Kona is Calling...

Friday was my birthday. My parents were great enough to give me a cool present as well as a card in which my Dad wrote, "Kona is Calling..." After 2 Ironman and multiple years of racing local and regional triathlons, I am excited to say this year (in regards to triathlon), is about qualifying for the World Championships at my key race, Ironman Coeur D'Alene. The race is in June. I start organized training this coming Monday. I've been staying active in the off season, but am excited to get back into an organized routine.

Qualifying at this particular race has proved to be especially hard in previous years. Look at last year's results for instance. The winner in my age group went 9:05. That was good for 9th...Overall...including professionals. There are typically 6 to 7 slots made available in my age group at this race each year. Last year the final spot was awarded to Trevor (I know right?) Blackwell, who went a 9:46. This is just under an hour faster than my time in Canada. Granted, not the same course and conditions (at least for me) were miserable in IMC. The key ingredient for all these qualifiers? The all ran sub 3:20 on the marathon (except one competitor that ran 3:23). This over 30 minutes faster than what I ran at Canada.

Is this possible? Damn right it is. I'm actually quietly confident with my run. As long as my asthma cooperates, I'm confident I will be ready to run between 3:15 and 3:30. What I need to concentrate on is my bike. I feel like I got stronger on the bike this past year, but regressed in my races (on the bike). So, this year is devoted to Ironman. I'm getting a truly professional bike fit (thanks guys!!), hiring a coach, and not getting married or moving (hopefully not moving :)). I've wanted to race in Kona since I was a little boy. And like my Dad, I want to become a "sunshine finisher." This year I will attempt to make these dreams come true. I will try and stay focused throughout the year without losing focus. I will continue to rely on my *army* to keep my grounded and encouraged. It all begins Monday.

Kona is calling...

-T