (apparently this is very important...too many is over eager, too few shows dis-interest)? Camera or no camera?
It is so much easier being the racer, the only thing I have to worry about when racing is being on the start line by the time the gun goes.
Getting down to the race on time and finding the impossible parking spot in St Kilda was the first of the challenges. Then there was the stress of trying to find the racer before the start. Thinking I was running late I made a bee line to the start line where I was hoping to see Sam to wish him adios, but I couldn't find him anywhere...which was very stressful in itself as I was wondering if he was actually at there at all?? However, two minutes before the gun went I finally spotted him on the start line and was just about to run up and give him a big good luck hug...until commonsense prevailed and I stayed in my appropriate position on the sideline.
I had now found my perfect cheering vantage point and yelled my little lungs out as he went on by. So I had seen the start...check. Then it was straight over to transition to watch the him get his bike...check. Then up to the bike course...check. Then trying to keep count of what number lap he was on (one would think this wouldn't be too hard considering it was a 2 lap race, but apparently it is)...check. Then back to transition...check. Then to the finish line...check. (I decided it was just too hard to get out onto the run course...and besides, I was getting exhausted from all this cheering). Then when I thought it was all over, there's the hanging around after the race waiting to get the bike back, and then walking back to the car at the impossible parking spot in St Kilda.
By the time we got home and had some food (I did need a feast from all of my energy expended) it was well and truly time for one mighty nap!
So to Mum, Dad, Sam and everyone else who has cheered me on in a race, thank you! I now understand it is more stressful and more work than the race itself. Not only do you have to get up early, stand around for hours on end and say all the right things (at the right time, in the right volume with the appropriate number of claps), you also have to deal with my often unpredictable post-race moods ranging from excitement to disappointment, happiness to frustration.
*Also, congrats to my big sister Laura for running 21.1km up mountain today...apparently it is the hardest half marathon in the world. Personally I would stick to the flat, but whatever works! So good job.
I am currently flat out on the couch after a morning down at the local Gatorade Triathlon...and no I wasn't even racing! My body needed a little extra time to recover after last weeks half ironman at Shepparton, so for a change I was the one on the sideline and Sam was the triathlete.
I never realised how stressful it actually is being a spectator. So many questions! What to wear? When to arrive? Where to park? Where to stand? How loud to cheer? When to cheer? When to clap? How many claps (apparently this is very important...too many is over eager, too few shows dis-interest)? Camera or no camera?
It is so much easier being the racer, the only thing I have to worry about when racing is being on the start line by the time the gun goes.
Getting down to the race on time and finding the impossible parking spot in St Kilda was the first of the challenges. Then there was the stress of trying to find the racer before the start. Thinking I was running late I made a bee line to the start line where I was hoping to see Sam to wish him adios, but I couldn't find him anywhere...which was very stressful in itself as I was wondering if he was actually at there at all?? However, two minutes before the gun went I finally spotted him on the start line and was just about to run up and give him a big good luck hug...until commonsense prevailed and I stayed in my appropriate position on the sideline.
I had now found my perfect cheering vantage point and yelled my little lungs out as he went on by. So I had seen the start...check. Then it was straight over to transition to watch the him get his bike...check. Then up to the bike course...check. Then trying to keep count of what number lap he was on (one would think this wouldn't be too hard considering it was a 2 lap race, but apparently it is)...check. Then back to transition...check. Then to the finish line...check. (I decided it was just too hard to get out onto the run course...and besides, I was getting exhausted from all this cheering). Then when I thought it was all over, there's the hanging around after the race waiting to get the bike back, and then walking back to the car at the impossible parking spot in St Kilda.
By the time we got home and had some food (I did need a feast from all of my energy expended) it was well and truly time for one mighty nap!
So to Mum, Dad, Sam and everyone else who has cheered me on in a race, thank you! I now understand it is more stressful and more work than the race itself. Not only do you have to get up early, stand around for hours on end and say all the right things (at the right time, in the right volume with the appropriate number of claps), you also have to deal with my often unpredictable post-race moods ranging from excitement to disappointment, happiness to frustration.
*Also, congrats to my big sister Laura for running 21.1km up mountain today...apparently it is the hardest half marathon in the world. Personally I would stick to the flat, but whatever works! So good job.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Shepparton 70.3 Race Report
It's never much fun writing a race report on a disappointing race, however it's all part of the game and must be done! After returning home from the US I had 3 weeks off from training, followed by a short prep of 4 weeks for Shepparton 70.3. For me, it was a big ask to get race fit again in a month, however I love to race and especially love racing at home in Australia, so I was really keen to get into the best shape I could for Sunday's race at Shep. Whilst a few extra weeks of training up my sleeve would've been handy, I was still feeling positive, fit and ready to go before race day.
Ideal conditions greeted us on race morning, the sun was shinning, the birds were singing and I had friends and family cheering me on both on and off course (well the family were definitely off course, but cheering nonetheless!).
At 7am we were set on our way for the 1.9km swim, 90km ride and 21.1km run. Early on into the swim, I knew that it was going to be a long day. While my day wasn't a total shocker, I just never got going and wasn't firing like my usual self. I didn't have one particular leg that was horrendous, rather I was just a little off in all three.
I was disappointed after crossing the finish line, every race I go into I put so much expectation on myself to race well and get results, so when I fall short of this it is shattering and I feel I have let myself and my supporters down. However, it is all part of being an athlete. The highs are high, and the lows are low. It is how I respond to the lows, learn from them and try to limit the bad days that is important and all part of the roller coaster ride that is racing.
Although the day didn't pan out as I had hoped, I still had fun out on course and loved racing in such a great event with fantastic race day support from the many volunteers and supporters. Congratulations to all other competitors out there racing and especially to the girls that I lined up against, it looked like a hard fought battle at the pointy end!
Thanks to Mum and Dad for making the trek over to the big island to watch me race, to Sam for the support and awesome photos, and to my sponsors Malvern Star, Peak Bike Hub, Brooks, Giro, Selle SMP and Team Barefoot.
For now it's time to knuckle down and get my mojo back!!
Ideal conditions greeted us on race morning, the sun was shinning, the birds were singing and I had friends and family cheering me on both on and off course (well the family were definitely off course, but cheering nonetheless!).
At 7am we were set on our way for the 1.9km swim, 90km ride and 21.1km run. Early on into the swim, I knew that it was going to be a long day. While my day wasn't a total shocker, I just never got going and wasn't firing like my usual self. I didn't have one particular leg that was horrendous, rather I was just a little off in all three.
I was disappointed after crossing the finish line, every race I go into I put so much expectation on myself to race well and get results, so when I fall short of this it is shattering and I feel I have let myself and my supporters down. However, it is all part of being an athlete. The highs are high, and the lows are low. It is how I respond to the lows, learn from them and try to limit the bad days that is important and all part of the roller coaster ride that is racing.
Although the day didn't pan out as I had hoped, I still had fun out on course and loved racing in such a great event with fantastic race day support from the many volunteers and supporters. Congratulations to all other competitors out there racing and especially to the girls that I lined up against, it looked like a hard fought battle at the pointy end!
Thanks to Mum and Dad for making the trek over to the big island to watch me race, to Sam for the support and awesome photos, and to my sponsors Malvern Star, Peak Bike Hub, Brooks, Giro, Selle SMP and Team Barefoot.
For now it's time to knuckle down and get my mojo back!!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
3 Cracking Races!
One of the greatest attractions to triathlon racing is the amazing locations of races. I love to race on a course that is challenging, scenic and most of all fun. I have come up with a short list of 3 of my favourite races that I have done so far in my triathlon journey. If I can continue to find races like the ones listed below, I will be one happy triathlete for many more years to come!
1. Falls Creek Long Course Triathlon (Vic, AUS)
All time favourite race in an all time favourite location. On a wind-less day when the sun is shinning, Falls is one of the most beautiful places on earth. I grew up tackling the ski slopes of Falls Creek, so when I heard there was going to be a tri at Falls over summer I knew that it would be a must do race. The triathlon which is held in February is of the long course format of 2km/80km/20km.
As the sun rose up over the mountains on race morning I could tell it was going to be one perfect day. The swim was one lap in the icy cool waters of the Rocky Valley Dam, followed by a three lap cycle which had a bit of everything - flat, steep climbs and sharp descents. The day finished off with a stellar 20km run along the aqueduct trail. Some races are just that, a race, but Falls is an experience. It was tough racing; the course was tough, the altitude was tough and the competition was tough, which when combined made for one rippa day out!
2.Alcatraz Triathlon (CA, USA)
I've done the Alcatraz Triathlon twice now, and it is by far one the the best races in the world. It is a tough as nails race. The day begins with competitors jumping from the ferry into the the icy cold San Fransisco waters off Alcatraz Island to battle the current, chop, sharks (??) and poor visibility in an attempt to make it back to dry land in one piece. It is then on to the bike for some challenging riding through the hills of San Fransisco. The run is by far one of the tougher runs going around. A nice 2km flat section at the beginning is followed by some super tough climbing up to the Golden Gate bridge, followed by a touch of sand running and then the torturous sand ladder climb. The return has some stellar views of Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge. An awesome race which should be on every triathletes bucket list!
3. Kansas 70.3 (KS, USA)
"We're not in Kansas anymore Dorothy" was the running theme for the Kansas 70.3. This race was my favourite 70.3 while in the US. The beautiful scenery combined with world class competition in Chrissie Wellington and Leanda Cave made for some memorable racing. To be lining up against two of the greats in the sport was awesome.
The scenery out on the bike course was spectacular, with rolling fields that reminded me of Tassie and the support on course was the best. The run wound and wound thorough the local campgrounds, which made for some nice distraction when the going got tough. It was one of my best 70.3 races of the year. I felt strong, it was fun and I am definitely hoping to get back there next year for some more Wizard of Oz adventures!
So there you have it, 3 cracking races that remind me of why I do this awesome sport.
1. Falls Creek Long Course Triathlon (Vic, AUS)
All time favourite race in an all time favourite location. On a wind-less day when the sun is shinning, Falls is one of the most beautiful places on earth. I grew up tackling the ski slopes of Falls Creek, so when I heard there was going to be a tri at Falls over summer I knew that it would be a must do race. The triathlon which is held in February is of the long course format of 2km/80km/20km.
As the sun rose up over the mountains on race morning I could tell it was going to be one perfect day. The swim was one lap in the icy cool waters of the Rocky Valley Dam, followed by a three lap cycle which had a bit of everything - flat, steep climbs and sharp descents. The day finished off with a stellar 20km run along the aqueduct trail. Some races are just that, a race, but Falls is an experience. It was tough racing; the course was tough, the altitude was tough and the competition was tough, which when combined made for one rippa day out!
2.Alcatraz Triathlon (CA, USA)
I've done the Alcatraz Triathlon twice now, and it is by far one the the best races in the world. It is a tough as nails race. The day begins with competitors jumping from the ferry into the the icy cold San Fransisco waters off Alcatraz Island to battle the current, chop, sharks (??) and poor visibility in an attempt to make it back to dry land in one piece. It is then on to the bike for some challenging riding through the hills of San Fransisco. The run is by far one of the tougher runs going around. A nice 2km flat section at the beginning is followed by some super tough climbing up to the Golden Gate bridge, followed by a touch of sand running and then the torturous sand ladder climb. The return has some stellar views of Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge. An awesome race which should be on every triathletes bucket list!
3. Kansas 70.3 (KS, USA)
"We're not in Kansas anymore Dorothy" was the running theme for the Kansas 70.3. This race was my favourite 70.3 while in the US. The beautiful scenery combined with world class competition in Chrissie Wellington and Leanda Cave made for some memorable racing. To be lining up against two of the greats in the sport was awesome.
The scenery out on the bike course was spectacular, with rolling fields that reminded me of Tassie and the support on course was the best. The run wound and wound thorough the local campgrounds, which made for some nice distraction when the going got tough. It was one of my best 70.3 races of the year. I felt strong, it was fun and I am definitely hoping to get back there next year for some more Wizard of Oz adventures!
So there you have it, 3 cracking races that remind me of why I do this awesome sport.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
A quick blog's a good blog!
Quick update on all things triathlon and training! After returning home from the US 6 weeks ago I had a few weeks break to recharge the batteries. When I have a break, I have a break! I'm really good at doing absolutely nothing...I do pride myself on that. So when it was eventually time to hit the training track again my body certainly felt refreshed and ready to go.
I have put in a good 4 weeks of consistent training and have started to get back into the swing of things. My first race of the Aussie season will be Shepparton 70.3 in a little over a weeks time. The 2010 Shepparton Half Ironman was my first Half Ironman distance triathlon. With 10+ half's now under my belt since my initiation to going long, I am looking at improving on last year's race and having a red hot crack!
When I finished my last race of the US season, the thought of doing another half wasn't so appealing, however with a bit of time off to refresh and re-energize I am really looking forward to getting out there, and I can't wait to be racing again!
In other news, I received my new 2012 Malvern Star Oppy C7 road bike last week and will be taking it for a spin on the weekend which I can't wait for (the rain has been delaying this ride...I don't want to get him dirty on his first outing!). It is one of the lightest bikes I have ever felt, so I can tell we are going to have many a happy day.
No other amazing news to report on...the battle with Melbourne's glorious rainfall patterns continues as do the ever present northerly winds.
I shall try my hardest to be more punctual with next weeks blog...the public holiday just through me out of wack this week!
I have put in a good 4 weeks of consistent training and have started to get back into the swing of things. My first race of the Aussie season will be Shepparton 70.3 in a little over a weeks time. The 2010 Shepparton Half Ironman was my first Half Ironman distance triathlon. With 10+ half's now under my belt since my initiation to going long, I am looking at improving on last year's race and having a red hot crack!
When I finished my last race of the US season, the thought of doing another half wasn't so appealing, however with a bit of time off to refresh and re-energize I am really looking forward to getting out there, and I can't wait to be racing again!
In other news, I received my new 2012 Malvern Star Oppy C7 road bike last week and will be taking it for a spin on the weekend which I can't wait for (the rain has been delaying this ride...I don't want to get him dirty on his first outing!). It is one of the lightest bikes I have ever felt, so I can tell we are going to have many a happy day.
No other amazing news to report on...the battle with Melbourne's glorious rainfall patterns continues as do the ever present northerly winds.
I shall try my hardest to be more punctual with next weeks blog...the public holiday just through me out of wack this week!
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Happy Birthday To Me!
Earlier this week (Monday to be precise) I celebrated my 24th Birthday. As the Happy Birthday song was projected far and wide in commemoration of this glorious day, I was left pondering my ever advancing age and my rapid progression into adulthood (one would think a 24 year should be there already...but apparently not so).
When I was 23 I didn't think I was old at all...quite a spritely young chicken in fact. However, as the 24th of October loomed in the distance, I began to feel an overwhelming sense of oldness approaching me. It seems only yesterday that I finished Uni...but no, it was 3 years ago, and it feels only one more day than yesterday that I finished school...but no, that was in fact 6 years ago!! If I double my age now I would be 48, and if I tripled it I would be 72! But then again, if I halved it I would be 14...and the thought of being 14 and having to go through the grind of school and Uni again isn't so appealing.
When I turned 18, I thought I was so old, then 21 came around and 18 looked so young and 21 was the new old. Now I am 24 they both look juvenile and I feel ancient! I get the sense that this trend may continue for many years to come.
However, it is not all doom and gloom. I can still get into the pool as a 17 year old (which originally I thought was only a slight stretch of the truth, but when I realised that there was actually a 7 year age difference I was quite impressed with myself), get called a 'baby faced' 16 year old by some hobo in NYC, get into the footy as a child (but only if I put my sweet smile on) and get asked when I am finishing school.
So I guess the drift of today's highly intellectual rant is that age is just a number...as much as I'd love to be Benjamin Button (well maybe not, because that was quite a weird concept...rather more like Justin Timberlake in the new movie 'In Time', where the ageing gene in switched off at 25) I will get older but as along as I can keep looking like a baby-faced 16 year old then all is on the right track for years of living the life of a young'un!!
When I was 23 I didn't think I was old at all...quite a spritely young chicken in fact. However, as the 24th of October loomed in the distance, I began to feel an overwhelming sense of oldness approaching me. It seems only yesterday that I finished Uni...but no, it was 3 years ago, and it feels only one more day than yesterday that I finished school...but no, that was in fact 6 years ago!! If I double my age now I would be 48, and if I tripled it I would be 72! But then again, if I halved it I would be 14...and the thought of being 14 and having to go through the grind of school and Uni again isn't so appealing.
When I turned 18, I thought I was so old, then 21 came around and 18 looked so young and 21 was the new old. Now I am 24 they both look juvenile and I feel ancient! I get the sense that this trend may continue for many years to come.
However, it is not all doom and gloom. I can still get into the pool as a 17 year old (which originally I thought was only a slight stretch of the truth, but when I realised that there was actually a 7 year age difference I was quite impressed with myself), get called a 'baby faced' 16 year old by some hobo in NYC, get into the footy as a child (but only if I put my sweet smile on) and get asked when I am finishing school.
So I guess the drift of today's highly intellectual rant is that age is just a number...as much as I'd love to be Benjamin Button (well maybe not, because that was quite a weird concept...rather more like Justin Timberlake in the new movie 'In Time', where the ageing gene in switched off at 25) I will get older but as along as I can keep looking like a baby-faced 16 year old then all is on the right track for years of living the life of a young'un!!
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
It's time to write a list...
It has become apparent that the usual Sunday blog day is no more and it is now in fact ‘hoping for Monday, most likely Tuesday but more often than not Wednesday blog day’. I blame this shift in blog day on the time difference between here and the USA and my lack of adjustment to said time difference. Speaking of adjustments, these past few weeks I have been trying to adjust to life in the Southern part of the world of good coffee, windy weather and expensive movies.
It has come to my attention the countless differences between how we go about our day to day business when compared to our American brothers and sisters. The most notable differences that are taking some time to adjust to include:
1. Good coffee (and no option for a low-fat mocha frappuccino double shot espresso with whip, and as such, no more mind boggling looks when I ask for just my plain jane cappuccino)
2. Expensive movie tickets (a session at the cinema in the US will set you back just $8 plus a free refill of a large popcorn!)
3. Tomato sauce…not ketchup
4. Driving on the left...I still have the odd mind blank which is a little concerning
5. Exy bananas
6. Exy petrol (gas)
6. No more guaranteed blue sky, no wind days of weather
7. No more late morning starts to training…it’s back to bootcamp and 5am starts
8. Unlimited supplies of meat pies, REAL coke, TimTams, Vegemite, Cadbuy chocolate and roast dinners
9. No more free Wifi in practically all public places
10. Actually being able to know how far I have ridden in km rather than miles
11. And finally no more 1kg Chipotle Burritos (which is by far taking the hardest to adjust to life without)
It has come to my attention the countless differences between how we go about our day to day business when compared to our American brothers and sisters. The most notable differences that are taking some time to adjust to include:
1. Good coffee (and no option for a low-fat mocha frappuccino double shot espresso with whip, and as such, no more mind boggling looks when I ask for just my plain jane cappuccino)
2. Expensive movie tickets (a session at the cinema in the US will set you back just $8 plus a free refill of a large popcorn!)
3. Tomato sauce…not ketchup
4. Driving on the left...I still have the odd mind blank which is a little concerning
5. Exy bananas
6. Exy petrol (gas)
6. No more guaranteed blue sky, no wind days of weather
7. No more late morning starts to training…it’s back to bootcamp and 5am starts
8. Unlimited supplies of meat pies, REAL coke, TimTams, Vegemite, Cadbuy chocolate and roast dinners
9. No more free Wifi in practically all public places
10. Actually being able to know how far I have ridden in km rather than miles
11. And finally no more 1kg Chipotle Burritos (which is by far taking the hardest to adjust to life without)
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Where it all began...
I have just spent the past two weeks back home in Tassie. On my to-do list while at home was to sort through the mass of ‘stuff’ I have accumulated over the years. I discovered that I have enough towels, backpacks, drink bottles and running shoes to supply a small army. However, I did also come across a few special things from years ago such as photos, race numbers, trophies and uniforms that reminded me of how I got into this triathlon caper. I often forget to acknowledge how far I have come since my first cross country race way back when, to where I am now, so it was good to come across these reminders.
I find it amazing to hear other people’s stories of how they got into doing their chosen sport. I often get asked how and why I got into doing triathlons, and always reply with the stock standard answer of ‘was a runner, got injured, started to swim and ride’ and leave it at that. However, when I think about it, it has been a bigger, more exciting journey than just that.
I found a love for running when I was about 12. Once I hit high school and everyone else started to grow while I remained the same size, I discovered that I was the perfect build to run long distances. So for the next 6 years that’s what I did. I ran for Tassie at National Cross Country and Track & Field Comps throughout my whole time at high school. I always had the dream of ‘making’ it as a runner; all I wanted to do was run for Australia. While I was good, I was never the best. Then when I was about 18 I was plagued by the dreaded stress-fractures that often hit young female runners. I had to stop running, and it sucked, however in hindsight it was probably one of the best things to happen.
I moved to Melbourne for University when I was 18 and tried to start running again, but it just wasn’t happening. I ended up spending the year partying, getting fat and almost flunking first year Uni. At the end of the year I decided I had to take control and get fit again. For me, if I’m not active and training for something then life sucks. So I knew I needed to do something. I decided to get a bike and start riding and swimming for cross-training. My first bike was a hybrid/commuter. I used to take it on 15km rides and be wiped out for the whole rest of the day!
I had read somewhere about a triathlon in Mordialloc at the end of the year, and decided to enter. So Dad and I rocked up to the tri, we both had no idea what was going on. All I had to wear was my two-piece from running; I didn’t have shoes with elastic laces or any of that jazz. I was the only person without a wetsuit and not on a road bike. I ended up finishing near the back of the pack, however I had a ball. I was hooked. I went back home to Tassie for the summer, bought a road bike, learnt how to ride and then entered my second tri – a beginner tri held in January 2007 at Elwood Beach. I managed to win my age group and thought that was pretty cool, so decided to keep it going. People often say that triathlon is addictive, and it really is. Once you start, all you want to do is get fitter, go further, race more.
After a winter of training under my belt in a squad environment I went up to Noosa and raced my first ‘real’ triathlon –2007 Noosa Tri. I came 2nd in my age group. I then went back to Melbourne and raced the local Gatorade Series Triathlons and took out the Elite Female Series award. It was then that I read that the ITU World Champs were coming to Gold Coast, Australia in 2009. I was going! I trained hard, qualified for the race and came 3rd in my 20-24 age group. A few months later I came 2nd in Mooloolaba tri where I qualified for my pro licence. I then travelled to Singapore in April 2010 for my first taste of international triathlon at the pro level. And boy was it a shock! I had never raced in conditions like it…I was the last finisher, but once again I had caught the bug. All I wanted to do was travel and race. So it was then that Sam and I decided to up sticks and head to Boulder, Colorado for 3 months in 2010. We had both heard so much about Boulder, so we decided to see what all the fuss was about (and the fuss is for a very good reason- the best training environment, the best facilities, and the best athletes in the world are all there). It was a pretty big risk – I had only raced in one pro race. But I wanted to give it a crack.
I ended up racing 4 races in the 2010 US season and trained alongside some of the best names in the sport. Those 3 months gave me a taste of what it was like to race and train as a pro athlete. That US season set me up for a successful 2010/11 season back in Australia where I started to post some solid results at the half ironman distance. It was then that I decided to try and qualify for the World 70.3 Champs (held in Las Vegas one month ago). This meant going back to the US in 2011 and step it up to racing against the best girls in the world at the half ironman distance. I managed to score some good results, got my butt kicked in a few others and made it to the Worlds, where I finished 17th Pro Female.
When I think back to this time 5 years ago when I was contemplating my first triathlon to where I am now I am truly grateful to have the opportunity to pursue what I love. If the past 5 years are anything to go by, the next 5 are going to be even better :)
I find it amazing to hear other people’s stories of how they got into doing their chosen sport. I often get asked how and why I got into doing triathlons, and always reply with the stock standard answer of ‘was a runner, got injured, started to swim and ride’ and leave it at that. However, when I think about it, it has been a bigger, more exciting journey than just that.
I found a love for running when I was about 12. Once I hit high school and everyone else started to grow while I remained the same size, I discovered that I was the perfect build to run long distances. So for the next 6 years that’s what I did. I ran for Tassie at National Cross Country and Track & Field Comps throughout my whole time at high school. I always had the dream of ‘making’ it as a runner; all I wanted to do was run for Australia. While I was good, I was never the best. Then when I was about 18 I was plagued by the dreaded stress-fractures that often hit young female runners. I had to stop running, and it sucked, however in hindsight it was probably one of the best things to happen.
I moved to Melbourne for University when I was 18 and tried to start running again, but it just wasn’t happening. I ended up spending the year partying, getting fat and almost flunking first year Uni. At the end of the year I decided I had to take control and get fit again. For me, if I’m not active and training for something then life sucks. So I knew I needed to do something. I decided to get a bike and start riding and swimming for cross-training. My first bike was a hybrid/commuter. I used to take it on 15km rides and be wiped out for the whole rest of the day!
I had read somewhere about a triathlon in Mordialloc at the end of the year, and decided to enter. So Dad and I rocked up to the tri, we both had no idea what was going on. All I had to wear was my two-piece from running; I didn’t have shoes with elastic laces or any of that jazz. I was the only person without a wetsuit and not on a road bike. I ended up finishing near the back of the pack, however I had a ball. I was hooked. I went back home to Tassie for the summer, bought a road bike, learnt how to ride and then entered my second tri – a beginner tri held in January 2007 at Elwood Beach. I managed to win my age group and thought that was pretty cool, so decided to keep it going. People often say that triathlon is addictive, and it really is. Once you start, all you want to do is get fitter, go further, race more.
After a winter of training under my belt in a squad environment I went up to Noosa and raced my first ‘real’ triathlon –2007 Noosa Tri. I came 2nd in my age group. I then went back to Melbourne and raced the local Gatorade Series Triathlons and took out the Elite Female Series award. It was then that I read that the ITU World Champs were coming to Gold Coast, Australia in 2009. I was going! I trained hard, qualified for the race and came 3rd in my 20-24 age group. A few months later I came 2nd in Mooloolaba tri where I qualified for my pro licence. I then travelled to Singapore in April 2010 for my first taste of international triathlon at the pro level. And boy was it a shock! I had never raced in conditions like it…I was the last finisher, but once again I had caught the bug. All I wanted to do was travel and race. So it was then that Sam and I decided to up sticks and head to Boulder, Colorado for 3 months in 2010. We had both heard so much about Boulder, so we decided to see what all the fuss was about (and the fuss is for a very good reason- the best training environment, the best facilities, and the best athletes in the world are all there). It was a pretty big risk – I had only raced in one pro race. But I wanted to give it a crack.
I ended up racing 4 races in the 2010 US season and trained alongside some of the best names in the sport. Those 3 months gave me a taste of what it was like to race and train as a pro athlete. That US season set me up for a successful 2010/11 season back in Australia where I started to post some solid results at the half ironman distance. It was then that I decided to try and qualify for the World 70.3 Champs (held in Las Vegas one month ago). This meant going back to the US in 2011 and step it up to racing against the best girls in the world at the half ironman distance. I managed to score some good results, got my butt kicked in a few others and made it to the Worlds, where I finished 17th Pro Female.
When I think back to this time 5 years ago when I was contemplating my first triathlon to where I am now I am truly grateful to have the opportunity to pursue what I love. If the past 5 years are anything to go by, the next 5 are going to be even better :)
Monday, October 3, 2011
Back on the Bike
After a two week hiatus from all things triathlon I thought it about time to get back on my bicycle...and what better way to get back into the swing of things than a ride on some of the best roads that Tassie has on offer.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Home Sweet Home
This week’s blog is coming from downtown Launceston…a little different to where I was this time last week in downtown New York! After racing Syracuse 70.3 Mum and I headed to NYC for a few days of seeing the sights. One word to describe…amazing! It was the highlight of my trip and I definitely want to get back there again one day. So much to do, so much to see.
After New York I headed back to Boulder for a few final days. I’m on a break from training at the moment so it was a little strange being there and just relaxing…but certainly very nice. After packing up and saying our final adios Sam and I made the trek back to the land of Oz. We spent the afternoon in Santa Monica on Sunday before getting on the plane to Melbourne on Sunday night. After what seemed forever we finally made it Melb where I said another adios, this time to Sam, and then jumped on a plane to Launceston.
It’s so good to be home and just chill out for a while. My first meal back home was a meat pie and coke…not the most athlete friendly meal, but as I said it’s break time and that means one thing - doing not much and eating whatever takes my fancy! If I end up as an oompa loompa in the next few weeks you’ll know why!
I’m going to spend the next few weeks at home studying for my exams at Uni and evaluating the season I have just had. It is one thing to do all these races and training, but it is so important to learn from each and every experience. It would all be a waste of time if I didn’t take anything away from it, so I will go through what I have learnt and what I need to do to keep on improving. I will also come up with a racing plan for the upcoming Aussie tri season and also just a plan for life in general…
It has been a massive season. I have had some great results as well as some that I would rather forget. The biggest lesson I have learnt is this journey is not an easy one. People don’t lie when they say if it were easy then everyone would be doing it. It is tough, but making it as a professional athlete is my goal and has been for as long as I can remember. If I can continue to show improvement each year, continue to learn and continue to receive the support that I do, then I know that I will one day make it and it will all pay off.
Until next time, thank you to everyone who has continued to support me over the past few months while overseas. It is great to know there is support coming from home.
For now it’s time to adapt to driving on the left, cafes with no free Wi-Fi , and endless amounts of vegemite and good coffee!
After New York I headed back to Boulder for a few final days. I’m on a break from training at the moment so it was a little strange being there and just relaxing…but certainly very nice. After packing up and saying our final adios Sam and I made the trek back to the land of Oz. We spent the afternoon in Santa Monica on Sunday before getting on the plane to Melbourne on Sunday night. After what seemed forever we finally made it Melb where I said another adios, this time to Sam, and then jumped on a plane to Launceston.
It’s so good to be home and just chill out for a while. My first meal back home was a meat pie and coke…not the most athlete friendly meal, but as I said it’s break time and that means one thing - doing not much and eating whatever takes my fancy! If I end up as an oompa loompa in the next few weeks you’ll know why!
I’m going to spend the next few weeks at home studying for my exams at Uni and evaluating the season I have just had. It is one thing to do all these races and training, but it is so important to learn from each and every experience. It would all be a waste of time if I didn’t take anything away from it, so I will go through what I have learnt and what I need to do to keep on improving. I will also come up with a racing plan for the upcoming Aussie tri season and also just a plan for life in general…
It has been a massive season. I have had some great results as well as some that I would rather forget. The biggest lesson I have learnt is this journey is not an easy one. People don’t lie when they say if it were easy then everyone would be doing it. It is tough, but making it as a professional athlete is my goal and has been for as long as I can remember. If I can continue to show improvement each year, continue to learn and continue to receive the support that I do, then I know that I will one day make it and it will all pay off.
Until next time, thank you to everyone who has continued to support me over the past few months while overseas. It is great to know there is support coming from home.
For now it’s time to adapt to driving on the left, cafes with no free Wi-Fi , and endless amounts of vegemite and good coffee!
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Syracuse 70.3 Race Report
Today was the final race of my 2011 US season – Syracuse 70.3. I knew backing up from World Champs 70.3 just 7 days ago was going to be tough…but I underestimated just how tough it would actually be!
Mum and I flew from Vegas to Syracuse on Wednesday. It was nice to have a few extra days to chill out in Syracuse before race day on Sunday. We had a great homestay with fellow pro athlete Kristen White and her two children Maggie and Phoebe. I did very little training during the week, just the odd swim, bike and run to keep the muscles moving.
Raced day eventually rolled around. I was feeling pretty good and not too sore from last week. Syracuse was a lot cooler than Vegas…with a 20 degree temp difference on race morning. The field was once again stacked with the likes of Nikki Butterfield, Caroline Steffen and Sam Wariner all racing (who ended up 1, 2, and 3).
I had a great swim exiting the water with the lead girl, and then headed out on to the bike in 1st place. However, that was the highlight of my day. From about 30km into the bike I started to really feel the effects of last week and struggled my way to the finish. I ended up crossing the line in 9th place and was the most exhausted I have been...not my finest hours!
In the past year I’ve done 10 half ironman’s so it is well and truly time for a break. For the next few weeks I’m going to sleep lots, eat lots and do anything that doesn’t involve a pair of bathers, a bike or running shoes!
A huge congrats to my coach Josh Rix for placing a stellar 3rd at Syracuse! Thank you so much to Kristin, Maggie and Phoebe for providing a great homestay. Huge thankyou to my Mum for travelling with me and for her cheering with Jemma Rix. Once again, big thanks to my sponsors Malvern Star, Peak Bike Hub, Giro, Selle SMP and Brooks.
For now it’s off to New York for an end of season trip (with Mum!) and then back to Boulder for a few days, before heading back to Aus to watch Hawthorn in the GF!
Mum and I flew from Vegas to Syracuse on Wednesday. It was nice to have a few extra days to chill out in Syracuse before race day on Sunday. We had a great homestay with fellow pro athlete Kristen White and her two children Maggie and Phoebe. I did very little training during the week, just the odd swim, bike and run to keep the muscles moving.
Raced day eventually rolled around. I was feeling pretty good and not too sore from last week. Syracuse was a lot cooler than Vegas…with a 20 degree temp difference on race morning. The field was once again stacked with the likes of Nikki Butterfield, Caroline Steffen and Sam Wariner all racing (who ended up 1, 2, and 3).
I had a great swim exiting the water with the lead girl, and then headed out on to the bike in 1st place. However, that was the highlight of my day. From about 30km into the bike I started to really feel the effects of last week and struggled my way to the finish. I ended up crossing the line in 9th place and was the most exhausted I have been...not my finest hours!
In the past year I’ve done 10 half ironman’s so it is well and truly time for a break. For the next few weeks I’m going to sleep lots, eat lots and do anything that doesn’t involve a pair of bathers, a bike or running shoes!
A huge congrats to my coach Josh Rix for placing a stellar 3rd at Syracuse! Thank you so much to Kristin, Maggie and Phoebe for providing a great homestay. Huge thankyou to my Mum for travelling with me and for her cheering with Jemma Rix. Once again, big thanks to my sponsors Malvern Star, Peak Bike Hub, Giro, Selle SMP and Brooks.
For now it’s off to New York for an end of season trip (with Mum!) and then back to Boulder for a few days, before heading back to Aus to watch Hawthorn in the GF!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
World 70.3 Champs Race Report
The goal for the 2011 season was to get on that start line for the World 70.3 Championships. After six months of jammed packed racing across Australia and the US, I achieved that goal and have just completed my first World Champs race as a pro triathlete. I had no expectations going into this race. Considering I was the youngest in the pro field and hadn't raced a single 70.3 this time last year, I was just stoked to have the opportunity to race against some of the best athletes in the world, and I was looking at gaining as much experience as possible.
We arrived in Vegas on the Friday before the race. Saturday was spent registering, bike racking and general race prep. After a feast of Dads cooking on Saturday night it was time to hit the sack and dream sweet dreams of what Sunday would bring.
Race day kicked off with a 4am wake-up. As we drove down to race site, a few drops of rain began to fall. However, that would be all the rain that we'd see for the day, which saw the temps creep up into the high 30's. After setting up transition and checking my bike about 50 times over, it was time to head down to the start of the 1.9km swim. At 6.30am the cannon sounded for the pro men, and 2 minutes later 28 of us girls were sent on our way.
The swim was a fairly simple out and back in Lake Las Vegas. It was great for spectators since we got to swim under the main pedestrian bridge. I had on of my best swims to date. I managed to find some feet to sit on and felt in control for the most part of it, exiting the water in about 11th place. After an epic 500m run into transition, I found my bike and was on my way, ready to tackle one of the toughest bike courses going around.
80km of the 90km bike course is either up or down...no flat. I felt great for the first 50-60km. I was attacking the downhills and hitting the uphills hard. I was holding my position and feeling strong. However at about 60km I started to really feel it. The light-headiness started to kick in and I felt like I was going backward. I had just learnt one of the biggest lessons of the day...pacing and nutrition. I had probably gone out a little to hard for such a tough course and hadn't got enough gels in early on. As such, I paid for it for the next 2 hours for the race. However the final 10km of the ride is pretty awesome with speccy views of the Vegas Strip, so that took the mind off the hurt for a bit! I ended up getting off the bike in about 19th place.
The 21.2km run continued on with the theme of the day of hills. 2 mile up hill, 2 mile down hill. It was great to see Mum, Dad and Sam on the side lines cheering me on, and it gave me that little bit of extra energy to get to that finish line. It was tough, but still fun! It was also awesome to see fellow Aussie Mel Rollison smashing the course and running herself into 1st place. Thoroughly deserved!!
After a long, tough, fun day I crossed the line in 17th place pro female. I was so happy to finish and get a top 20 placing in my first year as a 70.3 athlete. I have learnt so many valuable lessons this season...the biggest being that I have to be patient. I'm the youngest out there by far. As long as I stay focused and injury free and keep improving, my time will come. One day I will win that race!
The hugest thank you to Mum, Dad and Sam for providing the greatest support. Not just on race day, but all the time. To my coach Josh...we've come a long way in a few years. To everyone back home (including Laura!), the messages of support means the world. And to my sponsors Malvern Star, Peak Bike Hub, Brooks, Giro and Selle SMP for believing in me. It has been a great ride so far, with plenty more to come!
We arrived in Vegas on the Friday before the race. Saturday was spent registering, bike racking and general race prep. After a feast of Dads cooking on Saturday night it was time to hit the sack and dream sweet dreams of what Sunday would bring.
Race day kicked off with a 4am wake-up. As we drove down to race site, a few drops of rain began to fall. However, that would be all the rain that we'd see for the day, which saw the temps creep up into the high 30's. After setting up transition and checking my bike about 50 times over, it was time to head down to the start of the 1.9km swim. At 6.30am the cannon sounded for the pro men, and 2 minutes later 28 of us girls were sent on our way.
The swim was a fairly simple out and back in Lake Las Vegas. It was great for spectators since we got to swim under the main pedestrian bridge. I had on of my best swims to date. I managed to find some feet to sit on and felt in control for the most part of it, exiting the water in about 11th place. After an epic 500m run into transition, I found my bike and was on my way, ready to tackle one of the toughest bike courses going around.
80km of the 90km bike course is either up or down...no flat. I felt great for the first 50-60km. I was attacking the downhills and hitting the uphills hard. I was holding my position and feeling strong. However at about 60km I started to really feel it. The light-headiness started to kick in and I felt like I was going backward. I had just learnt one of the biggest lessons of the day...pacing and nutrition. I had probably gone out a little to hard for such a tough course and hadn't got enough gels in early on. As such, I paid for it for the next 2 hours for the race. However the final 10km of the ride is pretty awesome with speccy views of the Vegas Strip, so that took the mind off the hurt for a bit! I ended up getting off the bike in about 19th place.
The 21.2km run continued on with the theme of the day of hills. 2 mile up hill, 2 mile down hill. It was great to see Mum, Dad and Sam on the side lines cheering me on, and it gave me that little bit of extra energy to get to that finish line. It was tough, but still fun! It was also awesome to see fellow Aussie Mel Rollison smashing the course and running herself into 1st place. Thoroughly deserved!!
After a long, tough, fun day I crossed the line in 17th place pro female. I was so happy to finish and get a top 20 placing in my first year as a 70.3 athlete. I have learnt so many valuable lessons this season...the biggest being that I have to be patient. I'm the youngest out there by far. As long as I stay focused and injury free and keep improving, my time will come. One day I will win that race!
The hugest thank you to Mum, Dad and Sam for providing the greatest support. Not just on race day, but all the time. To my coach Josh...we've come a long way in a few years. To everyone back home (including Laura!), the messages of support means the world. And to my sponsors Malvern Star, Peak Bike Hub, Brooks, Giro and Selle SMP for believing in me. It has been a great ride so far, with plenty more to come!
Monday, September 5, 2011
Gotta love a good roast!
Phew...another week has come and gone just like that!!
Last week I put in the final few big training sessions before backing it off this week for a full week of taper in prep for Vegas. For my past races I only tapered about 4 days out from race day, so it has been nice to start it a little earlier this time around to make sure my body is feeling ready and raring to go come race day on Sunday. I am feeling good and looking forward to racing!
Big news of the week was the arrival of Mum to Boulder. It has been fun showing her around what has been my 'home town' for the past 3 months. I've taken her to the iconic Pearl Street Mall where there are all the Mum kind of shops, as well as the market, all you can eat brunch, and a drive up in the hills. She has also come through with the goods and cooked a rippa roast the other night followed by a curry the next night! It has been good to have some Mum love the week before a big race...prefect timing Penny.
The next few days will be pretty cruisy before heading to Vegas on Friday. The temps seem to have dropped a little which sounds nice. After the race we'll spend a few extra days in Vegas before heading to Syracuse, NY for one final hoorah at the Syracuse 70.3. Then it's onto NYC for a few days of sight seeing, shopping and the like.
The nights are starting to get darker earlier and there is a definite crisp in the air. Summer is on its way out over this side of the world...it's almost time to make the long trek back home to Aus for summer #2!!
Last week I put in the final few big training sessions before backing it off this week for a full week of taper in prep for Vegas. For my past races I only tapered about 4 days out from race day, so it has been nice to start it a little earlier this time around to make sure my body is feeling ready and raring to go come race day on Sunday. I am feeling good and looking forward to racing!
Big news of the week was the arrival of Mum to Boulder. It has been fun showing her around what has been my 'home town' for the past 3 months. I've taken her to the iconic Pearl Street Mall where there are all the Mum kind of shops, as well as the market, all you can eat brunch, and a drive up in the hills. She has also come through with the goods and cooked a rippa roast the other night followed by a curry the next night! It has been good to have some Mum love the week before a big race...prefect timing Penny.
The next few days will be pretty cruisy before heading to Vegas on Friday. The temps seem to have dropped a little which sounds nice. After the race we'll spend a few extra days in Vegas before heading to Syracuse, NY for one final hoorah at the Syracuse 70.3. Then it's onto NYC for a few days of sight seeing, shopping and the like.
The nights are starting to get darker earlier and there is a definite crisp in the air. Summer is on its way out over this side of the world...it's almost time to make the long trek back home to Aus for summer #2!!
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Time Flys...
Firstly apologies for the delay of the weekly blog... I actually don't have an excuse, other than the fact that the weeks roll by so quickly and before I know it Sunday is upon me and it's time to blog! However this week Sunday rolled on by and I got a little confused with the days, so anyway here is Tuesday and it is time for the weekly blog.
I signed off last weeks blog post-race from San Fransisco. Monday was one epic day of travel...what should take about 3-4 hours ended up taking 10+ hours due to a few delays and wotnot. This wasn't too much fun when I felt hungover for the entire day (but I actually wasn't, hadn't even had one drop of wine...go figure!). Anyway I think lack of sleep + a little dehydration may be the culprit.
I pulled up pretty sore from Alcatraz Tri...even more sore than what I get from a Half Ironman. Once again not too sure of the reasoning, maybe it was that torturous sand ladder!! So it was Wednesday before I got back into the swing of training. I put in a few great rides as well as some training in the heat of the day to prep for scorching temps at Vegas, and I finished off the week with a very nice solid 20km run on Sunday arvo.
Vegas 70.3 is only about 12 days from now so I will start to wind down the training and get my body fresh and ready to race. I'm looking forward to putting all my hard work to good use come race day...and then hit the pokies afterwards!
Exciting news of the week - Mum arrives in Boulder in 2 more sleeps!! Looking forward to showing her the sights and getting a good feed or two. Might even offer her the novelty of doing my washing if she is feeling super generous!
It is crazy how quickly time has flown over here. Only a handful of weeks and a few races to go and then I'll be on my way back home ready to tackle the Aussie tri season. Happy days :)
I signed off last weeks blog post-race from San Fransisco. Monday was one epic day of travel...what should take about 3-4 hours ended up taking 10+ hours due to a few delays and wotnot. This wasn't too much fun when I felt hungover for the entire day (but I actually wasn't, hadn't even had one drop of wine...go figure!). Anyway I think lack of sleep + a little dehydration may be the culprit.
I pulled up pretty sore from Alcatraz Tri...even more sore than what I get from a Half Ironman. Once again not too sure of the reasoning, maybe it was that torturous sand ladder!! So it was Wednesday before I got back into the swing of training. I put in a few great rides as well as some training in the heat of the day to prep for scorching temps at Vegas, and I finished off the week with a very nice solid 20km run on Sunday arvo.
Vegas 70.3 is only about 12 days from now so I will start to wind down the training and get my body fresh and ready to race. I'm looking forward to putting all my hard work to good use come race day...and then hit the pokies afterwards!
Exciting news of the week - Mum arrives in Boulder in 2 more sleeps!! Looking forward to showing her the sights and getting a good feed or two. Might even offer her the novelty of doing my washing if she is feeling super generous!
It is crazy how quickly time has flown over here. Only a handful of weeks and a few races to go and then I'll be on my way back home ready to tackle the Aussie tri season. Happy days :)
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Alcatraz Tri - 3rd!
When deciding my race calendar for the 2011 US season I made sure to fit in the Alcatraz Triathlon. This was my 2nd year racing at Alcatraz and it truly is one special race!
Race morning kicked off at 5.30am with a bus trip from transition to the ferry terminal. It was then onto the boat with some 800 other crazy triathletes bound for Alcatraz Island. After about an hour of sitting on the boat trying to keep the nerves calm, stay warm and prepare for plunging into the 15 degree (shark-infested??) water, it was time to go! At 7am the horn sounded and before I knew it we were jumping off the boat into the sea below.
The initial chill of the water doesn't quite hit until about mid-way into the swim once the adrenaline rush starts to wear off. However, there is plenty to take the mind off the cold, like where IS the swim exit?? The distance from the shore combined with the current and chop make sighting in the swim really tough. At times I couldn't see anyone or any boats around me and started to get a little concerned as to where everyone had disappeared to... Although eventually I could make out some flags on the shore, so put my head down in an effort to get out of the freezing water asap! To make it a little more fun, we had to swim a 1/2 mile further than last year (past transition). As such we had a mini 4th leg of the triathlon with an 800m run from swim exit back to the bike. This was actually pretty good as it helped get me warm for the cycle.
I exited the swim in 5th place and soon went about trying to make up some time on the 25 mile bike leg. The bike course took us through the hills surrounding the Golden Gate Bridge, then down onto the Great Hwy for an out and back section, before entering the Presidio for a gradual climb and finally back through the hills. It's a great ride with a bit of everything. It's important to focus on pushing hard the whole way as it's easy to back off on the downhills if the mind wanders. My bike split was 4min faster than last year which is always good to know!
Out onto the 7 mile run, and I was still sitting in 5th so knew I had to put in a strong run if I wanted to improve on last years 5th place. The run begins with a 2km long flat section, followed by a climb up to the Golden Gate Bridge. We then dropped down to the beach for 400m of sand running before coming face to face with the 400 step sand ladder. This is the toughest part of the whole race, with what seems like 400 steps of pure pain. I had managed to run into 3rd place at this stage, however the girl in 4th was starting to make up some ground so I knew as soon as I hit the top of the ladder it was time to get going, not look back and hold on. I made sure I pushed the down hills and finished strong along the final 2km flat section.
I ended up crossing the line in 3rd place with the fastest run split of the day. I was aiming for a podium finish so was stoked to come in 3rd. It's an awesome race and if anyone ever has the opportunity to do it I would definitely recommend!
Massive thanks to Sam and Bos for their awesome cheering! Also to Tri-California for putting on such a great race and looking after us for the weekend.
Big thank you to Malvern Star, Brooks, Selle SMP and Giro for backing me, as well as Josh for continuing to work with me.
Now it's back to Boulder for 3 weeks of training before hitting the World 70.3 Champs in Vegas on Sept 11 followed by one last race of the US season at Syracuse 70.3.
Race morning kicked off at 5.30am with a bus trip from transition to the ferry terminal. It was then onto the boat with some 800 other crazy triathletes bound for Alcatraz Island. After about an hour of sitting on the boat trying to keep the nerves calm, stay warm and prepare for plunging into the 15 degree (shark-infested??) water, it was time to go! At 7am the horn sounded and before I knew it we were jumping off the boat into the sea below.
The initial chill of the water doesn't quite hit until about mid-way into the swim once the adrenaline rush starts to wear off. However, there is plenty to take the mind off the cold, like where IS the swim exit?? The distance from the shore combined with the current and chop make sighting in the swim really tough. At times I couldn't see anyone or any boats around me and started to get a little concerned as to where everyone had disappeared to... Although eventually I could make out some flags on the shore, so put my head down in an effort to get out of the freezing water asap! To make it a little more fun, we had to swim a 1/2 mile further than last year (past transition). As such we had a mini 4th leg of the triathlon with an 800m run from swim exit back to the bike. This was actually pretty good as it helped get me warm for the cycle.
I exited the swim in 5th place and soon went about trying to make up some time on the 25 mile bike leg. The bike course took us through the hills surrounding the Golden Gate Bridge, then down onto the Great Hwy for an out and back section, before entering the Presidio for a gradual climb and finally back through the hills. It's a great ride with a bit of everything. It's important to focus on pushing hard the whole way as it's easy to back off on the downhills if the mind wanders. My bike split was 4min faster than last year which is always good to know!
Out onto the 7 mile run, and I was still sitting in 5th so knew I had to put in a strong run if I wanted to improve on last years 5th place. The run begins with a 2km long flat section, followed by a climb up to the Golden Gate Bridge. We then dropped down to the beach for 400m of sand running before coming face to face with the 400 step sand ladder. This is the toughest part of the whole race, with what seems like 400 steps of pure pain. I had managed to run into 3rd place at this stage, however the girl in 4th was starting to make up some ground so I knew as soon as I hit the top of the ladder it was time to get going, not look back and hold on. I made sure I pushed the down hills and finished strong along the final 2km flat section.
I ended up crossing the line in 3rd place with the fastest run split of the day. I was aiming for a podium finish so was stoked to come in 3rd. It's an awesome race and if anyone ever has the opportunity to do it I would definitely recommend!
Massive thanks to Sam and Bos for their awesome cheering! Also to Tri-California for putting on such a great race and looking after us for the weekend.
Big thank you to Malvern Star, Brooks, Selle SMP and Giro for backing me, as well as Josh for continuing to work with me.
Now it's back to Boulder for 3 weeks of training before hitting the World 70.3 Champs in Vegas on Sept 11 followed by one last race of the US season at Syracuse 70.3.
Monday, August 15, 2011
YouTube Funnies
At the moment I'm supposed to be writing an assignment for Uni, but true to form my procastination skills have taken over. Assignment writing and YouTube watching seem to go hand in hand. As such I thought it appropriate to post some of my fav YouTubes for this weeks blog and spread the procastination bug around! Enjoy :)
This one is my all time favoutite!
Pretty cute Panda...
Very American football...but so good!
Best day of my life...
Funny
Not bad for a 12 year old!
This one goes for a while but it is worth it...amazing
This one is my all time favoutite!
Pretty cute Panda...
Very American football...but so good!
Best day of my life...
Funny
Not bad for a 12 year old!
This one goes for a while but it is worth it...amazing
Monday, August 8, 2011
Boulder Blog
It feels as though it was only last week that Sam and I arrived in Boulder for 4 months of training and racing, yet 10 weeks have already passed! Since my last race which was in Muncie at the beginning of July, I have put in 4 weeks of tough, consistent training. The key for me in getting fit is consistency - doing the same core sessions week in week out. This gives me a way to gauge my progress and to see which areas need more work. At times it feels like Groundhog Day - wake up, breakfast #1, train, breakfast #2, train, lunch, sleep, train, dinner, repeat.. However I know how lucky I am to have this opportunity and wouldn't have it any other way.
If someone were to create the ideal location to train for triathlon, then Boulder would certainly tick most of the criteria. There is no worrying about what the weather will do tomorrow and whether or not it will affect the planned training session as every morning without fail the sky is blue and filled with sunshine!
Over the past few weeks I have managed to rack up some of my biggest run and ride weeks. My times in training have been getting quicker each week and I am feeling stronger and fitter. One of the most important things for me to remember when training so often and up this high is to focus on recovery and food. Sometimes I get super tired, but it's often because I haven't eaten enough following a session or have missed my miday nap (hard life I know!!) However I am continually learning about my body and how much I can push it before I cross that fine line of over training.
Last week I went on two awesome rides - one to a place called Carter Lake. It's a great view - just like the dam at the top of Falls Creek...ah the serenity. The second ride was up a climb following the Big Thompson River. It was a tough ride, but the views on the way up made it that bit sweeter.
We also did a great run up at a place called Eldorado Canyon. 20km of hills, views, trails and the odd snake or two.
I was also going to race in the local Stroke and Stride event last Wednesday night to get some open water swimming practice in but the swim was cancelled due to lightening which was a bit of a bummer! Maybe this week :)
In about 10 days time Sam and I are off to San Fran for the Alcatraz Triathlon. Behind Falls Creek Tri, Alcatraz would have to be one of my favourites. It is so unpredictable as anything can happen in the swim and on the run with the 100 step stair climb...but that's what makes it fun!!
Following on from Alcatraz I'll have 2 weeks until Vegas World Champs which are on September 11. All is on track for a good race and I can't wait to get out there!
If someone were to create the ideal location to train for triathlon, then Boulder would certainly tick most of the criteria. There is no worrying about what the weather will do tomorrow and whether or not it will affect the planned training session as every morning without fail the sky is blue and filled with sunshine!
Over the past few weeks I have managed to rack up some of my biggest run and ride weeks. My times in training have been getting quicker each week and I am feeling stronger and fitter. One of the most important things for me to remember when training so often and up this high is to focus on recovery and food. Sometimes I get super tired, but it's often because I haven't eaten enough following a session or have missed my miday nap (hard life I know!!) However I am continually learning about my body and how much I can push it before I cross that fine line of over training.
Last week I went on two awesome rides - one to a place called Carter Lake. It's a great view - just like the dam at the top of Falls Creek...ah the serenity. The second ride was up a climb following the Big Thompson River. It was a tough ride, but the views on the way up made it that bit sweeter.
We also did a great run up at a place called Eldorado Canyon. 20km of hills, views, trails and the odd snake or two.
I was also going to race in the local Stroke and Stride event last Wednesday night to get some open water swimming practice in but the swim was cancelled due to lightening which was a bit of a bummer! Maybe this week :)
In about 10 days time Sam and I are off to San Fran for the Alcatraz Triathlon. Behind Falls Creek Tri, Alcatraz would have to be one of my favourites. It is so unpredictable as anything can happen in the swim and on the run with the 100 step stair climb...but that's what makes it fun!!
Following on from Alcatraz I'll have 2 weeks until Vegas World Champs which are on September 11. All is on track for a good race and I can't wait to get out there!
Monday, August 1, 2011
Thirst Quencher
When it comes to training in Boulder, there is very little that could be improved on. The sun is shinning 99% of the time, there are endless trails to run on, the most scenic and hilly roads to ride on and a swim squad filled with the best names in the game to swim with.
However, unlike in Melbourne where a drinking fountain or tap can easily be accessed on demand, Boulder does lack this one essential novelty. Normally I can push through a run without having to ingest much or any fluid. However, over here it is so hot and humid that I find my self scrambling for water at any opportunity.
After my first few runs where I almost keeled over from dehydration, I am now accompanied by my small trusty drinking flask (8oz to be precise) for most of my runs (very novel of me I know). This is all well and good until the fluid in that 8oz drinking flask runs out...as I learnt last week.
I was down to do a 90min run with about 30min of effort in the middle. So off I trotted with gel in one hand, drinking flask in other and a 35+ degree day on the way. All was going swimmingly up until about 60min into the run. I had just finished my efforts, downed a gel and before I knew it I was down to my last drop of water...and I still had 30min to go. Now when I say there are no drinking fountains or taps in Boulder, I really do mean that. Not even a Servo has a communal tap (well there is this one servo but they charge 50 cents to fill up with water...absurd!). Anyway back on with the tale...30min of run to go, dehydration kicking in, but I know I have to just guts it out and get home.
All was on track to get home unscathed until out of the corner of my eye I spotted the sweet sight of a cool, flowing river. NO! I tell myself. Resist the urge...you don't know where that water has been. But then I hear YES! YES! water! Hunters and gatherers always drink out of rivers, the water will be fine, it's flowing, forget about the cows upstream and the sprawl of civilisation surrounding the river, it will be the sweetest most satisfying water you have ever tasted. I decided to reason with myself, a splash on the face, no water in the mouth, you'll be on your way, all will be fine. So with sweat pouring off my face I make my way over to the river, the sweet succulent water drags me in and before I know it I'm guzzling down the water like there's no tomorrow. STOP! STOP! I tell myself, you will pay for this, your guts will protest. I somehow manage to pull myself away, but not before I have downed about half a litre of this suspect water and copped a few questionable looks from passers by. Anyway, I give my self a quick once over, guts seem to be fine, thirst quenched, body temperature returning to normal and I'm on my way.
How great I think to myself. I have now found an endless supply of water for my runs, no more suffering in the heat of the day...genius. That is until I return home where I decide to bring up this topic of conversation at the dinner table with our homestay host Pam. Pam I say, would you drink the water from the river down the road?? Her reaction almost sent me through the roof. I actually thought she was about to pop out a baby (albeit 7 months early) with her level of exclamation. You what! No way! That's disgusting. Your going to get giardiasis . I turn to Sam for some sort of reassurance, but he is in on it too. But I was soo thirsty I protest! Neither will have a bar of it, you will pay they say.
For the rest of the day I am paying extra attention to my body's vital signs, making sure that a toilet is in close proximity at all times in case the dreaded giardiasis decides to show itself. However, as the day progresses the signs of a backlash seem more and more unlikely, until it comes to the stage where I can diagnose my self with the all clear. Phew, you were lucky I say to myself! However on reflection, if faced with the same dire situation again, I am sure that I would once again be sucked into that succulent cool flowing water, however next time I WILL NOT let that sweet succulent cool water pass my lips.
However, unlike in Melbourne where a drinking fountain or tap can easily be accessed on demand, Boulder does lack this one essential novelty. Normally I can push through a run without having to ingest much or any fluid. However, over here it is so hot and humid that I find my self scrambling for water at any opportunity.
After my first few runs where I almost keeled over from dehydration, I am now accompanied by my small trusty drinking flask (8oz to be precise) for most of my runs (very novel of me I know). This is all well and good until the fluid in that 8oz drinking flask runs out...as I learnt last week.
I was down to do a 90min run with about 30min of effort in the middle. So off I trotted with gel in one hand, drinking flask in other and a 35+ degree day on the way. All was going swimmingly up until about 60min into the run. I had just finished my efforts, downed a gel and before I knew it I was down to my last drop of water...and I still had 30min to go. Now when I say there are no drinking fountains or taps in Boulder, I really do mean that. Not even a Servo has a communal tap (well there is this one servo but they charge 50 cents to fill up with water...absurd!). Anyway back on with the tale...30min of run to go, dehydration kicking in, but I know I have to just guts it out and get home.
All was on track to get home unscathed until out of the corner of my eye I spotted the sweet sight of a cool, flowing river. NO! I tell myself. Resist the urge...you don't know where that water has been. But then I hear YES! YES! water! Hunters and gatherers always drink out of rivers, the water will be fine, it's flowing, forget about the cows upstream and the sprawl of civilisation surrounding the river, it will be the sweetest most satisfying water you have ever tasted. I decided to reason with myself, a splash on the face, no water in the mouth, you'll be on your way, all will be fine. So with sweat pouring off my face I make my way over to the river, the sweet succulent water drags me in and before I know it I'm guzzling down the water like there's no tomorrow. STOP! STOP! I tell myself, you will pay for this, your guts will protest. I somehow manage to pull myself away, but not before I have downed about half a litre of this suspect water and copped a few questionable looks from passers by. Anyway, I give my self a quick once over, guts seem to be fine, thirst quenched, body temperature returning to normal and I'm on my way.
How great I think to myself. I have now found an endless supply of water for my runs, no more suffering in the heat of the day...genius. That is until I return home where I decide to bring up this topic of conversation at the dinner table with our homestay host Pam. Pam I say, would you drink the water from the river down the road?? Her reaction almost sent me through the roof. I actually thought she was about to pop out a baby (albeit 7 months early) with her level of exclamation. You what! No way! That's disgusting. Your going to get giardiasis . I turn to Sam for some sort of reassurance, but he is in on it too. But I was soo thirsty I protest! Neither will have a bar of it, you will pay they say.
For the rest of the day I am paying extra attention to my body's vital signs, making sure that a toilet is in close proximity at all times in case the dreaded giardiasis decides to show itself. However, as the day progresses the signs of a backlash seem more and more unlikely, until it comes to the stage where I can diagnose my self with the all clear. Phew, you were lucky I say to myself! However on reflection, if faced with the same dire situation again, I am sure that I would once again be sucked into that succulent cool flowing water, however next time I WILL NOT let that sweet succulent cool water pass my lips.
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