Toughman - Triathlon1/2 Ironman

I was a little worried about the swim because in the month leading up to the race I only swam a grand total of about 9000 yards. Plus, I'm not much of a swimmer to begin with. I tried to take it very easy, to save myself for the run, but somehow I managed my best HIM swim ever. I'm thinking the course may have been short, because I really don't think I can swim this fast.

Had some trouble sighting on the way back to the beach because the sun was right in my eyes, and my goggles fogged. Couldn't really see much of anything.

Tinted goggles

Could have been faster, but I was taking my time.

Not much.

Made this as nice and easy as possible, since I was still trying to save as much as I could for the run. Rode like this was an easy Sunday ride. I liked this ride a lot. Rolling hills like I am used to in my training rides, but no crazy climbs. Plus, I grew up in Westchester, and even though the closest we got to my old house was about 10 miles, there was still a lot of old familiar places.

Nothing. Nailed the pace, effort, nutrition and hydration.

No seperate time was given, so since the official run time was much longer than my watch time, I assume transition is in with the run, so this is just the difference. Took my time here, just making sure I was mentally and physically ready for the run.

Nothing

I knew that it would be a stretch for me to break 2:10 on the run, especially on this very challenging course. My standalone PR for a half marathon is 1:59:33 which also was on a hilly course, so I knew I would have to push myself to the limit to even come close. Felt great starting the run. I even felt like I had a little spring in my step. First 4 miles were good; nice pace with just some rolling hills, but nothing crazy. Then there was a big climb up to the top of the dam which I felt strong on. Now a few more miles of rollers followed by a big downhill around mile 9. At this point I am a couple of minutes ahead of schedule, but starting to feel like I was really working hard. Then it hit; about 150 ft. climb in a half mile or so. Not huge, but my lack of training caught up with me, and I had to walk some. Even though I was walking my breathing was hard. Got to mile 10 and I tried to convince myself that it was only 5K left and I've run loads of 5K's so it should be easy. But I was pretty much spent, and I struggled to the finish.

Coming down the finish chute my watch was over 2:12, so I knew I wouldn't hit my goal, but when the announcer called my name, I still gave a little fist pump, which I have never done before, because I knew I had made a solid effort.

Well, I fell a little short of my goal, but it certainly wasn't because of lack of effort. I gave it everything I had, left it all out on the course, or whatever cliche you like to use. I am very happy because this is definitely the best effort I have had in a Tri.



Nothing

Poured some water over my head, walked around a little, and then I had to lay down in the grass.


I don't train nearly enough. I am not very fast. Plus it wouldn't hurt to lose a few pounds. Tough run course.


Very well run race with a great and challenging course. I really enjoyed it, and will do it again if it fits into my schedule.