Training Log Archive: vmeyerIn the 31 days ending May 31, 2016:
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Tuesday May 31, 2016 #
Swimming 30:00 [1]
weight:180lbs
Ugh! No AC at work, though my little fan, and the fact that I am the only one in my space, makes a bit more bearable than the classrooms full of sweaty middle schoolers. The temp was 80.2 when I got to work, and now it is 79.7 at 2 PM.
Planned swim was easy to follow through with, that's for sure.
Worked on legs and arms together, because it turns out that once I start kicking a little, I stop pulling so much. A good mental effort to be more coordinated. Kind of like patting your head and rubbing your stomach at the same time...
In yard news...I finally got a clematis to grow more than one flower at a time. I love clematis.
Planned swim was easy to follow through with, that's for sure.
Worked on legs and arms together, because it turns out that once I start kicking a little, I stop pulling so much. A good mental effort to be more coordinated. Kind of like patting your head and rubbing your stomach at the same time...
In yard news...I finally got a clematis to grow more than one flower at a time. I love clematis.
Monday May 30, 2016 #
6 PM
Running/Walking 1:00:42 [1] 4.23 mi (14:21 / mi) +62m 13:43 / mi
weight:182lbs shoes: Hoka Pokey
Garden work at 7 am, followed by waiting for the AC repair man. Not an ordeal - not only was it an easy fix, free under my maintenance contract, but I was the 9 am appointment. Woohoo!
Lunch, followed by a long nap, making up for little rest in the stickiness last night. An early dinner, so it looked like the streak was at an end. Feeling a llittle sad at the thought, so I waited until near 7 to let dinner settle some, and then got a walk in, with some running 200s on the track.
Lunch, followed by a long nap, making up for little rest in the stickiness last night. An early dinner, so it looked like the streak was at an end. Feeling a llittle sad at the thought, so I waited until near 7 to let dinner settle some, and then got a walk in, with some running 200s on the track.
Sunday May 29, 2016 #
6 AM
Biking 2:54:00 [1] 35.5 mi (4:54 / mi) +390m 4:44 / mi
weight:181lbs
I didn't intend to do two long rides back to back, but I suggested to Roger that it could be raining on his strawberry picking plans tomorrow. So, we switched outing to today, and I rode from home to Leesburg, and Roger picked me up.
Left right at 6 AM, and it was a very pleasant ride, almost alone the first hour. Was worried if I could make it without suffering horribly, but I think the three advil knocked down any stiffness from yesterday, and a banana at 45 minutes, and shot blocks at two other intervals helped.
Saw a beautiful female woodpecker to start, then two bunnies, a fox, deer, and, yes, turtles, right near the end.
A little one...which I moved off of the trail.
And a bigger one, which I left to fend for itself.
After meeting Roger, we took White's Ferry to Maryland, and we timed it perfectly and were the only car to cross.
Getting ready to pick strawberries.
Taking the tractor to the field.
Slim pickings, but I got my ticket punched for going along.
A fine outing.
Left right at 6 AM, and it was a very pleasant ride, almost alone the first hour. Was worried if I could make it without suffering horribly, but I think the three advil knocked down any stiffness from yesterday, and a banana at 45 minutes, and shot blocks at two other intervals helped.
Saw a beautiful female woodpecker to start, then two bunnies, a fox, deer, and, yes, turtles, right near the end.
A little one...which I moved off of the trail.
And a bigger one, which I left to fend for itself.
After meeting Roger, we took White's Ferry to Maryland, and we timed it perfectly and were the only car to cross.
Getting ready to pick strawberries.
Taking the tractor to the field.
Slim pickings, but I got my ticket punched for going along.
A fine outing.
3 PM
Note
One of the robins left the nest today, but I missed seeing it go. I will have to review the tape later. One is left now...
The magnolia tree is in bloom.
The only damper on the day is that the AC compressor is not coming on. Hopefully, it will be repaired tomorrow between 9 and noon. I guess the basement will be our friend until then.
The magnolia tree is in bloom.
The only damper on the day is that the AC compressor is not coming on. Hopefully, it will be repaired tomorrow between 9 and noon. I guess the basement will be our friend until then.
Saturday May 28, 2016 #
6 AM
Biking 2:39:00 [1] 31.52 mi (5:03 / mi) +167m 4:58 / mi
weight:181lbs
Early start to avoid the heat, and the burning sun. Yes, I know, sunscreen, but I am sensitive to something it it, and I end up wheezing after I put it on...
A beautiful morning, with lots of training groups and cyclist out on the trails. Home to Memorial Bridge, then down towards Mount Vernon, past Belle Haven, turning around at the stone bridge. Back home from there.
No turtles on the log today, but there was a squirrel which played chicken with me. We both won. Not so the quite flatten chipmunk drying in the road.
Otherwise, there were lots of planes and cranes.
A beautiful morning, with lots of training groups and cyclist out on the trails. Home to Memorial Bridge, then down towards Mount Vernon, past Belle Haven, turning around at the stone bridge. Back home from there.
No turtles on the log today, but there was a squirrel which played chicken with me. We both won. Not so the quite flatten chipmunk drying in the road.
Otherwise, there were lots of planes and cranes.
Friday May 27, 2016 #
Swimming 30:00 [1]
weight:183lbs
Decent swim effort, and, so far at least, it has been a non-skittles day. My teeth and guns and the sides of my mouth thank me for that. A good day, so far at least.
Thursday May 26, 2016 #
Note
Sunburned shoulders from yesterday - quite painful. Need to be smarter.
Need to dump my ill fitting bike shorts too, and stick to the new ones.
Need to dump my ill fitting bike shorts too, and stick to the new ones.
7 PM
Walking (Hill loop) 1:01:24 [1] 3.99 mi (15:23 / mi) +148m 13:48 / mi
weight:184lbs shoes: Hoka Pokey
No time until after dinner, and I wasn't going to try any running on a full stomach, in the 80+ heat, so I decided on walking the hilly route. Goal is to be going up or down a hill with as little flat connectors as possible. Good way to stay engaged and the time seemed to go by quickly. And, I only regretted the steak and potato a couple of times.
Sighted only a ground squirrel, and lots of people, including a Latino dance troupe practicing behind the elementary school.
Sighted only a ground squirrel, and lots of people, including a Latino dance troupe practicing behind the elementary school.
Wednesday May 25, 2016 #
Biking 1:40:00 [1] 20.0 mi (5:00 / mi)
weight:184lbs
Loop out to east falls church and back. The turtles were basking in the sunshine, as was I. What a beautiful day for a ride.
C • Turtles 10
Tuesday May 24, 2016 #
4 PM
Biking 1:01:00 [1] 12.07 mi (5:03 / mi) +106m 4:55 / mi
After work. Near 80 and sunny out with a nice breeze. Wind in face on the uphill to the house, but I made it without too much suffering. Getting stronger. A good day.
Monday May 23, 2016 #
Swimming 30:00 [1]
Trying to keep the exercise streak up without breaking myself, so swam today as a rest day of sorts...six months ago, I wouldn't have even thunk it.
Woke up with a stiff back this morning, which loosened up quickly enough, but otherwise no issues from yesterday's activities. Did have gooey eyes and a stuffed head. The swim seems to have taken care of that, for now.
Woke up with a stiff back this morning, which loosened up quickly enough, but otherwise no issues from yesterday's activities. Did have gooey eyes and a stuffed head. The swim seems to have taken care of that, for now.
Sunday May 22, 2016 #
Event: QOC Fountainhead
11 AM
Trail Run (Walk to start) 28:12 [1] 1.42 mi (19:52 / mi) +56m 17:42 / mi
A long wet trek to the Start, but I since I knew this ahead of time, I factored it into my course choice, as well as into my mental outlook, and it wasn't too bad. Brought back memories of training runs along the blue blazed trails.
Orienteering race (FH West - Orange) 1:03:18 [3] *** 3.2 km (19:47 / km) +150m 16:02 / km
FR = 2.72 miles with 94.5 meters climb
RouteGadget
A nice Orange course, well worth the long walk to and from the S/F.
Really happy with my navigation, feeling like I was seeing the terrain quite well. Guess actually having contours and wide open woods is helpful for me.
Ironically, a little bobble to 5, maybe not paying close attention to where I was after quizzing Anna C on whether she knew where she was...she said yes, but was heading south on the trail instead of NE to her next control. Next time, I will suggest that a quick compass check take place.
A bigger time loss to 6 when things didn't quite add up there.
I see drifted right on 5, 6, and 7, so I will need to pay attention to this the next time out.
At 8 the same time as Diana, and we took slightly different routes to 9. After choosing to run on the ride, I should have stayed on it a bit longer,. Glasses mostly useless at this point, so instead I angled down the hillside longer than I wanted to.
Diana (F15) smoked the field, and I squeaked into second just ahead of Alli, with Barney, I assume, and Maggie.
RouteGadget
A nice Orange course, well worth the long walk to and from the S/F.
Really happy with my navigation, feeling like I was seeing the terrain quite well. Guess actually having contours and wide open woods is helpful for me.
Ironically, a little bobble to 5, maybe not paying close attention to where I was after quizzing Anna C on whether she knew where she was...she said yes, but was heading south on the trail instead of NE to her next control. Next time, I will suggest that a quick compass check take place.
A bigger time loss to 6 when things didn't quite add up there.
I see drifted right on 5, 6, and 7, so I will need to pay attention to this the next time out.
At 8 the same time as Diana, and we took slightly different routes to 9. After choosing to run on the ride, I should have stayed on it a bit longer,. Glasses mostly useless at this point, so instead I angled down the hillside longer than I wanted to.
Diana (F15) smoked the field, and I squeaked into second just ahead of Alli, with Barney, I assume, and Maggie.
Trail Run (Walk from Finish) 29:08 [1] 1.43 mi (20:23 / mi) +69m 17:44 / mi
And, then back to the Finish. Again, had this programmed into, so I handled it better than some others. Struggled up the steepest hill, but otherwise, it felt good. Ran when I felt comfortable of the footing since I couldn't really see too well without my glasses, which were fogged up beyond repair.
Next time - a water taxi from the marina to one of the inlets...see tracks.
Next time - a water taxi from the marina to one of the inlets...see tracks.
Saturday May 21, 2016 #
9 AM
Running/Walking 1:00:00 4.9 mi (12:15 / mi)
weight:182lbs shoes: Hoka Pokey
Lulu's last morning, but she says it is too wet to take her out for a run. I agree since it is pouring.
On the treadmill - 5 minute clumps of walking at 4 mph and running at 5.6 and 6.0 mph. The two 5 minute half miles felt good. Now, we are off to meet the kids at Union Market for lunch.
On the treadmill - 5 minute clumps of walking at 4 mph and running at 5.6 and 6.0 mph. The two 5 minute half miles felt good. Now, we are off to meet the kids at Union Market for lunch.
Friday May 20, 2016 #
Note
weight:183lbs
These robin's eggs are in a nest built on the porch light next door.
Two eggs hatched, one egg was found in the yard, and one remains unhatched in the nest.
I set up a webcam, and Anne got it going live on livestream.
Here are Brendan and Molly watching the "bird movie."
Two eggs hatched, one egg was found in the yard, and one remains unhatched in the nest.
I set up a webcam, and Anne got it going live on livestream.
Here are Brendan and Molly watching the "bird movie."
6 AM
Biking (to work) 33:17 [3] 6.61 mi (5:02 / mi) +33m 4:58 / mi
Bike to work today - wore THE pants and THE socks. Nice morning for a ride.
10 AM
Biking 33:48 [1] 6.18 mi (5:28 / mi) +66m 5:18 / mi
Home at lunchtime to mow the lawn.
11 AM
Mowing/Yard (mowing) 10:00 [1] 0.8 mi (12:30 / mi) +14m 11:53 / mi
Told Carolyn that I was going to speed mow and would be done in 40 minutes. Cut it close - 39:18.
Swimming 30:37 [1] 1.04 mi (29:26 / mi)
Needed a shower after biking and mowing, so I may as well swim today too! Like a mini tR day.
15 x 100 yards with rest in between. Guy being taught/coached in next lane made me concentrate on making a good stroke.
202 20
208 18
206 52 (new goggles)
201 19
201 22
201 25
200 29
159 32
200 21
159 32
207 21
204 32
202 19
205 18
212 22
15 x 100 yards with rest in between. Guy being taught/coached in next lane made me concentrate on making a good stroke.
202 20
208 18
206 52 (new goggles)
201 19
201 22
201 25
200 29
159 32
200 21
159 32
207 21
204 32
202 19
205 18
212 22
12 PM
Note
I have been to the SS office twice in the last 7 months - in October to file my mother's DC, and today to get an account activation code, since I was unable to actually accomplish signing up for online service online.
Well, if I hoped to come away with a horror story, then I was terribly disappointed both times. The employee at window #9 took excellent care of me right then and there, and I didn't have to join the masses of unhappy people in the hard plastic chairs.
Now the guy in the parking lot dropping repeated f-bombs about having to waste an hour of his day, and some other hot and bothered statements, well, he will have a story to regale his buddies with. But, not me, and for that I am grateful.
Well, if I hoped to come away with a horror story, then I was terribly disappointed both times. The employee at window #9 took excellent care of me right then and there, and I didn't have to join the masses of unhappy people in the hard plastic chairs.
Now the guy in the parking lot dropping repeated f-bombs about having to waste an hour of his day, and some other hot and bothered statements, well, he will have a story to regale his buddies with. But, not me, and for that I am grateful.
Thursday May 19, 2016 #
5 PM
Running/Walking 38:00 2.83 mi (13:26 / mi) +63m 12:34 / mi
weight:181lbs
The pull of Lulu and the downhill resulted in a first mile in 9:40, then we needed to walk more, especially the last part. Lulu was flagging badly and kept seeking a shady area to lie down in. Sure hope I didn't break Carolyn's dog, when I thought it was actually me who was going to be broke by the running dog.
Wednesday May 18, 2016 #
Biking 1:40:00 [1] 20.0 mi (5:00 / mi)
weight:179lbs
A little windy, but otherwise perfect, for me at least, weather for a long ride at ~65 and overcast.
5 PM
Walking 35:00 [1] 2.0 mi (17:30 / mi)
A walk after work with Lulu and her master. :)
I have quads! I know that because they ache, that good ache.
I have quads! I know that because they ache, that good ache.
Tuesday May 17, 2016 #
4 PM
Running/Walking (With Lulu) 37:06 [3] 3.0 mi (12:22 / mi) +73m 11:30 / mi
weight:179lbs
Today I was prepared in running clothes when I took Lulu out for a walk, and we were able to run for about 1.6 miles before walking more. Drizzling - perfect for a workout.
Monday May 16, 2016 #
Swimming 30:00 [1]
weight:179lbs
To the pool in an effort to soothe the mind, if not the heart. Unfortunately, the thoughts related to the toxicity kept running by on a continuous loop, with the music doing little to drown it out. So, I toughed it out for 30 minutes, and then hit the showers. At least I got some exercise. Then, after a one day skittles break, I hit them hard again. :)
Note
Barney spent the day at the Meyer residence yesterday...tough day of watching tv and napping with Roger.
And, so I don't get a testy email from Barney asking why I didn't post the selfie he took...
Waiting for Boris and Alli to come home...
And, so I don't get a testy email from Barney asking why I didn't post the selfie he took...
Waiting for Boris and Alli to come home...
4 PM
Running/Walking (walking LuLu) 26:00 [1] 1.8 mi (14:27 / mi)
shoes: Hoka Pokey
An old friend from my ultra running days is staying with us this week, as is her dog, LuLu. I broke out a long blue USB cable when I got home from work, and Lulu thought it was her leash, so, what the heck, I took her for a "walk." Good thing II had tightened up my shoes before we left, because I didn't quite have a handle on her commands, which are in German, so we ran a bit as well. Felt good, and I even wore her out some. Oh, and I picked up poop without gagging. Yay, for me.
Sunday May 15, 2016 #
Event: QOC Combat Village
1 PM
Orienteering race (Combat Village Brown) 1:12:47 [3] *** 3.94 mi (18:28 / mi) +45m 17:51 / mi
Beautiful day to be out on a course, even if I didn't mange to find the fourth control, or the infamous 104 the first time by. Well, I found 104 the second time, at least...
Looks like I walked right past 4 the second time...
http://qocweb.org/routes/cgi-bin/reitti.pl?act=map...
Two splits were 5/25, and then the rest of the story. Still a good day.
Well, until I read an email from my nemesis just before leaving Quantico, and promptly, in my ticked off haze, drove south on 95 instead of north, not realizing the error for eight miles. Ugh! Thought the angst was over, but I was mistaken.
Looks like I walked right past 4 the second time...
http://qocweb.org/routes/cgi-bin/reitti.pl?act=map...
Two splits were 5/25, and then the rest of the story. Still a good day.
Well, until I read an email from my nemesis just before leaving Quantico, and promptly, in my ticked off haze, drove south on 95 instead of north, not realizing the error for eight miles. Ugh! Thought the angst was over, but I was mistaken.
C • nemesis 10
Running/Walking 15:00 [1] 1.2 mi (12:30 / mi) +11m 12:09 / mi
weight:181lbs
Walk and ran to start and back, and to start again...
Saturday May 14, 2016 #
10 AM
Biking 31:09 [3] 5.4 mi (5:46 / mi) +125m 5:23 / mi
weight:179lbs
EX2 Reservoir Relay Trail Run - Bull Run to Fountainhead - 9 AM - timing with SI.
Drove to Bull Run Regional Park to issue SI-cards, then down to Fountainhead for the finish. Lots of time to spare, so a couple loops of the park road on my MTB, since it was in the car still...
Climbing hills is a work in progress. Not squeezing the brakes for dear life on the downhills is as well.
Beautiful day, race went well, and I was home before the skies opened up again.
Drove to Bull Run Regional Park to issue SI-cards, then down to Fountainhead for the finish. Lots of time to spare, so a couple loops of the park road on my MTB, since it was in the car still...
Climbing hills is a work in progress. Not squeezing the brakes for dear life on the downhills is as well.
Beautiful day, race went well, and I was home before the skies opened up again.
Friday May 13, 2016 #
3 PM
Biking 1:00:00 [1] 12.08 mi (4:58 / mi) +39m 4:55 / mi
weight:180lbs
Rainy morning, but forecast promised that it would be sunny in the afternoon, so I threw my bike in the car in case I had a chance to ride, and I did. And, apart from very, very itchy eyes, I enjoyed myself. Another day of balancing eating sweets with exercise. Not sure why my sweet tooth has taken over my life the last two weeks. Guess I was tired of carrots.
Bike outfit today - black shorts, navy shirt - blah, but practical in case there was mud on the trail.
Good end to the week - last form received from my sister, so all of the estate paperwork is finished and is off to the attorney for review, and then to the courts for their blessing, and then I mail the rest of the checks. Still need to do federal 1041, but after that I am done!
Bike outfit today - black shorts, navy shirt - blah, but practical in case there was mud on the trail.
Good end to the week - last form received from my sister, so all of the estate paperwork is finished and is off to the attorney for review, and then to the courts for their blessing, and then I mail the rest of the checks. Still need to do federal 1041, but after that I am done!
C • eyes 2
Thursday May 12, 2016 #
3 PM
Running/Walking 1:01:01 5.08 mi (12:01 / mi) +2m 12:00 / mi
weight:180lbs
Around the track at work - 15 X 2 min run, 1 min walk. Cool day perfect for running. Kept thinking I could not possibly do one more, but I managed to do the planned amount.
Lower back a little stiff this morning, probably from breaststroke yesterday. I could feel it at the time. Knees sore walking up steps after workout. Sure wish I was better at stretching and strengthening. Maybe one day.
Lower back a little stiff this morning, probably from breaststroke yesterday. I could feel it at the time. Knees sore walking up steps after workout. Sure wish I was better at stretching and strengthening. Maybe one day.
Wednesday May 11, 2016 #
Swimming 30:00 [1]
Back on the horse, or something like that. Was extremely tempted to go home and nap instead, since it is another gloomy day, but I made the right choice in the end. Some 100 BS thrown in here and there to break up the time.
Made the poor choice related to skittles. Oh, well, maybe I'll win that one tomorrow, especially since they are all gone, for now.
Made the poor choice related to skittles. Oh, well, maybe I'll win that one tomorrow, especially since they are all gone, for now.
Tuesday May 10, 2016 #
Mowing/Yard (Mow #3) 10:00 [1]
weight:180lbs
Speed mow during the short window of opportunity between when the grass dried from the morning rain and before it started raining again. Got it done!
Monday May 9, 2016 #
Note
weight:178lbs
Sunday May 8, 2016 #
Event: QOC Morven Park
4 AM
Note
The Ladies Choice Tri http://triitnow.com/LC/ladieschoice.htm
So, today is race day, the one I have been training for for many, many, er, days... ;) This was a "baby" tri in my mind, just the right amount of distance to tackle - 400 yard swim, 8 mile bike on roads, and 2 miles of running on mostly sidewalk, with a bit of grass/mulch.
The race start is advertised at7:30 7:15, and I needed to be there around 6-6:30 to pick up my number, chip, and get body marked.
I don't think I am too nervous, but I had a fierce headache last night, and while some advil knocked it down, I didn't end up sleeping much at all, maybe two hours, though most nights this is par for the course. I am awake before the alarm goes off at 4:30.
Got up, decided on two packets of oatmeal, and several diet cokes for breakfast. Packed up everything I think I needed for the day - race and QOC orienteering event, and hit the road.
Drive to Manassas was uneventful, and I took time to stop and use the facilities at the rest stop on the way.
Temperature is 55, and the rain has moved out of the area, or so they claimed, after 11 straight days with showers.
Picked up my race number, chatting with some other first timers while in line, and took then my bike to the transition area...this isn't my bike, though it is my plastic container...
This is my bike. It seemingly didn't fit into the bike stands. After checking with the head tri-lady, I shoved it in, because all bikes must be in a rack.
Next, picked up my timing chip, and was greeted by a Hi, Valerie. It was Vic, QOC's treasurer, who runs a chip timing business.
Here I am showing off my body marking. I have to say that I thought this was very poorly done. Good thing they didn't need to read the number on my leg at a high rate of speed.
At 7ish, the transition area was closed, and a pre-race brief took place.
I foolishly decided to leave the lid off of my container, for easy access later. Silly me for a couple of reason which will soon become obvious...
So, today is race day, the one I have been training for for many, many, er, days... ;) This was a "baby" tri in my mind, just the right amount of distance to tackle - 400 yard swim, 8 mile bike on roads, and 2 miles of running on mostly sidewalk, with a bit of grass/mulch.
The race start is advertised at
I don't think I am too nervous, but I had a fierce headache last night, and while some advil knocked it down, I didn't end up sleeping much at all, maybe two hours, though most nights this is par for the course. I am awake before the alarm goes off at 4:30.
Got up, decided on two packets of oatmeal, and several diet cokes for breakfast. Packed up everything I think I needed for the day - race and QOC orienteering event, and hit the road.
Drive to Manassas was uneventful, and I took time to stop and use the facilities at the rest stop on the way.
Temperature is 55, and the rain has moved out of the area, or so they claimed, after 11 straight days with showers.
Picked up my race number, chatting with some other first timers while in line, and took then my bike to the transition area...this isn't my bike, though it is my plastic container...
This is my bike. It seemingly didn't fit into the bike stands. After checking with the head tri-lady, I shoved it in, because all bikes must be in a rack.
Next, picked up my timing chip, and was greeted by a Hi, Valerie. It was Vic, QOC's treasurer, who runs a chip timing business.
Here I am showing off my body marking. I have to say that I thought this was very poorly done. Good thing they didn't need to read the number on my leg at a high rate of speed.
At 7ish, the transition area was closed, and a pre-race brief took place.
I foolishly decided to leave the lid off of my container, for easy access later. Silly me for a couple of reason which will soon become obvious...
7 AM
Swimming race (400 yards) 10:34 [3] 0.28 mi (37:42 / mi) +70m 21:15 / mi
weight:180lbs
The brief race briefing went on way too long, and the race started 15 minutes late. About 2 minutes before the actual race start, the skies darkened, and it poured for about 10 minutes.
Ah, well, at least some of my clothes were still dry in the locker room.
We lined up by bib number, and based on my predicted time of 8 minutes, I was 35 in line.
The lady next to me tells me to feel free to pass her, because she doesn't think she'll be able to reach her 8 minute predicted pace. I told her not to worry.
So, off we go every 5 seconds, and let me tell you, the time goes by FAST! Before I knew it, I was in the water, and trying to swim as fast as I could. But, I felt like I was in over my head. The water was very choppy and deeper than I usually swim in. I felt a bit of panic, and the look of desperation is real.
I calmed down after realizing that I wasn't going to quit, and it would be embarrassing to do so anyway, and that people could easily pass me, and going slow was ok. I stuck to the lane line, sometimes too closely, and the laps counted down. Ducking under the lane line with the turbulence was taxing, and I felt short of breath throughout the whole swim.
One of the missteps in what I wore was my garmin. I had stopped wearing a watch while swimming, and it felt big, clunky, and it was too loose, which was distracting, and I kept hitting the lane marker with that arm.
The other poor wardrobe choice was the two piece tri suit, which I haven't worn wet in two years. Wet = loose - see above. I chose it instead of my one piece with shorts because I was afraid I would need to go to the bathroom ten times, and I didn't want to have to keep undressing.
Amy, who was on the way to the QOC, made a detour to cheer me on. I was delighted to see her, especially after having an earplug come apart and get stuck in my ear. She got my car keys and retrieved the tick tweezers I carry around, and I got the earplug out easily enough.
A long distance shot from my cheering squad...
AP calculated the swim with more climb than the bike. I agree - it was all uphill, that's for sure.
Swim - official time 11:30, 2:30 above what I expected I could do.
Actual time should have been 10:30, but I stopped to talk to Amy before going across the timing mat.
Swim place 71/97, ~60/97 if I had gone across the mat right away.
Things for the race start and swim next time, if there is a next time...
-practice in a deeper pool with more people?
-get earplug situation sorted. Can't stand water in my ears, so I have to wear them.
-don't expect that race will start on time, go with the flow, stay chill
-put a longer swim estimate...perhaps starting at the end with the slower people would have been better.
Ah, well, at least some of my clothes were still dry in the locker room.
We lined up by bib number, and based on my predicted time of 8 minutes, I was 35 in line.
The lady next to me tells me to feel free to pass her, because she doesn't think she'll be able to reach her 8 minute predicted pace. I told her not to worry.
So, off we go every 5 seconds, and let me tell you, the time goes by FAST! Before I knew it, I was in the water, and trying to swim as fast as I could. But, I felt like I was in over my head. The water was very choppy and deeper than I usually swim in. I felt a bit of panic, and the look of desperation is real.
I calmed down after realizing that I wasn't going to quit, and it would be embarrassing to do so anyway, and that people could easily pass me, and going slow was ok. I stuck to the lane line, sometimes too closely, and the laps counted down. Ducking under the lane line with the turbulence was taxing, and I felt short of breath throughout the whole swim.
One of the missteps in what I wore was my garmin. I had stopped wearing a watch while swimming, and it felt big, clunky, and it was too loose, which was distracting, and I kept hitting the lane marker with that arm.
The other poor wardrobe choice was the two piece tri suit, which I haven't worn wet in two years. Wet = loose - see above. I chose it instead of my one piece with shorts because I was afraid I would need to go to the bathroom ten times, and I didn't want to have to keep undressing.
Amy, who was on the way to the QOC, made a detour to cheer me on. I was delighted to see her, especially after having an earplug come apart and get stuck in my ear. She got my car keys and retrieved the tick tweezers I carry around, and I got the earplug out easily enough.
A long distance shot from my cheering squad...
AP calculated the swim with more climb than the bike. I agree - it was all uphill, that's for sure.
Swim - official time 11:30, 2:30 above what I expected I could do.
Actual time should have been 10:30, but I stopped to talk to Amy before going across the timing mat.
Swim place 71/97, ~60/97 if I had gone across the mat right away.
Things for the race start and swim next time, if there is a next time...
-practice in a deeper pool with more people?
-get earplug situation sorted. Can't stand water in my ears, so I have to wear them.
-don't expect that race will start on time, go with the flow, stay chill
-put a longer swim estimate...perhaps starting at the end with the slower people would have been better.
C • Woo! 20
Biking race 31:00 [3] 7.25 mi (4:17 / mi) +27m 4:14 / mi
On to the bike ride...
I was concerned about being too cold on the bike, what with the 55 degrees and all, and time wasn't a huge issue to me, I decided to put my change of clothes in the locker room. Amy met me there with the tweezers for the earplug extraction, and also assisted with getting my bra pulled down in the back. :)
After about 8:15, I was changed and back out on the bike. The course was a one mile section followed by two times a longer loop. I had debated on which bike - the lighter one with skinnier wheels or the mountain bike. I went with the MTB, which I was happy about on the wet roads. I am not super confident on turns, but I was making up time when going around the turns.
Walking the bike to the mounting area...
The pants were much commented on, and the shirt was a perfect choice, well, until about 3 miles in, when I got too hot. I debated taking it off, but that wasn't happening. Couldn't even really get the sleeves pushed up either, so I concentrated on pedaling hard and getting it done.
Official bike time was 39:13, which was 31:00 on the bike and 8:13 in transition.
Bike place was 88/97, and ~60th without the long change time.
I passed a few people near the end, so that was fun.
Things for next time, if there is a next time:
-don't change clothes, unless maybe it is really, really cold. :)
-put the cover on the plastic bin, just in case it rains, or a squirrel comes foraging.
-maybe get a front water bottle
-be grateful if the course is short
I was concerned about being too cold on the bike, what with the 55 degrees and all, and time wasn't a huge issue to me, I decided to put my change of clothes in the locker room. Amy met me there with the tweezers for the earplug extraction, and also assisted with getting my bra pulled down in the back. :)
After about 8:15, I was changed and back out on the bike. The course was a one mile section followed by two times a longer loop. I had debated on which bike - the lighter one with skinnier wheels or the mountain bike. I went with the MTB, which I was happy about on the wet roads. I am not super confident on turns, but I was making up time when going around the turns.
Walking the bike to the mounting area...
The pants were much commented on, and the shirt was a perfect choice, well, until about 3 miles in, when I got too hot. I debated taking it off, but that wasn't happening. Couldn't even really get the sleeves pushed up either, so I concentrated on pedaling hard and getting it done.
Official bike time was 39:13, which was 31:00 on the bike and 8:13 in transition.
Bike place was 88/97, and ~60th without the long change time.
I passed a few people near the end, so that was fun.
Things for next time, if there is a next time:
-don't change clothes, unless maybe it is really, really cold. :)
-put the cover on the plastic bin, just in case it rains, or a squirrel comes foraging.
-maybe get a front water bottle
-be grateful if the course is short
C • gear 4
Running race 19:20 [3] 1.85 mi (10:27 / mi)
I changed my shirt for the run, and decided against changing my shorts since they were making me so happy, and the bike padding wasn't going to be an issue for two miles.
When I was going from the sidewalk section to a short grass/mulch section, the lady said "you'll be back on the sidewalk soon." I thought Ugh, no, please, more soft stuff, but 200 yards later, it was back on the sidewalk. Course was mercifully short - both on garmin and on gmap, not that I am complaining.
Official run time = 22:21, which included 3:00 in transition.
Run place 65/97, and ~60 with less transition time spent posing. :)
Things to remember, if I ever do another one of these:
-Put the timing chip on with big lump of plastic on the outside of the leg. I didn't turn it around to partway on the run.
-get shoes tight right the first time
-just because the event is put on by a sanctioned organization doesn't mean that they will get the course length correct.
When I was going from the sidewalk section to a short grass/mulch section, the lady said "you'll be back on the sidewalk soon." I thought Ugh, no, please, more soft stuff, but 200 yards later, it was back on the sidewalk. Course was mercifully short - both on garmin and on gmap, not that I am complaining.
Official run time = 22:21, which included 3:00 in transition.
Run place 65/97, and ~60 with less transition time spent posing. :)
Things to remember, if I ever do another one of these:
-Put the timing chip on with big lump of plastic on the outside of the leg. I didn't turn it around to partway on the run.
-get shoes tight right the first time
-just because the event is put on by a sanctioned organization doesn't mean that they will get the course length correct.
None (Transitions) 12:00 [0]
After finishing, they handed everyone a carnation, their finisher's shirt, and took off the timing chip for you.
Thanks again to Amy for coming and supporting and cheering me on, and taking the pictures. Four of the pictures I bought from the race photographer. Nothing like having them up within 6 hours of the race.
One last picture before packing up and heading to the QOC event. I never even made it over to the food tent. Oh, well, maybe next time, if there is a next time.
Official race time was 1:13:05, and my goal was under 1:15:00. I was 79/97 overall and 6/11 in 55-59.
I figured 40 minutes for biking, but I was 39:13, even with the long change time.
Swim was 3:30 longer and run was right on even with the leisurely transition time.
So, if I were to ever do this again, I could probably take ~8 minutes off the time. Not that I'm saying I'll do it again. ;-)
Thanks again to Amy for coming and supporting and cheering me on, and taking the pictures. Four of the pictures I bought from the race photographer. Nothing like having them up within 6 hours of the race.
One last picture before packing up and heading to the QOC event. I never even made it over to the food tent. Oh, well, maybe next time, if there is a next time.
Official race time was 1:13:05, and my goal was under 1:15:00. I was 79/97 overall and 6/11 in 55-59.
I figured 40 minutes for biking, but I was 39:13, even with the long change time.
Swim was 3:30 longer and run was right on even with the leisurely transition time.
So, if I were to ever do this again, I could probably take ~8 minutes off the time. Not that I'm saying I'll do it again. ;-)
1 PM
Orienteering 58:57 [3] 5.75 km (10:15 / km) +75m 9:37 / km
shoes: Pink!! Ice Bugs
Garmin = 4 miles with 76.4m climb
Off to Leesburg for the QOC event, where I worked the computer until 1 PM or so, and them off to do the 1 Cowboy Relay. BTW, since this is a horse farm, I think the name should have some sort of equine themed name instead...
Three 1-1.1k loops followed a 2.6k loop - lots of field/grass running, and being a late started resulted in matted down paths, but also muddy, sloppy paths, and misleading paths. So close to 10 minutes/k and lots of fun!
Off to Leesburg for the QOC event, where I worked the computer until 1 PM or so, and them off to do the 1 Cowboy Relay. BTW, since this is a horse farm, I think the name should have some sort of equine themed name instead...
Three 1-1.1k loops followed a 2.6k loop - lots of field/grass running, and being a late started resulted in matted down paths, but also muddy, sloppy paths, and misleading paths. So close to 10 minutes/k and lots of fun!
Saturday May 7, 2016 #
10 AM
Swimming 20:00 [1]
weight:179lbs
Needed to do a little energy release, so to the pool it was. Thought 30 minutes, but 20 was enough.
Friday May 6, 2016 #
Walking 20:00 [1] 1.4 mi (14:17 / mi)
weight:179lbs
Ten minutes of warm up and then to cool down after the two mile run.
C • tri 6
Running (Treadmill) 21:50 [2] 2.0 mi (10:55 / mi)
Meant to do this yesterday, but a dry window of opportunity to get the garden fertilized took precedence. Lots of rain today to wash said fertilizer into the soil, and to drive me indoors. Just as well since the treadmill is easier on the knees. After warm up, I set the speed at 5.5 mph and loped along mindlessly until the two miles was reached. Felt easy enough, but then the treadmill always feels easier to me.
Wednesday May 4, 2016 #
Swimming 30:00 [1] 1.37 km (21:54 / km)
weight:178lbs
Plan = 30 minutes with 2 x 400, which I did in 800 and 745. Then kept 8 minute pace for the remainder of the time. One minute rest after the 400s. A good swim.
Today is also a good day because I get to start sending out the gifts my mother made to her sister, grandchildren, and step-children. They will all be very appreciative of mom's gift to them.
Today is also a good day because I get to start sending out the gifts my mother made to her sister, grandchildren, and step-children. They will all be very appreciative of mom's gift to them.
Tuesday May 3, 2016 #
Biking 41:30 [1] 8.0 mi (5:11 / mi)
weight:178lbs
No Garmin, so gmapped a 4 mile loop and did it twice. Slow, or at least it felt slow.
Running/Walking 22:00 [1] 2.0 mi (11:00 / mi)
shoes: Hoka Pokey
Changed shoes and then around the paved loop at work, trying to run as much as possible. Got done just before the skies opened.
Monday May 2, 2016 #
Swimming 52:30 [1] 2.29 km (22:56 / km)
weight:178lbs
Still dealing with phlegmzy in my chest which I can't quite cough out, so I had to stop a few times to try. Kept it mostly at a honest pace but not overly fast, since I am a bit fatigued.
So far, I have used my pool pass 48 of the 73 times I consider to be the break even number.
So far, I have used my pool pass 48 of the 73 times I consider to be the break even number.
Sunday May 1, 2016 #
Note
Drove to Philly after the meet yesterday to spend today helping my aunt in her garden - likely moving mulch up the hill, but we got rained out. So, we ran errands instead. A good visit, despite starting the drive home waiting through a 45 minute delay because of an accident on 476.
Four months into the year, and I have matched the total hours trained for all of 2015. And, while I had a bad week in April, the training has been pleasing in that it has been consistence, not something I am usually very good with - hours each month = 24, 24, 26, 24.
Four months into the year, and I have matched the total hours trained for all of 2015. And, while I had a bad week in April, the training has been pleasing in that it has been consistence, not something I am usually very good with - hours each month = 24, 24, 26, 24.