Ironman 70.3 Florida - Triathlon1/2 Ironman

Perfect swim. Watet temp great, athletes spread out, lots of assist boats. My first OWS event - could not be happier.

Nada. Will work on speed training next winter.

Purposely took my time. First HIM - wanted to make sure everything got done.

Nada.

Thought I did better than 16.3/mile, and my computer says so...but what they heck. Me and my road bike sans aeros or racing wheels were passed by hundreds of Cervelo bikes with 20-something riders and racing wheels. Bike porn. No matter, I was quite happy and found the course to be enjoyable. I wanted flat and got it. Super support by police and volunteers. Can't thank them enough.

Drink more. I followed my nutrition plan to a tee but cramped in the run. See "Run" ...

Same comments as before. Wanted to give up a few minutes to ensure all got done.

Nothing.

I am a 10 minute mile, 11:50 on long days. I was spot on for the first 6 miles and then literally went down with cramp in right quad. Then hamstrings cramped up and I was toast. 10 minutes lying roadside, medics asked if I wanted a lift. Got up and cramps subsided. I wanted the darn medal - so I walked the next 7 miles through constant cramping - even through a really bad hamstring cramp at 12.5 miles. Then, at the finish line I tried to run for the photo-op. Massive cramps in quads and hamstrings. Smiled nonetheless and hope they got the photo. Went right to med tent for IV and was good to go 20 minutes later.

Eat and drink smarter. I had way too little to drink, and no food, for the first 4 miles. Will never happen again. I was doing salt the whole race, so will rethink nutrition before Augusta 70.3. And train harder, of course. Though wondering whether layoff from biking and running for three full weeks prior to the race because of an aggravated glute might have played a role in the conditioning/cramping.

Med tent.


Cramps. See above.


The volunteers and organizers could not have been better. Kudos to all! They worked through rain and lightening in the morning, and offered good grace and uplifting spirits throughout the race - especially the run. They were in costume, great humor, and totally supportive. I thanked as many as I could, and wish I could have done more. They made the race great.

Photo is me with Sara McClarty at Lucky's after a friday morning swim. She beat me.