So i am officially terrible at blogging. New Year's resolution: Update blog at least once a week. Big things: I have signed up to do Louisville Ironman 2012. Bring it on heat, hills, and sweat! I debated for a long time if I wanted to do it again. It was alot of training, tears, and time. But it was such an incredible journey that made me a stronger person; both physically and mentally. I am very much looking forward to embarking on this sixth month plus journey with my friends and faithful training partners. Thus far, we are committed to do it again, but better and faster!
I am currently about 4 weeks into Boston Marathon training. Since I had a less than to be desired marathon last time, I have changed my approach. I am strictly following Hal Higdon's Advanced 2 plan...and running in Newton's (shameless advertising plug :) ). His approach has me focusing on scaling back my weekly mileage and focusing on quality runs with a bit more intensity. Thus far, I feel great!! And am running stronger than ever before. I have had a 5k PR and am shooting for a half PR at Myrtle Beach in February. Speaking of Newton's, I really cant say enough about how this running show has changed my form and running! I began wearing/training in them after my Ironman in August. On Thanksgiving morning, I ran a 5k and dropped a minute off my PR. So yeah, I think they work and make me a stronger and more efficient runner. Besides, Craig "Crowie" Alexander wears them. Have to be doing something right :)
Another aspect I have changed about my running is I have incorporated a cross fit program. I work out at Mohr fitness twice a week. Check it out at getmohrfit.com. If you are unfamiliar with this type of cardio/strength/endurance training...this is a must read! It challenges me in ways I didnt know possible. Not to mention the incredible gains I have begun making on the bike and on the run. I cant say enough how much I love this program! I am a firm believer that everyone should give it a try. See what we are raving about :)
Lastly, I have been accepted onto team Tough Chik. I am very excited to train and compete with some of these awesome ladies! I look forward to meeting you all and reading all about your training progress. Happy training and racing!
Monday, January 9, 2012
Monday, November 7, 2011
Back to the drawing board
Marine corps Marathon 2011 marathon number 4 completed! As most of you know, this certainly was not my best run ever, but...I had a wonderful time. I got to complete the last half of the race with my best buddy Jamie! We even crossed the finish line holding hands. True story. The course was spectacular and the weather great. But best of all, I got to share with my team mates and close friends some of whom ran thier very first marathon (niki, chris, richard) and others whom rocked solid pr's (jason, Brinson, sherry, Teresa l, teresa d). Most of all, I am proud of everyone for the grit it took to even begin this 4 month journey.
As for me, I know where I went wrong. I didnt follow a training plan like I should have. I ran daily, on a whim, with no attention to adequate recovery. And I failed to do what I know works- yasso 800s. So, over the next few weeks leading up to Boston training I plan to get my legs back. That means sticking to a plan. For those of
You interested, I highly recommend Hal higdoon. He has a book called the marathon which I
Have found highly inspirational and motivational over mt past 4.5 years of running. (thanks Amy for introducing me to it).
I am thinking very strongly about Louisville 2011 just need my iron buddy Jamie to commit too! Everyone encourage her!!
As for me, I know where I went wrong. I didnt follow a training plan like I should have. I ran daily, on a whim, with no attention to adequate recovery. And I failed to do what I know works- yasso 800s. So, over the next few weeks leading up to Boston training I plan to get my legs back. That means sticking to a plan. For those of
You interested, I highly recommend Hal higdoon. He has a book called the marathon which I
Have found highly inspirational and motivational over mt past 4.5 years of running. (thanks Amy for introducing me to it).
I am thinking very strongly about Louisville 2011 just need my iron buddy Jamie to commit too! Everyone encourage her!!
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
I am an IRONMAN!!!
Epic-that pretty much sums up how i feel about this entire journey. If I have spoken with you, I am sure I have let you know that I had a spectacular race and could not have possibly been more pleased with the outcome. I have so many thoughts running through my head and am not sure I can adequately sum them up in one post. So several may be to follow.
First, I want to say how amazing it was to spend the entire weekend with many of my closest friends and training partners. Laying, lounging, laughing, stressing, sleeping (sort of), and hugging all of you in such close quarters couldnt have been more perfect. I started this journey with you all and finished it with you all. So for those of you thinking about embarking on the Iron journey...this is the way to go. Who better to understand what you are feeling and going through than those you have trained with, laughed with, and yes, cried with over the past 6 months? I wouldnt have had it any other way. So...thank you Jamie, Allan, Kathy, Tony, Jason, Gretchen, and Scott for the journey of a lifetime. You, my sweet friends and encouragers, made my weekend.
I guess i should start by saying how awesome the trip was from the moment we arrived in Louisville. I think i acted like a kid on Christmas. Check in was an incredible experience. From the moment they put the bracelet on our hands to the first siting of Mike Reiley to the crossing of the finish line, we were treated like Ironmen. One thing I noticed, as soon as you donned the blue bracelet, every other person wearing the bracelet felt the need to look you up from head to toe sizing up your potential race abilities. And admittedly, we did it too. Fun things throughout the weekend included Sully's (thanks bob and IAMTRI) and the underpants run. Where else is it perfectly acceptable to run a bit under 2 miles in your underwear? Only in Lou before the Ironman :) check out our pictures, they are phenomenal.
Race day-wow. One of the most moving moments for me was when the cannon went off for the pro's to enter the water. I had the privilege and joy of thanking and hugging all of my dear training partners and friends as they too got ready to race. My favorite picture I have seen thus far is of all of us jumping in the water at the same time. We started the journey together and we were going to finish it together. So yes, I would say it was off to a perfect start.
I had an incredible swim time for me. I made it successfully out of the water in an hour and twenty minutes and four seconds. I felt great the entire time. No cramps and little fatigue. Much faster than I originally hoped to swim. If my siting were a bit better, I think i could have swam even faster. None the less, I was thrilled. I even got to run into Allan in the water-just like warrior's, but minus the duck poop. When I got out of the water, I was dizzy and had a left leg cramp. Took a few steps, but was able to run to T1. What I didnt expect was the overwhelming generosity and kindness of the race volunteers. They were beyond accommodating and helped me get through transitions smoothly. I am telling you, IM knows how to put on a good race and make sure you get what you pay for.
As most of you know, cycling is not my strong suite, especially with rollers. However, on raceday all the stars aligned for me and I rode well for me. Never once in the 112 miles did I unclip or leave the saddle (probably my proudest moment of the race). Beautiful weather. I also did well with hydration and nutrition. So by the time I was ready to run, I felt strong and ready. Dont get me wrong, I have never been so glad to get off the bike. But all in all, I would say it was a good ride.
Running is my favorite part. And rightfully so, I had a great run. Despite quads that were: shot to hell. It is said that in the marathon portion of IM you will run an hour slower than typical marathon. My marathon PR is 3:38 and IM marathon was 4:38. So, I would say that this is a dead on prediction. Although my legs hurt and I was exhasuted, there was never a moment where I thought I wouldnt or couldnt finish. I can truly say I enjoyed every single minute of it.
Coming into fourth street live with the lights and hundreds upon hundreds of people screaming and cheering for you was epic. I had the biggest smile on my face and had enough energy to scream..."Mike Reiley....LET ME HEAR IT!!!!" I am still in shock that yes, I am an Ironman. Although finishing was awesome, the best part still was hugging all my IRON friends and know that they too, met their goals. I am so proud of you guys. And yes, I firmly belief in the Ironman motto...anything is possible. As tired as I was, and exhausted, my first thoughts were "when do we do this again?" So, I think it safe to say, if anyone wants to embark on this journey again next year...count me in. I have a PR to beat!!
First, I want to say how amazing it was to spend the entire weekend with many of my closest friends and training partners. Laying, lounging, laughing, stressing, sleeping (sort of), and hugging all of you in such close quarters couldnt have been more perfect. I started this journey with you all and finished it with you all. So for those of you thinking about embarking on the Iron journey...this is the way to go. Who better to understand what you are feeling and going through than those you have trained with, laughed with, and yes, cried with over the past 6 months? I wouldnt have had it any other way. So...thank you Jamie, Allan, Kathy, Tony, Jason, Gretchen, and Scott for the journey of a lifetime. You, my sweet friends and encouragers, made my weekend.
I guess i should start by saying how awesome the trip was from the moment we arrived in Louisville. I think i acted like a kid on Christmas. Check in was an incredible experience. From the moment they put the bracelet on our hands to the first siting of Mike Reiley to the crossing of the finish line, we were treated like Ironmen. One thing I noticed, as soon as you donned the blue bracelet, every other person wearing the bracelet felt the need to look you up from head to toe sizing up your potential race abilities. And admittedly, we did it too. Fun things throughout the weekend included Sully's (thanks bob and IAMTRI) and the underpants run. Where else is it perfectly acceptable to run a bit under 2 miles in your underwear? Only in Lou before the Ironman :) check out our pictures, they are phenomenal.
Race day-wow. One of the most moving moments for me was when the cannon went off for the pro's to enter the water. I had the privilege and joy of thanking and hugging all of my dear training partners and friends as they too got ready to race. My favorite picture I have seen thus far is of all of us jumping in the water at the same time. We started the journey together and we were going to finish it together. So yes, I would say it was off to a perfect start.
I had an incredible swim time for me. I made it successfully out of the water in an hour and twenty minutes and four seconds. I felt great the entire time. No cramps and little fatigue. Much faster than I originally hoped to swim. If my siting were a bit better, I think i could have swam even faster. None the less, I was thrilled. I even got to run into Allan in the water-just like warrior's, but minus the duck poop. When I got out of the water, I was dizzy and had a left leg cramp. Took a few steps, but was able to run to T1. What I didnt expect was the overwhelming generosity and kindness of the race volunteers. They were beyond accommodating and helped me get through transitions smoothly. I am telling you, IM knows how to put on a good race and make sure you get what you pay for.
As most of you know, cycling is not my strong suite, especially with rollers. However, on raceday all the stars aligned for me and I rode well for me. Never once in the 112 miles did I unclip or leave the saddle (probably my proudest moment of the race). Beautiful weather. I also did well with hydration and nutrition. So by the time I was ready to run, I felt strong and ready. Dont get me wrong, I have never been so glad to get off the bike. But all in all, I would say it was a good ride.
Running is my favorite part. And rightfully so, I had a great run. Despite quads that were: shot to hell. It is said that in the marathon portion of IM you will run an hour slower than typical marathon. My marathon PR is 3:38 and IM marathon was 4:38. So, I would say that this is a dead on prediction. Although my legs hurt and I was exhasuted, there was never a moment where I thought I wouldnt or couldnt finish. I can truly say I enjoyed every single minute of it.
Coming into fourth street live with the lights and hundreds upon hundreds of people screaming and cheering for you was epic. I had the biggest smile on my face and had enough energy to scream..."Mike Reiley....LET ME HEAR IT!!!!" I am still in shock that yes, I am an Ironman. Although finishing was awesome, the best part still was hugging all my IRON friends and know that they too, met their goals. I am so proud of you guys. And yes, I firmly belief in the Ironman motto...anything is possible. As tired as I was, and exhausted, my first thoughts were "when do we do this again?" So, I think it safe to say, if anyone wants to embark on this journey again next year...count me in. I have a PR to beat!!
Monday, August 22, 2011
6 days out.
First and foremost, thank you all for the words of encouragement and hugs. So today, thanks to facebook, it is has fully hit me that this is happening. soon. For almost a year now, i have followed the official IRONMAN site on fb. I have watched as they have talked about other IM events. Today, the first post about Louisville appeared. Wow. Seriously, could the next six days slow down just a bit? Yesterday, I had a headache. That doesnt happen to me! Now is not the time for this to happen. Grr. On a lighter note, literally and figuratively speaking, I am trying to decide between racing my wheel set or the roval's (thanks steve p :) ) although, you will be missed and i still wish you were sharing this experience with us. I am torn between racing a wheel set I am comfortable with or a more aero set. I guess tonight will be the determining factor. Sigh. Breathe in, Breathe out.
I am going to offer up my sincerest apologies ahead of time for being distracted, tearful, and a bit moody over the next week. Do not take it personally. It is the single biggest thing I have ever done in my life and I want to do it well. So any advice, encouragement, or ice cream thrown my way is always greatly appreciated. More so than my words could ever express.
Big shout out to Piney Flats Bike and Fitness for taking care of my bike and helping me get stragihtened out. You guys rock. I still fell like one of the luckiest people in the world to be a part of the running and cycling community that I am. I couldn't ask for better training partners and friends. I owe you all lots of hugs and trips to menchies.
I keep refering back to Adam Goucher's advice to Kara on the day she raced Boston- "Race confident, calm, and free." His blog about her racing experience rocked-as did her post race blog. Way to keep it classy Goucher's- you all are a true class act.
I am going to offer up my sincerest apologies ahead of time for being distracted, tearful, and a bit moody over the next week. Do not take it personally. It is the single biggest thing I have ever done in my life and I want to do it well. So any advice, encouragement, or ice cream thrown my way is always greatly appreciated. More so than my words could ever express.
Big shout out to Piney Flats Bike and Fitness for taking care of my bike and helping me get stragihtened out. You guys rock. I still fell like one of the luckiest people in the world to be a part of the running and cycling community that I am. I couldn't ask for better training partners and friends. I owe you all lots of hugs and trips to menchies.
I keep refering back to Adam Goucher's advice to Kara on the day she raced Boston- "Race confident, calm, and free." His blog about her racing experience rocked-as did her post race blog. Way to keep it classy Goucher's- you all are a true class act.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
10 days...and counting.
"It is not a successful climb unless you enjoy the journey." ~Dan Benson
I have enjoyed my journey to say the least. Tonight, I am thankful Jamie Williams whom rode with me and let me talk. Good advice, from a good friend. How I would have made this journey without her I do not know. Things I learned tonight: female brand of dez nuts is slightly uncomfortable. I did not enjoy the "warming/cooling" sensation. These things should come with a warning! Thankfully, I had the insight to try it tonight before IM. I could have seen that being a potentially dangerous 112 mile ride. Or uncomfortable at least. :) Oh...and Jill Kearns, we missed you! I am slightly jealous that you are going on a cruise, but cant wait to hear all about it! come home soon!
Taper mode is really quite discerning. We only had an hour ride to do today and I felt lazy.Worst part is, I still want to eat my arm off. Shouldnt I be wanting to eat less, not more? I am already stressing about this being over. Thankfully, I have three new goals 1. Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) 2. Train with Dustin Mohr @ Get Mohr Fit 3. And cycle cross! all of which I am very excited about :)
Lastly, big shout out to my bff Jamie Mains. Happy birthday buddy!!!! I had fun with you tonight and enjoyed our talk. You are special. Love you. Mean it.
6 am swim comes early. Thank you Glenn for being my constant alarm clock, even though I often hit snooze :)
I have enjoyed my journey to say the least. Tonight, I am thankful Jamie Williams whom rode with me and let me talk. Good advice, from a good friend. How I would have made this journey without her I do not know. Things I learned tonight: female brand of dez nuts is slightly uncomfortable. I did not enjoy the "warming/cooling" sensation. These things should come with a warning! Thankfully, I had the insight to try it tonight before IM. I could have seen that being a potentially dangerous 112 mile ride. Or uncomfortable at least. :) Oh...and Jill Kearns, we missed you! I am slightly jealous that you are going on a cruise, but cant wait to hear all about it! come home soon!
Taper mode is really quite discerning. We only had an hour ride to do today and I felt lazy.Worst part is, I still want to eat my arm off. Shouldnt I be wanting to eat less, not more? I am already stressing about this being over. Thankfully, I have three new goals 1. Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) 2. Train with Dustin Mohr @ Get Mohr Fit 3. And cycle cross! all of which I am very excited about :)
Lastly, big shout out to my bff Jamie Mains. Happy birthday buddy!!!! I had fun with you tonight and enjoyed our talk. You are special. Love you. Mean it.
6 am swim comes early. Thank you Glenn for being my constant alarm clock, even though I often hit snooze :)
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
T minus 11 days
Today called for a 45 min run + 15 i missed from last night. I had a nice comfortable run with Jamie Mains and Brinson in downtown Johnson City. Thanks again friends for running with me and sticking it out. You all rock. Shout out to Varinka, Rachel, and Brian (maybe?). Good to see you all and thanks for the words of encouragement. This whole process seems surreal. I cant believe it is almost here!!!
They say that you get depressed when this is all said and done. I can see it. It has consumed my life for almost 6 months. Thankfully, I have two big goals set for me in the upcoming next couple of months. On October 30, I will be running the Marine Corps Marathon and shooting for a new BQ time as well as running for No greater sacrifice in memory of my friend Ben White. Today I also bought a new cross bike!!! Masi CXR with 105. woo hoo! I like new challenges. So bring on fall sports!!! Hopefully, I will try to get some decent sleep over the next few days.
Thanks again for the support!!! <3
They say that you get depressed when this is all said and done. I can see it. It has consumed my life for almost 6 months. Thankfully, I have two big goals set for me in the upcoming next couple of months. On October 30, I will be running the Marine Corps Marathon and shooting for a new BQ time as well as running for No greater sacrifice in memory of my friend Ben White. Today I also bought a new cross bike!!! Masi CXR with 105. woo hoo! I like new challenges. So bring on fall sports!!! Hopefully, I will try to get some decent sleep over the next few days.
Thanks again for the support!!! <3
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
12 days and counting
Tonight, my dear training partners Alan, Kathy, Jamie, Jason, Gretchen, Scott, and myself got a nice long swim in. We completed 2.3 miles. Shew. Exhausting. But...we swam great. I actually felt pretty comfortable. Don't get me wrong, I was tired at the end and ready to be out of the water. But all in all, felt good. Two things I learned tonight-i was hungry a mile into swim (will carry a gel in IM) and dizzy when getting out of the water. I think I will take my time in T1. Jason and I got a 3.5 mile run in after. Have I mentioned that this nice cool weather in the evenings makes me all giddy inside?????? I cant wait for fall.
Ford Louisville Ironman August 28, 2011
I Will...
I will be rested~I will be strong~I will be excited~I will be confident as I hit the water~I will have smooth transitions~I will pace myself~I will eat~I will drink~I will sweat~I will not run out of fuel~I will stay loose and relaxed~I will take each hill one at a time~I will run a steady and consistent marathon~I will think of my family~I will remember all the hard work I have done to prepare for this day~I will not break down~I will look up and smile~I will not worry~I will not be alone~I will conquer the challenges I will face throughout the day~I will have courage~I will be proud of my accomplishments~I will encourage those around me~I will think positively~I will remember to take it one mile at a time~I will challenge myself~I will give it my all~I will enjoy the day~I will remember the day~I will finish 140.6 with a smile.~ I will be an IRONMANFord Louisville Ironman August 28, 2011
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