Memorial Hermann Ironman Texas - Triathlon

Constant contact. I have done several triathlons and open water swims, but never experienced contact throughout the entire race in any of them. Overall was a great swim for me, was really happy to be done with the swim, but then I realized the hardest part of the day was still to come.

Nothing, swim went to plan and I hit my goal time. I always want to be faster but think this was a great swim for me.

Took my time getting my bike gear on. Seemed like a long run from the water to the changing tent.

Nothing, went faster than I expected and didn't want to rush it.

The first half of the bike went really well. Took my nuitrition and water as scheduled. I seemed to be getting passed by everyone on the bike and rarely passed anyone. By mile 70 we turned into a strong headwind which never let up the rest of the ride. I was able to pass a few people at the end and my crotch, legs, and back really wanted to get off the bike. I definitely did not do enough long rides. Only one 5 hour ride, and the rest were all 2 hours and under. I was happy with my ride but knew my lack of distance training on the bike would hurt my run. I wanted to finish the bike 6-6:30, so my 6:11 was where I wanted to be.

Need more time in the saddle, specifically longer rides.

Again took my time drink red bull and water. Was concerned that my quads were already twinging already, and was thinking that I still had to run an entire marathon.

Very hot day, and with it being so cold this winter and spring in Texas I was not heat acclimated. I started out well but by mile 5 I was cramping already. The plan was to run aid station to aid station as I had done in my HIM, but that quickly went out the window as I limped along. It was great seeing all the supporters and my family cheering me on each lap. I ended up walking a lot. I took water, coke, and some sort of snack when I felt like it each aid station. Felt like my nuitrition was ok. I really wanted to be in the 4-4:15 hour range for the run.

I thhnnk it comes down to my bike fitness. I spent too much trying to hit my goal time and had nothing left for the run. The heat and humidity certainly destroyed me, but I didn't train for the distance.

Got my medal and found my family. We talked about the race and I just sat down in the grass and relaxed. Overall I wanted to be under 13 hours so I was happy with my race. I said this would be my one and only IM, but I think with better training I could be closer to 12 hours. So 2014 or 2015 I will take another shot at IM Texas.


This is my only IM, but I thought it was fantastic. The volunteers were everywhere and were awesome. Even on the bike course all the turns were well marked and there were always people cheering you on. The run was even better. The crowds were crazy and gave you so much energy. Anyone looking to do an IM I would highly recommend you come to Texas. The Woodlands is a fantastic area and there were a lot of hotels and things for my family to do while I was racing.