Gym Swim

The first night of training went great. I was to be joined by my brother for the swim but he was unable to make it. The swim of just over a half-mile I worked on full pulls and kicking wearing the Zoomers. I was able to get in a good rhythm. I felt very strong. Looking at hitting the pool again Wednesday, for a double dose of this workout.
While I was swimming I nicked my nose. I have no idea how. I came up to get out, took my goggles off and my finger had blood on it. I'm still trying to figure out how did it. Hope my nose heals fast.

back to training

After taking the week off, or light duty workouts, I begin a 10 week triathlon program tonight. The program begins with a swim tonight. Its in week three that I start doing bricks. I need to work on getting my legs moving for the run after riding the bike. I am excited and look forward to the training ahead.

Lost Dutchman Race Report

To start off with, I will tell you how I finished the 26.2 mile race, I finished in 5:37, 14 minutes faster than 3 years ago.
I got to the shuttle buses early enough for the almost 45 minute ride to the start. I was able to keep warm staying inside one of the "Warming" buses. Put my race number on while resting in the bus as well as started my nutrition for the day. The start at 7am was a little cool, so I was glad I opted for the leggings. The first 7 miles are on a dirt trail mostly downhill. My pace was a little to fast but I felt comfortable. My hydration was perfect. I started feeling like walking more around mile 15. It was at mile 18 that I broke out the cell phone (my phone a friend option) and called my wife to get some mental support and letting her know I would not be hitting my planned goal I had set out for. She told me to keep running and keep my pace up because she was getting our son and daughter ready to come watch me cross the finish. With that in mind I had to keep moving as fast as I could. The lactic acid was building up in my legs and I had to stop and stretch a few times near the end, which felt good. Near mile 23 I started picking up my pace knowing the finish line was getting close. In the last 4 miles I passed about 5 other runners which was a huge metal boost. I know for my next marathon things I would do different but with the training I put in for this one I am very happy with my result.

My next race looks like a sprint triathlon in mid-May here in Arizona.

Two days away

I am looking at picking up my race packet today for Sunday's race. I have been mentally preparing myself and getting my race gear together and charged up my Garmin. I have been going over the course in my mind and looking at the course map. I feel very prepared for the race.

A week away from the Marathon

This weeks 8 mile taper run was out on the actual Lost Dutchman course. Only the last 4 miles of an out and back. The hill near the end has been removed in this years course which I am happy about. With the switch in the course and my training I am looking to PR. The weather is to be in the high 40's for the start with the temperature climbing to maybe 70 degrees. I am still thinking over what I will wear. The nerves have started yet but I bet by the end of the week they will be. A few short runs this week will bring to the end the training.

update, getting ready

Last weekends long run was only 12 miles. No problems. I tested out a pair of compression pants that will help keep me warm. I have not decided yet if the weather will call for them for the marathon.
During the run I was almost attacked by a dog being walked by it's owner. The owner was not strong enough to hold back the animal. I am just lucky I was not bit.
I have been doing a lot of core work this week so far.
Next weeks run is planned for a piece of the actual marathon course. Getting excited and it's still two weeks away.