Ironman Arizona 10hr or bust

Well I am finally finished with my rookie year as a professional triathlete. Boy was it interesting! Lots of ups and a few downs, but overall if was an amazing year of learning how to run with the big dogs. I am happy to say that I finished on a high note and that I will be reporting back for a second season to see where I can challenge myself next.

Ironman Arizona turned out to be a wonderful way for me to complete the race season. I went in knowing that my competition was tough, and that there was a big field racing this ironman. For this race it was only about me and my goals to achieve. I set my one big goal for this race to finish under 10hrs. I knew it was doable if I could stay present and have faith in my fitness.

Race morning was the usual mass of athletes running around like an army of ants. Everyone focused on their own mission to complete. I prefer to arrive early as I would rather be sitting around with nothing to do, than running around stressed out that I had too much left to set up. So I was finished setting up early, and took some time just to sit and relax and be calm. It's not the easiest things to do, but when you are around such great energy, you can't help but be grateful for being in a place that you dream of and strive for everyday.

When the pros got into the water it was still pretty dark and the water temps were frigid. I did discover this year I enjoy swimming in the cold water and once you get your face in, it is never really that bad. I just hate when the water is too cold and I over heat in the wetsuit. So 60 degree water was just perfect for me. We got a 2 minute warning for the start and then no other warning. The gun went off and kind of startled me. I took off. It always takes me a few minutes to get my rhythm and to weed though the bodies. Once I got going I knew I would be in the back of the pack but that if I could stick with at least a few athletes, I'd be happy. I was able to keep a few girls and one guy about 10yrds right in front of me for almost the entire swim. I was feeling good that although I was in the back I wasn't alone and was keeping pace. The first bridge seemed to come very fast and then to the turn around. I felt strong and just tried to keep up that pace. Not long after going back under the bridge both of my calves cramped up for a min or so. My legs were cold and I just had to kick it out or otherwise I wouldn't be able to make it through the swim or maybe worse. So I slowed a and kicked out the cramps. At that point I wasn't able to pick my pace back up and I was getting tired as well. I trucked through the last .25 miles of the swim. That is when I was being caught by the age groupers. I had a few small packs blow over me and just tried to hang on any little bit that I could. This swim time turned out to be my worst Ironman swim ever. I don't know how because it felt much more smooth and controlled as others. Needless to say, I am back in the water already with a swim coach and focusing my off season training on my swim. I will get there people, I will get there.

T1 wasn't as complicated as it looked in the set up. It flowed really well and didn't take me long to get on my bike. The air was a little cool, but nothing anyone couldn't handle as their body heat would rise soon.
I did not mind the three loop course. The first loop went fast. The trip out on the loop goes a little uphill and was against the wind on that first loop. As I turned around, it was awesome. Downhill and with the wind helped me gain over 1.5mph average on the way back into Tempe. As I was reaching the turn around I saw a group of people with purple shirts on jumping up and down and screaming my name. I flew past and had no idea who they were. So funny, because when I came back past them, it was my family. All of them were wearing homemade shirts with different triathlon picture of me ironed on the front. It was the Spitler crew.  I started laughing, and then was filled with joy because they all wanted to surprise me and be my biggest supporters of the day. I really appreciate all the time and effort they spent being in Tempe. Being an Ironman spectator is not an easy task.

                                                                Photo by Jay Prasuhn
Second loop was just another loop to me. It felt same as the first and I stayed at an even pace. I really feel I picked the best set up for me for this race on my bike. I knew that my HED disc was the best  choice wheel for this type of course and it really assisted me in keeping such a fast pace for most of the bike portion of the race. I was comfortable down in my aero position and couldn't be more grateful for that. 112 miles is a long time to be hunched over and as long as I am comfortable it is usually going well.
As I started the third loop I knew something was different. I was tiring a little but heading outbound it did not feel too awful. GREAT!!!! As I approached the turn around all I could think of was, I'm home free. Little did I know that the wind had drastically turned and that the next downhill portion was going to be the toughest part of the whole race. It was like getting smacked in the face. The wind was so strong that even going downhill I was losing my average mph and pushing as hard as I could. It was rough.
I really dug deep on the way back into transition and just gave it everything I had. I was really happy with the overall time of my bike. It was a good course. I never got jammed up with athletes on the course and there was plenty of aid around. It was not the most scenic, but there were always people around which always helps me push myself.

As I ran into T2, my teammate Donna Phelan, was there to greet me and cheer me on. Donna was coming off of an injury and had planned to pull out on the run. She had a stellar swim and bike, so I'm pretty sure she was happy with the day. It was so nice that she stuck around. It made such a difference having her say encouraging words to me. T2 is always a place of high anxiety for me and it is the part of the race I hate the most. So thank you Donna for keeping me together and reminding me of the good things to come in the race.

The run started out really great for me. I am not a usual fan of a three loop run, but this run course was more than perfect. Just like the bike there was always someone around on the run. Whether it was spectators or athletes, I was never alone. The fact that the three loops do a figure eight was really cool too. I was able to see my family over ten times on the course. That is just something that most races do not provide. Ten opportunities to get an energy pump.

I felt really great the entire run up until mile 18. I was going under 8 min miles and just pacing along well. At mile 18 I hit a little bonk. It wasn't that I was in muscle pain, it was that I was just getting really exhausted. I had kept up my nutrition just fine and was keeping hydrated. I just hit a wall. I walked the aid stations only from mile 18 to 21. After that I saw I had about an hour left to reach my ten hour goal. I knew if I stopped all walking and went as fast as I could without pushing myself to too much muscle fatigue, I would make it. So there I went. I just dig deep and got back on the horse. The last two miles were just about looking straight forward and reaching the finish.

AND....I made it!! The finish was slightly anticlimactic. Athletes have to run through a parking lot with a bunch of cars and semis and you really don't know where you are going. Once you hit the last turn you are in the finish shoot and it is over. I did shed a few tears when I crossed. I knew I had made my goal and kept my head together for the entire race. This was a success for me! I knew I could do it and it meant so much to end the season in a place where I felt good.

Thank you so much to everyone that was out there cheering me on. It really meant a lot. Thank you to Mom, Michelle, Karen, Katy, Chris, Rob, Kathy, Derick, Sue, and Siri! Seeing you guys out there on the course made my day. It was such a wonderful day, a good Ironman, and a fantastic way to end my season. I am spending the next month taking it easy, and enjoying not being on a strict training plan, but of course, still keeping up some fitness. Looking forward to a little vacation in the sun without a bicycle, and spending downtime with my family and friends over the holiday. After that it will be on! I am more excited and motivated than I have ever been to make next year even better than this one. I am still able to live my dream everyday and I am grateful.

Happy Holidays!!!

Austin 70.3

It has been two weeks since the race and I am usually not so delayed in my reports. However, I jumped right into the last build for my season and preparing for Ironman Arizona. Needless to say I have been busy and tired. Anyway, this race was a good one but not much exciting to say.

I used to live in Austin for training so I was excited when I decided to do this race after completing Rev3 South Carolina. I was feeling great coming off of that race and wanted to keep up the good racing vibe.
Race day was like most others. I got there early, had time to warm up, and get calm. I have to say the swim felt like one of my worst of the season. Right at the gun I got smashed between two girls and held back a second, then felt like I just kept swallowing tons of water and couldn't get under control. But to my surprise my time was about two minutes faster than normal....so who knows. Guess going in without expectations is always good, and sometimes you'll do even better. I was pretty happy about that. As I exited the water there were some of my Texas friends screaming for me and that always feels nice. The run through transition seemed long, but ya just never know.

As Im leaving T1, Steve Rakel, the dad of one of my favorite teammates, Kathy, was there cheering me on along with his wife, Michelle. He was running beside me for about half a mile down the road. It was just the best positive energy for me as I was setting out to hunt down the girls. I had a great ride. This course is a little hilly, but compared to the majority of the other races I've done this season, this one didn't seems so bad. I was really happy. I had talked to Vince at HED cycling about my wheel choice and he was spot on. Being a former Austinite and triathlete, I trusted his choice. I went with my  HED Jet disc wheel in the back and my Jet 6 in the front. I flew. I would say that last 20 miles were pretty windy, but I still felt strong and focused. I passed about 5 girls on the bike.

Happy with that I set out on the run and feeling decent. I wanted to build the 3 loop course, so I didnt go out too hard off the bat. The run is pretty hilly which was a little challenge with the speed but didnt stop me from pushing up the hills. After the first loop the wind started to pick up a lot and the heat was turned up to max. It was a fight with the elements getting tougher, but I was able to set into my groove and speed it up the second lap. By the third I was getting a little tired, but kept at the pace I was at on second loop. My time wasn't my fastest but with the challenging run course and comparing to the other female pros, I am proud of my run and glad I kept present and focused during the run.

I am so happy that I got to race this event. I also had a really great time seeing my old friends and meeting some new ones. I have to say thank you to my dear friend, Vicki Ford, for being a wonderful friend, host, and crowd support. She really made this trip all possible for me. It felt a little like home.
Also thank you to Mr. and Mrs. Rakel for being my parents for the day. I couldn't believe how much they reached out to support me even though we had never met before. It was such a pleasure to met them and the energy they provided me on race day made a huge difference. Thank you for caring so much.
And of course, thank you to my sponsors who make the day possible for me. Blue Seventy, Rudy Project, and most of all HED Cycling for the super fast bike ride and guidance in making that happen.

Rev3 Anderson, South Carolina

 The first thing I have to say about this race is, FIRST CLASS! This was my second Rev3 race, but first racing as a professional. I chose this race after IMWI because I was looking for something that would be fun, pressure free for me, and a beautiful course. Well my intuition was correct in choosing this race and the next direction in my season.
  Prior to the race, there was a lot of communication from the race directors and professional field organizers. I just felt that they way they reached out gave positive energy to the event even before I got there. The Rev3 series makes sure that they not only include the athletes in on all the information surrounding the weekend events, but they also include optional activities for the entire family, for those who make the trek with the entire gang. This particular weekend they offered hot air balloon rides, family scavenger hunts, and other various fair type activities for children and adults. They really make sure to keep the weekend relaxed, fun, and energized.
    I was lucky enough to have a connection with a wonderful family who were very gracious to opening their home to myself, and Kate Major for the weekend. They live on Lake Hartwell close to all of the weekend events. It was so convenient and comfortable. I am very lucky to have such welcoming friends.

 I was very calm race morning. It was quite cold and dark, which has been a change over the last month. Everyone were in their sweats and hats and gloves. I loved it! However, the water was still warm enough for the pros, so not wetsuits were allowed. I know that the swim is my least strong event of the race but this morning I was ready to take it on and do my best. I dove in with confidence and took off able to hang on a few girls feet. I was actually in a group. Eventually there were two of us swimming together. We took turns pulling the entire swim. I came out of the water feeling faster, confident, more calm than any other swim this year. However, the end result time for the swim was not much better than my other swim. You never know though, sometimes courses can be long and time really should matter too much. I felt happy and for me that is all that mattered.

  I tried something different for this race. I had put a lot of pressure on myself for the past few races and I realized that with expectations of times and performance, I didnt do as well as when I just go out there race hard and love what I am doing. So this race I did not use any watches, Garmins, or computers. I just went with how I felt. I love it. So I got into the bike course, took in my surroundings, put my head down and went hard. The course was so beautiful. It was also more challenging than I suspected. I did drive the course, but when it comes down to it, driving hills and riding hills are completely different. The hills were not horrible just plentiful. The course offered a lot of ups and down, little flat stretches, and lots of turns. It really kept me on my toes and focused on the present. Perfect for me....and with no timing devices to get wrapped up in speeds and times, I listened to my body and believed in the feeling. I stayed with my senses. Listening to the bike sound rhythms and cheers of the crowd, smelling the fresh fall air, seeing the changing fall colors, and staying present, really put me in the best place possible. Before I knew it I had passed four professional women by mile forty. Coming into transition, I did not feel exhausted or discouraged on being down on time. I came in feeling calm, focused, and ready to take on the run.
    I didn't feel perfect when I started running, but I mentally was in a really good state of mind and knew that I would be able to push thought the physical feelings. The first two miles tend to be the hardest for me. After that I get into a rhythm and good pace, I can go for a while. The run course was also set up nicely. For the first 6 miles we ran though a series of park paths and turning corners I was able to see how far ahead other competitors were from me. There were some hills. A few short and a few slow inclines. It was a fair and challenging run. I stayed in the present moment, just as I did on the bike course. I took in everything around me. Being a Sunday morning, the town was peaceful and relaxed, just as I needed to be.
  When I made it to the turn around I could see that Stephanie Jones was about a minute back from me. I felt confident if I stayed at my current pace I would be able to hold her off. And I held it until mile 12. Ahead of me I saw another racer in front of me. She sort of came out of nowhere. My sometimes questionable, hunting competitive instinct, kicked in hard. I was actually in the mix of a group and fighting for a spot. I went harder, we went up and few up hills and down hills, I got closer. I could feel the pain kicking in as well. It was so close to the end though that it didn't matter. I hit the mile 13 sign and gave it all I had. However, Jones had a tad more kick than me. In the last 100 meters she passed me and the racer in front of me and beat us by seconds. Congrats Stephanie for the amazing fight to the end.
  I placed 12th, in the end, but was only 30 seconds from 9th place. What a confidence builder for me! I took the pressure of expectations away, stayed present, raced hard, and got to compete to the very last step with a great group of athletic women. My goal for this race was accomplished. I gained back my racing confidence and learned new ways of competing that work better for me. Most of all, I had an awesome time and really enjoyed being a triathlete. I am so grateful to be able to live the life of my dreams. We all have ups and downs in our lives but every moment you are supposed to be where you are at that time. There are many unknown reasons for the direction our life takes, but the journey is what really makes us fantastic individuals. Do what you love!!!!

Thank you to all of the Revolution staff and volunteers, especially Charlie and Krista for taking such great care of all of the athletes. What a classy event! I am really excited to jump head first into this series next year.
Also thank you to my sponsor HED cycling for the awesomely light Jet Disc wheel I used for this race. I could feel I was flying.
Finally, congratulations to all of the athletes on a great race including teammates Magali Tissyere for the win, and Kate Major, who took the overall  Rev3 series win.

Cheers,

Erin

Ironman Wisconsin 2011

   I was super happy and excited to be back in Madison for Ironman this past weekend. Madison, Wisconsin is one of my favorite places in the country. Along with having some amazing friends that live there, the town is the most athlete friendly town I have ever visited. Tons of bike paths, running trails, pools, and plenty of open water for unlimited summer activities. Unlike Ohio, it seems like everyone is involved in some activity. It is very refreshing and sets an awesome reputation for the Midwest.

  I could not believe that Ironman was here already. This was the most amazing race of my triathlon adventures in 2010, so knowing that I had spent a year planning and training for this race was a little unbelievable. However, I felt very ready and confident to take on this 2011 challenge knowing that my athletic abilities have improved tons this year with new coaching and intensity.

  Race morning was very calm. Even though most of us don't sleep well with night before with anxiety, the morning is usually peaceful for me. I know I have done what I can to prepare and the race is just a time to celebrate all the hard work. There is no more or less you can do race morning except let go and jump in!!! The water was perfect, not warm, not cold, flat, and semi clear. I had time to warm up, making sure I got into the water early before the masses. The pros were all together and there was great energy right before the gun. I was feeling like I might actually be able to hold on to some feet this race.
So off we go, and I hung on.....for a few hundred meters, then I was alone. I was feeling sorta bummed. I still have trouble going out hard at the beginning. I think I'm doing well, but everyone else can go hard too. The good thing is that I could see a few of the girls just meters in front of me and focused on keeping them in sight. I did fine for the first lap, but by the second lap the gap got bigger as I did not have any draft to ease up the swim a little. So I just gave it what I had and got through.  My time was about 6 minutes longer than I knew I could swim. However, its such a long day and race, that I could not get caught up on a long swim.

  I have to say though, coming out of the water in Madison is something that everyone ever racing ironman should experience. I swear its fricking amazing! There are a mass of wetsuit strippers all ready, waiting, and skilled at their task. Once off, the long transition begins. It may be the longest but it is the most fun and perfectly staged transition. All athletes have to run up a parking lot helix that is 4 levels, and it is lined with the loudest, most energetic crowds. Running uphill after swimming 2.4 miles is not an easy task, but with screams so loud and encouraging there is no way that you are motivated to fly. I saw every one of my friends on the helix. I knew they would be there and their cheers filled me up with some amazing adrenaline.

   I got out on the bike and felt great. I knew this course really well, and had it broken up into parts to focus on each section as I got to it. First lap felt really awesome, even though the winds were starting to pick up a bit more than expected. It wasn't anything I could not handle. My favorite section is when we ride up the hills at Old Sauk Pass, Timberline, and Midtown. The support for the riders at the most difficult part of the ride is fabulous. On Timberline, the crowds are like a mini Tour De France. People lined the street in costumes, banging drums, and running by your side as you ascent the steep hills. The motivation and energy I experienced as I went through those sections is something I wish I could hold on to throughout the entire ride. We all know that 112 miles is tough and presents ups and downs, and can get quite lonely. The spectators out there in the farm fields of Wisconsin really make a huge difference for the athletes living out their goals and dreams. Thank you to all of the spectators for making a difference in our day.
  
 The second lap did come around though and I wasn't feeling as strong. The winds picked up  a bit as well. I hammered as hard as my body was willing and finally did make it back into town. My time was, again, a bit longer than I had predicted I could race. Afterward, comparing gps results, the course had been 2 miles long. Not that it makes any difference because I was still off, but looking back made me feel a little better.

  T2 was a breeze, even though when I got of of my bike I wobbled around for a few seconds before being able to run into the building for my bag. I got my shoes on and started running. Instantly, I got really nervous. I didn't feel confident that this was going to be a strong run for me. My running has been better than ever in training the past few months, and I predicted I would be hunting people down on this leg. I got into my head....damn it!!!!! The first few miles were a struggle for me, as they are for most everyone, but I did a little run walk thing to get a grip on myself. I still had a long way to go. When I ran, I was running just over 7 minute miles, so what was my problem!!!! My body settled into feeling ok, and same with my mind. I got into a pace I could hold, although not as strong or  fast as I knew I could run. The back side of the loop has some nice shade and it was hotter than last year, so I was grateful for that. I walked the aid stations and was able to pick up a nice stride after each mini break. When the second lap came around, I saw my parents cheering for me and got a pep in my step. This was their first ironman spectating experience. I was really happy to see them. I needed it. So the next 6 miles when pretty good. I could see where a few other professional gals were in front of me at the turn around. Unfortunatly, I didn't believe that I would be able to catch them. With 7 miles to go and tiring, it just didn't seem possible. This is not a good way to think. Anything is possible if you want it to be. In conclusion,  I made it to the finish with a good last 3 miles of digging deep. I didn't quit and crossed another finish line becoming, once again, and Ironman.

   Although, not my most stellar race, I am very grateful for the experience. Madison is just such a wonderful town and place to race. I would not give this day back for anything! I learned a lot about myself, where I am physically and mentally. I had put so much pressure on myself for this race that I think parts of it backfired on me. Last year I came into this race, my first ironman, without any expectations. The outcome was more than I had ever believed would happen in a million years.  I truly believe this is the best way to race. I must just do my best without any expectations set on my performance. Every race is different, even on the same course. Every moment plays out just as it is intended. I took a long time to reflect on the ups and downs, positives and negatives of the day. I do remember that I am still fairly new at the sport and just learning how to race. I am blessed to be able to compete against some of the most outstanding athletic women in the world. I learn a lot from them and am very grateful for the opportunity.




  

Giving in Before the Fat Lady Sang

Last Saturday I had my worst performance of the year as a professional athlete. I felt like anything but a triathlete. I got to experience one of the worst feelings you can have in racing. Giving in to the mental game before the game was over.

The morning of the race I can say that I was feeling more confident than ever, and like I was just going to hammer down and really show up. I am in the best shape of the life right now. Strong and fully faithful in my training. I stood at the water's edge and saw myself giving everything I had. And I did...at the beginning. I took off with the girls and was able to stay with them for about 4 minutes. That's a big success for me. I am really a work in progress in the water and could see this as a great start to the race. I was dropped, but was able to keep the pack in my sights ahead for most of the race. I made the last turn and headed down the homestretch feeling good. A fast age group male came up on me and I tacked on to his feet and picked up the pace heading home. WHAM! I am really unsure of what happened, but in my second of seeing stars, I knew I had been smacked in the face with a kayak paddle. I don't know how he missed my HOT PINK SWIM CAP, but I think he was backing out of the way and brought his paddle backwards right into my face and slicing open my lip. Thank goodness at the time I didn't know I was hit that bad.

As I ran out of the water, I made the first mistake and worst mistake of the day. I felt like I swam so hard and I wanted to know my time. I asked my husband that was on the shore. When I told me it was the worst time of my season, I was like "no f'ing way that is possible!!!!" I'm still standing by that the course was long as most of the times were long, but why did that even matter. My time didn't matter. I should have never asked. The race is still in progress. No time matters except the finish and going as hard as you can and keep on pushing until the end. Regardless I was behind, so shame on me for starting the mind games.

Jumping on the bike I was feeling furious with myself, or trying to figure out that Rob was wrong. I hammered down in an angry like rage.  I also had blood running down my leg from my lip, but I didn't care. My speed was awesome and I was making up for the crap performance in the water. Although an easy bike course there was a nice headwind for the better part of the ride and a slight false flat as I made the first turn around into the wind. I saw my average mph dropping, and started the negative talk to myself. Mistake #2! Change the negative thoughts with positive ones. I thought I was pushing, but looking back now I was distracted by my own thoughts. They were everywhere except focused on the road ahead of me. After a bit I was able to get my focus back on track, but I think it was a little too late at this point. I flew by a few girls and just hammered it until I got back into T2.

My transition was not as smooth and fast as normal. I got onto the road and got into my rhythm as best I could. I saw my husband at mile 1 and instantly I got down again. I told him I felt like crap and from that point I had it in my head that I was feeling like crap and performing like crap. I really was going a lot better than I thought, but I couldn't see that through the jungle of thoughts I let take over. I ran fine until about mile 4.5 when I started to see the other girls coming back around. At that point I wanted to quit. Thank goodness I didn't. That would have been an even worse feeling than the way I felt after the race. I was physically fine, so that would have been disastrous. There isn't much else to say about the rest of the race. I walked the aid stations, blood running down my face, and just trotted along to make it to the end. I got too down on myself and didn't use the tools I have to change those thoughts into positive ones.

There was no way that I thought this day would turn out the way it did. I didn't fight the pain, and I didn't stand up to myself for a chance to be the best I could be. I just gave into the negative. This is the first time this has ever happened to me in a race. I felt devastated and ashamed of my behavior. I am stronger than this. I am a warrior. I will fight back.

I am a firm believer in the saying that, "everything happens for a reason." I live by this motto a lot. I know that there are lessons to be learned, and obstacles to bound. It took me a good whole day of contemplation and soul searching to really think through what happen and realize that this day was meant for me to learn how to handle myself when I struggle and prepare me for the next time I am faced with a similar situation. I know everyone experiences a bad race in different ways. This bad race for me was one of the worst emotional experiences I've had in a long time. It felt awful. I didn't dig deep enough into the real true self that I know, and push for what I want more than anything. I can be assured, though, that I never ever want to feel this way again. And when the time comes when I am faced with a difficult and trying racing situation again, I will remember this race, how I reacted, how I felt, and choose the path that will lead me to the most rewarding outcome.

"Accept what comes to you totally and completely so that you can appreciate it, learn from it, and then let it go." ~Deepak Chopra

Training trip to Wisconsin

Last weekend I took a trip up to Madison, Wisconsin to do a few things. Primarily, I went to train on the Ironman Wisconsin bike course. I did race it last year, but I believe a refresher course in always a good thing when you want to race your hardest to win. Yes, I will be racing IMMOO on September 11, 2011, and now feeling even more excited since being up there. The other reason I went to Madison, well actually Verona, Wisconsin, was to get a new bike fit done on the Guru Dynamic Fit Unit at the Rocket Bicycle Studio in Verona, where the SBR Coaching and Training center is located.

SBR Coaching and Rocket Bicycles is one of only 27 locations in the U.S. and Canada where you get a customized fit on the Guru Dynamic Fit unit, which is a computerized robotic assisted bicycle fitting system. I was amazed! I thought I had been in a good position on my bike for a long time. I had done a Retul a year ago on my old bike and then just transfered the dimensions onto my new bike. I have been riding fine, but I was looking to see if there was anything that I could change or tweek that could bring me some more power into the pedal stroke. Guess what!?!? There was a lot that needed changed.

SBR head coach, Jessica Laufenburg, is not only trained directly by Guru on the bike fitting, but has a degree in bio mechanics as well. I felt pretty confident I was in good hands. And boy does she have a good eye.She could see right away in my pedal strokes and the way that I was sitting that I would need some changes. First,  we sat down and talked about the comfort or any problems I currently had on my bike. I then got on and she took a look at my riding style. After that, the dimensions of my bike and body were programed into the DFU.

I got on the unit and rode easy to get the feel. It felt just like I was on my own bicycle. While pedaling, you are able to see on the t.v. monitor your stroke efficiency and power wattage. After a bit, Jessica started to manipulate the machine into different positions, making the seat, handlebars, or tube length move in all directions. At the same time we were able to see where my pedal stroke started to lack in power and where it got stronger. This is, in my opinion, why this unit it so awesome. We were able to instantly find the perfect position that was comfortable for me, while creating the strongest power in the pedal for racing.  All of this was done without having to guess or trial run the new position. I made a few changes in my seat height, stem, and crank length. It truly was amazing! I have been riding the position now for a few days and I am very happy with the changes.

 Thank you to Jessica, Pete, and Jeff for your hard work getting me fixed up. I'm so pumped up for Ironman Wisconsin. If anyone is serious about getting the proper fit on your bike, please don't look any further. The Guru DFU is definitely the most impressive and precise fit I've ever had.   SBRCoaching.com and rocketbicyclestudio.com

The rest of my trip was very eventful, as well, but I'll spare most of the training details. I did ride the entire bike course on Saturday and so glad I did. I had been contacted by a friend who was also going to be riding the course with a group, and was excited to have a riding companion. (as of late I've been training alone, and I hate long rides alone.) The morning of the ride I woke up early and decided I'd ride alone....why? Well after a bit of thought, this was my one and only chance before September 11th to ride the course and get in down pat in my mind. I could foresee that talking a lot....which we all know I do:)....would probably take away a lot of focus from the main goal of the ride. I made the right choice. I was extremely happy with my ride. It is really a wonderful course and challenging as well. In one loop, of the two loop course, there is just about 4000ft of climbing. I love it!!! I had a great weekend in Wisconsin. I am now back home and have a lot of work to do. The drive is in full gear...HERE I GO!!!

Mooseman 70.3

Wow, this was a whirlwind trip, but a really great one, at that!!!
A week before Mooseman 70.3, I decided to take a week training trip out to Santa Monica to train with my coach, Siri, and my other teammates. It had been raining here for a week and expected more rain, so getting away was perfect. I got in one last hard week of training before race week. I really appreciate having the time and ability to be able to do this. It makes a huge difference in my training when I have coach and others to train with.

I flew home to Ohio to regroup myself for a total of 14hrs, and then took off for New Hampshire.
What a spectacular place! I could see myself living summers in New Hampshire....lake living, quiet, peaceful nights, simplicity. I have to say thank you to Jeff Norcia, my homestay,  and his family for making me feel so welcome. This was first official race organized homestay and I was a little nervous. He went above and beyond to make me comfortable and rested for the race.

I felt really great race morning despite the little sleep I got the night prior, but that is to be expected. Race morning the temperature was only in the 40's and was quite chilly. The water temp was bordering just bellow 60 degrees, but when its colder outside of the water it really felt quite nice. I've discovered this year that I can swim in much colder water than I thought and I really actually prefer the cold temps. I wear a BlueSeventy Helix wetsuit and I can say no matter how cold the water had ever been, my core temp always stays warm.

The lake was super beautiful and I must say that the swim was one of the easier ones I have done. There were only 8 of us in our wave, and the water was flat and sun blocked by the hills. So with this said, I was disappointed in my swim performance. As many of you know this is my weak point, but also a place where I have been making many improvements in my training. So when my swim did not reflect the work I have done I was not happy. With this said,  in every race there are many opportunities to learn and grow and tweak focuses in your training. I'm learning I need to figure out what is blocking me in my swim racing and will move forward with a focus on that.

So now on to the bike. The course is the most scenic and pretty course I have raced so far.
I had the opportunity to drive the course a few days before the race and check out the terror hills that I had heard about. At first I didn't think they were all that bad.....but DUH, Erin, you are in a car, not on a bike. They turned out to be a lot more difficult than I expected. There is one long climb with 16% grades on the course that is done twice on the two loop course. I knew ahead of time I would not use my disc wheel and stuck with the HED Jet 6 and Jet 9 to keep me fast. You hit the climb right about mile 6 and for the first loop I felt barely warmed up before I started climbing. I have to say I was almost in tears getting tot he top because it felt a lot more difficult than I expected. I pushed through and made it, of course. The second time around was much easier than the first. I think my legs had just gotten into the grove after that. This was a pretty difficult bike course, as you can see by the bike times. They are a lot slower than on a faster course. I do like the challenge though. Also ,with the hills, it really spaced out the athletes and kept the course very fair. I saw little drafting.

I came into T2 knowing I was beat tired, but that I needed to get my game face on for the run. I ran out of transition hard but after the first mile I started to feel a little defeated. Unlike some races that have hilly bike course and then flat runs, this one had a few nice rolling hills in it. I had a moment of negative thoughts and wasn't sure how hard I could go. I kept on running but had to get my mind together and pull out only the positives and push away the negative thoughts.  This is something I have been working on a bit and have the skills to turn it around. There was a guy running next to me at a pretty good pace and I decided to latch onto his pace. It was perfect. He was actually suffering a little too and we both pushed each other and hung together the rest of the run. In the end, when we finished the run I actually made a half marathon personal best during this race. I have been working hard on my speed and the fact that it was a hilly course and I did my best really gave me some confidence that I am making strides in my training.



During this race I was thinking to myself, I am never doing this race again. These hills are so killer. However, within a few hours after the race I thought, I can't wait to come back next year. Things always seems hard in the moment but the successes that are made out of the difficult times are the biggest reward and keep you want more.

Thank you again to the Norcia family for taking me in, cheering me on, and being super generous. I can't thank you enough. Also have to thank my sponsors, HED and Blue Seventy. This race would not have been the same without the warmth of my wetsuit and super light fast wheels getting up those hills.
Most of all, thank you to my coach, Siri Lindley, for taking this journey with me, believing in me, and showing me I have the strength to do anything I set my intention to do!!!

Ironman Australia

     I am fully recovered now and back to work now on all the lessons that I learned at Ironman Australia.
So here is the recap on my experience in Port Macquarie, New South Wales. I arrived 4 days before the race so that I could settle in and get to know the course a little more than just the map and street names in the athlete guide. To my dismay, it rained pretty much the entire time leading up the the race. Full on!!! I did get a chance to swim in the Hastings river each day for a little practice and also fit in a short run and bike here and there when the clouds parted of moments at a time.
     Port Mac was really a cute little town. It really doesn't seem like it is on the ocean until you walk a little south of town. To me it was more of a little town that would be on the banks of one of the Great Lakes in the US. There was everything you needed to get by, including a Target( the Aussie Targets are nothing to compare to the amazing USA Targets), but it wasn't too commercialized like some beach towns tend to be. It was a really nice location for the race.
    A few days prior to the race I really was dealing with a lot of anxiety. I traveled to Port by myself and being alone for a few days really got me into nervous mode. Thank goodness for my "hosts" and new friends, Angie Bainbridge and Robbie Elder, who came in on Friday to join in the weekend festivities. I was lucky enough to have one of my Sirius teammates hook me up with some of her friends and a lovely house to share on the canals. It was so nice to be around other athletes who understood the pressures of Ironman, as well as the welcoming company that they gave to me. It was so nice to have strangers reach out and take me in as one of their own. I can't express my gratitude more. Thanks guys!!

   Race day was pretty great. I had no problems sleeping for once, and felt really rested and ready to rock when I woke. I love Ironman morning prep much better than the half because all of your transition stuff has to be handed in the day before, including your bike. There isn't much to do and mess with the morning of except pump your tires and get your nutrition ready. This leaves plenty of time to stretch and focus and not be running around trying to get it all done. Love it!
   I was standing at the swim entry ready to jump in, and one of my lucky songs came on over the loud speakers. It is "Walking On A Dream" by Empire of the Sun. I was floored and a certain calm came over me. Nothing else mattered at this point except doing the best I could and believing in all the training.
I was the first one in the water as it was deep start anad we only had a few minutes to get into position. It was a mass start including the pros. I did jump up front with the small group of us. When I gun went off I just went for it. I was immediately creamed by tons of fast age group men. I did get one good solid heel right in the left eye. BAM!! No problem, Im not scared of a black eye. The pack fight is part of the game. I chose to wear my Blue Seventy Element goggle tinted in orange as the water was not clear and it was a little dark out but the sun was peaking. They held tight, never fogged, and worked wonders.
I was happy overall with my swim improvements. This has been and will be a long learning process for me. I am getting more comfortable in the water after each and every race and am grateful for an time I am able to cut off of racing.
    I was feeling great coming out of the water. The transition area was pretty smooth and much smaller than my past ironman. I didn't have to run too far to grab my stuff or get assistance. I know I am not the fastest swimmer so having a good quick transition is very important for me.
    Heading out on the bike I knew what I was in for, mostly. Robbie and I had driven the entire course the day prior to see the new changes and just prepare mentally. The first 15k are big rolling hills heading south out of town. It doesn't really give one a chance to get into any sort of rhythm for a while. There is the excitement though of just getting on the bike and the crowds cheering so it didn't phase me too much.  So after that comes the flats....and the wind. Boy this turned into a much more brutal route than I expected. There is a long stretch between oceanside towns where the road is completely flat. However, the winds were in a whirlwind on race day. I pushed hard and was grateful for all of my desert wind training the past few months. That training really helped me get though and make it a great bike. The road were pretty rough and tough as well. It isn't isn't smooth blacktop paved roads, more like grainy asphalt. I was happy with my decision to ride of HED Jet 6 and Jet 9 wheels for the race. A disc wheel would have put me in a bad position with the hills and especially the wind. The have a really great surface area contact as well which helps me feel more in control with keeping my bike on track, even on the rough roads.
  The journey back into town for the loop was much quicker as suspected, due to the opposite direction of the winds. The only real tough part coming back in a 200m super steep up hill that takes every one's breath away. Everyone must be in their granny gear at the very bottom of the hill or else.....you won't make it!! The course was two loops so the first time this little bitch wasn't so bad, but the second time at about 107 miles in, I thought I wouldn't make it!! OMG!!! It was tough, but then again only last 20-30 second of your life....so its not the worst hill in the world:) It took a few minutes to catch my breath after the hill each time, but then again everyone else had to go through the same things as well. I had a great bike ride and really got my nutritional needs met without an cramping or discomfort. So big +++ for the bike ride. My training has been changed drastically this year, and I can see that it is working.
   I felt decent coming off the bike and really got into a rhythm right from the start on the run. It was sort of a figure eight 10k loop done four times. Oh man, four loops is a killer!!! I felt amazing on the first two laps and really thought that the first 13 miles got down pretty easy and with a smile on my face. Then I hit lap 3 and stared to fade a bit. During the run in the past it had been my legs cramping, but today it was just a little soreness but more fatigue setting in. No matter how much sugar and caffeine one can pump into their body, after 8hr or so anything is tough for the body to continue performing anything. Thank goodness for Angie and the BRAT tri club section cheering for me as I ran by. I got to pass them 8 times, so it was an awesome jolt of energy every time I came back around past the river. The run wasn't too hard of a course, but there was a part at the farthest turn around when you would switch directions and the wind just smacked you in the face. On all 4 laps I found this to be the most difficult section of the looped course. The winds starts pushing you when you are in no mans land and fighting to get back into the town. This was definitely where the ups and downs of the mind kicked in. I was able to push through each as hard as I could, but it wasn't easy.
  Coming into the finish I felt a real excitement come over me. There was no one finishing at the same time as me, so I had finishing shoot all to myself. The spectators lined each side of me and were banging on the signs that were lining the path. I crossed with all the strength I had, and a smile on my face. My first Ironman as a professional triathlete was no complete. It was an amazing experience. Thank you also to Tony Wright, race swim director, for meeting me at the finish line, as promised with a big hug and congrats! That really meant a lot.
   I had really hoped to finish under 10 hours, but I was able to improve in each area of this race, and am pretty darn satisfied. Not many things went wrong during the race, but I learned a lot about my abilities, and the fitness level I am at now, and where I need to work on things and get stronger in order to achieve my goals. Ironman Australia was a really well organized race as well as fair. I don't know if I will be able to go back again next year, but suspect I will be back sometime in the next few years.
(Sorry for the lack of pictures.  I didn't take many as I was alone with my camera and it rained a lot.)

Oceanside 70.3 race report

Well I have broken the seal! I successfully finished my first professional triathlon. This Oceanside 70.3 triathlon was one that I had always wanted to avoid at all cost. The competition field is pretty much the toughest of the year, next to World Championships, rumored freezing temps, and a darn difficult bike course. So why did I make this my season starter, you ask? WHY THE HELL NOT!!

This year is a year about facing my FEARS and diving head first into living my DREAM to the fullest. I have been in California for the past two months training with the Team Sirius squad and felt it just made sense to go race since it was so close and I wanted to get the season started early. I am so new at everything and my coach and I figured what better way to start measuring my progress and fitness, than to saddle up next to the best in the world. So that's what I did

I spent a few days prior to the race in Oceanside with my good friend and teammate, Magali Tisseyre. We checked everything out as much as possible, got our bikes in order, took a dip in the fresh ocean. It was a perfect time to just focus on the big day. I have to say many thanks to Mags for really being there for me and showing me the ropes of being a pro. She is first class all the way!

Race morning came and I was feeling great. I usually get the nerves the evening before and after they settle, I wake race morning just energized and ready to roll. It seems at that point there isn't much else you can do except BELIEVE in your training and in yourself.

I have been working on my swim quite a bit and was really hoping to impress myself and show the progress I've made. To my dismay, I just didn't perform the way I wanted to in the water. I hung on to the pro women for about 200 meters and then I was all alone. I knew that was how it would be, but thought I could hang on to the back a little longer. I have really just begun swimming and do realize it takes patience and lots of hard work. So there I was swimming alone, got into a rhythm, but it wasn't as fast as I thought. When you have others around to draft off of or to push you it seems easier to know you are going strong. So I am disappointed that I didn't give it that extra kick that I should have, but I am taking a lot away from how I raced this course and will focus on what I need to change.

Transitions are something that I am pretty good at, so I went flying through T1 knowing I had a lot of time to make up. I went all out for the first 20 miles. The course is most flat there and with the wind at my back I was able to catch one of the other pros. From there the course got hilly and then the winds turned with the course and I was against the wind. It wasn't the worst wind, but when I was trying to make up time, it didn't help much. There was one big climb and one medium climb and then a bunch of rollers. I kept pushing as hard as I could without dying. To my delight, all of the women experienced the course in the same way. In addition, Camp Pendelton is closed to spectators, so I must say it was a little lonely out there trying to keep up and not a lot of crowd energy to motivate.

Back at T2, I flew. I got into my pace as fast as I could, keeping my cadence up. There was a lot of energy running out of transition along the harbor. Spectators on both sides of the road cheering on the athletes.  Just a few miles in, I saw Magali leading the run race. It was so amazing! It really inspired me to just go out there and give it what I had. I picked up the pace and just focused. Simple as that. I knew I had it in my to run strong. I just had to focus.

I came into the finish strong and had an overwhelming joy come over me. I had finished my first professional triathlon race. I had passed a few women pros on the run and had taken myself from dead last after the swim to 16th. In a field that was stacked with the world's strongest and toughest Ironman competitors, I was pretty satisfied. I know I have many many more races to come, and lots and lots of hard working days ahead of me. I can't say I didn't want more because we always want more. I have analyzed the things I was successful at and the stuff that needs work. I am happy to say that I had a wonderful experience and can't wait to go back and race this course again.

I have to say thank you to my coach, Siri Lindley, for her amazing support in training and in racing. Her love and energy is something that drives me everyday. Thank you to the other pro women for being so  welcoming and supportive of me in my first experience, especially you gals that are my friends and are seeing this crazy journey unfold. Thank you to Kiki Tisseyre for being my mom for the weekend and giving me so much love and care. And lastly, thank you to my friends that came from afar to spectate and support me in my first big race of my career. It means the world!!!

Winter training camp in the California desert

Well it has been two weeks since I left the Ohio winter for some "Sirius" triathlon training. I am living out in the southern California desert training with my coach, Siri Lindley, and the other Team Sirius athletes. This has been a whole new adventure for me. As a rookie pro, training with some of the world's greatest professional triathletes, can be a bit intimidating. I have to say,  however, that this is the most welcoming and energetic group I have ever met. I can't imagine being anywhere else right now and know that this fabulous ride has only just begun. 

 Our group is made up of all different men and women triathletes and a variety of focuses. We have everything from Olympic hopefuls to half and full Ironman racers. Everyone is here to become the best they can be, train hard, and to have fun while pushing ourselves to the limits.
The weather hasn't been quite what you would imagine a desert would be like. In two weeks we've had rain, snow,  horrific winds, and also plenty of sun.  I am still waiting for the warmer temperature, as we are layering up every morning. I imagine in a few weeks I may regret saying that.... I do not have a car here, so after a hard session, my idea of fun is not getting back on my bike to ride home and push through the wind at barely 5mph....What won't kill me can only make me stronger, right?!?!

 Since everyone is on a different game plan for their race focus, Siri makes sure that each individual is on a specific training plan. However, whenever possible, we get in key sessions together as it is awesome to be able to push yourself against your peers. The cheering and support is amazing as well. Sometimes Siri ever rides along in her car with her pack of dogs, radio blasting, motivating and coaching us to our potential. I have never had the daily eye of a coach watching over me. This has already become an invaluable experience for me in everyway imaginable, especially with my swimming.

As many know, I do not have a swimming background, nor have I really ever had proper direction on building strength, speed, and correct form.  It is amazing to have Siri watching and correcting me in the pool. She really cracks the whip since the pool isnt my favorite place to be. We call the pool that was created for our camp here, " the fishbowl" It is pretty much like swimming in open water everyday.

 Although I have only been here a short while I have made progresses, not only in my physical strength, but also mental strengths as well. Intensity is my new friend. Laughter, is an old one, that has come back to stay. I have laughed more in the past few weeks than I have in a really long time.( thanks Takka, Anna, Mags, Donna, Jenny, and Siri) My love for triathlon has really reignited. I am grateful for everyday I can continue to learn and grow out here.  I am grateful for the new friends that I have made. Their experience, wisdom, and hearts have made this experience more amazing than I could have ever imagined.  I can only hope that I will be able to give back to them someday in the same ways.

     I am a believer that there are no mistakes in life. This new adventure is proof.

Hawaiian Adventures: Jan 2011

This year has started off amazing. My husband, Rob, and I planned a trip to Hawaii for some good base training, warm temps, and of course a whole lot of fun.....and we've already received more than we could have ever expected. This is my first time in Hawaii and it has really proven to be an fantastic place.

During out first week on the Big Island we had to take advantage of doing the tourist thing and seeing the whole island. We first went up to Volcano National Park to check our the sites and hike. The weather is much cooler at 3,500 ft above sea level, so it was a good transition for my training from frigid temps to the tropics. I got up early to get my workouts in and then the days were ours to do whatever. We did a bit of hiking through the lava tubes and volcano caldera, and some coastal off-roading through the Puna district, south of Hilo. There were hidden lava pools and even an active lava flow that was close to destroying someone's house. Very interesting how nothing can stop lava, and I mean nothing!

A few days later we traveled over to Waikaloa to relax on the beach and great open water swimming. We got an opportunity to spend time with some Colorado friends that we randomly found out were on the island at the same time. What a lucky and pleasurable surprise. I also got my first wheel out on the famed Queen K. In addition, Rob and I had our first paddle board lesson with some friends and were hooked. We paddled 3 more times over the next week. It was so fun to try something new and challenging. I didn't grow up around water so anything aqua-like is an adventure for me:)

Week two was the reason for planning the trip to Hawaii. I participated in a triathlon camp, put on by the Playtri company. I wanted to build some solid base for my training and gain strength before the training season really gets under way. We were invited to stay with our friend's, Tricia and Al , who own a home in Kona. It was just delightful to have a wonderful cozy place to stay and to build a wonderful friendship with two amazing people.

During the 5 day camp, we did focus on all three triathlon sports, but the majority of the week was spent on riding. I rode 17.5 hours in 5 days, which is the most I've done since before Ironman Wisconsin, in September. It was a challenge but every hill and push that we made really fulfilled that drive and love for the challenge of what triathlon is all about. Thank goodness for my Kestrel 4000. She really hung in there with me and took a beating. She will be getting a good bath when we get home.

During camp I was inspired by an amazing group of athletes. Our group was filled with all different ages and triathlon experience, but everyone had that heart and determination to give it their all while in camp. On parts of rides where I was hurting, I'd look over and see someone else who was slower or less experienced than me, pushing harder and giving everything they had, determined to not give up. Our camp group was a total of 30, and a total of 30 made the complete Ironman ride from Kona to Hawi and back. Half of the group had never rode over 3 hours, let a lone over 100 miles. All I can say is WOW! This camp is really what I needed to kick start my training and my inner drive for the year. I am grateful for the opportunity to log good hours early in the season, to built new friendships, and share my passions with others who feel the same about this amazing sport.

ALOHA!