i have not swum a single stroke since IMLP in July. expectations were low. it was a very labored swim even though i tried to stay smooth. and my sighting was poor. i was zigzagging all over. but i deserved it.

swim at least a few times in training!

took extra time to put on long sleeve jersey and gloves. glad i did.

plan was to keep my HR in the 130's but it took well over a half hour to get it down there. wonder if it was the cold. I saw alot of (really fit) people that didn't wear long sleeves or gloves really struggling with the cold.

Decided to try living off the course for my liquid nutrition this time. Drank 3 gatorades and 4 Gu gels to get to about 750 calories for the ride. Felt pretty good...maybe a little too much liquid.

After about mile 45 i started upping the pace a bit. Felt strong coming back to transition.

this is a challenging course but fun very hilly.

not much. i felt like i had a smooth pace going despite the elevated heart rate.

i changed socks which may not have been necessary, but thought the cold wet feet could use some lovin.

had no idea what to expect with the limited training since IMLP and my elevated heart rate on the bike.
First few miles i felt like i had something stuck in my shoe. Then my feet thawed out and realized i was fine!
Tried to keep HR in low 150s and keep it smooth and steady.
Ate Gu chomps throughout the run and did a mix of water and gatorade. Stopped and walked at the end of each aid station to make sure i got my nutrition in.
I was suprised how good i felt going up the huge hill on the second lap. By mile 9 i was running strong and started to up the pace and let it go. Was really happy with this run.

ate food and cheered on others as i waited for the awards. won a huge "half full" beer stein.


a really well organized race for a GREAT cause. Survivor waves are awe inspiring. October tris in the Northeast are tough, though. Dark and cold!