Savageman HIM - Triathlon1/2 Ironman

Felt like the swim went pretty well. I started out fairly strong really concentrating on form and finishing my stroke. After seperating a bit from everyone I was able to swim in some clean water except for some solid drafting efforts on the way out. Unfortunately I wasn't able to maintain the drafting on the way back in b/c of catching some of the swimmers from the first wave as well as having to stop and clear my foggy goggles. Not the best pace however, I do think the extra distance from .9 to 1.2 made a difference b/c my arms and shoulders were quite fatigued.

Other than training and figuring out a way to avoid having my goggles always fog up I am pretty pleased with the effort. Ideally, I will be down around 29-30 minutes at Eagleman next year......at least that's my goal......we'll see!!!

Definitely SLOW but I anticipated that b/c of the somewhat lengthy uphill run to T1. I also wasn't in any hurry b/c of the arm warmers and nutrition piece. Took my time and made sure I was good to go.

Improve my time but like I said I think it will come once I begin to feel more comfortable with new elements involved!

Well ... it was an interesting experience and honestly a few days removed one that I am glad I took part in. Although it was last minute and I wsn't as prepared as I could have been I think it was a great test for me mentally. It was great to be tested like this and feel what it is like to be forced to do something so difficult.
I will say that the change in cassette seemed to make little difference ... 12-25 or 12-27 ... it didn't afford me the opportunity to spin like I would have thought I could have. Just seemed like I was up and out of my saddle quite a bit. I do think training a bit more and riding hills more often will stregthen the legs a bit more and help long term on hills and flats. Also, I think getting the proper fit on a better bike is going to make a difference too!

Train....Fit.....Bike!

Once again I took my time to ensure I was prepared for the 13.1 I had coming. Took a couple endurolytes before taking off since I missed having those on the bike.

Actually didn't feel too bad coming off the bike which I was expecting. That said, I definitely wasn't able to move the legs as quickly as I would have liked for fear off any and all muscles in my legs seizing up which they have a tendency to do. My first lap was just over and hour, maybe 1:02:??, and although running by the finish line was a little tough I actually felt pretty good considering!
My goal from the outset was to negative split the run. Ultimately I wanted under 2hours and thought I had a shot - actually pushed real hard the last mile and a half but alas I was unable to get the goal time however, I was real proud of my effort and determination. Aside from a pace over 9min miles - I am ok with the result. I know I can improve and ultimately I think I can get myself to a point where I am running a stronger 13.1 at the 70.3 distance!

Train and maybe take another PB Gel b/c I felt great after getting the 2 I had in my system!

Stretched out a bit.


Training and experience!!!


Overall, like I said earlier, I'm just really glad I tried SavageMan. Although it was my first HALF and one of the most diffcult ones around I think long-term it's going to help me with my preperation physically and more importantly mentally!
I love the way my season ended b/c I was able to end on Personal bests at each distance. Granted this is my first half but for me to finish and feel ok doing this particular half....that's a personal best in my book....at least for now!
I will definitely re-examine this after Eagleman!!!