Rounding the corner

Well Ironman Coeur d' Alene is just over 6 weeks away. It's funny how the anticipation to this race hasn't truly developed like the previous Ironman and other key races I've done over the years. I really think this goes back to having my coach with me this year. Muddy has really kept me focused on my plan and not allowed me to think too far ahead. He continues to keep me grounded and on track. He also keeps me excited however and does a great job of reminding me to have fun. This guy is the real deal and I couldn't be happier to have found him to help me in my journey.

Speaking of the journey, everything is coming along well. Training is going very well and I'm feeling fitter than I ever have with just less than two months until race day. I'm very pleased to see how my run is developing, but more importantly I'm excited to be putting in some quality miles on the bike. I have another decent week mileage wise in the saddle this week including another century on Saturday which will help tell me where I am from a fitness perspective. In the ride two weeks ago I was pleased to cover 115 miles averaging over 20mph (solo) at a reduced heart rate, but also realize that the terrain was not hilly (only 2800 ft of elevation gain). IMCDA is 5k and from all accounts the course is probably a little more challenging than Canada.

All that being said, I know that we are right where we need to be. In sitting down this past fall I wrote out splits that I wanted to hit in June. These splits represented a substantial drop in time compared to Canada, but they also represent what is required to have a shot at qualifying for the World Championships. As of today I can say I'm confident that these splits are now realistic. And this makes me happy :) So, as the date gets nearer, the next month is about staying healthy, eating properly, avoiding stupid injuries/accidents, and sleeping/recovering. I'm on it! Another month and all the hard work of the past 7 months will be in the body and I'll be ready to line it up and get after it. Thanks for taking the time to read.

-T