tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76980522502117113672024-03-13T12:59:33.936-07:00Tri mom's lifeScrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.comBlogger65125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-32996807370152598952018-02-08T15:13:00.001-08:002018-02-08T15:13:51.895-08:00Cedar 12k Race Report<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This year I am excited for life! After having a rough go last year I am determined to make 2018 awesome!<div>
I started the year off right by setting attainable goals and intentions:</div>
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- Be present</div>
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- Race for the love of it</div>
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- Don't worry about numbers</div>
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- Always show up</div>
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- Enjoy the process</div>
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I am excited to say I think things are going in the right direction. Last weekend I had an absolute blast at the Cedar 12km race that was a part of the Vancouver Island Race Series.</div>
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I think this photo says it all.</div>
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I went in to this race with 0 expectations. I had been away on a ski vacation and just got home the night before after 2 solid of driving.</div>
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Leslie and I are faithful run buddies. We train together weekly and we had devised a plan to work this race into our marathon training. We set out early to Cedar so that we could get our race numbers and do the early start. I wasn't keen to do early start because I knew even with my marathon pace I would probable be at or near the front for the race. We checked in with Raceday Timing to make sure we could do it and was advised as long as we would be over 50 minutes it would be fine. </div>
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So we headed out for an easy 8km and made sure we were back for the early start.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eQKuU2eCTrU/WnzUcfIXmUI/AAAAAAAAJSo/P9V8U7nbpJI7c2cQWJNcHRairJoNDAgKwCLcBGAs/s1600/27545324_1602144439869262_4632722005351879600_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="585" data-original-width="960" height="195" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eQKuU2eCTrU/WnzUcfIXmUI/AAAAAAAAJSo/P9V8U7nbpJI7c2cQWJNcHRairJoNDAgKwCLcBGAs/s320/27545324_1602144439869262_4632722005351879600_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We got back to the start and I had a TORQ gel to get me ready for my 12km </div>
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With only a few minutes before go time Leslie and I went over our pacing. I was aiming for a 5:16 pace and she was looking for 5:20-5:25</div>
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We took off at a nice easy pace. I felt great. I had a few laughs with Leslie, high fived a few of my Ceevacs teammates and found my grove.</div>
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There was a last minute course change morning of and boy was it a great change. We ended up running an out and back on the most beautiful country road. It was lovely.</div>
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So I ended up leading the early start and had no idea where I was going. I probably ended up running further than what the course actually was but apparently that didn't affect my overall time much.</div>
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I anticipated with the 30minute head start that the top men would catch me around the 10km mark.</div>
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By the 10km mark I was still running solo with Leslie not too far behind me. </div>
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I started to panic a bit because I never actually thought I would be the first runner in. I only had 2 km's to go and it was obvious at that point I was definitely going to be the first one. So feeling slightly embarrassed that I was coming across before the actual winners I put on a smile for the camera and owed it. </div>
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I felt great. After crossing I went back to cheer Leslie in and get going back out to finish our run.</div>
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We added on a few more km's and made it back just as everyone was finishing. It worked out perfect. Would I recommend doing early start? Nope, it served a purpose for us today but I think I prefer running with the majority.</div>
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After changing we checked in to the race results and were both pleasantly surprised by our performances. Leslie placed 6th in our age group and I place 3rd. Not too bad for racing at marathon pace.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ohhvYCuCpM/WnzUdROXUdI/AAAAAAAAJSw/av_ufT_bi70wCxxSbLKkOc_Czy-OkumGACLcBGAs/s1600/27657357_1602149586535414_8251919663017694584_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="646" data-original-width="960" height="215" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ohhvYCuCpM/WnzUdROXUdI/AAAAAAAAJSw/av_ufT_bi70wCxxSbLKkOc_Czy-OkumGACLcBGAs/s320/27657357_1602149586535414_8251919663017694584_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I really enjoyed my day at Cedar 12k. This was the first time for me to race it and the course was perfect. </div>
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Big shout out to my awesome On Running Shoes. Man these shoes are amazing. I'm pretty sure they helped. </div>
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*Big shout out to Ken and Lois DeEll for they great photography. They captured a ton of amazing shots at the race.</div>
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My races for this year are:</div>
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Vancouver Island Race series</div>
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BMO Vancouver Marathon</div>
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Bermuda swim around the Sound (10km)</div>
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Cowichan Challenge</div>
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Whistler 70.3</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-59419471493495327572017-09-09T19:18:00.001-07:002017-09-09T19:18:36.147-07:00Should be a race report but it's not<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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This should be my race report of Ironman Canada 70.3 followed by another race report of the ITU World Championships but it's not.</div>
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How do I keep this blog post happy and upbeat when I am so terribly disappointed in my season? I'm going to do the best I can to keep this light and airy because I'm going to be honest... this was my worst season since switching to long distance.</div>
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My 1st race of the season was CDA 70.3 and I actually did do a race report which you can find HERE. </div>
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Next up was IM Canada 70.3 Living on the Island you'd think I have been to Whistler many of times. This was my first. We went with our amazing friends which made it into such a super fun weekend. Thank you M & C for the good times.</div>
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I really thought I was going to pull off a decent time but yet again I fell short. I came in to race weekend happy and confident. I was so excited to try this challenging course. Morning before race we tested out Alta Lake. It was gorgeous.</div>
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Took in the IM village.</div>
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So when I woke up race morning feeling ready I thought for sure I was going to pull off something good. </div>
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I had loads of fun being out on the course with many friends and teammates from <a href="https://www.soasracing.com/">Soas</a> and <a href="https://www.baseperformance.com/">Base</a>. I was in my happy place. </div>
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But after a horrible swim (see below photo for proof), fun but hard bike the wheels fell off on the run. Severe muscle cramping in my quads left me downing more Base salt then I could consume in a season until I dropped my stash. And what I mean by drop is I didn't put the lid on properly and my fresh tube all spilt out. I still had 18km to go.</div>
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So needless to say another race didn't go in the direction I had hoped.</div>
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On to Penticton. My last race of the season. I have to be honest going in to these last 2 races I just wasn't feeling it. I was disappointed in CDA and Whistler but just couldn't vocalize it. Everyone who supports me was still so proud of me. I trained hard this year despite some bumps along the way. I struggled with balance of work, family and life but persevered. </div>
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I was worried I just didn't do enough to be ready for this weekend despite following my training. </div>
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The week before the race I had the house to myself. My little one qualified for swim provincials. Because I had to work, my husband took the girls. So I stayed home and took care of the animals. I thought it would be relaxing but I found myself lonely. I missed my family. They are my rock. </div>
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When it was time to head out to Penticton my nerves set in. I'm actually glad I had to work right up until the day before I raced. It took my mind off what I was really feeling. </div>
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My amazing friend picked me up at 5am and drove me to Victoria to catch my flight (she is seriously the bestest!). </div>
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I had a great flight from Victoria to Kelona.</div>
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And of course I was so happy to see the family. Little one missed me the most.</div>
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As usual we had our trailer so everything was all settled when I arrived.</div>
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Aquathlon was Friday morning and the temperature dropped the night before the race which was great for me. I can handle the heat but I do much better in cooler temps.</div>
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Again I fell short of my goal. All I wanted to do was beat last years time. I was longer by 1 minute. My swim was faster (wetsuit legal this year), transition slower (wetsuit stripping is hard) and run was slower. So yet another race to be disappointed. I actually thought I was doing quite well during the race because I seemed to be in the main pack but sadly I was 16th in my age group (3rd Canadian). Not what I was expecting. </div>
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Despite being disappointed, I yet again kept it to myself. I still had one more race and I needed to stay positive. </div>
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After the race the fan jam took me out to celebrate my birthday. As usual a race fell on my birthday. I guess I thought racing on my birthday would bring me some good luck much like it did last year.</div>
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The girls had ordered a plain cake and then decorated it back at the trailer. They even invited some friends over to help celebrate.</div>
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I ended up missing the athlete dinner for the World Championships but according to my sources I didn't actually miss much. Sadly the World Championships weren't quite as exciting as I had imagined. I'll be honest the expo was lame and my Team Canada gear was total crap (a great reminder of how amazing my <a href="https://www.soasracing.com/">Soas</a> gear is). More on that later.</div>
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Saturday was your usual nervous energy all through Penticton. I met up with my Team Canada teammates from Cowichan Valley (these ladies are so fantastic) to go do our mandatory meeting where as usual I learned nothing new. It was hot. </div>
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Dropped all our gear off.</div>
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I met up with my awesome <a href="https://www.soasracing.com/">Soas</a> Sisters from around the globe + some local ones.</div>
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With a surprise visit from the fabulous Leana!</div>
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This was probably the best part of my race weekend. Spending time with my amazing family and friends from far and wide who I got to race with and send cheers to. A great reminder of the true reason I love this sport. </div>
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Now onto the biggest race of my life...</div>
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Race morning I was really good. I had a terrible sleep but seriously who actually sleeps the night before a big race? I definitely do not.</div>
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Swim was okay, a bit slower than last year but I felt good and as usual caught up to the men.</div>
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Transition was a little slow. The volunteers in the tent weren't quite as helpful as the Whistler crew (fastest transitions ever thanks to them).</div>
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Once out on the bike I settled in to a great solid pace on our out and back to Summerland. Didn't get passed by too many people which is rare for me. Usually I'm quick out of the water but just get smashed on the bike. I was feeling pretty good.</div>
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First loop was pretty good and I have to say second loop was pretty good too, until the last 15km. My team Canada kit was cutting in to where my legs meet my body. It got so bad that I couldn't stay in aero. Lets just say I couldn't wear underwear for 4 days post race. </div>
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I was starting to feel a little off at that point stomach wise too. I stayed on top of my nutrition even though my stomach was not happy. I was starting to reminisce or my marathon this year. Things were heading south quickly.</div>
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Pulled in to T2 and switched in to running mode. It was getting really hot out. I had to be smart and keep myself cool.</div>
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I started out ok, a little slower pace then I would have liked but still good. By about 3km I was feeling awful. I kept forcing myself to keep taking my <a href="https://www.baseperformance.com/">Rocket fuel</a> in and continue to take my Base salt and of course water at the aid stations along with ice down my top. I did everything right but things just kept getting worse. I saw my husband and kids on my first loop and told them I wasn't feeling good. My husband knowing how much I would hate myself if I quick told me to keep going. I somehow managed to do my 1st of 3 loops. Onto the 2nd loop struggling to get anymore fuel in. I was not well. I was already doing the death march and I was only 10km in. I was walking more then just the aid stations. I was so dizzy. </div>
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Right when I was thinking of pulling the plug someone was looking out for me and thought I deserved to finish this race. My friend Derek caught up to me. He was on his last lap I was on my 2nd. He made me run to the next aid station with him. Walked through it with me making sure I was trying to get some fuel in to me. Made me run again until we hit the aid station again. He was exactly what I needed to get m back on track. I am sure I slowed him down but he took the time to make sure I was okay and got me through a very dark place during my race. I can honestly say if he hadn't been there at that moment, I probably would not have finished. </div>
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So after some pretzels and water (it was not ideal but it was all I could get in and keep down) I somehow managed to get my 3rd lap in and finish the race.</div>
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I was 20 minutes slower this year. I felt gutted to have such a poor performance at the World Championships. To add insult to injury my kids handed me a Canadian flag to run down the finishing chute and just as I was about to cross the line another Canadian teammate decided to out sprint me. In other sports like running this is a big faux pas. Once you have entered the finish chute you are to have that moment and I assumed because this was the World Championship the same sportsmanship would ensue since they were handing out flags to everyone. Sadly she sandbagged me the last second and frankly at that moment I couldn't care any less. One more notch in my not so great end to the season.</div>
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Last year after I qualified I was so elated that I was on cloud 9. I walked the whole way back to our trailer and probably skipped the whole way there. This year was horrible. I got halfway there and felt like death was knocking on my door. My legs were cement, I was sick to my stomach. All I wanted to do was lie down on the sidewalk. When I did get back to the trailer that was exactly what I did. My husband took too long to open the trailer. </div>
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So my season this year in a nutshell totally sucked. I'm embarrassed of my performance. I am so much better than what I pulled off. I feel like I let down my teams, my coach and my family. </div>
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All I wanted this year was to have 1 good race that gave me a nice little PR and left me feeling great and I did not have a single race this year that did that. I had fun at CDA and Whistler but that doesn't mean I was happy with my results. </div>
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I can come up with all sorts of excuses on the why this year went so wrong but the reality is last year I had a bike crash that took me out of training for 6 weeks beginning of June to mid July and I ended the season with my 2 best races ever. So what went wrong this year? I put in the time, I put in the effort.</div>
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Now what?</div>
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I guess it's back to the drawing board with my coach. Figuring out a training plan that is going to work with my busy lifestyle but still be able to give me results that will allow me to still be competitive. </div>
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On a brighter note there were some positives to this whole experience. </div>
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- I have an amazing support system</div>
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- I have met so many amazing and inspiring people in this sport</div>
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-The <a href="https://www.soasracing.com/">Soas</a> and <a href="https://www.baseperformance.com/">Base</a> teams really are fabulous to be a part of including meeting some of those amazing people I keep telling you about</div>
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-Despite bad races there always seems to be a a silver lining</div>
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- I lost my love for the sport but I found it again in the end</div>
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-I will appreciate all races I do no matter the brand</div>
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- I never quit</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-23571524371039582592017-08-20T20:58:00.001-07:002017-08-20T20:58:34.409-07:00Race Report CDA 70.3<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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A whirlwind summer has left me catching up on race reports. It's now mid august and CDA 70.3 was almost 2 months ago. Where has time gone?</div>
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Before I even go in to detail about this race I have got to say Coeur D'Alene is probably my favourite 70.3</div>
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I am so deeply saddened that the Full will no longer take place after this year. </div>
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Leading up to CDA I was unsure how this race would go for me. After a terrible attempt at my first stand alone marathon (you can dig into my previous post for that doozy) and having to take some time off of training and missing a good chunk of essential training I really had no idea what I was going to pull off. </div>
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I worked a full week of work leading up to the race and headed out on the Friday for our big drive out east.</div>
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I grew up just north of CDA and we frequently holidayed in the area. Cocolala was our go to camping spot where I even learned how to water ski. Sandpoint is our stopping point whenever we head home for a little holiday. So to say CDA is a bit nostalgic for me is an understatement. I truly love this part of the world.</div>
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After a very long drive we pulled into IM village at around 4pm where I went over to get my race pack and to connect with some Base teammates.</div>
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I have to say going in to this race I was more excited about connecting with my Base and Soas teammates then I was about actually racing.</div>
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I knew I was going to have some fun.</div>
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After some hellos we headed over to our overpriced 2 * hotel to checkin and get settled. At least our room was clean. That was all I could ask for. </div>
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We got some dinner and settled in for the night. Tomorrow was going to be busy.</div>
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Saturday was a bright and early start to the day with my big girl turing 10. So we opened presents in the hotel and took her out for breakfast. We returned to hotel so I could ride my bike down to bike check in, do a little flushout run and get everything settled and in order so I could get back to celebrating my daughters birthday.</div>
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At bike check in I ran in to one of my fabulous Soas sisters Heather.</div>
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We had a quick little catch up and confirmed our plans to meet up later on with some of the other ladies from our tea. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-voAXCGmK5yM/WZHaVZfEjoI/AAAAAAAAC_Y/t8E1q5gBmwAZWZ7ONNTTlfgiudt1UIgAACLcBGAs/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-voAXCGmK5yM/WZHaVZfEjoI/AAAAAAAAC_Y/t8E1q5gBmwAZWZ7ONNTTlfgiudt1UIgAACLcBGAs/s320/FullSizeRender%2B3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I reconnected with the family and had a quick dip in the lake to test things out. Water temp was perfect!</div>
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Back to some family time of exploring a bit of CDA. The vibe in the town was over the top amazing. All of the local business's were so welcoming. The weather was gorgeous and I was starting to get excited to race.</div>
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I met up with the rest of my <a href="https://www.soasracing.com/">Soas</a> sister crew right before we headed off to the birthday dinner.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQnMfp_0tRI/WZHajO5nm5I/AAAAAAAAC_s/6ndWlIqhCoYNt1J5Ig2euaJq_iw4a_jxACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQnMfp_0tRI/WZHajO5nm5I/AAAAAAAAC_s/6ndWlIqhCoYNt1J5Ig2euaJq_iw4a_jxACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_8529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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These ladies are seriously amazing. So genuinely friendly, kind, open, and honest. I am just thrilled to be a part of such an amazing group of strong women.</div>
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After dinner we headed back to the hotel so I could do the final touches on my race prep. Nutrition was in order, alarms were set, gear all laid out. I was ready!</div>
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I woke up feeling great on race morning despite a super early rise. My little birthday girl wasn't feeling well so my mind was a little preoccupied with her well being rather than me going to race. </div>
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We had our coffee and oatmeal and wondered down to the race site where I left the family to do final touches in transition. They patiently waited for me as I came back out ready to start.</div>
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The swim was fantastic! The course was set up by a friend of mine who's I've worked with on another race. He puts everything in to his swim courses to ensure they are the safest they can be. </div>
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Tim, you did a great job! Loved the rolling start, siting was easy. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rey1kpHWDvA/WZHaVV4mG8I/AAAAAAAADAc/cYXi6-LJfWcyCjYIKdzlXQ9k1-lDPSOaQCEwYBhgL/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="516" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rey1kpHWDvA/WZHaVV4mG8I/AAAAAAAADAc/cYXi6-LJfWcyCjYIKdzlXQ9k1-lDPSOaQCEwYBhgL/s320/FullSizeRender%2B4.jpg" width="217" /></a></div>
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Swim was okay, not my best but not my worst. I came out 20th in my age group. Felt great and was ready to ride.</div>
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Bike course was tough. CDA has some good long climbs. I am not a climber. Add in some crazy heat on fairly fresh asphalt and I was feeling bad things. I carried on and saw plenty of my teammates. I was having so much fun out there. Despite the extreme heat I was doing pretty good.</div>
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I stayed on top of my nutrition. I made sure to finish my 2 bottles of <a href="http://nuuncanada.com/">Nuun</a> as well as my combo calorie drink of Carbo pro and Endura as well as a <a href="https://munkpack.com/">Munk Pack</a> oatmeal squeeze. I also had <a href="https://www.baseperformance.com/">Base salt</a> which I took every 30 minutes.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c9HCGqYCLgg/WZHaV3dOkJI/AAAAAAAAC_c/zlqGPF8EWqkmvG9NcaRayhcaA2WqgxWcwCLcBGAs/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="262" data-original-width="335" height="250" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c9HCGqYCLgg/WZHaV3dOkJI/AAAAAAAAC_c/zlqGPF8EWqkmvG9NcaRayhcaA2WqgxWcwCLcBGAs/s320/FullSizeRender%2B5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Once I handed off my bike I headed out on the run course only to discover I left a spare bike tube in my back pocket. Doh! It was so friggin hot I really did not like the idea of carrying anything extra that I didn't need. There goes a perfectly good tube into the trash.</div>
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I continued to stay on top of my nutrition using <a href="https://www.baseperformance.com/">Base Salt</a> as well as <a href="https://www.baseperformance.com/">Base Rocket Fuel</a>. I knew the heat could potentially bring me to me knees so I had to race smart. </div>
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I was so thankful I had my awesome new 1 piece speed suit from <a href="https://www.soasracing.com/">Soas</a>. I can't recommend this kit enough. I absolutely LOVE it. </div>
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I slowly picked off a few ladies in my age group to move me up into the top 40 in my age group.</div>
The last 6km were starting to feel tough. People were looking pretty rough. Thank goodness the locals were so awesome that they were hosing us off at a few points on the course. Wow, the Coeur D'Alene people are seriously amazing. With only 2 km to go I threw my Base Salt at some poor soul who was dealing with some wicked legs cramps. He obviously needed it more than I did. I really hope it helped him.<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E4bfEz2Eru4/WZHau8ky_yI/AAAAAAAADAI/7ZThTzmmHcgNdDdiMocLelBp5Ku2CZ_1QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E4bfEz2Eru4/WZHau8ky_yI/AAAAAAAADAI/7ZThTzmmHcgNdDdiMocLelBp5Ku2CZ_1QCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_8544.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
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I was so happy to finish this race. It was the hottest weather my poor white body has seen this year. It was hot!</div>
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Immediately after crossing the finish line, I made my way back to the lake and dove in. It felt so good.</div>
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I have to say there were no PR's for me today but I really had a great race. I had a few hiccups this year in my training since the marathon and missed a large chunk of essential training. I had to go in with a mindset that if I don't get a PR I needed to be ok with that. </div>
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Honestly, I was pretty happy with my day. It was hot, I wasn't as fit as I had hoped and I place in the top 20% of my age group. I'd say that's a pretty good day.</div>
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To celebrate me being done my race and big sis's birthday we spent the next day at Silverwood. Best theme park in the Pacific Northwest. We love the water park.</div>
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After some good racing, some great theme park adventures and of course some fabulous coffee we ended our trip on such a great note. Coeur D'Alene I am so saddened that you won't be hosting the full Ironman anymore because it was always my dream to do it. Regardless we will be back.</div>
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Big thanks to my fabulous family who always support me. My fab coach Dusty for keeping me honest. My awesome training partners, you know who you are, and of course my amazing friends who continue to inspire and support me. Love to you all.</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-36438751474900016652017-05-15T17:10:00.000-07:002017-05-15T17:10:08.336-07:00Don't Quit<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Well it's been 1 week since the BMO Vancouver Marathon. It's taken me the whole week to reflect on what happened and to move forward. What I thought I was most ready for turned out to be one of my worst nightmares.</div>
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I started my saturday morning feeling excited and ready to race. My coach, running partner L and I all met at my house to do 1 last easy effort run before L and I headed out to catch the ferry.</div>
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The weather was fabulous. We were so excited. </div>
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We got to Vancouver checked in to hotel and headed down to the expo to have a little fun.</div>
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Spent some money, wandered around and headed back to the hotel to put our feet up. </div>
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After some rest we went out for pasta dinner. We had all of our kids with us so we hit up the Gastown Old Spaghetti Factory. I stuck with my usual veg lasagne. Sticking to my usual plan.</div>
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We walked back to hotel for an early night. I wished L a good night sleep and planned to meet her in the lobby at 7am.</div>
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After a restless night I woke up around 6am. Stuck to my usual routine of Stocked oats and coffee and took a banana with me to eat 30 minutes before the race. Again sticking to my usual plan.</div>
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I always get nervous so I spent a lot of time at the port-a-potty. I knew I was doomed with no turning back when I pulled up my pants and my transit card fell down the hole. </div>
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No turning back now!</div>
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L and I had plenty of time to get ourselves ready and to the start line. We were in separate corals so I dropped her off at hers and continued on to mine. I got put in the sub 4 hours which is exactly where I should be. All of my training was bang on. There was no reason I couldn't hit a sub 4.</div>
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The gun went off and I started off nice and easy. First km was a 5:40 min/km. Exactly what I had discussed with my coach. Ease in to things. That's exactly what I did. I eased in to my 5:15-5:20 pace by the second and third km. I felt pretty good but I did feel like my legs seemed a little heavy for having a once proper taper. I kept going. </div>
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I saw L on our out and back. We were both on track. She looked great! She claims I too looked great. We gave big smiles and waves.</div>
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When I was 40 minutes in I decided to take a swig of my Gu. That's when things felt a little off. My stomach was not happy with my Gu. Again, nothing new. These are the same flavour of Gu that I have been training and racing with for the past 2 years. </div>
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After I hit the 10km mark I thought I would try some of my mint Run Gum. It's got caffeine in it and always seems to perk things up for me. Again, I just wasn't feeling it. </div>
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After I hit the 20km mark I really started to feel off. My stomach was not happy, my legs felt like lead. There is no way I should be feeling this way before the halfway mark. Something was off. </div>
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Luckily I saw a port-a-potty up ahead before I really got sick.</div>
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I ducked in unsure of what end bad things were going to happen. My stomach revolted and I threw up in a discussing poop filled port-a-potty. </div>
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At this point L more then likely passed me because we never saw each other again. I decided to keep running but I had to significantly slow my pace. I ran another few kilometres and threw up again. I decided to try and walk for a bit. </div>
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I finally aw my husband and kids around 26km. I threw all of my stuff at them. Gu, salts, Run Gum. None of it was helping and I couldn't bare to carry anything. At that point I was so sick. Should I have pulled the plug then and there? Probably, but I didn't. My mind said don't quit.</div>
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I trudged along crying and suffering. My lovely friend Ellen (she sold me her amazing P2) caught up to me and saw how wrecked I was. She was so kind to comfort me and see if there was anything she could do for me. I told her not to worry and that she needed to keep going.</div>
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The rest of the race consisted of my walking a lot. I tried to run when I could but my stomach bubbled up and then I would throw up. I did 22km solely on water. It was the only thing I could stomach. </div>
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I have not a single photo of me running the marathon which is probably for the best. I'm sure I looked like something from a zombie apocalypse. </div>
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Even though I have done Iron Distance, this race broke me down like nothing else ever has. Usually if I'm fatigued or not feeling well simply walking gets me to the finish line. That day the simple act of walking hurt me so badly it made me cry out in pain. </div>
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You never know your true strength until you put your body to the test. </div>
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I managed to run the last 3 kilometres. One of my Soas team mates was out cheering on that last stretch and I was so weak I couldn't even acknowledge her. </div>
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Don't Quit.</div>
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I tried to push myself the last stretch collapsing at the finish to one of the medical volunteers and again throwing up. He tried to take me to the medical tent but I said I was fine. I really wasn't fine. </div>
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Luckily my husband was right there and got me out of there. I just wanted to go home and go to bed.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2RgFZIQpeI/WRo59KqdA-I/AAAAAAAAC-o/V7UTykmGa_cIW3_heAXRGqN53UZvxvCaQCLcB/s1600/IMG_8338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q2RgFZIQpeI/WRo59KqdA-I/AAAAAAAAC-o/V7UTykmGa_cIW3_heAXRGqN53UZvxvCaQCLcB/s320/IMG_8338.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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But, I finished. </div>
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It took me a few days before I started to come around. I suffered from involuntary muscle spasms for 3 days. After lots of Nuun I finally was able to shake those. My immune system was weekend as well. As I sit here and reflect I take another dose of Advil for my sore throat. </div>
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So what happened? Food poisoning? Caught the flu at the wrong possible moment? I really don't know. </div>
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Now that I've had a chance to reflect on everything I look back to see what I would do differently. Would I have pulled the plug before it got so bad? I don't know. I just don't quit. </div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-44773663956072976792017-05-04T17:28:00.000-07:002017-05-04T17:30:55.600-07:00Where have I been?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Well it seems quite some time ago since I last posted. I thought I better check in and let people know where I have been. This winter I had to make a big life decision. I was offered a really great job opportunity, one that does not come around too often. It would give me consistency, work close to home, long term employment and good money. I felt I wasn't quite ready to take on full time work although over the last few years with my 2 jobs I was working close to full time most weeks. It just wasn't consistent. I knew it was going to be a big change because I would no longer have control of my own hours. My days will be longer and it would mean way less time spent with my family. That alone was the hardest to give up. </div>
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However, I want other things for myself and my family. This job was going to help us with that.</div>
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So January 1st I started my transition to full time. The only problem is I still held on to my other 2 jobs. So to say we (as in me and my family) it is such an understatement. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eXas_vZUaVw/WQucfRrnrCI/AAAAAAAAC9o/kHFWMW8eEXcl8Qx5gFvJrIl_97jv8siiACLcB/s1600/IMG_8278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eXas_vZUaVw/WQucfRrnrCI/AAAAAAAAC9o/kHFWMW8eEXcl8Qx5gFvJrIl_97jv8siiACLcB/s320/IMG_8278.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I'm happy that I took on this new job but it has not been easy. I know many others share this same path. We have had bumps along the way and it is making training a lot more difficult. The stress of changing jobs and having to relearn how to do things takes its toll. Luckily I have a pretty awesome coach who has gotten to know me well and spotted right away that work stress was taking its toll on me. He pulled back the training for me despite my stubbornness. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4B6X1lowJjM/WQue0AhmS2I/AAAAAAAAC-Q/jl52KSOiFK0607bBf3u3pRvl7vuh_OQKQCLcB/s1600/IMG_7946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4B6X1lowJjM/WQue0AhmS2I/AAAAAAAAC-Q/jl52KSOiFK0607bBf3u3pRvl7vuh_OQKQCLcB/s320/IMG_7946.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now that I have finally balanced life, family, work and training things are starting to look up. </div>
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This year I am representing some pretty amazing teams and companies. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-frCgnePG0Rw/WQuZVvY_PJI/AAAAAAAAC9Q/ZmhsoQOEho0a_WkjVME7aWUpktesn7TKwCLcB/s1600/15590201_10207998284743475_5917874193054531313_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-frCgnePG0Rw/WQuZVvY_PJI/AAAAAAAAC9Q/ZmhsoQOEho0a_WkjVME7aWUpktesn7TKwCLcB/s320/15590201_10207998284743475_5917874193054531313_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This will be my 3rd year on the wonderful Team Soas. I have met and gotten to know so many fabulous strong women from this team. They continue to inspire me every day.</div>
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Stephanie the owner treats us like gold. Check out our team gear:</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O74NGrdcDC4/WQuciJtz7WI/AAAAAAAAC90/WLgI_Z8bRjUDcBZuRaC_w38fecNM3kBMQCLcB/s1600/IMG_8262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O74NGrdcDC4/WQuciJtz7WI/AAAAAAAAC90/WLgI_Z8bRjUDcBZuRaC_w38fecNM3kBMQCLcB/s320/IMG_8262.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.soasracing.com/"><span style="text-align: left;">https://www.soasracing.com</span><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iqc_Mw6PKng/WQuZbIg73oI/AAAAAAAAC9U/CDqfHWYqzBw5MiRLMoFBsbO5H4BhZ5kJQCLcB/s1600/6ce5d602-e13f-4967-9857-adf8548ad2ec.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iqc_Mw6PKng/WQuZbIg73oI/AAAAAAAAC9U/CDqfHWYqzBw5MiRLMoFBsbO5H4BhZ5kJQCLcB/s320/6ce5d602-e13f-4967-9857-adf8548ad2ec.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://nuuncanada.com/">http://nuuncanada.com</a></div>
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This is my 2nd year on Team Nuun. I have been using their stuff for years and cannot do a swim workout without it. Again great team members and always honoured to be a part of it.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--1ozLHn4h-s/WQueiILgWNI/AAAAAAAAC-A/wHcAZnYf7Qsq7-832hcW-senPiTUdHqAACLcB/s1600/FullSizeRender%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--1ozLHn4h-s/WQueiILgWNI/AAAAAAAAC-A/wHcAZnYf7Qsq7-832hcW-senPiTUdHqAACLcB/s320/FullSizeRender%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This will be my 1st year with Base Performance. The main reason I applied to this team is because their Base Salt saves me in every single hot race I have done. I even shared at Calgary 70.3 last year. Again another fantastic group of like minded athletes. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-827KWS1K-ME/WQuepor0oII/AAAAAAAAC-I/m08Ydc3fXRsO4lUPl-sIhq-X5-x6-GpvACLcB/s1600/IMG_8116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-827KWS1K-ME/WQuepor0oII/AAAAAAAAC-I/m08Ydc3fXRsO4lUPl-sIhq-X5-x6-GpvACLcB/s320/IMG_8116.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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This is only half my gear there's more on the way! If you want to try out any of their products let me know and I will share the goodies. Especially the salt.</div>
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<a href="https://www.baseperformance.com/">https://www.baseperformance.com</a></div>
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Last but not least this was my most exciting surprise. Blade Carbon Wheels invited me to join them for the first time this year. I am thrilled to be on this team because first and foremost they are Canadian. I love supporting my country in any way I can. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D1Pkykt99yM/WQuelY1QJ4I/AAAAAAAAC-E/D3lYv8H-864Wxjs_7o1n5inlk_BpMvLigCLcB/s1600/16508710_395226974187666_3926001362185154091_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D1Pkykt99yM/WQuelY1QJ4I/AAAAAAAAC-E/D3lYv8H-864Wxjs_7o1n5inlk_BpMvLigCLcB/s320/16508710_395226974187666_3926001362185154091_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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These guys make amazing wheels. I can't wait to race on my new wheel set this year.</div>
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You should check them out HERE:<a href="http://www.bladecarbonwheels.com/"> <span style="text-align: left;">http://www.bladecarbonwheels.com</span></a></div>
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and for a little discount plug in: <span style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px; text-align: left;">ANDREAMAC</span></div>
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So what are my racing plans for the rest of the year? </div>
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This weekend I am during my first stand alone marathon. I'll be racing in the BMO Vancouver Marathon. I have no idea what to expect since I've never done a marathon without swimming or biking first. I hope to run a strong race but more over be at the finish line for my amazing friend Leslie who embarked on this journey with me to also complete her first marathon.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_s9-TvCLe9E/WQuch22cTdI/AAAAAAAAC9s/yzzKJx8mt7IxqkjW1_fliDW-5F3FnRvfQCLcB/s1600/IMG_8312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_s9-TvCLe9E/WQuch22cTdI/AAAAAAAAC9s/yzzKJx8mt7IxqkjW1_fliDW-5F3FnRvfQCLcB/s320/IMG_8312.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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We treasure our weekly Sunday long runs together supporting each other in tough times. It's amazing how therapeutic the training becomes.</div>
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After that I have Coeur D'Alene 70.3 end of June.</div>
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Whistler 70.3 end of July.</div>
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ITU Worlds Long Distance and aquathlon end of August. </div>
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I'm not going to lie, I do worry about getting enough training in to get me where I want to be but that awesome coach has my back and I know he will do what it takes to take me as far as I can go without throwing me off the deep end.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W2wTEAk1oe8/WQuesJnDYyI/AAAAAAAAC-M/K2-XymyRH1IqiikkdXOcC0pPcfh2r-I3ACLcB/s1600/IMG_8187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W2wTEAk1oe8/WQuesJnDYyI/AAAAAAAAC-M/K2-XymyRH1IqiikkdXOcC0pPcfh2r-I3ACLcB/s320/IMG_8187.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-38412074672098506502016-12-18T09:14:00.001-08:002016-12-18T09:14:02.710-08:00These Are A Few Of My Favourite Things 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Welcome to this years These Are A Few Of My Favourite Things! Every year around Christmas I share with you things related to triathlon that I love so much. </div>
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This year I have been lucky enough to actually try out or now own most of these products that I am so excited about.</div>
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First up on my list this year it the Lumo Run. </div>
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<a href="http://www.lumobodytech.com/science-of-lumo-run/#"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Liq2HgYCdi0/WFa6QjDFeXI/AAAAAAAAC74/pXobOJlt_TcQRtYJ5z9TV3omRIkftoVaACLcB/s1600/11406883_992338064112525_6698512023356699452_n.png" /></a></div>
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The Lumo Run is a pod that goes in your shorts/pants during your run. It uses algorithms to measure your running biomechanics. I have been wanting to get my hands on one of these babies since I first heard about it. Coming from many running injuries I had to re-learn how to run and I guarantee this little gadget will most definitely keep me in check. You can check out all of the infer <a href="http://www.lumobodytech.com/science-of-lumo-run/#">HERE</a>.</div>
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Next up is for all of you avid readers out there. The much anticipated book by Sir Lindley was even better than I expected. This book was so popular when it got released that I had to wait several weeks before I could even get my hands on a copy. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UaWLOIDLMlk/WFa7XryudbI/AAAAAAAAC8U/Osu2ZoBTHk4_kdiFM67MGiMUVcYNCRCsQCLcB/s1600/515UQcClTrL._SX331_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UaWLOIDLMlk/WFa7XryudbI/AAAAAAAAC8U/Osu2ZoBTHk4_kdiFM67MGiMUVcYNCRCsQCLcB/s320/515UQcClTrL._SX331_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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I seriously read this book in 2 days and it wasn't because I had nothing better to do. This book goes through Siri's life as an athlete and how she later transitioned to one of the best triathlon coaches in the world. This book is definitely worth your time.</div>
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I don't know about all of you but when training and racing I have a hard time eating solid foods. So far bananas have been my go to along with my nutrition in a bottle. There is a new game changer for me now. My local running store brought in these fabulous Gu Stoopwafel and OH MY GOD! These are soooooo good. They are tasty and actually go down quite nicely and the flavours are delicious. </div>
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<a href="https://shop.guenergy.com/products/gu-energy-stroopwafel?variant=21930289921&_ga=1.244335884.824855422.1482012694"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZbgIOIyWJc/WFa6UTjHncI/AAAAAAAAC78/4VJN0sAeCuUV6ZV-KxUcXJN_YAkW_HpBQCLcB/s320/GU_WAFFLE_SINGLE_PK_CaramelCoffee124203_large.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Although I am a Nun Ambassador, that does not change how much I love Nuun. I use Nuun daily for all of my training. I especially love it for swim workouts. I used to get foot or calf cramps during swim workouts but if I have Nuun on deck I have no issues. With a ton of great flavours to choose from and a little bit of fizz it is my favourite drink to have around.</div>
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<a href="http://nuuncanada.com/product-category/nuun-tubes/active-hydration/"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KgLtZkbIweU/WFa6XDdnUDI/AAAAAAAAC8A/ri08BMd_WMcff5dUTbrnJREbLwhvkq2KwCLcB/s1600/New-Nuun-Active-Grape-Canadaweb-247x300.jpg" /></a></div>
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If you are in Canada make sure you order your Nuun products <a href="http://nuuncanada.com/product-category/nuun-tubes/active-hydration/">HERE</a>. Although most sports stores do carry Nuun.</div>
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I'm pretty sure everyone loves how much I love my Soas gear. I have made the Soas racing team for my 3rd year. I am so excited because this year they have released their 1-piece racing suit. This suit is so sleek. I'm loving the look and function of the longer sleeves. I'll have nice coverage over my back and shoulders so I don't have to worry about exposed skin that might not have sunscreen. They have 2 styles to choose from and when you order they will add your name to your suit!</div>
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bqPZzeWvhUI/WFa6a5GqPFI/AAAAAAAAC8I/p8kS7q2UWXwOAFbdIZVsObwaLmgcxxd0ACLcB/s320/OnePiece_0007_Layer_3.jpg" width="319" /></div>
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Soas has some other new kits as well to check out. Head on over <a href="http://here./">HERE.</a></div>
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Another team I am proud to be on and makes amazing products is Base Performance. I was introduced to the salt and Aminos this past year by a fellow Soas teammate. I couldn't believe the difference in racing in the heat with this magic. I now carry the salt with me on bike and runs in all of my races. I even saved another athletes race at Calgary 70.3 because it was unexpectedly hot and aid stations were way too far apart. I shared my salt with her and she was able to finish. </div>
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Base has many great products to help in your training and racing. Check them out <a href="https://www.baseperformance.com/products/base-electrolyte-salt-4-vials">HERE</a>.</div>
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Last but not least on this years Fav Things is the <a href="https://tacx.com/product/neo-smart/">Tacx Neo</a>. I was lucky enough to try out my brother in laws set up this summer when we were visiting. I got one ride in and fell in love with this amazing training tool. This year for my birthday, my amazing husband actually got one for me and I have done every single ride since October in my garage.</div>
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What is the Tacx Neo? It is a smart trainer. This trainer does automatic grade adjustments, road feel, measures watts. It is seriously the coolest thing around. I've got mine set up to Zwift but I know there are other programs you can ride to. </div>
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<a href="https://tacx.com/product/neo-smart/"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ab7KDkNFm-w/WFa6e4wIP3I/AAAAAAAAC8M/RmAF-6_2MDowBRIPWcpvnO3Y5vgjxJcugCLcB/s320/t2800_neo_1_main_direct_drive_best_realistic_smart_interactive_trainer_silent_power_accurate_gallery.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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These smart trainers are total game changers. There is nothing better then riding in almost lifelike road conditions in the safety of your home. I can push harder without worrying about traffic around me. I can hammer up hills without the worry of what might lie ahead. This is by far my most favourite thing of all times in the wonderful world of triathlon.</div>
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I hope you enjoyed my favourite things. Let me know if there are any products you absolutely love and can't live without.</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-87653565925531486202016-09-04T11:49:00.000-07:002016-09-04T11:49:10.476-07:00When things fall into place<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I did it! I qualified for Worlds... twice!</div>
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For those that follow me closely you know this year has been filled with way more downs than ups. I had my first DNF at Victoria 70.3</div>
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I ended up having my chainring go though my leg and had to take a month off of training. Then when I did finally get back to training it was too soon and I ended up with plantar fasciitis on my good foot. I continued on persevering through these injuries and did Calgary 70.3 I finished but with a disappointing time.</div>
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Feeling frustrated with my outcomes I had no idea what Penticton </div>
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Turns out perseverance pays off.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VHxPDm22QvY/V8xcCCx2GTI/AAAAAAAAC5Q/isjgdsBy2D0aSmyIU9NVpSNDiULm7lqkgCLcB/s1600/IMG_7035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VHxPDm22QvY/V8xcCCx2GTI/AAAAAAAAC5Q/isjgdsBy2D0aSmyIU9NVpSNDiULm7lqkgCLcB/s320/IMG_7035.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have had a very busy work schedule this summer. Logging lots of overtime I still was unable to take an extra day off of work. So August 24th I left for Penticton after work.</div>
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While trying to get the 6pm ferry I got an email from the Challenge Penticton crew saying they had 30 spots open up for the aquathlon the following day... my birthday. </div>
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I texted my coach to see if I should do it. What the heck I had a scheduled swim and run anyways, why not?</div>
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What better way to celebrate your birthday. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q--De2om8HE/V8xcD0kvTnI/AAAAAAAAC5k/Gp5tDnhpJFsd8ABqyOo9zIRlfoQE0k4ywCLcB/s1600/IMG_7063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q--De2om8HE/V8xcD0kvTnI/AAAAAAAAC5k/Gp5tDnhpJFsd8ABqyOo9zIRlfoQE0k4ywCLcB/s1600/IMG_7063.JPG" /></a></div>
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Penticton really knows how to host athletes. The duathlon was the previous day.</div>
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Aquathlon was today, Cross was the following day and my big day the ITU Long Course was Sunday.</div>
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So we pulled into Penticton around 1pm. Got settled and wandered down to the race start to see if I could snag a spot to race. </div>
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It turns out the swim was going to be a non-wetsuit swim. The problem with this is my 2 piece tri suit is not so great in the water on its on. I love my Soas trisuit and for all of my regular triathlons it is seriously the best trisuit around. Unfortunately it has a bit of drag to it. Normally I'd wear a skin suit but the ITU rules for shorter swim distances state that you must wear it for the entire race. </div>
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So I decided to race in a swimsuit. </div>
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So as I seem to like to do so much I punished myself for a great birthday present.</div>
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I had a marginal swim thanks to the crazy waves out there. I was hoping for an 18' or less but ended up with 21'</div>
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I quickly transitioned to the run which was an out and back 2x for a 5km. I raced without and tracking. No Garmin, no HR monitor. I was essentially naked. I ran trying to hold a good solid pace without going out too hard. I was instructed to keep things easy since this was not my big race.</div>
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I ended up with my fastest 5km ever. 22:16</div>
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I was thrilled with my results. I thought for sure I had podiumed.</div>
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Well, turns out I wasn't quite fast enough but I still qualified.</div>
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I came in 4th in my age group next to Pro Triathlete Karen Thibodeau, Former Olympic Swimmer Jessica Deglau, and former Pro Triathlete Tenille Hoogland.</div>
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After seeing who I was up against I couldn't have been more please with my results. I couldn't wait until Sunday!</div>
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Friday we laid low by driving the bike course to refresh my memory, check out some fruit stands, go to the beach and then I joined my friends and took part in the pasta dinner (which was fantastic).</div>
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I had the pleasure of meeting Sister Madonna Buder (the Iron Nun). Unfortunately there is no photo because we were in the ladies room and I thought it might be inappropriate to take a selfie of us in there. I just have to say that she is absolutely lovely and a total card. Such a great sense of humour.</div>
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In our group there were 3 of us racing individually and we also had a threesome doing the relay. They were called the Hot Flashes. I so love these ladies. They are so much fun.</div>
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Saturday was again filled with more relaxation. After I racked my bike and dropped my bags we hit the lake again. I can't thank my family enough for taking such good care of me.</div>
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Sunday morning came quick as usual. I felt like I didn't sleep a wink. However I was feeling so calm. I was so ready for this.</div>
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We got to the race site for 6am. I checked my bike, set up my nutrition. Used bathroom, hugged the girls and got my wetsuit on. </div>
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I stuck together with the lovely ladies of Duncan. They really seems so calming to me. </div>
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Before I knew it the gun went off. I took off keeping a relatively easy but steady pace. It wasn't long before I caught up to the men who had a 2' head start.</div>
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Going around the buoys was tricky. That seemed to be where most of the congestion was. Second lap I thought was better until I had some guy totally push me out of the way. It wasn't like he was trying to swim, he actually pushed me to his side. This of course put a little fire in my belly to push a little harder to get to the swim exit as quickly as possible.</div>
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55:10 for 3km</div>
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My friend Bob was my wetsuit stripper and got me out on the course fast and efficient.</div>
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The weather was great. Sun was shinning and wind was not too bad.</div>
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We had 2 laps of the bike course which I really enjoyed. 120km seems so much shorter than the Ironman 180km. </div>
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Bike- 4:08:44</div>
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*after the race I noticed my front break had been rubbing my front wheel the entire bike portion. I thought my downhill was a little slow.</div>
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I was feeling great going in to the run. It was only 30km to go until the finish. I can do this!</div>
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Heading out on the run Coach Jasper Blake was on course cheering all of the amazing b78 athletes. His enthusiasm is infectious. He put a big smile on my face and I was pulling off a great run. I was ahead of my goal!</div>
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The family patiently waited for me to run by. These kids are seriously so patient and supper supportive. </div>
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After a great first 15km lap I was ahead of my goal so I took a minute to stop and hug the family. They are the ones that help get me to the start line day after day, year after year. They mean the world to me.</div>
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On my second loop I was really starting to catch those that passed me on the bike. I started looking for my competitors. at the 18 to 20km mark is where the wheel s start to fall off. Bit by bit I passed someone who just could no longer hold a run. People start to linger at aid stations. To be fair it was hot out on that run. One of the aid stations ran out of water and sports drink. This is where people can get in to trouble. This is why I do long easy fns with as little fuel or water as I possibly can. I know I can get to the next aid station without consequences. Some people can't. </div>
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With only 5km to go I finally caught a lady in my age group. I knew I could sustain my pace for another 30' or so no problem. I passed easily and continued on to the finish line.</div>
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Run 30km 2:44:36</div>
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My final time was 7:54:19</div>
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My goal was 8 hours.</div>
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I was 8th in my super tough age group needing a top 10 to qualify for Worlds.</div>
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This was my race! Do I still have work to do? Absolutely! I know where I can improve significantly. </div>
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Compared to last years Ironman distance I can honestly say I executed the perfect race for me. I stayed calm, happy, mentally strong.</div>
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I finished with minimal consequences...</div>
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This little blister was the only carnage from almost 8 hours of racing.</div>
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I am thrilled of how well I did. I'm so excited to represent Team Canada next year at Worlds! I promise to work even harder this year to make next years race even better!!!</div>
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A big shout out to my fabulous Soas Sisters. The lovely Tracy was on a relay team and we ended up running the first lap together. I loved that she chatted away to me. It kept me happy and on track.</div>
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Thank you to <a href="http://www.soasracing.com/">Soas</a> for believing in me and continuing to let me be a part of such a wonderful team. Your products are absolutely amazing. I couldn't imagine doing triathlons in any other trisuit.</div>
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Thank you to <a href="https://nuun.com/">Nuun</a> Hydration. I train daily using this awesome electrolyte. Another awesome team that supports me as well as keeps me hydrated. For Challenge Penticton I used Nuun Active Grape along with Nuun Plus. I find it is the perfect combo to keep me going in the longer races.</div>
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Thank you to<a href="http://www.oofos.com/"> Oofos</a>. The best recovery sandal/shoe around. With my battles with the Plantar Fasciitis I have been living in my sandals day in and day out. If you don't have a pair you ned to go out and get yourselves some. They are soooooo fabulous.</div>
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Thank you to b78 coaching. Jasper is seriously the coolest guy I know and Thalia has kept me in line for the entire year. Their support and guidance has been wonderful.</div>
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Last but not least thank you to my fabulous family and friends. They say it takes a village and it really does. My husband and kids support me to no end. My friends that continuously support me, train with me and listen to all of my boring stories. You all mean the world to me and I can't thank you enough for all that you do. </div>
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I really would not be where I am without all of you.</div>
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Here's to big dreams and great results!</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-55380802873744081072016-06-13T19:35:00.000-07:002016-06-13T19:35:35.318-07:00The dreaded DNF<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I've been racing triathlons for 5 years now. Yesterday was my first DNF. Here's how it all went down.</div>
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I'm not going to lie. The Victoria 70.3 has never been kind to me. </div>
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Last year I over hydrated and got up in the night to pee and broke my toe. It's a story too ridiculous to be true. It did actually happen and I still showed up race morning to give it my all. </div>
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I thought this year would be different. I had a ton of support from my family and friends. My bestie was showing up bright and early just to do body marking (Thank you Colette). I had lots of great friends racing this as their first 70.3, my coach was going to be there. I had great intentions, except there was a nagging feeling in me that I just wasn't excited about this race. </div>
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This was my first big race of the year. Doing long distance triathlon we tend to not race as frequently as shorter distances. I remember when I first got into triathlon I'd do a triathlon every month for 6 months. This year I did a quick little sprint in March and that's been it. Victoria was my big chance to see where my fitness was at.</div>
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We arrived Friday with our trailer in tow. I prefer going to races this way so I have my home away from home. Sure I only live an hour away but who the hell wants to get up at 3am to get to a race? Did I say I'm not much if a morning person?</div>
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The bestie and I met up for a quick little swim at Elk Lake. I probably should have tested the waters at Beaver but I knew the dirty Beaver was questionable and I didn't need any extra stress. Lets just say there was more chatting than swimming and it was awesome!!!</div>
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I woke up Saturday with a splitting headache and feeling a little off. I decided to do my last taper workout and then I could take it easy the rest of the day.</div>
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I headed over to the race site to connect with my awesome Soas Sisters and get my package and check my bike into transition. </div>
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Once I got all my tasks done I also met up with C and her buddy who was also racing. </div>
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Spirits were high and the Ironman village was bustling. </div>
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Lots of the pro's were hanging out mingling with the rest of us too. </div>
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Both my girls did the kids race which was a blast to watch. </div>
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After all of the festivities we were all done and needed to get back to the trailer for some RnR.</div>
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Some of us didn't even make it.</div>
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Once I got back to the trailer I got all of my race day gear sorted out. I was still torn on what to wear on the bike. The weather was calling for 12* I would make the final decision in the morning.</div>
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I was feeling hangry so I got right to work on putting some food together. </div>
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I can not go wrong with rice bowls. It's got a little bit of everything.</div>
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The fan and I went for a nice post dinner walk down to the beach. The kids got a chance to run around and burn whatever energy they still had. We needed to get everyone to bed for our early morning start. 4am was approaching fast.</div>
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Race morning was chaos. Even though I gave us lots of time to get to transition I still ended up walking a good 4 km due to ridiculously heavy traffic. </div>
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Got my transition all set up and decided on a cycling jacket. I was feeling chilled and coming out of the water was not going to help. </div>
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My rack mate was a fellow B78 athlete. Notice our matching visors??? </div>
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Catching up with my buddies who were racing was so much fun. Definitely the best part of the race.</div>
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Once I was settled I headed over to the swim start and had Super awesome Jasper Blake (head coach of B78) help us into our wetsuits. With little time left I had to go seed myself into our super awesome rolling swim start.</div>
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For those who oppose these swim starts, I just can't figure out why. You get awesome drafting benefits because if seeded correctly you are swimming with people who are about the same speed. I loved it!</div>
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The swim ended up being only 1600m due to the dirty beaver weed issue. My time was 26' I was happy with that. </div>
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I got into tradition feeling fantastic. Good swim, fairly quick transition and then bam. I went down right before the mount line. Not sure what I did but I went down hard and my bike joined me. It took a big bite out of my leg. I was mortified. I picked up my bike and just hoped on and was on my way. The first 30km I was feeling pretty good. I averaged a 31km/h pace and then I could feel a burning sensation in my right lower leg. I tried to brush it aside as nothing and gave another push to get past some more athletes. Again, more burning and I can feel weakness setting in.</div>
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I got to the 40km mark and knew something was not right. My pace was slowing and I was in pain. I took a look down around my ankle and there was blood. I tried to push it off as nothing more than a scrape and tried to push again. I had nothing. I was now relying solely on my left leg to do all of the work. I came to terms that I was not going to be able to run if it hurt this much on the bike. I knew my bestie wasn't far at that point on the course. I just had to make it to about the 50km mark, then I could decide what to do. I'm not going to lie, I cried, actually I sobbed of quite a while. I pulled myself together for when I got to their spot but as soon as I saw Colette I bawled some more. My leg hurt like you wouldn't believe but I was about to get my first DNF. </div>
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They pulled me off of my bike, got all of my gear off, wrapped me in some blankets and tended to the wound. They called my husband to come and get me. Seriously, they were awesome. There was a reason I rode 50km to them.</div>
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My husband came and got me, took me back to race site where I had to go to medical. </div>
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I think they were a little bored...</div>
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After I was seen by a doctor on site he advised me to go to hospital. I need to get the wound cleaned up because of all the dirt and bike grease in there. They were concerned of a fracture too even though I was pretty sure it was all soft tissue damage.</div>
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So off to the hospital I go!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dps9OIQafFI/V19cyNemmPI/AAAAAAAAC3k/w8gFVNx_1ZURo9IAyFskWBntNCOoWNnNQCLcB/s1600/IMG_6341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dps9OIQafFI/V19cyNemmPI/AAAAAAAAC3k/w8gFVNx_1ZURo9IAyFskWBntNCOoWNnNQCLcB/s320/IMG_6341.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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After 3 hours in the ER I got x-rays to rule out fracture, a tetanus shot to help with all the grossness that entered my leg and a super hot nurse who also cycles. He must of thought I was badd ass because he spent a lot of time in the room with me. </div>
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He cleaned things up a bit for me before his shift ended at 3.</div>
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So what's the verdict? Well I guess the punctures were substantial enough to warrant sutures however because of all the grossness they needed to leave the wounds open in case infection sets in. So now I am oozing all over the place. We are now over 36 hours later and I am still bleeding. So I have been instructed to keep leg up and keep still. They obviously don't know me very well. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8zNuv69ydxk/V19cyRwYSdI/AAAAAAAAC3o/zLLmDtKhLNsAAGlKM1TCa3soTXURbew5ACLcB/s1600/IMG_6342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8zNuv69ydxk/V19cyRwYSdI/AAAAAAAAC3o/zLLmDtKhLNsAAGlKM1TCa3soTXURbew5ACLcB/s320/IMG_6342.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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This is blood starting to soak through after trying to walk on it. So now I hobble around with crutches. The good news is as soon as the wounds clot and no longer bleed when I move I can get right back to training. </div>
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I'm starting to think a shark bite story would have been a much better story here.</div>
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Anyways, moral of the story is I don't think I should be doing Victoria 70.3 anymore.</div>
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My chin is up and my head held high. Calgary 70.3 is 41 days away and I am so excited for this one!</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-58700937063492141992016-04-11T15:49:00.001-07:002016-04-11T15:49:10.275-07:00That's a PR (April Fool's Run Race Report)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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As usual I'm a little late getting up my race report but alas this one is a gooder!!</div>
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Last weekend was my first trip to the Sunshine Coast. I've heard spectacular things about Gibsons and Sechelt but from the 7 years we've lived on the Island we never got the chance to check out the beautiful Sunshine Coast.</div>
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When choosing my races for this year I had to reach out to my sister to help me find a race that happened near the beginning or up to the middle of April. There wasn't anything on the Island that appealed to me timing wise. For some reason she can find you a race anywhere in the world. So when we came across the <a href="http://www.foolsrun.com/index.htm">BMO April Fool's Run</a> it peaked my interest.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pKvQQtOVWyA/Vwwb7oTR-UI/AAAAAAAAC2g/f_CnzkSU22UPRF64VSFwCQGA0S4-woMkQ/s1600/12642942_955769361178749_8740259437211816406_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pKvQQtOVWyA/Vwwb7oTR-UI/AAAAAAAAC2g/f_CnzkSU22UPRF64VSFwCQGA0S4-woMkQ/s1600/12642942_955769361178749_8740259437211816406_n.jpg" /></a></div>
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Going in to this run I thought it would be an easy one. It boasts a net downhill course. Much to my dismay though... it was not all downhill. </div>
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We took a ferry from Nanaimo to Horseshoe Bay on Friday evening. The ferries were super busy but the weather was looking awesome.</div>
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We got to Horseshoe Bay and then got on the Langdale Ferry. Unfortunately due to heavy traffic we had to wait for the next (last) ferry. Needless to say it turned in to a bit of a late night.</div>
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Our hotel was a bit run down and old looking but it was clean and the manager was very nice. There were other runners staying there too. It was only 2 blocks from the start one so super convenient. </div>
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We got a bit of a sleep in Saturday morning and wandered around the town of Gibsons to find some coffee and breakfast. </div>
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We then hoped in the car and decided to drive the half marathon route so I could get a look at this course. I had my bottle <a href="https://nuun.com/">Nuun</a> keeping me hydrated in the car.</div>
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It became quite clear early on this was not going to be as easy as I thought. There were many rolling hills and 3 pretty big climbs. This is when I accept that this might not be a PR for me after all.</div>
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Once we passed the nice town of Sechelt (also the finish area) we got the chance to explore the area.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--NUl9TzMPq4/Vwwap7JfZ5I/AAAAAAAAC1g/9zqkTqNHNHoXymXFlwlYzeH1bm0BI2mAA/s1600/IMG_5706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--NUl9TzMPq4/Vwwap7JfZ5I/AAAAAAAAC1g/9zqkTqNHNHoXymXFlwlYzeH1bm0BI2mAA/s320/IMG_5706.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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We came across many beautiful beaches for the kids to play.</div>
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The weather continued to impress us so we just kept stopping at different beaches to keep exploring.</div>
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After some great fun we headed back towards Gibsons so I could go pickup my race package. </div>
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We came across some pretty spectacular views and chatted with some locals.</div>
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Downtown Gibsons has charm and character. All of the light posts have cute little bird house attached to them and gorgeous bright colours. There is some beautiful green space that overlooks the harbour.</div>
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Lots of little ponds and gardens.</div>
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The best part is the Beachcombers was filmed here. This is going to date me a bit but Beachcombers is a Canadian classic. I believe the fist episode was in 1972 and ran for 19 seasons. Of course the town is very proud of its fame.</div>
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So we of course did a few photo ops!!</div>
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So after a wonderful day of exploring we had some dinner at the local past place and headed back to the hotel for a little rest.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3chm2xlzeXA/VwwbXYw1t_I/AAAAAAAAC2Y/fDiUQE2m_9oVC-UW_Ea-1LvZ8KW5_wKkg/s1600/12933003_999930253429326_1146290512888235613_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3chm2xlzeXA/VwwbXYw1t_I/AAAAAAAAC2Y/fDiUQE2m_9oVC-UW_Ea-1LvZ8KW5_wKkg/s320/12933003_999930253429326_1146290512888235613_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I woke up Sunday morning after having a pretty awesome sleep. That almost never happens day before races. I felt calm and ready to run. </div>
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I put on my brand new <a href="http://www.soasracing.com/">Soas</a> team tank and sports bra. Loving the new gear!!!</div>
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This was a pretty small scale race. Only 400 people. </div>
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The race start time was set for 9:17 (I love late starts).</div>
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As I was walking to the start line I ran into some of my fellow Nuun athletes. We said our hello's and headed to the start.</div>
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After the gun went off I held back a bit. I wanted to ease into things before getting down to business. Right from the beginning you head up a hill before turning left and then left again and then you start flying downhill (for now).</div>
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The first 10km was fun. I was more then on track for getting a PR today.</div>
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Then things got ugly. The second half of the race we had some pretty good sized climbs ahead of us. Shortly after the halfway mark some guy came out of nowhere and started chatting me up. I'm pretty sure he was on a relay team because he seemed pretty spry to be chatting so freely as I was sucking wind big time. To add insult it was just as we are starting to climb our first of 3 hill climbs.</div>
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No what goes up must come down, but racing downhills is tough on the quads. I could have played things safe and not pushed so hard on the downhills but I knew we had that last big climb at 16km that was an entire km long. That is where I would lose time. So when I had a nice solid downhill I kept things rolling. </div>
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I kept checking my splits at each km. I knew I had room not not a lot of room. When I finally hit that 16km mark and started the climb out of Roberts Creek I noticed everyone was walking. I had to make a decision. Keep pushing on the climb and run just as fast as the walkers or just bite the bullet and walk the nasty hill and just giver on the 4 km downhill to the finish. I picked plan B just walk the tough part and make up time on the downhill.</div>
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After that big climb I just let it all go. I cruised down those last 4 km. The one thing that really stood out for me was at the 18km mark there was a volunteer that told me I was looking so strong. The thing is I felt really strong. I kept my feet under my hips as I rolled down those hills. I was hurting but still feeling in control. I could hear the finish line approaching. </div>
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My family was there waiting for me. I looked up at the clock and it was 1:47:52</div>
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I couldn't believe it. Even with a bit of walking up that monster hill I was able to finally get a sub 1:50:00</div>
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I will remind you all I was never a runner. Going in to triathlon running was always my weakest. Over the last 5 years I have worked my butt off to get under the 1:50:00</div>
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I must say reaching this goal has got to be one of my happiest moments.</div>
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I can honestly say I had a great race. It was not easy, in fact I think this was the toughest half marathons I have done. All those hills gave me a run for my money. I feel very accomplished. After this great race effort and last weeks sprint tri I'm feeling like this season is shaping up well. 2016 will be a good one I'm sure. I still have a long road ahead of me until Penticton at the end of August but I'm off to a pretty good start.</div>
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Until next time, enjoy the views!!!</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-84105525414036363212016-03-28T17:48:00.001-07:002016-03-28T17:48:35.022-07:00Let 2016 begin!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I had no idea how long it had been since I last posted. I can't believe it was 2015. Time is flying. I can't lie, life has been busy. Between work, family, holidays and a little fun I really just lost track of time. </div>
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I was lucky enough to get some cross training in via skiing. I was introduced to skate skiing which I picked up pretty quick and fell in love with this great cardio workout.</div>
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We also got away with the family to get some good old fashion downhill skiing. The true love of my life. </div>
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I can't tell you how much fun it was teaching my girls how to ski.</div>
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Today couldn't have been a better day to get back to the blog world. Yesterday was my first triathlon of the season. Keep in mind this was a last minute coach says do it. I just signed up for the <a href="http://www.westshoretriathlon.com/">Westshore Tirathlon</a> Thursday and raced it Sunday. Nothing like a last minute throw in. I knew I'd be there regardless because my daughter really wanted to do it. This race is a super low key fun race. It's also a KOS race. My daughter was the youngest one there. </div>
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Pool swim was short and sweet.</div>
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It was very cold and windy so we made sure she had lots of clothes to put on. The volunteers were great and helped get her going.</div>
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Despite the course being hilly she still did awesome. I do need to teach how her to shift gears a little more efficiently. </div>
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Off on the run. </div>
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First person to cross the finish line. She was thrilled.</div>
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Everyone is happy with a medal.</div>
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I am so proud of this kid. She is always so keen to try new things and just loves to race. Great job S!!!</div>
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I have not done a sprint in over 4 years. As I'm waiting around my coach shows up... ready to race. Unfortunately she's in my age group. Gulp! Nothing like a little friendly competition except that she is so friggin AWESOME!!!</div>
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I kept things simple and decided to try out my new wheels and go without socks.</div>
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So as my family is filling up on easter treats I'm getting seeded for the pool swim. </div>
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I hate pool swim triathlons. I've noticed that the majority of people don't know how to seed themselves properly in a pool swim tri. Because I swim a lot I know my pacing and I know exactly what I should be able to pull off in a 700m swim. However in pool swims if your foot get taped you have to stop at the end of the pool and let the person behind you pass. Unfortunately I got stuck in-between 2 buddies that were being a little competitive with each other. The one in front didn't go out fast enough and the one behind went out too fast. So the three of us played passing games for at least 3 lengths. After I just got fed up and just breast stroked for 2 lengths because we were wasting too much time at the ends. Finally I had had enough and I got ahead of them both and ended up getting over 2 lengths ahead of them but we waisted so much time to get there. </div>
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Exiting from the pool was a shocker. It was so cold out and super windy. I was freezing so that meant I had to get working on the bike to warm myself up.</div>
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It didn't take long to warm up. The hill climbing back up out of the lagoon was a bit of a slog. </div>
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It was a great bike route. It was 2 laps and of course because I'm so used to longer distances that when they told me to turn around I kept asking if they were sure. </div>
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After a great bike ride I pulled into transitions and got right into the run.</div>
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I could feel my heart rate raising pretty high so I had to bring myself back down and relax. I only saw 2 ladies ahead of me (my coach and another lady) so I thought that maybe I was 3rd female over all. I tried to hold my pace as best as I could despite the nasty hills and brutal headwind.</div>
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Coming in to the finish line was tough. The headwinds had shifted and it was torture trying to sprint through the finish. I felt like I was running on a treadmill. Man, I forgot how tough sprints are.</div>
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So it turned out there were 3 young wiper snappers that kicked our old lady butts. Coach was 4th female overall and myself 6th. </div>
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I can't tell you how awesome it was to stand on the podium with my coach as 1st and 2nd in our age group. It's not very often you see that. </div>
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A nice family photo with the medal holders.</div>
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So despite the lack of short distance training I was thrilled with my race. Swim and transitions could have been better but I'm happy with the bike and run. </div>
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My season is just getting started. Next weekend I'll be doing a half marathon, end of April I'll be doing a fun run with the kids I coach at school.</div>
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May I have a 100km bike, another half marathon and then June will be the start of triathlon racing. I'm really looking forward to this year. I've been working hard without letting triathlon run my life. A fine balance that seems to be working so far. </div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-35386481912117945712015-12-29T11:43:00.001-08:002015-12-29T11:43:48.692-08:00Good things to come<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Happy Holidays to you and yours. It has been a whirlwind year and I can't believe 2015 is coming to an end. I've had some ups and downs this year but I celebrate most getting through the year knowing I tired my best. Some highlights from 2015:</div>
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- Making the 2015 Team Soas</div>
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-Getting coached by one of the best in the business Jasper Blake</div>
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- Completing my first Iron distance triathlon and placing 2nd in my age group</div>
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-completing a 70.3 with a broken toe (I don't recommend doing this)</div>
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-watching my oldest daughter complete her first year of competitive swimming</div>
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As much as 2015 brought me some great adventures I am really looking forward to 2016. I have a feeling it's going to be a good one...</div>
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First off I get asked back to be a part of the most awesome team around</div>
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<a href="http://www.soasracing.com/"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xYSj-_7JAcE/VoLaoSG7SeI/AAAAAAAACwc/1fDp8a_qy1s/s1600/376921_434161359955328_797595429_n.jpg" /></a></div>
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Want to know how awesome this team is?</div>
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That's right. We are wearing our not so ugly christmas cycling jerseys and none of us live in the same area. These ladies are just fabulous!</div>
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and to top it all off I got asked to be a part of another amazing team!</div>
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<a href="http://nuuncanada.com/"><img border="0" height="269" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ERAFjjzekWE/VoLaoWRsaKI/AAAAAAAACwg/zXkYB61Fq1o/s320/2016teamnuun.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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I've also come up with a few goals for this year.</div>
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Get a sub 1:50:00 1/2 marathon</div>
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Get a sub 5:30:00 70.3</div>
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qualify for ITU long distance championships</div>
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and my most important goal- be the best triathlon coach for my kids and their school</div>
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With the help from my coach at B78 I have a good feeling about this year. I will actually be prepared and on top of things, unlike last year where I did not have a triathlon coach and fumbled my way through the first part of the year until Jasper came to the rescue and got me ready for the iron distance. </div>
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So how were the holidays? We kept things pretty quiet around here. With our families being back in Alberta we tend to celebrate with just the 4 of us and this year it was even more quiet. I've been laid up in bed with pneumonia. Luckily by Christmas Eve I was feeling significantly better.</div>
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Christmas morning was a big hit with the kids.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xwVUZk8m6QA/VoLawyTvKwI/AAAAAAAACw0/qT7Tzmug_LI/s1600/IMG_4849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xwVUZk8m6QA/VoLawyTvKwI/AAAAAAAACw0/qT7Tzmug_LI/s320/IMG_4849.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Santa was good to us all and even my friends outdid themselves on my gifts.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eXKTX-9A3RI/VoLawUO-hOI/AAAAAAAACws/Za-NXZ-0Ots/s1600/IMG_4859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eXKTX-9A3RI/VoLawUO-hOI/AAAAAAAACws/Za-NXZ-0Ots/s320/IMG_4859.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Santa brought all the girls leggings</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xoqSdo3B-EU/VoLaxhXGfWI/AAAAAAAACw4/IdCJuwXlO9k/s1600/IMG_4862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xoqSdo3B-EU/VoLaxhXGfWI/AAAAAAAACw4/IdCJuwXlO9k/s320/IMG_4862.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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and because we live on the Island where it doesn't get too cold we got out for a Christmas bike/walk.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fuxuWoFdhSw/VoLayAyYcOI/AAAAAAAACxA/S14JLBwcI4g/s1600/IMG_4874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fuxuWoFdhSw/VoLayAyYcOI/AAAAAAAACxA/S14JLBwcI4g/s320/IMG_4874.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Once we recovered from Christmas our wonderful friends came up for the day to get a boxing day hike in. We can just about see their house out across the water.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RjuBHAUN4k8/VoLaydQldnI/AAAAAAAACxE/yX3GhQusLx4/s1600/IMG_4878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RjuBHAUN4k8/VoLaydQldnI/AAAAAAAACxE/yX3GhQusLx4/s320/IMG_4878.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Seriously, nothing makes me more happy than spending time with fabulous friends.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9ghWctNcZZc/VoLazAapiMI/AAAAAAAACxU/8L4SxKO37qo/s1600/IMG_4879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9ghWctNcZZc/VoLazAapiMI/AAAAAAAACxU/8L4SxKO37qo/s320/IMG_4879.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This lady is my triathlon rock. She gets me, she motivates me, she inspires me, she also helps keep me grounded.</div>
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So as we roll out the end of 2015 I celebrated by getting my first workout done in over a month. Big sis is also gearing up for the 2016 season. She asked if I could start coaching her now so I made her hit the mats and do some strength training with me. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-euR79uDxRY4/VoLazWeVnNI/AAAAAAAACxY/QRUsozaspLk/s1600/IMG_4897.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-euR79uDxRY4/VoLazWeVnNI/AAAAAAAACxY/QRUsozaspLk/s320/IMG_4897.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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So here's to a fabulous and fresh start. May your year be safe, happy, healthy and filled with much excitement and joy.</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-35223757933886475972015-12-05T09:47:00.000-08:002015-12-05T09:47:50.126-08:00These are a few of my favourite things 2015<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It's that time of year! Christmas is approaching us at lightning speed and I have been having a ton of fun creating my perfect wish list. Please bare in mind that this is just a wish list there is no way Santa would be delving these wonderful items under my tree. My kids come first you know...</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TnE0ZyY4OAg/VmMbhop9J6I/AAAAAAAACv8/McMDOlFlxww/s1600/12310674_1044382838939516_1830531797952472563_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TnE0ZyY4OAg/VmMbhop9J6I/AAAAAAAACv8/McMDOlFlxww/s320/12310674_1044382838939516_1830531797952472563_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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I also want to note that even though I am a Soas Ambassador I will absolutely have Soas items on my list, but it's not because I have to, it's because I truly believe Soas makes the best triathlon, cycling and running garments around. So here it is, my must haves/ wish list for 2015:</div>
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First up is the Shimano Asphalt H20 shoe cover</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tL5rdgLdpgQ/VmMaOpXAdYI/AAAAAAAACus/fEgR2ZTGc4E/s1600/5041-652_BK000_view1_720x720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tL5rdgLdpgQ/VmMaOpXAdYI/AAAAAAAACus/fEgR2ZTGc4E/s320/5041-652_BK000_view1_720x720.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Luckily on Vancouver Island we don't get much snow but we do get cold wet conditions. these shoe covers are perfect! You can get them from MEC <a href="http://www.mec.ca/product/5041-652/shimano-asphalt-h2o-shoe-cover-unisex/?h=10+50002+50026&f=10+50002+50424">HERE</a></div>
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Next up is for the triathlete that travels a lot. This has got to be the best bike bag on the market. The only part of your bike that needs to be removed are the wheels. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NO7iNCODLyw/VmMaRXmrtEI/AAAAAAAACu0/HDT5KpgiGZA/s1600/aerocomfort_tri.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NO7iNCODLyw/VmMaRXmrtEI/AAAAAAAACu0/HDT5KpgiGZA/s320/aerocomfort_tri.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Scicon bike bag has been on my radar for the past year but unfortunately until I take an airplane to my next race I'll have to wait. You can check out all of the awesome choices <a href="http://sciconbags.com/en/bike-bags/aerocomfort-triathlon.html">HERE</a>.</div>
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I cannot tell you how my I love all of my Soas gear. It is the only tri suit I will wear and Soas has really stepped out of the box this year and made a ton of new exciting products. My new favourite item is the knee warmers. They stay up perfectly and they keep my legs perfectly warm. I already have the Team Race 2015 ones but I use them so frequently they I need another pair.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cXFuQ8Ac7xw/VmMabMgUhrI/AAAAAAAACvE/8VpHcltfrgc/s1600/Flat_2015_Knee_Sun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cXFuQ8Ac7xw/VmMabMgUhrI/AAAAAAAACvE/8VpHcltfrgc/s320/Flat_2015_Knee_Sun.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Check out all of the choices <a href="http://www.soasracing.com/collections/cycling-1">HERE!</a></div>
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My favourite running pants/ crops/ capris all come from Lululemon. I love their fit and the drawstring to keep my pants from falling down. These new About that Base Tight are perfect for those cool winter runs. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ww3QOeT3u5E/VmMaeDLeVyI/AAAAAAAACvM/JUu59c6y7vM/s1600/LW5I10S_020250_1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ww3QOeT3u5E/VmMaeDLeVyI/AAAAAAAACvM/JUu59c6y7vM/s1600/LW5I10S_020250_1.jpeg" /></a></div>
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I'm loving both the black/forrest teal and the black/ tender violet. Check out the colours <a href="http://shop.lululemon.com/products/clothes-accessories/pants-run/About-That-Base-Tight?cc=20250&skuId=3650794&catId=carunningtights">HERE</a>.</div>
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I also love Lululemon socks. They are the only sock I use for my runs. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SzcLcW11COA/VmMahK-3NeI/AAAAAAAACvU/8yOoTCwKaaw/s1600/LW9L80S_021030_1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SzcLcW11COA/VmMahK-3NeI/AAAAAAAACvU/8yOoTCwKaaw/s1600/LW9L80S_021030_1.jpeg" /></a></div>
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The <a href="http://shop.lululemon.com/products/clothes-accessories/women-socks-and-underwear/Speed-Sock-Silver?cc=21030&skuId=3653096&catId=cat230007">Speed Sock Silver</a> are my favourites. </div>
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My next item would be amazing but I'm pretty sure I'll be waiting a very long time before Santa will deliver. I really have been a good girl but unfortunately I just don't think I'll be seeing this awesome product under my tree this year.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a3AfSCH3Wug/VmMamqWFeFI/AAAAAAAACvc/EPCfIZkT9t4/s1600/pulse_recovery_package.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a3AfSCH3Wug/VmMamqWFeFI/AAAAAAAACvc/EPCfIZkT9t4/s320/pulse_recovery_package.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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After a hard workout it would be amazing to recover with the Normatec leg recovery system. </div>
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You can find the system <a href="https://www.normatecrecovery.com/shop/pulse-leg-recovery-system.aspx">HERE</a>.</div>
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I'm pretty sure I have all my swimming essentials but it seems I'm going through swimsuits like there's not tomorrow. Fortunately I have come across this fantastic swimsuit cleaner that is helping my prolong the life of my swimsuits.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4xp0TZbM1sk/VmMaow4TlBI/AAAAAAAACvk/is0xA2I3BtQ/s1600/SPEEDO_CLEANER-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="279" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4xp0TZbM1sk/VmMaow4TlBI/AAAAAAAACvk/is0xA2I3BtQ/s320/SPEEDO_CLEANER-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Tri Boutique is my go to online triathlon store that carries not only my swimsuit cleaner which you can get <a href="http://www.triboutique.ca/Speedo-Swim-Suit-Cleaner-p/speedo_cleaner.htm">HERE</a> but also every other great item you can think if. Love this online store!!!</div>
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Last but not least is the item I am most excited about this year. Stephanie from Soas made not only the entire Soas team squeal like little girls but she took the idea of the ugly Christmas sweater and turned it into the cutest cycling jersey EVER!!!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C_DZvqACKmg/VmMarBqw1lI/AAAAAAAACvs/C6gHzxF7xbw/s1600/Xmas_2015_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C_DZvqACKmg/VmMarBqw1lI/AAAAAAAACvs/C6gHzxF7xbw/s320/Xmas_2015_5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Is this not the cutest thing ever??? I've already put my request in with Santa. These are currently on pre order and I highly recommend you get your order in pronto because there are only a limited number. Go <a href="http://www.soasracing.com/collections/cycling-1/products/reindeer-cycling-jersey">HERE</a> to order.</div>
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So there you have it. My favourites for 2015! I hope you have enjoyed and please add in the comments if there is a great new product that you think should be added to this list.</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-20876411850756685832015-11-26T13:45:00.000-08:002015-11-26T13:45:06.118-08:00California Dreaming<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hey! Hey! I am back from my super sunny vacation in California. I would love to say it was the best trip ever but I can't lie, I'm not a fan of Disneyland. There I said it. I really don't think it is the happiest place on earth. Don't get me wrong, we had lots of fun, the kids had a great time, we got to do the Disney Avengers race, we got a great dose of vitamin D but we are just not that in to Disney. Let me explain...</div>
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Leaving on Vancouver Island can make travel plans a little tricky. We know this. It always takes longer to get places because you either have to take a ferry across or a plane. My husband is cheap like you wouldn't believe which is probably a good thing because it means more money for me to spend on triathlon stuff.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SpauxjskYfQ/Vldg8tA8EmI/AAAAAAAACuI/3cJyeorU120/s1600/IMG_4531.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SpauxjskYfQ/Vldg8tA8EmI/AAAAAAAACuI/3cJyeorU120/s320/IMG_4531.PNG" width="180" /></a></div>
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Anyways, because of his frugal behaviour we decided to take the ferry over to Vancouver and fly from there. Problem is the ferry from Nanaimo does not go as frequently as it does in the summer. Another big issue is we get big storms in the winter that also affect the ferry running. Rumour was there was a storm brewing so we headed over to Vancouver the night before our flight to play things safe. Well, the storm actually started while we were on the ferry. I have never been nervous riding the ferry, it is a large boat. That night I was nervous. </div>
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We got in to our hotel at midnight (way too late for my kids) and we got right to sleep for our big day.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ombS7AF9e9M/Vlde93Q0O3I/AAAAAAAACrY/QptlxY__V-8/s1600/IMG_4149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ombS7AF9e9M/Vlde93Q0O3I/AAAAAAAACrY/QptlxY__V-8/s320/IMG_4149.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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The kids were awesome packing their own luggage. There were no complaints. Everyone was happy.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9npq9CUcFw4/Vlde4uriKrI/AAAAAAAACrA/eKaYZQUAYx8/s1600/IMG_4155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9npq9CUcFw4/Vlde4uriKrI/AAAAAAAACrA/eKaYZQUAYx8/s320/IMG_4155.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Our flight from Vancouver to San Francisco was uneventful. Things were great. Then we arrive in San Francisco to be told our flight was over booked and only 3 of the 4 of us will be making this trip. What? Really? These tickets were booked months ago and they have the ages of our kids. Our car rental in Orange County is in Jordi's name, the kids won't fly without me. How the hell is this going to work? Needless to say we are not fans of United Airlines anymore. Luckily a very nice lady volunteered her seat so we could all fly together on the plan but not together for seating. Awesome!</div>
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Finally made it to OC and the weather is just lovely! I needed a big dose of sunshine.</div>
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Another awesome thing was eating at an all vegan restaurant. Be still my heart, I don't have to worry about anything. </div>
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My parents were anxiously waiting for us to arrive at the hotel. Again it's another late night. Kids have 10 min of fun then right to bed just while the fireworks are going off at Disneyland. Don't worry I promise we'll get to see them before we go home (famous last words...)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P7-GrKuuRQE/VldfRSw-ZrI/AAAAAAAACtA/rcusMvVKU-s/s1600/IMG_4366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P7-GrKuuRQE/VldfRSw-ZrI/AAAAAAAACtA/rcusMvVKU-s/s320/IMG_4366.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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We arrive in Disneyland to celebrate the diamond anniversary. This is purely coincidence. We are actually here for the Avengers half marathon that my sister insisted we do. Regardless there is so much to see and do.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bt30KqdHkiU/Vlde8Cm3KiI/AAAAAAAACrQ/jZnm3VcVgSo/s1600/IMG_4162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bt30KqdHkiU/Vlde8Cm3KiI/AAAAAAAACrQ/jZnm3VcVgSo/s320/IMG_4162.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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The park is all decorated for Christmas and looks amazing.</div>
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Top priority is to hit as many rides as possible. Because my parents, sister and my bother in law are all with us it gets a little tricky to hammer out a plan. After some deep discussions we get it figured out. If I have any tips or advice for hitting Disneyland. Take someone that needs a wheelchair. My mom isn't able to walk very well so we got her a wheel chair and we seriously got on most of the rides instantly! Some of the bigger rides we would get a pseudo fast pass but usually only 20minutes. It worked out great for us.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1oTLVfA-gjo/Vlde6tY5dZI/AAAAAAAACrI/maT3_1elgcc/s1600/IMG_4167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1oTLVfA-gjo/Vlde6tY5dZI/AAAAAAAACrI/maT3_1elgcc/s320/IMG_4167.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Because we were a group of 8 we got split up on some of the rides. Most notably Splash mountain, but again this actually worked in our favour. </div>
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Some nut job decided to stand up on the ride right before it does the big drop, this entails the staff doing an emergency shut down and then evacuation of the entire ride. Since this happens you get handed a super duper fast pass. Basically you go to any ride in the park and hand them this ticket and you get immediate access. No line at all. Because we got split up we got given 3 of these passes. It was awesome!</div>
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We did end up going back to splash mountain later on in the evening:</div>
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Team Soas hat made the cut!</div>
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And because the kids loved Splash Mountain so much, we did it again!</div>
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With the park being so busy we didn't get to meet a lot of the characters. I'm just not in to standing in line for 2 hours just to get a pat on the head from Mickey Mouse. My rule was it had to be less than 30 min wait. So we managed a visit with Eeyore.</div>
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Silvermist</div>
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And Tinkerbell</div>
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We of course did the token It's a Small World (still makes me cry after all of these years). Again the line up was huge...</div>
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The teacup ride</div>
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We got to see Olaf but again to meet him would have been a 70 minute line up. Seriously, who has time for that?</div>
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With us living on the Island we don't get a lot of snow (if any). I think in the 6.5 years we've lived here we have had 2 snow days?? So when we went to Olaf's snow place or whatever the heck it was called the girls went nuts for the snow (as did the other hundreds of children that never see snow).</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6uYdXTPo5F8/VldfHYvs-ZI/AAAAAAAACsE/H7_Wv5tKmm0/s1600/IMG_4257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6uYdXTPo5F8/VldfHYvs-ZI/AAAAAAAACsE/H7_Wv5tKmm0/s320/IMG_4257.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Funny thing is though is that the snow of course gets packed down after 10 min of playing in it so that actually have staff that come out with shovels and fluff the snow back up. Maybe it's just amusing to me because I grew up around lots of snow. </div>
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I can't boast enough about the weather. It was so nice out. We went from 5 degrees to 28. </div>
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So our last day we decided to take in more shows then rides. We saw a frozen play, all of the parades and the most important the fireworks. So Sunday night we kept the kids up extra late. The light parade that is only on for the diamond celebration started at 9pm. My kids are long since in bed by that time, but hey we are on our last day of the happiest place on earth. The parade was pretty awesome and the kids really enjoyed it. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u-TO8ooc0Fs/VldfTzP6EcI/AAAAAAAACtM/Yx88UfEju3Q/s1600/IMG_4444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u-TO8ooc0Fs/VldfTzP6EcI/AAAAAAAACtM/Yx88UfEju3Q/s320/IMG_4444.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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We thought the timing was perfect because the fireworks start at 9:30. Yay for mom for planning the timing out perfectly! So the parade finishes and we wait, and wait. Finally an announcement comes on that there are issues with the fireworks show so please stand by. By 10pm the fireworks got canceled. Normally this would not be a big deal. We see fireworks all of the time. The problem is I </div>
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1. Waited till the last day </div>
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2. This has happened to us before</div>
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3. I should have known not to wait until the last day</div>
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Yup! The last time we brought the kids to Disneyland the exact same thing happened. We waited until the last night and due to some wind the show got cancelled. Ugh! So with some very disappointed kids we hall them back to the hotel. </div>
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We definitely enjoyed the races though despite almost being late due to the extremely unpredictable and unreliable bussing. There was a bus stop right outside our hotel but we could wait anywhere from 5 minutes to 85minutes. Normally I would say lets just walk but there was no way my mom would have made it.</div>
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Anyways we squealed into the kids different corrals when little one says she has to pee. I look at her and say like right now? She says yes, it;s urgent. I may have used some choice words under my breath and quickly located a volunteer who could point us in the right direction. Problem was the race was going to start in less than 5 minutes and the port potties were way across the parking lot. So we ran. We ran probably more than a kilometre to get the bathroom issue felt with. She did awesome and ran so fast that we got back right in time to get the race started. </div>
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My little super hero was ready to go. She ran the hole way. I couldn't remember what her distance was and it turns out it was significantly shorter than what we had just ran to go use the bathroom. Seriously, we ran well over a kilometre and the race was 200m. She looked at me at the finish line and said "That was it"?</div>
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Big sis did awesome! She made her own super hero cape. The announcer even called her out at the finish line for being super speedy and awesome! </div>
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After the kids race we decided to hit the beach and try and have a relaxing afternoon. I have my big race coming up and I was feeling super exhausted. </div>
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After a lovely day down at Newport Beach and Crystal Cove we headed back to the hotel for an early dinner. My sister and I had to be up at 3:30am. I don't even get up that early for triathlons. </div>
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So I tried to get to bed early. I laid down about 8:30pm but could not fall asleep. Every time I was on the verge to sleep someone would make a noise and it alerted me. Needless to say I'm 99% sure I did not sleep at all. </div>
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So 3:30 the alarm goes off and I'm almost happy to be done torturing myself willing to sleep. I get up, make some tea, have some oatmeal and my sisters texts me from next door that she is not going. I kid you not. She is the one that wanted to do the race in the first place. She did the 5km on Friday, the 10km on Saturday and decided she just wasn't up for the half today. So I finish getting ready and head down solo. No one was keen on watching me (even though I was running by the hotel). I guess sleep is more important at 5:30am.</div>
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We had to be in our corral by 5am. This was my very first running race that I was in the first corral. I was feeling awesome! Race started at 5:30. I ended up right beside a guy from Victoria. So we chatted and killed time together. </div>
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When the gun went off I was feeling pretty good. I was aiming for a pb today since this was a flat course. About 1km in I just had nothing in me. I could barely hold a 5:15/km My legs felt like cement. My time just kept getting slower. I had to change my plan of action otherwise I wasn't going to finish. I slowed it down to a 5:30-5:35/km. I was feeling a little disappointed in myself but then I reminded myself of how terrible I had been eating, how little sleep I had been getting, how much walking we had been doing. What was I thinking? I was totally tapped out doing this race.</div>
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I finished the race in 1:56:34</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sxoq2owTY5E/VldfeHNaJSI/AAAAAAAACtY/5gIvr6JTXV8/s1600/IMG_4454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sxoq2owTY5E/VldfeHNaJSI/AAAAAAAACtY/5gIvr6JTXV8/s320/IMG_4454.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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At this point I really didn't care what my finish time was. I was exhausted. Once I got home though I had a closer look at the final results and I'm torn on my feelings. I placed significantly better than I though I had. However if I had ran what I was capable of I would have been in the top 15 of my age group. That is out of over 1000 females age 35-39. I have never placed that well in a large race. Even my 37th is a great result. Still though, it's not about those nu,beds, it's about what I know I'm capable of and I just could not pul it together.</div>
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RUNNER DETAILS</div>
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From: COBBLE HILL, CANADA <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Age: 37 <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Gender: Female <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Bib: #349</div>
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RACE DETAILS</div>
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Distance: 13.1m <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Clock Time: 1:56:48 <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Net Time: 1:56:34 <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />5k Split: 25:08<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />10k Split: 53:09<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />15k Split: 1:21:32</div>
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PLACE</div>
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Overall Place: 715/10765 <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Gender Place: 181/6331 <br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Division Place: 37/1016 </div>
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Despite all of our hiccups on our trip (I haven't even told you our trip home, I think I will leave that completely out) we did have fun. I am going to be honest, I think our money would have been better spent going to Costa Rica or Hawaii. We spent way too much money and the trip was far from relaxing. It was nice to get away with the family and the girls continue to tell us how much fun they had. Me, I'm just glad I got my Avengers finishers medal because this thing is worth way too much money to not go through that race.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RJ23BHcxHws/VldfevTA-vI/AAAAAAAACtg/Yji-lUboS1Q/s1600/IMG_4452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RJ23BHcxHws/VldfevTA-vI/AAAAAAAACtg/Yji-lUboS1Q/s320/IMG_4452.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I'm curious though, anyone else like me who just doesn't love Disneyland?</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-23688131089705241422015-09-25T18:03:00.001-07:002015-09-25T18:03:47.287-07:00The Vegan Ironman<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hello my name is Andrea and I'm a vegan triathlete.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ytdbuv4S1tE/VgWwwNiwIEI/AAAAAAAACow/RYVIgPgg3SU/s1600/IMG_3560.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ytdbuv4S1tE/VgWwwNiwIEI/AAAAAAAACow/RYVIgPgg3SU/s320/IMG_3560.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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So being vegan and a triathlete I get a lot of questions about how I train and what I eat.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KBKTWiIzl-w/VgWwydYe2OI/AAAAAAAACo4/2JJlIzqBFsE/s1600/1a967434c1d2aafb37d6052549edf194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KBKTWiIzl-w/VgWwydYe2OI/AAAAAAAACo4/2JJlIzqBFsE/s1600/1a967434c1d2aafb37d6052549edf194.jpg" /></a></div>
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Yes, I do get enough protein. Believe me I have actually calculated it out. I don't want to go into too much detail but we as north americans eat too much protein. I highly encourage everyone to figure out how much protein your body needs regardless of whether you are vegan or not.</div>
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Ok back to my story...</div>
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Since completing my first Iron Distance I have had more and more people ask me about how I did it being vegan and all. These people are not questioning my health, they are genuinely curious in hopes of doing it for themselves. So I figured instead of writing this over and over on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and all of those other sites I thought I would give the whole low down in one go and just share my link when I get asked.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ywKx3mM-sGg/VgWw1MPnEhI/AAAAAAAACpI/vM7OFrbOKt4/s1600/019afa0ba75f0aa4ee2f023d96d5423a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ywKx3mM-sGg/VgWw1MPnEhI/AAAAAAAACpI/vM7OFrbOKt4/s1600/019afa0ba75f0aa4ee2f023d96d5423a.jpg" /></a></div>
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So to start off I have been vegetarian for 7 years but a couple of years ago I was not able to lose my pregnancy pounds and I just lacked energy and other things. I went to my Naturopath and she suggested getting off of dairy. By doing so it turned me into a vegan by default. I don't really love eggs and that was really the only thing left so no eggs meant I was officially going vegan. I didn't lose as much weight as I would have liked but I did start feeling a lot better. When I was training for sprint triathlons I felt fabulous. So I kept increasing my distance. </div>
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Fast forward to this year and I signed up for my first Full Distance (aka. the Ironman distance). I never put much thought into my food because I ate pretty good food regularly. I eat a whole foods diet limiting processed foods. My kids don't even know what fast food joints are. They've never even stepped inside a McDonalds. </div>
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After I started adding big loads into my training I was finding I was not recovering as quickly as before and I was getting really tired. So having troubles with Iron and B12 in the past I got checked. Levels are all normal. So I was then asked are you eating enough? This one baffled me. I never counted calories. That's the beauty of being vegan. When you eat good, whole foods you never really eat too much. High density foods with low calories. So I started tracking my foods. Turns out I was not eating enough. I was lacking more then 2000 calories a day. So here is what I recommend and what I use to make training and racing long distances on a whole foods/ vegan diet.</div>
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Get informed: </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LiJOlqR5EtQ/VgW0x26BVHI/AAAAAAAACpU/H9g0enUVN-s/s1600/Item-Book-ThriveDiet-Vegan_Large-284x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LiJOlqR5EtQ/VgW0x26BVHI/AAAAAAAACpU/H9g0enUVN-s/s1600/Item-Book-ThriveDiet-Vegan_Large-284x300.jpg" /></a></div>
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Brendan Brazier is a former triathlete and fully understands the needs for proper nutrition. All of his books are awesome. Check out his website(s):</div>
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<a href="http://www.brendanbrazier.com/">http://www.brendanbrazier.com/</a></div>
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<a href="http://thriveforward.com/">http://thriveforward.com/</a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QyGRIcQ3PmE/VgW1rzMASdI/AAAAAAAACpc/YTbxR6crRyY/s1600/51z-eGYghUL._SL300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QyGRIcQ3PmE/VgW1rzMASdI/AAAAAAAACpc/YTbxR6crRyY/s1600/51z-eGYghUL._SL300_.jpg" /></a></div>
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Rich Roll- <a href="http://www.richroll.com/">http://www.richroll.com/</a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iaaFRYSpu9s/VgW2IJc91pI/AAAAAAAACpk/WvFGPWNjquE/s1600/515bTnuci9L._AA160_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iaaFRYSpu9s/VgW2IJc91pI/AAAAAAAACpk/WvFGPWNjquE/s1600/515bTnuci9L._AA160_.jpg" /></a></div>
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Scott Jurek- <a href="http://scottjurek.com/" style="text-align: left;">http://scottjurek.com/</a></div>
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So these 3 men have filled me with great knowledge on training for endurance on a vegan whole foods diet. I recommend reading any and all of you can from them. </div>
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Next up is trying new things (but not right before a race). I've been playing around with foods for the last 2 years. What works what doesn't work. I cannot eat solid foods during hard training sessions or racing. I can only take in liquids or gels. Big factor- I HATE GELS!</div>
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So for 70. 3 and full distance I do liquids on the bike and gels on the run. </div>
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For my liquid fuel I use Endura + Carbo Pro. I have an exact amount I mix just for me. It works beautifully but it was through trial and error.</div>
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<a href="http://www.triboutique.ca/Carbo-Pro-s/32813.htm&Click=30?gclid=Cj0KEQjw4ZOwBRDoxpjAvPXAl5MBEiQAEek_3jkyOuYNJpmKSOF3Vx1UVGxI5nGYdnI4stFFt2-Re8QaAtPA8P8HAQ"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ncQ879PxZYI/VgW3T6LLjcI/AAAAAAAACpw/flZh7o5M4Mg/s1600/CARBOPRO_3LB-1.jpg" /></a> </div>
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<a href="http://www.vitacost.com/unipro-endura-energy-and-rehydration-formula?csrc=PPCADWINTL-CAN-%5Bkeyword%5D&mtp=shZwTXbRx-dc%7Cpcrid%7C84319163680%7Cmt%7Cb&gclid=Cj0KEQjw4ZOwBRDoxpjAvPXAl5MBEiQAEek_3gXrx-cA7OEUitPjhzxpfmXN2TIgjs1RdtsD1CzKe0waAlgX8P8HAQ#"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y4EK1BeZXKk/VgW3ihZCSqI/AAAAAAAACp4/wBUTFZziots/s320/Unipro-Endura-Energy-and-Rehydration-Formula-Orange-020855704519.jpg" width="188" /></a></div>
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If you can actually take in food do it. </div>
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After any ride or run workout I always refuel immediately after. I'll take in some Vega Recovery Accelerator </div>
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<a href="http://vegasport.com/section/recover/?_ga=1.176405861.1151539714.1443215359"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rt3LCKEiWVA/VgW4LmxR08I/AAAAAAAACqA/FyuC1tz9Evs/s1600/FamilyPage_Recover_RecoveryAccelerator_Family.png" /></a></div>
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I actually use a lot of Vega products. I use their performance protein in my morning smoothies and I also like their protein bars for a quick on the go snack.</div>
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For runs I do use Gu's but I don't love them. I usually have to gag them down. This summer I was introduced to Torq Gels and fell in love. </div>
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<a href="http://www.torqfitness.co.uk/nutrition/torq-gel"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J5JL4ttWJEo/VgW4vovkvaI/AAAAAAAACqI/-ue-a6gDt-I/s320/torqgel2.jpg" width="191" /></a></div>
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They actually taste good. Although I've had people tell me Gu's taste good, I beg to differ. If I can't get Torq gels (I do have to order them online) I will use Gu's. They are now vegan and I can tolerate the Rootbeer ones.</div>
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So that is pretty much what fuels me during my races. I do have some weird things I also like to use. There is a vegan jerky out made by Primal Strips</div>
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<a href="http://vegansupply.ca/collections/jerky/products/primal-strips-teriyaki-vegan-jerky-28g"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ga3ftEhtikg/VgW5hvGzW3I/AAAAAAAACqQ/wk2oiWF8h2M/s320/primalstrips-teriyaki-maskedsq_grande.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I actually ate one coming out of T2 at Penticton, here's the proof</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fDY1AH9XnRE/VgWwvYTMwNI/AAAAAAAACoo/-aYV-GTDV4g/s1600/20x30-PCAL1839.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fDY1AH9XnRE/VgWwvYTMwNI/AAAAAAAACoo/-aYV-GTDV4g/s320/20x30-PCAL1839.jpeg" width="212" /></a></div>
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Totally mowing down on it. I seriously love these. They are super high in protein. 10g in that little strip and its got salty goodness. Be careful though if I wasn't used to it I could see getting some stomach cramps. </div>
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So that covers heavy training and racing. What do I eat the rest of the time?</div>
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My husband claims I ate more then 2 teenage boys. I would have to agree. My portion sizes were huge but keep in mind I was doing 6-8 hour bike rides, 3 hour runs, 90 min swims, yoga, strength. I was burning a lot of calories. </div>
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Here's a sample of what I eat in a day:</div>
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Breakfest- large smoothie. Vega protein powder, spinach or kale, almond milk (unsweetened), frozen fruit. Sometimes I'll though in extras like macca powder, chia seeds, oats. I switch up my flavours day to day. I also make a double batch and put the rest in the fridge for later because lets face it I'm going to be hungry again.</div>
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Lunch- Some sort of salad. Pastas salad, hearty chopped salad, veganised potato salad, greek salad with tofu feta cheese. Basically lots of greens (kale, spinach, mixed baby greens), lots of raw veg (carrots, beets, cucumber, tomatoes, zucchini), a homemade dressing.</div>
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Dinner- Rice bowl (again use imagination: rice, quinoa, buckwheat groats, wheat berries), protein (tofu, tempe, seitan, beans), cooked and raw veggies, a homemade sauce.</div>
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Desert/ Snacks- I occasionally have desert but to be honest this also falls under snacks. Because I have kids I bake a lot of homemade treats and they are healthy enough to be classified under desert or snack. I have pretty much veganised all of my favourite treats. Cookies, cakes, brownies, fudge, ice-cream, I have even mastered vegan meringue cookies. Yes a lot of these contain sugar but again I try and make it a bit more healthy by using palm sugar or organic cane sugar.</div>
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I have a ton of cookbooks to help me when I'm in a rut and I surf the net for new recipes too. Pinterest is awesome for finding some interesting vegan recipes. </div>
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I'm also lucky in that I have 2 very good friends who are also vegan. 1 is an ultra runner and the other a fellow triathlete. We also brainstorm recipes and training ideas with food.</div>
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If I can leave you with the best advice it would be always have a fridge full of fresh foods, and a pantry full of staples. We have a large cabinet in our garage full of canned beans and a large bag of brown rice. It's easy and quick to throw a bunch of ingredients in a bowl and call it a rice bowl. </div>
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I also have a rice cooker that allows me to cook any grain, I put it on and I can leave the house and go do some training.</div>
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A good blender also helps. When you make a smoothie every day and your blender burns out every year, you learn pretty quick to just spend the money on a good one. </div>
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Now before I end I am going to be honest, I don't like calling myself a vegan. I love animals but I'm not an activist. I grew up eating meat and I am a firm believer that it isn't fair for me to judge because I once ate meat. I also choose health over anything else. If I am at a race or somewhere away from home and there is no options I will have eggs or dairy (I would never eat meat it really just grosses me out). I don't like it, but when you are training the upmost important thing is to refuel. Guaranteed I always pay the price, I feel awful afterwards so I always do my best to plan ahead and insure I have proper food to eat. </div>
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Also, this post is to help those try to train as best as they can as vegans/ whole foods diet. Please do not leave rude comments. This is not to convert people it is only my way of giving a bit of info on how went about doing it for myself.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UIVCggM3JKE/VgWwz2btfzI/AAAAAAAACpA/lp1wtLaZXbg/s1600/6da600345bc013addffacfa18def4b27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UIVCggM3JKE/VgWwz2btfzI/AAAAAAAACpA/lp1wtLaZXbg/s1600/6da600345bc013addffacfa18def4b27.jpg" /></a></div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-11452050305947735922015-09-17T22:03:00.003-07:002015-09-17T22:03:27.322-07:00The Gory Details Part II<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Big day 4am. Alarm goes off. I'm a little groggy from drugging myself so I could get a little more sleep then the night before. I need coffee pronto. My fabulous husband is in charge of coffee and kids. I just need to get myself ready and out the door. WE don't need anything forgotten because we know that has never happened before (note extreme sarcasm). </div>
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For breakfast I had a pre made smoothie ready to go, coffee, and a banana that I'll eat 30 min before swim. </div>
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Kids were in for a treat today. Because we felt guilty having them sacrifice their entire day to mommy my husband took them to Tim Hortons for breakfast. </div>
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Everyone is ready. Off to the race site.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q86HNBvBvi0/Vfst8LTYY-I/AAAAAAAACmI/etphlAD2VS4/s1600/IMG_3696.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q86HNBvBvi0/Vfst8LTYY-I/AAAAAAAACmI/etphlAD2VS4/s320/IMG_3696.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I arrived at 5:10am. I wanted to ensure I could check my bike, drop off my special needs, use bathroom, get wetsuit on and eat my banana and of course check in with all of my buddies.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cv8rgk7Av3I/Vfst5w5_knI/AAAAAAAACl4/seq3SgHBEFQ/s1600/IMG_3707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cv8rgk7Av3I/Vfst5w5_knI/AAAAAAAACl4/seq3SgHBEFQ/s320/IMG_3707.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I honestly cannot even begin to explain how truly blessed I was feeling. I had so many friends here supporting me. So before I forget a big shout out to all of my support at the race:</div>
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Steph, Rikts, Johny, Colleen, Danna, Wendy, Gretchen. My awesome Soas Sistas that reassured me all weekend: Laura, Jackie, Jenna. You 3 kept me so strong when I needed an extra lift. And of course my family- Jordi, Sadie and Lola.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9LwUGXLCy4g/VfsuEPGI2RI/AAAAAAAACm4/9jXjTyjs6kw/s1600/IMG_3726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9LwUGXLCy4g/VfsuEPGI2RI/AAAAAAAACm4/9jXjTyjs6kw/s320/IMG_3726.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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These lovely ladies did many swims and rides with me.</div>
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Once things were settled I had a chance to just be with myself. Take it all in. I'm doing a full distance triathlon. I'm really doing it!</div>
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So I wandered down to the water start and got in for a bit of a warm up. I chatted a bit with some of the swimmers and got myself ready to go.</div>
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To be honest the start was really uneventful. I couldn't really hear what they were saying on shore and next thing you know the cannon went off. So I just swam.</div>
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My swim wasn't awesome but it was good. I did 3.8km in 1:12:24 (unfortunately my official time says it was substantially longer but according to my garmin and my husbands iPhone the 1:12:24 was more accurate.</div>
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Out of the water and into transition. I've never done a race where I have to grab my bag head into tent and then to find my bike. This was all new to me and I liked it. I didn't have to fight for space by my racked bike.</div>
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Unfortunately my T1 transition was not so fast. I definitely took my time and I couldn't get my arm warmers on and I really needed them today. It was cold out.</div>
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So 20 min later I resurfaced. My friend Johny thought maybe I took a dip in the hot tub ; )</div>
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I was feeling super positive and really enjoying things. Because the halfers started 30 min after us we were all emerging at the same time. The bike course was a little crowded to begin with.</div>
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It was really hard having all of the halfers whizzing by me in those first 20 km or so. I wanted to keep up so bad but I could hear my coach Jasper in my head to listen to my heart rate and it will work itself out. So I did, and it sucked. I could not get my heart rate down. I don't know if it was the excitement of being out on the course, trying to keep up with the halfers or battling against the most brutal headwind I've ever encountered. Seriously, this girl is from Pincher Creek, Alberta. Windiest place in the WORLD! When I saw my average pace I started crying.</div>
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Basically we had a headwind from Penticton all the way to Osoyoos. I kept peddling and felt like I was going nowhere. Once we turned at Osoyoos and headed west on the number 3 I started feeling a little better. Everyone warned me about Richters Pass, I was a bit worried. So I do what I do best and just road. I actually passed a ton of people over the pass. No one believes me but Richters Pass was the easiest park of my ride. I kid you not. This is how brutal the wind was. Best part about Richters Pass? </div>
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This special lake. At the top and to the left there is this bizarre looking lake. I had never heard about it. I took a mental note of it to ask the husband and kids about it later on. Surely they had seen this place too. It is called <a href="http://www.bcprospectors.com/Spotted%20Lake.htm">Spotted Lake</a>. Apparently there is all sorts of history. This lake has massive healing properties (should made a pit stop there) and people from all over the world come to bath in it. </div>
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Turns out husband and kids did not see it, they were too busy looking for me.</div>
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Once I got over Richters Pass I was feeling a bit better about myself. I mean who doesn't love passing people on the so called hardest part of the course? Then we hit the rollers. When I hear "rollers" I think short easy climbs that then turn into downhills and you have enough momentum to ride into the next hill. Nope! These are not your normal rollers. Lets be honest folks, these are just plain old hills. They are not rollers. There I said it. Anyways, it sucked. Shortly after I came to special needs. I needed a fresh application of <a href="http://www.triboutique.ca/Hoo-Ha-Ride-Glide-8oz-p/rsrideglide8oz.htm">HooHa Ride Glide</a>. I needed to switch out my fuel and I needed to go to the bathroom. If you are sensitive to lady type discussions I advise you to skip ahead. For those of you that don't care I discovered in the port potty that I got my period. Awesome! I was not supposed to get it for a few more days. Nothing like adding insult to injury. So after dropping a few f-bombs I gathered myself and just continued on. What else is a girl to do.</div>
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Once I got through special needs on the bike one of the guys that I saw a lot of out on the bike course got a flat right before special needs. I felt so bad for him we were only 60km left to go. Unfortunately I couldn't wait for him so off I go all by myself. </div>
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Last big climb of the day is Yellow Lake. Honestly it wasn't that bad, I was still feeling the effects of that brutal headwind. These hills had nothing on it.</div>
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Jordi and the girls were waiting for me right at the beginning of the climb. My husband could tell I was not happy. </div>
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Yes that is an unhappy person.</div>
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Pretty much after Yellow Lake it's all downhill. I clocked speeds over 70km/hour. Unfortunately it still didn't help me with my overall time. What should have taken me 6:30:00 took me 8 hours. I was feeling pretty deflated.</div>
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Once I handed my bike off I headed back into the tent for T2. I was a little more speedy this time around but did have a small tea party with fellow competitor in my age group Andrea Oliver. We both got our periods today. How awesome is that? Same name, same age group, same day for menstruation. Awesome!</div>
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Off I go on the run. My goal was to run the first 21km without stopping. </div>
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The one thing I have discovered about doing long distance in triathlon is that after a long bike ride I actually look forward to getting out on the run. </div>
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I was looking pretty awesome in all of my <a href="http://www.soasracing.com/collections/triathlon">Soas gear</a>. Seriously best trisuit ever. I know lots of women change in and out of stuff during long course but with a <a href="http://www.soasracing.com/collections/triathlon">Soas trisuit</a> it isn't necessary. Absolute comfort the entire time.</div>
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Running through town was definitely a highlight. My friends and family were at different spots so every few kilometres I saw a friendly face. </div>
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I was super happy to see the family.</div>
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Once I passed through town and out towards OK Falls things started creeping up on me. My quads were starting to seize up a bit. I wanted to walk badly but I am a very stubborn woman and I vowed no walking before 21km. Once I got to special needs I switched out my water bottles (next time I don't think I will use my running belt. It was a lot of extra weight that I was regretting later on). I did have some other goodies in there but I really didn't need anything else. I had my <a href="http://www.torqcanada.com/">Torq Gels</a> and my bottles with <a href="http://nuuncanada.com/">Nuun</a>. That's all I needed... at least that's what I thought.</div>
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Once I hit 26km it all started falling apart. I missed my family, I hadn't seen them since the 14km mark, things were hurting and my stomach was starting to get very angry. Next thing I see is my truck drive past honking at me. They didn't stop, I started crying. I slowly slogged away another kilometre and low and behold the family is at the side of the road cheering me on. I burst into tear again. (Pretty sure I got out an entire year of emotions today).</div>
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I tried telling my husband I can't do it. I can't carry on. He is my rock, and he assured me that yes I can continue and I will. So I did. The last turnaround was at 29km. As I headed back to town feeling like I was dying my other friends showed up. The trio raced the half as a really and they were patiently waiting for me to get back to town. They were beyond amazing. They supported me, encouraged me, believed in me. They kept me going.</div>
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Since I was taking so long during the run, ahem, I mean walk Jordi and the girls ended up offering their volunteering services. Some of the aid stations were thinning out of volunteers. I was so proud that they stepped up to the plate.</div>
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Super duper volunteers.</div>
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So after about an hour of walking (attempting to run every so often and then realizing I was still walking faster) something snapped deep inside me. I was still in a lot of discomfort, I was still exhausted, I was still emotionally drained but a switch went off and I felt the urge to run. So with about 6km left to go I slowly started running, gaining momentum as I got going. For the last 5km I somehow started running a 6min/km pace. How did I do that? I have no idea. I had tunnel vision and my only focus was that finish line. It's funny, when you get into that zone you really don't see what's going on around you but I could hear people cheering and I could hear people saying "wow look how fast that girl is running". It wasn't until after the race that I realized they were talking about me. Sure it wasn't that fast but in the grand scheme of long distance races at 14 to 15 hours into the race it was a lot faster then the rest of the people out there. When I got to that peach I kicked it up further. A volunteer yelled out that I must not have left it out all on the course looking so good. Ha! If she had only known I just walked for what seemed like forever. I ran hard, I was afraid if I even slowed down a second I would collapse. </div>
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I came in at 15:09:13</div>
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2 hours slower then my coach and I anticipated. It was a very tough day. I did it. I finished despite all unforeseen circumstances.</div>
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I would have had my family run across then line with me had I known they were right there. Jordi said he was so close he could have touched me, he said I was still in the zone until I was over that line.</div>
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The fabulous Laura Siddall promised me she would be waiting for me at the end and she kept that promise even though I was a few hours late.</div>
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Despite all of the pain I somehow still managed a smile.</div>
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Even Challenge Penticton noticed I kept on smiling... they even tweeted about it.</div>
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And of course the bling. That medal is huge!!! </div>
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I can't say I was happy with my time, I'm not going to lie I was disappointed but I was not the only one. Remember my new friend Andrea that I hung out with in T2? Well she came in 3rd in our age group. In fact the top 3 in my age group were all Andrea's. That's right in our age group we were the only 3 that actually finished. All the Andrea's are hardcore!</div>
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Now before I sign off there is a lot more to this day then meets the eye. I was dealing with other issues on top of the pre race stress. However the support I had made up for it.</div>
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I want to thank everyone who help me achieve my first Iron distance race.</div>
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First and foremost my awesome coach Jasper Blake from <a href="http://www.b78.is/">B78 Coaching</a>. He took me on with only 2 months before the big day. He is AMAZING!!!</div>
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<a href="http://www.mindfulstrides.com/">Marilyn Arsenault</a> who has been coaching me on my running for the past year. </div>
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<a href="http://www.soasracing.com/">Soas!</a> Seriously awesome team and Stephanie makes the best tri suits on the market amongst other fab products. My team mates have been so amazingly supportive. Best group of ladies ever.</div>
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Again my family. My husband has been so supportive throughout this entire journey. He has even learned how to do laundry!</div>
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My parents who came out to visit and I put them right to work as soon as they got here.</div>
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All of my friends that have pushed me to keep going, watched me swim in the pouring rain, listened to me bitch and complain on the days I was just too exhausted to realize my life is actually pretty darn awesome: Sandra, Steph, Rikst, Dale, Colleen, Jake, Valerie,Wade, Margo, Amanda. There are so many more people that have just touched me on my journey. Really every little bit helped.</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-52986600312085665452015-09-08T11:03:00.002-07:002015-09-08T11:03:55.160-07:00The gory details part 1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Well I did it, I completed my very first iron distance triathlon. It was quite the journey so I'm going to do my race recap in 2 parts. Brace yourself it's a long one...</div>
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I started the week off with my 37th birthday. Not a great time to celebrate since anxiety was high and my diet was consisted of limited sweets and no alcohol. What a party pooper. Not only was I still training but I also had to work. It was one of those weeks that we were beyond busy. To top everything off the Okanagan was super smokey from all of the wild fires. I wasn't even sure I was going to get to race. Needless to say my week leading up to my big race was not relaxing in the least bit.</div>
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I managed to get the trailer packed, food prepped, and kids organized. The husband picked me up Thursday right after work and we hit the road to get the ferry.</div>
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Once settled for the night my husband shows me a sore on his foot. Let me rephrase that...</div>
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my husband showed me a massive infection on his foot. Great! 10pm Thursday night in the middle of nowhere. We are off to an awesome start.</div>
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Wake up Friday to hit the road bright and early. Husbands infected foot looks even worse. We made the joint decision to just get to Penticton pronto. He can see a doctor there.</div>
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As we drive in to the Okanagan we are seeing and smelling the smoke. This isn't looking good.</div>
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We are told it's looking better then it was the previous weekend. That is good news. We pull into the campground and I send husband to the doctor pronto. The girls and I hand at the trailer to regroup. (Yeah I'm freaking out a bit). Luckily my sweet girls recommend a pedi. they are so smart.</div>
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This was exactly what I needed. Feet up with some hydration. Life is good. Luckily the husband made out ok too. He got back just in time.</div>
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We stayed at the same campsite as my friends one of ladies was racing the half. I am thrilled to know these awesome ladies. They came over to welcome us and give me the low down on all that was happening.</div>
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After some visiting and checking out the husbands gross foot it was time to wander over to package pick up. I guess I was so overwhelmed I didn't take a single photo. </div>
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Knowing today was a bit of a stressful day I had to get some extra rest. I went to bed at 8pm so we could be at the kids race for 6:30am. I COULD NOT SLEEP. I tossed and turned all night. Usually this is the night I sleep like a baby and get plenty of sleep. Not today. My husband ended up drugging me at 2am so I could get some amount of sleep. I got a total of 3 hours... not good.</div>
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Off we go to the kids triathlon bright and early. They were so excited. The weather was good and there was such a good atmosphere. Big sis was up first and she did awesome. Big smiles right through to the end. </div>
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Little sis up next, I never know how she will react. She's kind of like a powder keg, you never know when she's going to blow. She surprised us all but going in on her own and she did awesome! </div>
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The kids got a shirt, medal and of course treats and big hugs from the super awesome pro triathlete Laura Siddal</div>
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I can not boast enough about this woman. She is so kind, supportive and generous. She volunteered a boat load of her time this weekend at all of the Challenge festivities. Top notch athlete and one of my team mates from <a href="http://www.soasracing.com/">Soas </a></div>
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After the races it was my turn to get a bit of training in. Short swim and short bike ride. I'm feeling a little tired but I'm ready for the big day.</div>
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Back at camp I decide I better get things ready. I need to prepare all of my nutrition and my special needs bags.</div>
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I had no idea how much stuff I needed to prep until I had it all laid out. For anyone interested here's my gear:</div>
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<a href="http://www.soasracing.com/collections/triathlon">Soas Tri Suit (team 2015 kit)</a></div>
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race swim cap</div>
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goggles</div>
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timing chip</div>
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wetsuit</div>
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Garmin </div>
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<a href="http://www.mioglobal.com/Default.aspx">Mio HR monitor</a></div>
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body glide </div>
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banana</div>
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pre race fluid (water with <a href="http://nuuncanada.com/about/">Nuun</a>)</div>
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Biker helmet</div>
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sunglasses</div>
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bike shoes</div>
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<a href="http://www.triboutique.ca/Hoo-Ha-Ride-Glide-8oz-p/rsrideglide8oz.htm">chamois cream</a></div>
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cycling jacket</div>
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gloves</div>
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<a href="http://shop.lululemon.com/products/category/women-socks-and-underwear?mnid=mn;CAwomen;accessories;socks-and-underwear">Lululemon socks</a></div>
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2 bottles of <a href="http://www.triboutique.ca/Carbo-Pro-p/carbopro_3lb.htm">Carbo pro</a> mixed with <a href="http://www.vitacost.com/unipro-endura-energy-and-rehydration-formula?csrc=PPCADWINTL-CAN-%5Bkeyword%5D&mtp=shZwTXbRx-dc%7Cpcrid%7C84319163680%7Cmt%7Cb&gclid=CjwKEAjw67SvBRC1m5zPv4GboAUSJAB6MJlkYKU6yQ79XbYf6PWDwTxGiS7tA7vm19urUhdtP26bsRoC3Szw_wcB">Endura</a></div>
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1 bottle of water + Nuun</div>
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Special needs bike (more <a href="http://www.triboutique.ca/Hoo-Ha-Ride-Glide-8oz-p/rsrideglide8oz.htm">chamois cream</a>, 2 more bottles of <a href="http://www.triboutique.ca/Carbo-Pro-p/carbopro_3lb.htm">Carbo pro</a>/<a href="http://www.vitacost.com/unipro-endura-energy-and-rehydration-formula?csrc=PPCADWINTL-CAN-%5Bkeyword%5D&mtp=shZwTXbRx-dc%7Cpcrid%7C84319163680%7Cmt%7Cb&gclid=CjwKEAjw67SvBRC1m5zPv4GboAUSJAB6MJlkYKU6yQ79XbYf6PWDwTxGiS7tA7vm19urUhdtP26bsRoC3Szw_wcB">Endura</a>, 1 bottle water +<a href="http://nuuncanada.com/about/"> Nuun</a>, Miss Vicky's chips)</div>
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<a href="http://www.soasracing.com/collections/accessories">Sun Visor</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.newbalance.ca/womens/running/shoes/201000,en_CA,sc.html">running shoes NB Zante</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.torqfitness.co.uk/">Torq Gels </a></div>
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Race number belt</div>
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fluid belt with water + <a href="http://nuuncanada.com/about/">Nuun</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.triboutique.ca/SaltStick-Electrolyte-Capsules-100-p/sscaps100.htm">Saltstick pills</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.triboutique.ca/DeSoto-Skin-Cool-Wings-p/dscoolwings.htm">Arm Coolers</a></div>
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Special needs run ( water + <a href="http://nuuncanada.com/about/">Nuun</a>, extra socks, vaseline, blister bandaid, chips, extra gels, warm shirt)</div>
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I believe that is it! Now that I look at the list it really is substantial. No wonder I kept freaking out thinking I was missing something.</div>
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After I got all of my gear organized I got to head out for lunch with my bestie. This girl has known me since grade 1. That's right if you do the math I have been best friends with this girl for 31 years. She is one of the most special people in my life. She knows me better then anyone (well she's actually tied with my husband and they have a lot of fun with all that knowledge of me). It was amazing to get to see her and have her support. </div>
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She had a little something for me.</div>
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This beautiful wing. It was so touching that I'm pretty sure I had a little something in my eye. I absolutely cherish it.</div>
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Our visit was way too short but I had to get back to race headquarters to get my bike into transition as well as my transition bags. </div>
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After I got everything settled I ran into yet another fabulous Soas sista!</div>
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This chick is awesome! She gave me support earlier on in my training when I needed some advice. Unfortunately again not enough time to hang out but so glad I got to get one last chat in before the race.</div>
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I also got to see the wonderful Jenna from Soas as well but we weren't very smart and forgot to caption the meet up. She too is another amazingly wonderful person. Calmed me down when I needed it, gave me some tips and advice as well. I honestly cannot say enough about the Soas team. All of these woman are absolutely fantastic. All strong, supportive and just great people. <3 all of your lovely ladies!!!</div>
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So after racking the bike, getting hugs and well wishes from my Soas Sista's, listening in on pre race meeting I was ready for a nap. Back to the trailer. I did put my feet up for a bit while my children ran rampant around the campground but that's what camping is about right?</div>
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Of course I could not snooze so instead more prep for the race. </div>
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Tattoo time!</div>
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This was the first race I have done where we get tattoos. So of course the girls had to help me. They are pretty much pro's when it comes to temp tattoos.</div>
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Pretty good job I think. So after dinner I drugged myself in hopes of a better sleep. 4:15am is going to come pretty quick I think.</div>
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Here's hoping to a very good night sleep!</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-35306573100329959282015-08-24T19:28:00.002-07:002015-08-24T19:28:44.903-07:00Gearing up<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Well I guess I've procrastinated long enough about discussing my last race. To be honest life really has been busy. When I signed up for Challenge Penticton back in the winter I had all of these grands plans on blogging every week, documenting every training day including pictures and feelings. Gah, who has time for that $#*!</div>
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Seriously though, I have been meaning to do a race recap of Chelanman because it was a tough race. First before I even get started my heart goes out to all of those people who have lost their homes. Chelan has been hit hard with wildfires and it is frightening. When we were there it was hot and dry already. Fast forward 4 weeks and I can only imagine how tinder dry it was. I'm very sad for the town because it really is a great community.</div>
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So due to my work schedule we didn't have a lot of time to get to Chelan. We left super early on the Friday (race was Saturday). Got in late and just made it to the race meeting. Barely had a chance to even do my workout. Ugh, this is off to a bad start.</div>
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The kids travelled well though. At least they got some rest.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zN5i3jvqjK8/VdvLNIzDCGI/AAAAAAAACgA/uc6L7-bWh74/s1600/IMG_3347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zN5i3jvqjK8/VdvLNIzDCGI/AAAAAAAACgA/uc6L7-bWh74/s320/IMG_3347.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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As we were pulling in to Chelan I take in the scenery. I notice the ginormous hill to the left of this upcoming tunnel. Guess what? I get to ride down though this tunnel and then go up that ginormous hill. Double ugh.</div>
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We got to our hotel and it was absolutely lovely. Our room walked right out onto the beach to the lake. It was absolutely awesome. The kids were happy. Had a quick dip in the lake before getting my racing gear ready and hit the hay.</div>
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The morning started out ok, until the Starbucks line up was so long I couldn't risk waiting to get a coffee. So no coffee for me... triple ugh!</div>
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My husband dropped me off so he could go find a parking spot. I never did see him again until I was out on the bike course.</div>
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At least I had my own personal cheering squad. </div>
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They had a great view.</div>
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So swim course was good, my swim was a little slower then usual (I blame that on my absence of coffee). Bike course was hot, hard, and humbling. I had no idea the course was going to be that tough. The first part was an out and back but it was more like a false flat with rolling hills (both ways). Does that even make sense? Then we turned onto the main highway which sent us screaming down the road in that tunnel I showed earlier. Seriously my speeds were fast and it got a little scary. Then we tuned onto Coulee road. This is where things got ugly. My family was right at the beginning of this climb which was only around 8-10% but it was over 10 miles long. The husband warned me that I was not going to be happy. Funny thing though, this is where I actually passed people. </div>
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Once I did this ridiculous loop I was heading back to town and right into transition for my half marathon run... in 40* heat. Awesome!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jVIPvp5aLPg/VdvLN-pLLfI/AAAAAAAACf8/x52TDbJaH40/s1600/IMG_3353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jVIPvp5aLPg/VdvLN-pLLfI/AAAAAAAACf8/x52TDbJaH40/s320/IMG_3353.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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They actually had people hosing us off at every aid station because it was so hot. When we went through each aid station we had to take water or gatorade. They weren't letting us through if we didn't. The run was an out and back on the secondary highway. There was no shade. It was so hot. Surprisingly my run faired better then my bike. Not sure how that happened. I'm actually not even sure how I even finished this race. It was ugly.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qp7QsId_NuE/VdvLOYHQw3I/AAAAAAAACgg/t32nebkmsCI/s1600/IMG_3354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qp7QsId_NuE/VdvLOYHQw3I/AAAAAAAACgg/t32nebkmsCI/s320/IMG_3354.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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On the plus side we did get these awesome medals.</div>
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So would I recommend Chelanman? Absolutely! I think if I was training for a half distance instead of using this race as just a training day I would have enjoyed it a bit more. Tough course but so worth it. The support was fantastic, the scenery great and just a great family event. They cover everything. Half Iron, Olympic, Sprint, Du, Kids races and they even had 1/2 marathon, 10k, 5km.</div>
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The kids partook in the festivities too. They both did the kids race. </div>
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Sadie was second out of the water and her transitions were super fast!!!</div>
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She finished strong. This was not a timed event which she was a bit disappointed but I reminded her time shouldn't matter.</div>
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Lola did fantastic too. She swam hard and insisted I run while she biked. She blew me away. I couldn't keep up.</div>
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She got back into transition well before I did and she just kept on going.</div>
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Another strong finish!</div>
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I was so proud of these two. They did not stop once. They had so much fun, and now they want to do more. </div>
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So since Chelanman I've been hunching down and training hard. Lots of long bike rides. Tons of open water swims and of course lots of miles run. I am on my taper and feeling pretty good. My awesome coach has been so supportive and getting me to where I need to be. Now I just have to make it to the start line in 6 days. Currently Penticton and the rest of the Okanogan is under a thick blanket of smoke. I'm trying hard to not think too much about it. Really, there is absolutely nothing I can do about it. Here's hoping I will get to test out all of my hard work.</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-81555794904211693292015-06-15T12:22:00.001-07:002015-06-15T12:22:21.719-07:00So you had a bad day<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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So Ironman Victoria 70.3 happened this weekend. Such a great race and we had absolute awesome weather. This was my first triathlon this year. Because my goal race is Challenge Penticton full distance I'm not doing a lot of races. Vic 70.3 was purely for training purposes. It was all about making sure I was fuelling properly and at the right time. All my gear it fitting properly and nothing is bothering me. Pacing consistent and sustainable. So how did it go?</div>
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I started prepping earlier this week. I got a bit of a taper but not a true one. What does that mean? Well since I'm training for a full distance I am covering a lot of miles. So this past week we cut it back a bit but comparing it to a true taper for a 70.3, well lets just say the legs were still a bit loaded going into the race(hill repeats the week of a race!)</div>
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I got the wetsuit out and did some patch repairs.</div>
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At least I didn't leave that to the night before (which I have been guilty of before).</div>
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Not only did I have to prep all my tri gear we decided it was best to take the rv down to Victoria so I didn't have to drive down at 3am. It works great because it's my home away from home. A bed that I'm used to, pillow that I love, all my food that I can prep and cook right there and not have to worry about eating out.</div>
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And it's a great way to sit and chill the day before the race.</div>
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So I was a little nervous going into this race since it was not only fort race of the season but also my first tri that I was representing <a href="http://www.teamsoasracing.com/">Team Soas</a>! </div>
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I couldn't believe that the Vic 70.3 bib, medal, shirt and hat all matched my <a href="http://www.teamsoasracing.com/">Team Soas</a> kit to a perfect match!</div>
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Anyways, once I got to race site my nerves settled down. The kids did the Iron kids race and had a blast. Little one made me run with her and she ran so fast I could barely keep up in my flip flops. I actually thought I was going to hurt myself, but no that came later.</div>
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We were hanging out with the great Jasper Blake who refuelled my kids with liquorice. Little one is a smitten kitten with him now.</div>
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And the kids race packages had some great tattoos and other goodies inside. </div>
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Once we got through all of those festivities I racked my bike, took a deep breath and headed back to the trailer for some much needed rest.</div>
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So once back at the trailer I was feeling really dry. The weather was so gorgeous and sunny that I was feeling dried out so I figured I better start drinking copious amounts of water to hydrate. The problem with that is it means more trips to the bathroom. So about 1am that is what happened. I crawled out of bed and went to the bathroom (in our trailer). When I went to step out of the bathroom my toe caught the edge of the doorway and crack went my tow. It dropped me like a sack of potatoes. It hurt like you wouldn't believe. So what did I do? I went back to bed and pretended it never happened.</div>
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Got up at 4am with my toe still throbbing I got myself and the kids ready to head over to the race. The husband had to drop me off due to crazy lack of parking. So I go drop my bag off by my bike and head for the crazy long port potty line up. While waiting in line I met a super great girl from my age group and had a lovely chat when I suddenly realized I had absolutely no fuel. 0! Natta! Nothing! I forgot all my water bottles, gu's, everything. So I quickly dialled the husband in sheer panic. He had to drive back to the campground and grab all of my supplies. I hadn't even mixed my stuff. Worst part... I only had 20 more min until I had to get out of transition. With 10 min to spare the husband came to my rescue. He brought it all (and I owe him so big for this). I quickly mixed up my concoctions grabbed all of my gu's and headed back into transition with 5min left to get ready. Nothing like a great start to the morning.</div>
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The water at Elk lake was lovely. We were borderline wetsuit legal. The water was so warm. Had what I though was a great swim until I got out of the water and my Garmin said 37:00. For 1900m that is slow for me. Don't panic, just keep going. Turns out my Garmin measured 2250m so that explains the time. </div>
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Got out of my wetsuit gingerly trying to not hurt my toe too much. I even had time to smile and wave to the crowd.</div>
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Off I go into what seemed like the most tortured bike session I have ever done.</div>
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I cannot describe the discomfort I had on the bike. My bike shoes were killing my sore toe, I was trying not to put any pressure on my left foot to help alleviate the discomfort to then get my whole right side seized up from over compensating. Nice! This is when you wanted why the heck you raced when you were pretty sure it was broken to begin with. Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! Then I reminded myself that I paid a lot of money to do this and those medals were looking nice and shiny. Lets just get it done. </div>
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The girls patiently waiting for me to come in off the bike. I was at least 20 min slower then I expected. I just couldn't crank it up.</div>
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Once I finally came in off the bike the husband asked how I was, fighting back tear all I could muster was I was in a lot of pain but I'll be back in 2 hours. That was it I was doing the run.</div>
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The first loop was tough. My toe was throbbing. Ever step sent a stabbing pain up through my toe into my foot all the wait up my leg. what was I thinking? Ugh, just keep going. I took in my fuel, made sure to drink my fluids and just kept going. By the time I finished the first loop my toe finally went numb. At around the same time I ran into the family and it put a big smile on my face. </div>
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Less then an hour to go. I can do this.</div>
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I decided to just get this over with. I kicked it up and did my second loop faster. I felt strong and able. I went from 44th in my age group to 37. (We had 115 in our group for this race). Definitely not my strongest race but the fact that I pushed though and finished when I wanted to quit so badly. I did it. I wasn't sore physically or mentally except for my stupid toe. </div>
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It felt so good to be done and I immediately removed my shoe and sock to let my toe have a little room.</div>
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So now instead of getting right back to training I have to take a few days off to get the swelling down. </div>
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I'm hoping that by wednesday I'll be able to at least get on the bike for a bit and maybe if I can tape my toe I can do an easy run.</div>
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So next race for me will be the Chelanman down in Chelan Washington. This is going to be a great test. It will be hot, the bike course is supposedly a tough one and it is 5 weeks before Penticton. So one last race before the big one. </div>
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Big thanks to all my friends and family for their support. My coaches Marilyn (for run) and Mick (for bike) and of course all of the love Soas ladies who inspire me so much every day!!!</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-42001069248991813152015-04-27T13:34:00.001-07:002015-04-27T13:35:02.803-07:00But I can barely walk<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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First race of the season all said and done. After missing more than 3 races already this year I had to buckle down and get healthy and do a race. I have a half Ironman in June so I really felt like this was a do or die situation. </div>
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Friday was a nice rest day. I did a short bike workout and laid low. </div>
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Saturday I had 20 min of easy running and needed to go to package pick up.</div>
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The shirts were very nice. The expo wasn't too busy and there were lots of great booths. When I got home I did a very easy spin on the bike right before I made dinner. Got to bed nice and early.</div>
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I love doing races where the kids can be involved as well. Big sis considered doing the 10k but she's not quite there yet. So they signed up for the 1.5km. </div>
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Sunday morning we got up nice and early and made the drive down to the University of Victoria. It was a cool grey day but the rain held off. The girls were very excited to watch me start and then the plan was for them to meet me halfway for a quick cheer before Dad took them to their start.</div>
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This is only the second year the TC has done the half marathon. So there were only 500 people or so. I liked how much room there was.</div>
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They got right down to business and I took off right with the crowd. I started out a little fast. Because this is a point to point we started out at the university then headed down towards the water, so the first few km's were all downhill. Some of my splits were pretty fast and I got a little worried. I did try to slow down a bit but it just felt sooooo good (such a rookie move). I was going faster than my planned pace, I knew this was bad.</div>
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at 7km in the family was there to cheer me on. I love when they are out on the course. It gives me a burst of energy but I wasn't in need of that energy just yet... I was annoyed that my husband didn't meet me further along.</div>
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13km in and there's the family! I definitely needed them at this point. I just had my slowest split and was still holding a grudge that my husband showed up too soon. He totally redeemed himself. I wasn't expecting them again. The girls were cheering me on and giving high 5's.</div>
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I knew at this point I wouldn't see them again because they had to get to the kids race start but I was so happy to see them. Things were starting to get a bit uncomfortable.</div>
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I ended up running with an older gentleman for most of the race. We kind of were going back and forth between each other and then decided maybe we would run together and keep each other going. It worked. When I slowed down at the 12km mark he told me we had to pick up the pace, so we did. Apparently his goal was to break 2 hours and I was so thrilled that he not only broke 2 hours he broke 1:55:00!!!</div>
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The last 2 km were tough. My calves were burning, My big toe felt like it was going to explode, my little tow on the other foot felt like it had been torn off. I wanted to walk so bad. My new friend said we've come too far to walk and he was right. He slowly got ahead of me but I kept pushing. Everything was screaming, just then I see my coach and one of my training partners on the corner waiting for me with less than a km to go. Seeing them lifted my spirits and gave me the motivation to push through that last 750m. I ended up with my last km being my fastest split.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ra-QK9HAGpU/VT6Tt-qGpQI/AAAAAAAACb0/vfsM1Fivgi4/s1600/IMG_2689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ra-QK9HAGpU/VT6Tt-qGpQI/AAAAAAAACb0/vfsM1Fivgi4/s1600/IMG_2689.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you look closely you can see my grimace. I was hurting big time. I was fighting the pukes too.</div>
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Ugh, the price to pay for going out too fast.</div>
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So as I cross the finish line and see my new PR of 1:53:36 yay!!! Then I see the kids race started early and there goes the wave of kids... without me. I missed the kids start. Luckily I was still in the finish shute. So I stayed put and sure enough my little speedsters came barreling through the finish line right into my arms. I wish I had had my camera. </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"> So alas, another race over and done with just like that.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Kids were happy and I was happy. The hubs was </span>exhausted more then any of us even though he only ran the kids 1.5km. For some reason he got a nap when we got home and I did not. At least I got my recovery almond milk latte. Life is good.</div>
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So am I happy? Yes, was I hoping to do better? Yup. I'll take that PR but I was really hoping to be under 1:52:00. I know I had it in me but with my terrible pacing at the beginning it was my own fault. There's always next time.</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-6463545559675383772015-04-23T09:17:00.002-07:002015-04-23T09:17:55.933-07:00Proud Momma<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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First off, a huge congratulations to everyone who raced the Boston marathon! My friend and training buddy Colleen did amazing. I can't wait to hear her stories.</div>
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***</div>
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All this training is catching up to me. Something had to give and unfortunately it was the blog. I can't even remember the last time I did a post but honestly you haven't missed out on too much, I promise. </div>
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However, if you do feel you are missing out you can follow me on my Facebook page:</div>
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https://www.facebook.com/TriMomsLife</div>
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or Instagram:</div>
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srapamum</div>
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I strongly encourage you to also follow my team I'm racing for this year:</div>
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soas_racing</div>
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Steph posts some pretty fantastic photos.</div>
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So what has been happening? Well I have been on the bike so much that I had to get a new saddle. Seriously, I did a 3 1/2 hour ride that was so painful I could barely sit on anything. I really loved my Adamo saddle to begin with but as time went on it got more and more uncomfortable and apparently I'm not the only one with this issue. I think I may have found the right saddle. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jh0hvFFTexs/VTkU85LAm6I/AAAAAAAACa8/-5FUpHHJYdA/s1600/IMG_2674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jh0hvFFTexs/VTkU85LAm6I/AAAAAAAACa8/-5FUpHHJYdA/s1600/IMG_2674.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I went with the Bontrager hilo RXL. I really liked how I could adjust the nose of the saddle so I get the benefits of the split seat and the back part doesn't torture my sit bones like the Adamo did. I've got a 100km ride coming up next weekend and then the following weekend I have an 8 hour ride so I'm thinking those will be a good test for my bum comfort.</div>
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We've been quite lucky out on the west coast with mild and sunny weather. I have been out on the bike way more than usual.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iEuYbqaLuC4/VTkR-3kFiII/AAAAAAAACZM/BLwZWED9sDg/s1600/IMG_2549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iEuYbqaLuC4/VTkR-3kFiII/AAAAAAAACZM/BLwZWED9sDg/s1600/IMG_2549.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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We had a pit stop at the top of the Malahat a few weeks back. Not my favourite ride due to heavy, crazy fast traffic but the scenery is amazing.</div>
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Last weekend I got out with another fabulous friend to ride part of the Ironman Victoria 70.3 bike course. Unfortunately I had a tough track workout first and the legs were not happy so I had to cut the ride short. But again, gorgeous weather and I got to show off my <a href="http://www.soasracing.com/">Team Soas</a> jersey.</div>
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So needless to say training is going pretty good. I am definitely enjoying it, getting out a lot. I have a confession to make though, I am not in the pool nearly as much as I would like to be. Lately I seem to make it twice a week. I probably should be going 3 but I'm really struggling to fit it in. Work has been very busy, kids have been sick and need extra momma time. I'm doing volunteering whenever I get the chance. Life is just busy and really, swimming is my strongest so I'm okay with 2 days for now.</div>
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So onto some bragging. My awesome girls did a Splash n' Dash this past weekend. They were so excited. Big sis has ben training with the school triathlon club (which I love helping out with). She is hoping to do a triathlon in June or July this year.</div>
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Little sis just loves being in the water and has made it very clear she does not want to do a triathlon this year. </div>
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This year they started with the little kids which was great. They love all of the cheering.</div>
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Little sis was the second group to go. Her swim coach was there cheering her on.</div>
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I was volunteering at the finish line so I got to give her the medal. </div>
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Next up was big sis. She had 50m to do and she did great! </div>
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After her 250m run she cam across the line happy and wanting to run some more. I might have a future Ironman on my hands.</div>
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And no race is complete without snacks.</div>
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We are so lucky with the swim club coaches we have. They are so good to the kids.</div>
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Big shout out to our swim club CV Breakers and the volunteers who made the event so great!</div>
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This weekend the kids will be doing the TC 10k kids race.</div>
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I will be racing the half. I have to say I'm a little nervous. This will be my first race of the year and first race in over 6 months. I think it's safe to say this will be my kick off for race season.</div>
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I wasn't going to write it down because now there will be pressure but my coach is electing a PB from me. I've been working very hard on my running and all of my target workouts I have hit my pace bang on. So wish me luck that I achieve my goal and the weather isn't like it was at Boston on Monday.</div>
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As I end todays post I want to remind everyone to take time for yourself. Away from training, away from work, away from kids, away from spouses. Spend a little time on yourself. Do something that you wouldn't normally do. Last week I had luck with a great friend and as we finished our lunch she suggested we go get a pedi. At first I thought I don't have time for that, I've got to get kids from school, make dinner and whatever else was on my list. Then I thought, I could really use one. so I called my husband to see if he could grab the kids so I could enjoy a little extra time with my girlfriend. It was seriously the best thing I could have done for myself. We had a great time and it felt so amazing. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0EVQOKKgjuM/VTkR_DALhHI/AAAAAAAACZQ/5axuHbR-o6s/s1600/IMG_2605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0EVQOKKgjuM/VTkR_DALhHI/AAAAAAAACZQ/5axuHbR-o6s/s1600/IMG_2605.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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My toes even match my bike and <a href="http://www.soasracing.com/">Soas team</a> kit.</div>
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So thank you Dr. R for making my day super special, I really enjoyed our afternoon together.</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-77352208627021274142015-03-11T10:07:00.000-07:002015-03-11T10:07:31.739-07:00To count or not to count<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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On Vancouver Island it seems the summer came a little early. I don't mind one bit though, it's making those long training hours totally worthwhile. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wVioJ5msnR4/VQBtFfGI7_I/AAAAAAAACX0/7LpWWBh6au4/s1600/IMG_2251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wVioJ5msnR4/VQBtFfGI7_I/AAAAAAAACX0/7LpWWBh6au4/s1600/IMG_2251.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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So after this week I will have finished 2 cycles of Base 1 training. My training load is still fairly light in comparison to what it will be come June/July but I am still working hard. With all of this training I thought I would feel fantastic, but sadly no. I have struggled with some health issues over the course of the years but I've been working hard alongside my ND to figure out what is going on. I'm feeling better than I was 2 years ago and I do have great days but occasionally I still feel exhausted and not due to training. So I decided to look a little deeper.</div>
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I've never really worried about my calorie intake since I'm a plant based athlete. I eat good, whole, clean foods. We rarely eat out. I make all of our meals from scratch. I don't eat any meat, I don't consume any dairy. I even make my own home made vegan cheeses. So what am I doing wrong?</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NbsArgW6ci0/VQBtElR0z9I/AAAAAAAACXs/XLhWx1JKQUM/s1600/IMG_2232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NbsArgW6ci0/VQBtElR0z9I/AAAAAAAACXs/XLhWx1JKQUM/s1600/IMG_2232.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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A few weeks ago I decided to check and see exactly how many calories I need a day without exercise. I figured I should at least have a benchmark of what my regular day to day should be. Keep in mind I have a fairly physical job that has me on my feet for up to 12 hours. I plugged in my hight, weight, age, sex, general activeness. Turns out I need about 1700 calories a day. Not bad, but that is without doing any exercise at all. Now that I've figured out one piece of the nutritional puzzle I thought I better take it a step further and track my daily calorie intake. Maybe I do over eat?</div>
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So I downloaded the App <a href="http://fitnesspal./">Fitnesspal.</a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zalpbc3q6Js/VQBwW__cFtI/AAAAAAAACYw/5p-fVXRkQjM/s1600/10299520_10152390829288497_4994270439984841501_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zalpbc3q6Js/VQBwW__cFtI/AAAAAAAACYw/5p-fVXRkQjM/s1600/10299520_10152390829288497_4994270439984841501_n.png" /></a></div>
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It's a free App and the best part is it connects to <a href="https://www.strava.com/">Strava</a> and I'll explain later why this is so awesome.</div>
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So after a day of tracking my food I was bang on. Definitely consuming the right amount of calories. So where was I going wrong? This is where connecting the <a href="https://www.strava.com/">Strava App</a> to the<a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/welcome/learn_more"> Fitnesspal App</a> is game changing.</div>
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After doing my workout for the day I connected my Strava info to the Fitnesspal App. Sure enough I had burned way more calories than I ever imagined. So here I am at 4pm and I have another 1500 to consume. Seriously. I have been under eating for who knows how long. The lightbulb went off and it all came crashing down. I was tired all of the time because I was lacking so many calories. I felt ridiculous for not looking into this sooner. I should have know better. Above all though, I was glad to solve my mystery. To celebrate and get more calories I decided to make my self an iced almond latte.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YLWQ5oQHH3k/VQBtFrb_iGI/AAAAAAAACX4/2k0OsUqbxNg/s1600/IMG_2269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YLWQ5oQHH3k/VQBtFrb_iGI/AAAAAAAACX4/2k0OsUqbxNg/s1600/IMG_2269.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Unfortunately it only has 50 calories so I had to eat a lot more food. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QKjWsFnjhrM/VQBtE9PKR2I/AAAAAAAACXw/01fSvZfkokA/s1600/IMG_2250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QKjWsFnjhrM/VQBtE9PKR2I/AAAAAAAACXw/01fSvZfkokA/s1600/IMG_2250.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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After my realization of lacking major calories I have began tracking my food and training daily. I'm now 2 weeks in and I have to tell you I am feeling amazing. I have way more energy, I'm sleeping so well and my workouts are also going well. I now plan my food around the workouts for that day. So for days like Mondays where I only swim and do weights I don't need as many calories verses the days like Saturday or Sundays when I am running and cycling therefore needing substantially more calories. </div>
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I cannot emphasize enough at how easy it is to track food and calories through these combined apps. Every time I load my garmin onto my computer Strava automatically loads it (I do have it set up that way). The food tracking is also pretty easy and straight forward. It even has a barcode scanner for packaged foods. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJwXFPhxFyk/VQBtGOgLHzI/AAAAAAAACYA/fcbINvkaHBk/s1600/IMG_2282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJwXFPhxFyk/VQBtGOgLHzI/AAAAAAAACYA/fcbINvkaHBk/s1600/IMG_2282.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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So now that I am back on track and feeling fine I got out for a fabulous 2 1/2 hour ride with my very good buddy. I love spending time with this hard core chick.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N8IRvXoWYok/VQBtGUifBrI/AAAAAAAACYI/d-dUhEd6gsw/s1600/IMG_2284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N8IRvXoWYok/VQBtGUifBrI/AAAAAAAACYI/d-dUhEd6gsw/s1600/IMG_2284.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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We road all around Victoria and it was fabulous. </div>
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So now I take advantage of my rest week and heal up my poor torn calf muscle so I can get back to my hard running efforts.</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-58788162285321176852015-02-18T14:09:00.002-08:002015-02-18T14:09:54.003-08:00And so it begins...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It's official I have now begun my Ironman training. I'm not going to lie, I'm feeling like I bit off more then I can chew. The only thing that is keeping me from totally freaking out is the great support team I've got going. I am into my third week which is also a rest week for me and I'm feeling not too bad. If you had asked me how I was feeling last week I probably wouldn't be sounding so chipper about the whole process.</div>
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So week 1 started off pretty easy. I actually held off on the swim for this week since I seem to get sick 2 days after being in the pool. Since I still am not quite 100% healthy from this crazy nasty flu/chest cold/bronchitis/maybe it was pneumonia kind of sickness I opted on staying out of the pool for another few weeks.</div>
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So week 1:</div>
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Lots of strength training. I am doing weights 3x's a week, 45min each session. I'm working on everything: Glutes/core, legs, arms. Each days has a lovely surprise for me. </div>
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Bike is being done 3x's a week as well. I've got 1 day that is intervals, 1 day hill repeats, 1 day of easy steady state. Now all of these workouts aren't necessarily balls to the walls. I have to stay within a specific heat rate zone depending on the workout.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FuyIP6KeJVk/VOUDHpvb5YI/AAAAAAAACVU/ZoXgCCMMigY/s1600/IMG_2082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FuyIP6KeJVk/VOUDHpvb5YI/AAAAAAAACVU/ZoXgCCMMigY/s1600/IMG_2082.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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My interval session was attempted on the rollers. New experience for me. A lot harder than I anticipated too. At least I don't have to hold onto the wall anymore.</div>
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I'll spare you the ugly hill repeats picture. It was very wet, I was very cranky (probably because I was also very wet) and I was tired. So we'll skip ahead to my easy steady state which ended up being a lovely mountain bike ride with one of my besties!!!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bXpAuqfktI0/VOUDJAYdrsI/AAAAAAAACV0/Ua84FyOwQqo/s1600/IMG_2111.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bXpAuqfktI0/VOUDJAYdrsI/AAAAAAAACV0/Ua84FyOwQqo/s1600/IMG_2111.PNG" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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I don't get out on the mountain bike very often but I sure had some fun.</div>
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Next up is the run. My hardest sport to train for. I never really loved running up until last summer. Now I enjoy it quite a bit especially when the weather is like this:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oS8TZ9Ryn8o/VOUDLGK7seI/AAAAAAAACWQ/SnbfgpIrZRM/s1600/IMG_2164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oS8TZ9Ryn8o/VOUDLGK7seI/AAAAAAAACWQ/SnbfgpIrZRM/s1600/IMG_2164.JPG" /></a></div>
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What's not to like? Unfortunately, first week the weather wasn't so nice. To top it off we had a tough workout in the pouring rain. But we were so enthusiastic!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sfr2nmsDXMw/VOUDH6ty2YI/AAAAAAAACVc/ZiL-0mtLtG0/s1600/IMG_2086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sfr2nmsDXMw/VOUDH6ty2YI/AAAAAAAACVc/ZiL-0mtLtG0/s1600/IMG_2086.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Nice warm up to start then right into 1 km race pace intervals. I was thrilled when I got home and loaded up my stats to find I hit every interval bang on my goal pace. It's amazing how a good tough workout that goes well can just top off your day/week/month!</div>
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I was so fast the picture is blurry ; )</div>
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There is nothing more rewarding than completing a tough workout!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ivi5hOi0hxU/VOUDIgQhI5I/AAAAAAAACVo/QqNj-K_Lx6I/s1600/IMG_2108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ivi5hOi0hxU/VOUDIgQhI5I/AAAAAAAACVo/QqNj-K_Lx6I/s1600/IMG_2108.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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So week 1 done! Both coaches were happy with my first week of training YAY!</div>
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This is where things don't go so well. The high's and low's of training for a big event. My right hip has been causing me grief on and off for a few months. I'm lucky enough that my very good friend is also my physiotherapist and takes excellent care of me. Unfortunately she is away for 5 weeks (which sucks super bad because she is also one of my main training buddies). Well, week 2 of training my hip starts bugging me a bit. I seriously have been looking like an old lady when I start my run. So my yogi husband suggested that maybe I should start incorporating some yoga into my training schedule (because I have so much free time *did you note the sarcasm?)</div>
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I really do like doing yoga but I am really terrible at it and I really don't have any spare time so I have to be choosy about my workouts. I decided maybe husband was right so I started doing it and even got the kids to join me.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vm-Krk8FUKo/VOUDHJuYVPI/AAAAAAAACW0/wG2UQ8jCKVU/s1600/IMG_2046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vm-Krk8FUKo/VOUDHJuYVPI/AAAAAAAACW0/wG2UQ8jCKVU/s1600/IMG_2046.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Let's just say they are a little more natural at it than I am.</div>
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Needless to say, I think the yoga is actually working. After 3 sessions of yoga my hip is feeling so much better. So much better that I am back to enjoying my runs.</div>
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Week 2 running: a few nice easy runs in the cold mornings (at least it isn't raining). A nice hilly route to get me warmed up. By then end of the week I was exhausted that I had to skip my Saturday group run. Gotta get on top of that. I can't me missing those runs.</div>
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Bike got a missed session too. Started out and by 20min in I could barely hold myself up on the bike.</div>
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Still no swimming either but I was so tired I probably would have drowned.</div>
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This might be a good time to remind athletes how important it is to listen to your body. I'm guilty of not listening to how I feel and I'm guessing if you go back a ways in my blog you might even find a confession or two. Seriously though, with the health issues and injuries I have had over the last few years this couldn't be any more important. If you are in the middle of the workout and you absolutely can not give it 100% it is perfectly okay to pull the plug. In fact it would be very wise. </div>
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Needless to say I was looking forward to my rest week. Now a lot of people have the misconception that a rest week is a week where you lay on the couch and do nothing. Even a few of my training buddies weren't quite sure what a rest week actually meant. </div>
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For me, I'm still training but the load is a bit lighter, no weight training for the week and lots of recovery runs/rides. </div>
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So Sunday I got out to enjoy a leisurely 2 hour ride with another fabulous friend.</div>
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The weather was amazing! </div>
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We kept a super easy pace. Even stopped a few times. I couldn't have been any happier to be out there. Then I followed up with a 60min run.</div>
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Who gets to run in t shirts during February? This weather is crazing awesome. </div>
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So now I am finishing up my recovery week. I had some hill repeats on my run today which wasn't quite as warm as Sundays run but equally amazing to be outside.</div>
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Now if only it stayed light out just a bit longer I wouldn't have to pack my training in so tightly. </div>
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I've been feeling slightly overwhelmed trying to keep the balance. </div>
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I've been needed at my kids school to help volunteer, I've had a few extra work days I've needed to go in for and I'm still trying to get out to see friends. Life is definitely busy and I know it's going to get a lot busier. I'm just glad I got though my first 3 weeks of base training without any major melt downs.</div>
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If this weather continues I have a feeling training won't be difficult to get in.</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-12050471821468124462015-01-25T17:07:00.000-08:002015-01-25T17:07:21.142-08:00Sometimes things just don't work out.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Well some days the universe has a weird way of telling you things...</div>
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Today was one of those days.</div>
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On <a href="http://vira.bc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/VIRA_IRS_Rack_Card_Schedule_2015-2.jpg">Vancouver Island we have a great winter race series</a>. From January to April there are 8 running races from Sidney to Comox. Every single race has their special something and I love participating. Last year due to pneumonia I missed out so I was very excited to plan my race season with VIRA in mind.</div>
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So the first race was Jan 11 down in Saanich (greater part of Victoria) and my run coach thought it would be a great race for me to do... then I got sick. So no race for me. Fast forward to this weekend where the second race is happening right in my back yard. The Cobble Hill 10km. This was the race I was most excited about. It's my area, I know the race route, and I know I was capable of a PR. Well after being off from training for 4 weeks I figured I still could pull off a good race, then this week I woke up with nerve pain shooting down my leg. So I had to skip one of my runs and go see "my guy" to get things sorted out. Got out for my other runs and things felt better. So I thought yes, I can race this. Well, as I'm getting ready for the race I get a text from my coach asking how things are feeling. I tell her I'm feeling pretty much back on track and what pace should I run this race. She tells me not to run it. Too much has gone on that she didn't think it was wise. So I'm bummed. I decided what the heck, I've already paid for the race. I'll go run it and just run it as an easy training pace. Not easy to do in a race because it means practicing an immense sense of self control. I have done it before so what the heck. So I'm all ready to head over to the race, get into my truck and...</div>
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IT WILL NOT START. It won't do anything. No battery, no nothing. </div>
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I have to tell you I am a huge believer in that things happen for a reason. My coach did not want me racing, she did say if I really wanted to I could but she did not recommend it. The fact that my truck all of a sudden decided today was the day it decided not to start I find absolutely crazy. </div>
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So I have taken today as a great opportunity to remind me to trust. Trust in my coach. Trust in my training. Trust in myself that everything will work out. Life will lead me in the right direction and I just have to trust.</div>
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I am hopeful that this is the last of my hiccups for training as I officially start Ironman training a week today. The plan is in place and I will be on my rigid schedule. Things are going to work out just fine, as long as I just trust.</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-23822541119730826782015-01-16T14:08:00.001-08:002015-01-16T14:08:30.940-08:00Sunshine and health = Happy days<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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ah, a big sigh of relief to see that beautiful sunshine out there. I am 3 weeks from when I first got sick and I am finally on the mend. Boy does it ever feel good to get outside and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. I can't believe what a downer being sick is and then to be in a deep fog during that time didn't help. I am so thrilled to get back to life!</div>
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This week I was allowed to slowly get back to training. I had to maintain a very, very, very easy pace. This meant I was almost walking. I was more then okay with that. I was just happy to get out of the house and get my blood flowing. </div>
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So my first day out was only 20 minutes. Since it was a very short run I asked my oldest if she would wanted to join me (she's 7). I never thought a kid could be so excited to run with their mom. Normally I take the kids with me but they ride their bikes. She was excited to run with me and I was too.</div>
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It was a pretty foggy morning so we played it safe with safety and I made her wear my high vis vest.</div>
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It almost fits her!!!</div>
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She did awesome. She ran 3km's and kept a nice easy pace with me. She wanted a little head start on the way back.</div>
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This was my super proud mom moment. During our run we ran into a lady who was out for a walk and she couldn't commend my little girl enough. She complimented on how well she ran and what an inspiration she was. I couldn't be more proud. I sure hope she wants to continue our nice little runs. It was definitely a great way to bond.</div>
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After our mother/daughter bonding run it got me excited to get back to training. So I got a few more slow easy runs in this week and todays run with the sun shinning and our super warm day I just couldn't be happier. To top it off I got mail...</div>
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Finally my ugly tri Christmas sweater arrived. A little late for Christmas but now I am ready for next year. </div>
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This shirt is so fun. It's a little on the big side. I tried it on over top of my running clothes.</div>
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Regardless, it will be perfect for the next holiday season. I'm not sure if they still sell them but I got this shirt through <a href="http://teespring.com/">Teespring</a>. A few of my Soas racing buddies got them as well so you might see a few of these "ugly tri Christmas sweaters around.</div>
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I also bought myself a little get well gift...</div>
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<a href="http://www.soasracing.com/">Soas</a> just added running tights to their already fabulous collection of running gear. I would like 1 of everything but I had to refrain myself and just buy 1 pair for now. I bought the far right pair "Sunset Cliffs". I can't wait to try them. You can find a pair for yourself <a href="http://shop.soasracing.com/winter-run-gear/">HERE</a>.</div>
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So there you have it. A great week ending with a super sunny great day. Here's to a fun filled and relaxing weekend.</div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7698052250211711367.post-46343137943211962702015-01-03T18:28:00.000-08:002015-01-03T18:28:22.303-08:00Happy New Years<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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A few days late but Happy New Year friends! I am so excited to embrace 2015. As most of my followers know 2014 brought me a lot of hiccups. It was a very challenging year for me in all aspects of my life... family, friends, work, triathlon. You name it we probably went through it. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger right? So when I say bring on 2015 I truly mean it. </div>
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So far it hasn't started out great triathlon wise. December 30th I came down with the flu but decided to still go ahead with our annual New Years Party. </div>
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I probably should have cancelled and went to bed at 8pm but I didn't and now I am suffering. I'm completely off all workouts until it clears out of my chest. Needless to say I'm a bit grumpy. </div>
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I have been sipping on natural remedies since the Benelyn made me feel like a recovering drug addict.</div>
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Honestly, my lemon, ginger beet juice made me feel way better then those pseudoephedrines<span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: left;">. </span>I am trying to be positive but it is hard when you have great expectations. So on that note...</div>
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So onward and upward I say! So many other positive things. I've been off during the Christmas break which means lots of fun times with my family.</div>
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We did the fantastic Christmas skate at our local skating rink.</div>
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A little bowling with our friends. Just a little side note... Bowling is not my sport. All of the kids beat me. Seriously I suck at bowling. My friend even told me how bad I suck. She reminded me I can't be good at all sports and of all the sports to suck at bowling is a good. She's so positive ; )</div>
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We also got a little climbing in. Climbing will always have a special place in my heart, that's how my husband and I met so to take the kids is the ultimate fun thing for us to do.</div>
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We had a wonderful Christmas as usual. It was just us this year. We had no company for Christmas and it was lovely. We took our time opening presents, had a wonderful vegan Christmas dinner and even played with some of our new toys...</div>
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Speaking of new toys I got a few of my favourite things!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ptlhbnVn4LE/VKicJvdHp-I/AAAAAAAACRw/RS0Q60L3Yw0/s1600/IMG_1952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ptlhbnVn4LE/VKicJvdHp-I/AAAAAAAACRw/RS0Q60L3Yw0/s1600/IMG_1952.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Playing on my new rollers!!! I also got my <a href="http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/ca/en/ism-adamo-time-trial-saddle/rp-prod106338?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Shopping&utm_name=Canada&gs=1&gclid=CjwKEAiA-5-kBRDylPG5096R8mASJABqEdm4Kkk1TXX5FLmwd2Ai53bq-pt0JjCypbW24iDo_y-1AhoCwA3w_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Adamo saddle!</a></div>
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So with Santa being overly kind to me this year got me excited for the 2015 race season. I don't have a lot of triathlon races this year. Because I am focussed on my main goal of completing my first full distance (Ironman distance) race I decided to only commit to 2 other races. So first up will be the <a href="http://www.ironman.com/triathlon/events/americas/ironman-70.3/victoria.aspx#axzz3NoYBTrPm">Ironman Victoria 70.3</a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p_F-3OqEW7U/VKicLBOc-ZI/AAAAAAAACSM/Iz1aFpU-TWI/s1600/ironman703%2Bvictoroia%2B230x120.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p_F-3OqEW7U/VKicLBOc-ZI/AAAAAAAACSM/Iz1aFpU-TWI/s1600/ironman703%2Bvictoroia%2B230x120.png" /></a></div>
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Next up I think I will do a short little Olympic close to home as well.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aWaj6ji6HoQ/VKigeNQYDdI/AAAAAAAACS4/xwns_8LA-78/s1600/logo-front-page.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aWaj6ji6HoQ/VKigeNQYDdI/AAAAAAAACS4/xwns_8LA-78/s1600/logo-front-page.png" height="175" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Langford Triathlon will be it's first year hosting this Olympic and Sprint race. I'm very excited for a new course to try.</div>
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Then last but not least, my biggest goal of my life August 30 2015:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XAqCQQsr-PU/VKicD_tU2CI/AAAAAAAACRM/dsv8fV-pXqo/s1600/10802008_725368540916025_6987464590889520217_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XAqCQQsr-PU/VKicD_tU2CI/AAAAAAAACRM/dsv8fV-pXqo/s1600/10802008_725368540916025_6987464590889520217_n.png" /></a></div>
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I'm going to be honest, I am terrified of this. It's the unknown. I've never done these distances before. I've never ran a marathon, I've never biked over 120km so those two together scares me immensely, but this is a dream I've had for a while. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wRA9P4vq3yY/VKicLlWDQeI/AAAAAAAACSU/ftmRWWhIVXw/s1600/positive%2Binspirational%2Bquotes%2B(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wRA9P4vq3yY/VKicLlWDQeI/AAAAAAAACSU/ftmRWWhIVXw/s1600/positive%2Binspirational%2Bquotes%2B(2).jpg" height="237" width="320" /></a></div>
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So February 1st I embark on my training. I've been doing a bit of pre-season training. I've hit the pool a few times, I try to get on the bike twice a week, and I'm hammering out some good runs. I have no idea how this journey will end but I have a good feeling that it will be one of the greatest adventures of my life. I have a great running coach who will keep the reins very tight on me, I have a cycling coach who will definitely steer me on the right direction. I can do this and I will do it as best as I can. </div>
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I don't really do New Years resolutions but during my Ironman training each month I have a new resolve. Some of the resolves I have for myself is to be positive no matter what gets thrown my way. Start meditating daily. Be thankful for all opportunities. </div>
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So Happy New Year to you and yours. I hope 2015 brings you joy, happiness, excitement and adventure. </div>
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Scrapamumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02829153346570190197noreply@blogger.com0