tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31566723850134107182024-03-13T10:25:33.949-05:00New Site Coming Soon....bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-70561417925787347712014-01-09T12:10:00.001-06:002014-01-09T12:13:26.301-06:002014 and Beyond<div>
<div>
It seems every time I am on my bike I can think very clearly, and I thought about exactly how I wanted to lay this blog out, as soon as I got off the bike those thoughts disappeared from my mind. I hope that I can still give some clarity in this post about 2014. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
2014 is set to be a big year of change for me. I went to San Diego last March to visit a few friends, but in reality I spent the week scouting the city as a future home for me. I came back and was sold, without question San Diego is where I want to live (Denver being a close second) and really the city is perfect for the direction I want to take my life/career, but the thought of moving away from family has kept me thinking Madison might just be the perfect place since my visit last March. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The past couple of weeks I have been very busy actively looking for places to apply, rebuilding my resume and getting in contact with just about everyone I know out west. Obviously my family has caught on and I feel that my mother and sister are about to put up one hell of a fight to keep me here in Wisco, if you want me to stick around I suggest you team up with my mother and sister. Madison is and always will be home for me, I know the city inside and out, and I have carved my own niche in Madison all without formally living in the city since I was 18. Madison has a sense of comfort for me, and sometimes that comfort can be my enemy. I have come to the conclusion if I don't have something lined up for June in San Diego, then I will move to Madison and enjoy one final summer in Madison. Once summer is over I will load up my car with everything I own and head out to San Diego, job or no job and see what happens. I have little doubt that I will be without a job for long, the question is more of when and where will I be working. </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I have tried a couple times and sat down and searched every possible option but the truth is that I just cannot commit to any specific races as of right now. I do not like to be in this position, because with triathlon I want to know where I am going, what I am doing, and what is coming up. This year that simply is not possible. I do not know where I will be living in June and without knowing where I will be living I cannot commit to races. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Within the sport I feel that I have two options to take my 2014 season. First option is to plan 2-3 peaks throughout the year and find races within those peaks. The big challenge with this is to pick a specific distance, and train without really knowing the specifics of the course and train more for the distance then the course. If I took this route I would most likely aim for an early season race (April), peak in July, and end my season sometime in late September/early October and use that race is my big A race. I am leaning towards this option, and hopefully I will know more about my location of residence sooner then later and might just actually be able to formulate a real schedule with some races that I have been looking at (think french quarter, and hot flat cornfields). The other option is to throw any planned schedule out the window and train all year and race when the chance is presented to me. No specific goals, just do this for fun, and return to work in 2015 when my life paints a bit more of a clear picture. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So that is is everything in a nutshell. A cross country move, new job, with some triathlon mixed in for 2014. Whatever happens this year I am resting easy knowing that this time next year I won't be suffering through my 4th day of below zero temps. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-2604632203209855572013-10-11T15:22:00.000-05:002013-10-17T15:23:56.087-05:00Kona Day 4 - Spectating Bike Check-InAs I am writing this we are about 10 hours from the start of the 2013 Ironman World Championships. This race is a dream come true for many, years of hard work will soon be rewarded with a race of a lifetime.<br />
<br />
This morning was another typical 5am wake up call in the house, its really hard to sleep in when you are in Hawaii. We made an early morning swim down at the pier. Today we were able to get in early enough for a stop at the "Coffess of Hawaii" coffee boat. Thank god for coffee, I probably swam my fastest 500 meter OWS ever today. The coffee fueled JB and myself enough to get in a solid 2k swim in the ocean. This was my first real ocean swim and I felt all the terrors that go with it. At one point I stopped us, looked at John, and admitted my fear of a shark coming out of the ocean floor and eating my leg. Thankfully JB being himself assured me a swift punch to the shark's face would stun him enough for me to get away. In all seriousness swimming in the ocean gave me a feeling of complete vulnerability. It's an eerie feeling that is hard to describe, but it's there and its real. We finished our ocean swim and cleaned up on the pier. Crazy to see all the legends of the sport right in front of you. Today's spotting was Siri Lindley who was right next to use (might actually coach the top 5 women tomorrow).<br />
<br />
We headed off for a quick trip to the expo. If you are ever in Hawaii hit the expo on the last day, you will get everything and anything tossed at you for the modest price of $0.00. My only expenditure was to World Bicycle Relief with my donation that took them over $95,000 for their Kona campaign (donation goal: $100k!). The expo really is a go all out experience. Most retailers are finding any way that they can to have all the athletes wear their gear for the big dance. For example, Zipp was offering all athletes to wear their visor, the reward? One athletes photo with the visor on race day would be selected and they would receive a free Zipp 404 combo. Many other retailers had similar offers, and some would take your old gear (hoping to take out competitors) in exchange for their gear with a massive discount, see B70's speed suit option. While at the Zoot tent this happened....<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vsG9iikKtsA/UmBD6S2ASDI/AAAAAAAAAcw/9P-jvXfE4mc/s1600/1383983_10101480646684238_92855728_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vsG9iikKtsA/UmBD6S2ASDI/AAAAAAAAAcw/9P-jvXfE4mc/s320/1383983_10101480646684238_92855728_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simply Awesome!<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">After a quick lunch at the house and to make sure Ben and Carrie were in good hands for their final preparations, Lindsey and I took ourselves down to the bike check-in for some bike nerd fun. This also gave us a chance to test out our sweet rides for tomorrow and of course our Palani Hill Huffy MTB TT. In the span of 10 minutes my handlebars dropped, brakes failed, shifters broke, and chain popped off. This made the trip to the Argon tent quite the adventure. Within 5 minutes my bike was working almost good enough to race tomorrow, thanks much to the Argon 18 crew! We took ourselves to a small little bar that sits right by bike check-in, grabbed second floor seats with a perfect view for all 1800 athletes to check in their bikes.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eNjgn9i0xew/UmBDwauTiYI/AAAAAAAAAco/NkwvNllIujQ/s1600/1379869_10101482490938338_199116189_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eNjgn9i0xew/UmBDwauTiYI/AAAAAAAAAco/NkwvNllIujQ/s320/1379869_10101482490938338_199116189_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
What we didn't expect was....the friendly gathering spot we created. We met a couple that came from Cairns, Australia to watch some club friends race. When your with Aussies, buckle up for a good conversation with great accents! Our deck view gave us the chance to see everyone check their bike in, this was now a spectator sport for us with drinks in hand (the perks of not racing!). We had multiple pro sightings: Potts, Faris, Fettell, Carfrae, Steffen, Cave, Tollakson, Crowie, TO, and multiple others. We also had a birds eye view for our friends to check in. Soon we had company with Marky V, his girlfriend, and WattieInk extraordinaire Karin Langer. Drinks were pilling up as fast as bikes were checking into transition. Soon enough hometown friends joined in as well. Awesome views, good friends, drinks, and drooling over bikes meant life was good.<br />
<br />
After bike check-in we walked across the alley for dinner at the steakhouse next door, though I do not believe any of us ate steak we all had a great dinner. We were treated to another great Hawaiian sunset, though it was mostly blocked by the tree and finish line setup. We also had a projection of previous Ironman Hawaii highlights shown across the street against the wall of the King Kam hotel.<br />
<br />
The island is quite tonight, the energy is in a momentarily dull, and everything in Kona is going to come alive in about 8 hours. Looking forward to watching my friends compete in a race they have been dreaming about forever, and to watch the sports elites perform on the highest platform, Goodnight!bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-75604095306635141112013-10-11T10:47:00.002-05:002013-10-11T10:52:58.307-05:00Kona Day 3 - A Little Bit of EverythingAlright kids, I'm going to be upfront with this and let you know I am writing this while my BAC is above 0.8, because of this you will need to check my Facebook as I don't not have the motor skills to upload pictures onto this blog right now, and some pictures of above the PG rating. Day 3....<br />
<br />
This morning started with the traditional running of the "Underpants Run". For those that do not know the story behind this tradition it is very simple. Many years ago as triathletes started to flock to the island the American athletes noticed the Euros were wearing their speedos everywhere. The joking started and 3 Americans decided to give a tribute, or something of the sort and do an underpants run to make light of the europeans that wore their speedos everywhere. Funny how the Euro's embrace this traditional run these days. The run has grown from 3 to well over 1,000+ today. Even better it is now a charity run that many people get behind. Everyone runs in their underpants which has evolved into clever use of underpants and the triathletes version of "halloween". You can see pictures from this years addition <a href="http://triathlon.competitor.com/2013/10/photos/underpants-run-kona-gallery_86815">here</a> to get an idea of what it is all about.<br />
<br />
Soon after the run we needed to cool off and JB and myself headed out to the pier for a swim. Holy freakin' awesome marine life! Despite the crazy high salt content of the ocean the marine life was absolutely fantastic. I have no clue as to how everyone swims this race so competitively when you have fish and turtles below you just straight chillin' in the water. We made it about 1k out before we decided to turn around. Unfortunately we swam too late for the espresso boat which means another swim in the bay tomorrow morning bright and early, rough I know!<br />
<br />
Our morning turned into an afternoon with a well timed breakfast/lunch followed up with an impromptu podcast session with a fellow podcaster and well seasoned veteran who showed Lindsey and I how to appropriately podcast. Maybe someday "In the BIG Ring" will reach the levels of a true podcast. I'll post the link when we get it.<br />
<br />
We ended up spending about 2 hours in the expo after a planned quick stop. Of course we picked up some good swag, along with tickets to the Zoot VIP post-race party, and various other various awesome stuff. We had a visit from an friend while at the Zoot tent (see Facebook) that was a great moment to have. We also had our first Thomas Gerlach sighting of the week and he is looking quite excited for Saturday. Quickly all of our energy levels dropped and it was time to get out of the sun.<br />
<br />
For the most part of the rest of the day it was kept low key. With out long travel day, furious day of activity Wednesday, and with 2 athletes in the house racing Saturday, rest was on the agenda. Most of us spent some times getting our bikes ready for Saturday. Yes, I had to tame my beast and set that bad boy up to get ready to rip up the Queen K for the marathon, i.e. I made some aerodynamic changes with some "engineered speed". Ben got his Shiv dialed in and Carrie's Cervelo was given some final artistic touches. It's really great to be around some athlete's who are laying real low and relaxed before the big day.<br />
<br />
Dinner for the most part we split off. Ben, JB, Tyler, and myself did an evening swim at the KAC and then took home pizza from the Kona Brewery (if you ever come to Kona, they have great pizza). And of course our conversation was shifted to all things Saturday, WTC, and Kona. Alex came back from dinner with the ladies drinking out of a grapefruit and I knew exactly where the night was going.<br />
<br />
Evening was concluded with a trip to the WattieInk party down on Ali'i Drive. Quick summary as I am about to pass out here. Another successful "dance party" for our friends back home (Porn, Brady) with Wattie himself and Heather Jackson, Jesse Thomas is all around awesome, smart, funny guy. I still have no idea how to dance, zero Kona athlete sightings, and a round of prairie fire shots were taken with none other then Bryan Rhodes and Macca. I heard all the stories of Rhosey's legendary post Ironman parties, and he seems to be in fine form for Kona, while Macca as he put it bluntly "....the benefits of not racing this year, cheers!" as he gave me a shot and told me to drink up. Then Macca schooled Alex on how to do a tequila shot and that was our signal to go home.<br />
<br />
Night all.<br />
<br />
<br />bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-68781756855502507132013-10-10T04:06:00.002-05:002013-10-10T04:06:43.542-05:00Kona Day 2 - A History Lesson<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qKscPl7egjQ/UlZrFZNgT4I/AAAAAAAAAcY/0gvwaMvumUU/s1600/1385786_10101479811497958_1353877241_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qKscPl7egjQ/UlZrFZNgT4I/AAAAAAAAAcY/0gvwaMvumUU/s320/1385786_10101479811497958_1353877241_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lava Rock!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today was one of those days I thought would never end, nor did I really want it to end. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
We started with a bright an early 5am wake up for an early morning sunrise swim. Ben wanted to stay away from the ocean so we elected to swim at the Kona Aquatic Center (Ocean Pier swim tomorrow). A nice easy 1.5K of swimming with an awesome backdrop. Highlight of the swim was having a couple Euro's jump in the lane next to use in full skin suits with pull buoys between their legs....freakin' triathletes sometimes...</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wd-cHoc7pd8/UlZpBr33xbI/AAAAAAAAAcI/xpi0vW5A3hg/s1600/1376474_10101479811398158_12561511_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wd-cHoc7pd8/UlZpBr33xbI/AAAAAAAAAcI/xpi0vW5A3hg/s320/1376474_10101479811398158_12561511_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original Finisher Trophy!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
Then we took a quick drive down the famous Ali'i Drive (final 1/4 mile of the race) with a stop at Lava Java. For those not in on the triathlete world, Lava Java is the coffee shop of Seinfeld. We stuck around for our morning espresso's and breakfast. As soon as we were about to get up Tom Knoll got in line and we quickly pulled him into our group. What we got was a 30 minute history lesson on the original Ironman race, his story, and so much more (Tom is quite the military serviceman). Did you know the original trophy's came from scrap medal on the Navy ship scrapyard? Tom shared all sorts of great stories with us. Unfortunately all the triathletes around and in line were too self involved talking about their 400 watt rides on the Queen K 4 days before the race to see what an Ironman legend was in front of them. Then TriBike Transport showed up and fronted the coffee bill for the next 2 hours which meant we stayed for another round of espresso and snag some great swag with a fun trivia session Talk about impeccable timing!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uQFPuGBdMh0/UlZmFfjZuiI/AAAAAAAAAbk/Movg_ViavOs/s1600/1382315_10101479811428098_1527723791_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uQFPuGBdMh0/UlZmFfjZuiI/AAAAAAAAAbk/Movg_ViavOs/s320/1382315_10101479811428098_1527723791_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original scoresheet and splits from 1978 inaugural race</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
We rallied back home to start our tribute to everyone back home, stay tuned... Soon after Lindsey and I made our most important purchase of the week, our Huffy MTB's for our TT up Palani on Sunday, forget that little world championship race Saturday, this is THE race to watch this week! We spent the rest of the morning and early afternoon getting the essentials for the house...food and booze. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0OgKyOOE8Z0/UlZnvVJTjkI/AAAAAAAAAbw/R_1SHiwgTXw/s1600/1378033_10101479811562828_1170912002_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0OgKyOOE8Z0/UlZnvVJTjkI/AAAAAAAAAbw/R_1SHiwgTXw/s320/1378033_10101479811562828_1170912002_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I can't imagine the pain and torture of the Energy Lab in the race</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
Ben wanted to get a run in the energy lab in so Alex and myself went out and ran the 4 mile out and back with him around 1:30 (about the time he will be running through on Saturday). For those of you that are unfamiliar about the "Energy Lab" it is nothing that the name implies. It's a 4 mile out and back that comes at about mile 16 of the course. It's hot, completely exposed to the lava fields, zero spectators, and it has a terrible slow rise back onto the Queen K highway for the final 10k home. It's where many Ironman dreams have died, lead changes, and many leaders of the race have blown up in the energy lab. Our run was hot but not terrible. Then again we only ran 4 miles with a brief and easy 1.5K swim in the morning. No 112 mile bike ride, or 16 mile run on exposed blacktop. Again as we drove out to the energy lab and back it was amazing to see how many athletes were saturating their energy BEFORE the race while riding all out on the Queen K. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M2WF95Z5ixA/UlZoyb6hpYI/AAAAAAAAAcA/tUub_4n1ZPM/s1600/935977_10101479811448058_279043545_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M2WF95Z5ixA/UlZoyb6hpYI/AAAAAAAAAcA/tUub_4n1ZPM/s320/935977_10101479811448058_279043545_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Muscle Milk house was pretty awesome!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Our big event for the evening was the Slowtwitch gathering. Basically what you do with this is take 400+ type A athletes and throw them into an oceanfront house, toss in a bunch of great raffle prizes, with a stunning sunset (see below picture) and set them loose! This is a great chance to meet triathletes from all around the world, mostly mainland USA athletes, share some good stories, and hear about all the races that you need to do. So Ironman Whistler is the new "must-do" race as it sounds from all reports that I heard. The big celebrity showing was Chrissie Wellington (Ironman female badass!) coming in for a nice surprise before the raffle drawings.<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
Our evening was capped off meeting some teammates (Sasha and Julia) who have also made the trek over the Pacific at a nice little oceanfront bar called Huggo's. Some great live music and drinks were a great way to end the evening. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
Tomorrow is another day closer to Saturday and is the biggest day of festivities before the race Saturday. The traditional "Underpants Run" will lead the day off followed by an ocean swim out to the Lava Java espresso bar, yes baristas will be pouring fresh Kona coffee to us in the bay! Most likely with another stop at Lava Java for a late breakfast. Athlete dinner is tomorrow night along with the WattieInk party. Porn and Brady I would love to attend on both of your behalf's. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
More to come from the Big Island of Kona tomorrow!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K3EWWtd7ic4/UlZn4fvtD0I/AAAAAAAAAb8/1t1xPuhZRkU/s1600/1390749_10101479811527898_905641233_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K3EWWtd7ic4/UlZn4fvtD0I/AAAAAAAAAb8/1t1xPuhZRkU/s320/1390749_10101479811527898_905641233_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unreal sunset view from the Slowtwitch Party!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-68575240878702686282013-10-09T02:50:00.003-05:002013-10-09T02:56:02.391-05:00Kona Day 1 - TravelFrom 12:00am to 12:00am it was a 30 hour day factoring in the 6 hour time change. After a late night Monday arrival into Chicago (1:00am) with an early morning departure to O'Hare (4:00am) it was indeed a long day. I knew of about 20 of us all traveling to Kona today, and I believe that we all as a collective unit traveled through each main airport west of the Mississippi. How many possible flight routes can you take to Kona? Quite a few.<br />
<br />
You can call me a nerd but I have always enjoyed new airports and new airport codes, or whatever they are called. Today's itinerary was: ORD-->DFW-->HNL-->KOA. Usually I hope to sit next to some beautiful woman, strike up conversation, or meet someone with great stories to pass the time, but today was a bit different. On my flight from Dallas to Honolulu I was in a row with 2 soldiers just coming home from Afghanistan after a year absence from home. Really puts things in perspective when a 200 pound man is sitting next you crying as he is watching video of his kid's first steps, words, and just about everything else he missed in his child's life that he was about to rejoin after a "short" 8 hour flight over the Pacific. While I thought I was excited to get to Kona, both these men had me beat. Last flight was Honolulu to Kona with about 50% of the flight being triathletes. Sighting of the day was at DFW with a guy dressed in IM gear head to toe with his Compex muscle stimulator going on waiting at the gate. I think the kids a row over though he was some sort of fictional movie character.<br />
<br />
After 16 hours of travel while reading two books simultaneously I finally made it to Kona only to be whisked away right into town for some fish tacos at Killer Tacos. We all got together shared travel stories (Lindey's story wins with jet fuel on the runway) and headed to the house that sits onto of the Queen K and looks over the town and ocean. Ben, Tyler, Lindsey and I sat outside in perfect weather and enjoyed the end to a long day of travel, this house and view is BALLIN'! We also made post race plans: Top of Muna Kea, cliff jumping, surfing, possible parasailing....life is good!<br />
<br />
Tomorrow is Wednesday and the first full day here on the Big Island. Early morning swim at the Kona Aquatic Center with the sunrise followed up with breakfast at the famous Lava Java, and check out the expo as well. I am going to try and head out for a run in the energy lab with some friends and then end the night at the Slowtwitch Gathering. We will also have our GoPros out as well for some good video.<br />
<br />
Sorry far too tired to post pictures tonight and my head really isn't thinking straight anymorebcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-32936667312410781122013-10-07T10:57:00.002-05:002013-10-07T11:02:44.651-05:00Kona - PrologueI remember a conversation I had my my grandmother a couple years ago. Part of our conversation was about places she had visited in this world and places she had yet to visit and hoped to travel to someday. Hawaii was the one place my grandmother had always wanted to visit but was never given the opportunity. I knew as soon as she told me that because of her current health the opportunity would never arrive and she would live a life without a visit to the islands. But sometimes that is the beauty in life right? Always having something to plan for, look forward to, or dream about. You cannot do everything in life, otherwise once you did everything life would be pretty boring after.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJx3mY9cNAU/UlIbQwD1XvI/AAAAAAAAAbE/P8pmVoBoGtw/s1600/BigIsle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJx3mY9cNAU/UlIbQwD1XvI/AAAAAAAAAbE/P8pmVoBoGtw/s320/BigIsle.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
My grandmothers passing a few weeks ago was met with an invitation to go to the "Big Island" of Kona, Hawaii within days. It's funny how things line up and work out sometimes. I immediately knew this was a trip that I had to go on, after all my grandmother would have told me to go. So some calls were made, emails sent, and planning was of quick order, to ensure I could take off for a week to the "Big Island". A few days later my flight was booked and I was ready. Of course some guilt did ensue as I promised myself I would not visit Kona until I earned my spot (through qualification) but if anyone knows me well, my sense of adventure sometimes outweighs the "rationale" choice in life.<br />
<br />
But that is not the only reason for my travels to Hawaii. It lines up with race week of the Ironman World Championships, the "Super Bowl" of triathlon. Being fortunate enough to have some friends athletic enough to qualify for a handful of those very hard to earn qualification spots makes this trip and race even more incredible to watch. This week is a chance to celebrate the sport I have such an incredible passion for, meet some great athletes, and to be entertained, motivated, and inspired by 17 hours of awe inspiring athleticism on Saturday the 12th.<br />
<br />
So here we go, 7 days on the "Big Island" of Kona, Hawaii. A chance to live out an adventure for my grandmother, an opportunity to see 1700 of the world best Ironman competitors compete, and a place to celebrate island life with some great company. Aloha!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Eh8aWNy0C6k/UlIcpnwIMGI/AAAAAAAAAbM/wI92GC8yR2Y/s1600/aloha-kona-kailua-united-states+1152_12944295596-tpfil02aw-20121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Eh8aWNy0C6k/UlIcpnwIMGI/AAAAAAAAAbM/wI92GC8yR2Y/s320/aloha-kona-kailua-united-states+1152_12944295596-tpfil02aw-20121.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-62952171735874929912013-09-11T13:22:00.004-05:002013-09-11T13:25:01.993-05:00Ironman Wisconsin Spectator Report: Exercising all day while watching others exercise all day<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s9nLg-ZEm5k/UjCyQlnJJNI/AAAAAAAAAak/id2A3dGcwA0/s1600/1176134_10100450954385991_1642320274_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s9nLg-ZEm5k/UjCyQlnJJNI/AAAAAAAAAak/id2A3dGcwA0/s320/1176134_10100450954385991_1642320274_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best spectating crew on course!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I thought it would be best to write this up while still deep in my Ironman hangover. If you are wondering what an Ironman hangover is it is the same thing as a hangover caused by alcohol just 10x more awesome. It is the result of long durations of exercise the previous day, screaming your lungs out, or in the case if you are racing its caused by driving your body into the ground until you can't walk. Ironman Wisconsin is one of my favorite races, whether I am racing, spectating, or volunteering it is a day on the calendar that I am always looking forward to.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zvxTLymrR3w/UjCs5HXh4XI/AAAAAAAAAZs/9CoFLZonXDY/s1600/IMG_2266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zvxTLymrR3w/UjCs5HXh4XI/AAAAAAAAAZs/9CoFLZonXDY/s320/IMG_2266.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best spot to watch the swim/T1</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The day started with a 4:00 wake up call with our spectating group meeting at Lindseys house (home base) just a few miles off the run course. We made it to the Monona Terrace and parked in my super secret spot (if anyone that was in my car mentions this spot you will be treated to many flat tires for the rest of your life while racing) that gave us a short walk to snag our spots to watch the swim with an easy exit for the bike course. We staked out a spot on top of the helix, perfect to watch all the nervous athletes walk down to the start and see them come back after the swim. Also it was a great place for last chance nutrition and "Cookie Handouts" for those wanting to top off their calories for the day. Check out the awesome cookie Jen Anderson brought to the race after starting the <a href="http://thecookieprojectmadison.wordpress.com/">"Cookie Project"</a> this past May. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JKsH3359M1g/UjCsvnY8QSI/AAAAAAAAAZc/aqcxdKhk73U/s1600/IMG_2216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JKsH3359M1g/UjCsvnY8QSI/AAAAAAAAAZc/aqcxdKhk73U/s320/IMG_2216.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of anxious athletes calmed their nerves with cookies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zabN-E7Mt8I/UjCsxq4rmEI/AAAAAAAAAZk/k5e8cpVt5No/s1600/IMG_2220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zabN-E7Mt8I/UjCsxq4rmEI/AAAAAAAAAZk/k5e8cpVt5No/s320/IMG_2220.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Future Ironman athletes!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9TeH2fBRvy4/Ui5vCLpjNXI/AAAAAAAAAYc/1CnrjPf6Akc/s1600/1256494_10100450954081601_364897470_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9TeH2fBRvy4/Ui5vCLpjNXI/AAAAAAAAAYc/1CnrjPf6Akc/s320/1256494_10100450954081601_364897470_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last Chance "Nutrition"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The cannon fired and the race was on!</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LCqNHDgwsn8/UjCtGjgIzyI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/2KkvQaMlQzs/s1600/IMG_2256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LCqNHDgwsn8/UjCtGjgIzyI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/2KkvQaMlQzs/s320/IMG_2256.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Those that ate Jen's cookies can be spotted towards the front of the race</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We watched the first few minutes of the awesome sight that is a mass start to an Ironman triathlon while being thankful we had the chance to be on the other side of the race and watch today. Less then an hour later and we had our first pros coming out of the water. Gerlach led the Madison contigent out of the water with Blake and Paul not too far behind. We caught Jackie in good position of the female race and watched some of the age-groupers come in before we snuck off to get a good spot on the bike course.<br />
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We took off and tried to beat the race to our spot for the day to cheer on the bike course on the corner of Witte Road and Highway J. This is a GREAT spot to watch, it's a hard hill with a tricky turn at the top to navigate and we hoped to distract all IM competitors from the pain they felt climbing that hill. We arrived just in time before the first male pro (Maik Twelsiak) made his way through. As the pro male/females came through I did my best to give the most accurate splits that I could to each individually. Of course with the case with Gerlach I also had to answer questions of who was riding with who, how far in front certain people were, how people looked, I was almost surprised Gerlach didn't ask about the dew point at that point ;) </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AVR00IIhrR4/Ui5wEJbAi-I/AAAAAAAAAYk/2W30t79cuEI/s1600/1231700_10100450954410941_398135056_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AVR00IIhrR4/Ui5wEJbAi-I/AAAAAAAAAYk/2W30t79cuEI/s320/1231700_10100450954410941_398135056_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giving out splits to 2nd place Daniel Bretscher</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As the pros looped by the masses of the age-groupers came through, slowly but surely the course was filled with dream filled and determined athletes. I did my best to pass on positive energy with "free high-fives" to all those passing by, judging by all the smiles of the competitors that passed us I think we all did a job well done. We ran with competitors up the hills, shouted words of encouragement, and did whatever we could to keep the smiles going. Great work team!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AIj6lJ8VIbk/Ui-q34wJ4kI/AAAAAAAAAY8/w6IEV_x5o5c/s1600/1236381_10100450954635491_1178228482_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AIj6lJ8VIbk/Ui-q34wJ4kI/AAAAAAAAAY8/w6IEV_x5o5c/s320/1236381_10100450954635491_1178228482_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handing out Free High-Fives</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tFI-2afb5d4/UjCuZz5kQ6I/AAAAAAAAAaA/gE1caVZt1aw/s1600/IMG_2388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tFI-2afb5d4/UjCuZz5kQ6I/AAAAAAAAAaA/gE1caVZt1aw/s320/IMG_2388.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laurie hard at work with a HUGE smile on her face!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As we returned to Madison to watch the run we made a quick stop the Qdoba for a quick hunger fill. This was the most quiet our group was all day as we filled our bellies full of burritos. 5 minutes after that stop I was already hungry again, but we had a marathon to watch. We drove down University Ave just in time to see Blake starting the early miles of the run. Then we staked out a spot at the stadium for awhile.We were slowly realizing that Jackie was slowly pulling in the female leader. We made it our mission to find her as much as we could on that course and give her the best support and encouragement we could. Of course having a "biker gang" rolling 8 deep helps, so we were able to catch her multiple times as she closed in on her first Ironman win. I also snuck around course trying to find Blake as he ran the fastest marathon of the day and a new run PR for himself, unfortunately he was too fast and I was only able to catch him a couple times. I don't think I have ever seen Blake so strong on the run before, great work!<br />
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vtWE8IyeyKM/Ui5w0ECkUsI/AAAAAAAAAYs/IQw-Ny_rmeI/s1600/1185154_10100450955573611_176433153_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vtWE8IyeyKM/Ui5w0ECkUsI/AAAAAAAAAYs/IQw-Ny_rmeI/s320/1185154_10100450955573611_176433153_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jackie running down the first place females</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AYqH3wLlkAc/UjCrPv3Bz_I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/GgdFoUNtjLI/s1600/IMG_2534-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AYqH3wLlkAc/UjCrPv3Bz_I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/GgdFoUNtjLI/s320/IMG_2534-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blake cruising to the fastest run of the day</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As the evening started it was time to watch the age-groupers shine, they are the true heart and soul of the race. Everyone gets to the starting line in a different way, different motivations, stories, complications but all share one common goal....finish. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3vES10MLTM4/UjCx3Y843OI/AAAAAAAAAaU/45FHwNTmM6M/s1600/1237035_10100450955887981_401802926_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3vES10MLTM4/UjCx3Y843OI/AAAAAAAAAaU/45FHwNTmM6M/s320/1237035_10100450955887981_401802926_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fireman Rob!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was able to find some friends on course who all looked great and putting in some solid performances. Later in the evening I was on my bike solo and was able to meet up with a few fellow BBMC'ers around miles 23-25 and talk to them while they got ready to run down the finish chute. Great work Wynn and Jackie (who ran the whole marathon!), also great to see Candice finish her Ironman race with a solid last few miles.<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
At the 15 race hour mark I met up with Summer and we headed to the finish line but not without a quick caffeine stop to fuel us for the last few hours. We hung around the finish and then had the idea to get back on our bikes and back the course backwards and see what the course was like in the final hour of an Ironman. As we rode the course it became apparent that many were still on course. We rode further back into the marathon course and soon we realized some of the athletes would be really close to that midnight cutoff. It was surreal to be on course that over 2500 athletes had just covered, that was the path to so many dreams being chased down all day and was now dark, quiet, and peaceful with the most determined athletes about to bring it home. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We turned back home at the picnic point turnaround and did our best to rally in the final athletes while cruising in on our bikes. I found one volunteer who left his station to run the final 5k with a solo triathlete also named Ben. I hung with them for a bit, gave my words of encouragement but knew it was bleak for him. As we got off the bike trail I found a group just ahead pushing two runners to keep moving forward, I had no idea of their story at the time all I knew was again mathematically it was looking bleak for the father-son duo. As we approached the last aid station at mile 25 I could her the boom boxes playing the "shots" song, only to look at Summer and laugh at the horribly timed choice of music. Then out of nowhere, the previous athlete Ben, who was being helped with a volunteer passed the father-son duo and was hell bent on getting to the finish in time, it was like he had rocket boosters attached to his feet, again looking at the math of the distance left, time left and his pace I thought it was bleak at best for him to reach the finish in time. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u6ByJdLSG2k/UjCxakjMVAI/AAAAAAAAAaM/CCUeJu8zHR0/s1600/IMG_20130908_235622_924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u6ByJdLSG2k/UjCxakjMVAI/AAAAAAAAAaM/CCUeJu8zHR0/s320/IMG_20130908_235622_924.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She could hear the 1,000 cheering or her at this point</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We slowly cruised up the course we found an older female named Susan McNamee who was on the brink but so close. Less then 10 minutes left in the race and she was giving it her all, we turned onto the capitol loop and you could hear the crowd on the other side of the capitol ready to call her name. Once we knew she would make it, Summer and myself staked out spots at the finish line and watched Susan bring it home just in time! We both had a chance to catch the final finisher almost 17 hours after the race started and we high-fived each other. Then....out of nowhere that father-son duo came running down the chute, they somehow found the strength and made it. What!? How? As I stood and couldn't believe it, we heard Mike Riley ready to call in one last finisher! Ben surprised all of us and came running down with whatever he had left and made it just in time, literally he had seconds to spare. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In the end it was an awesome day from the moment we stepped foot on the terrace and felt the nervous eager excitement to the final seconds of a memorable finish. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But it was those final finishers that stick out the most for me in this 2013 edition of Ironman Wisconsin. Having the chance to see where they were on the course with how little time they had and having the odds stacked against them it was truly inspirational to see them finish what they started. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lastly, I just wanted to mention how in those final miles I wondered what these athletes "stories" were that were on the course so late. When I woke up to read about the <a href="http://theactivepursuit.com/seconds-to-spare-father-and-son-surge-to-dramatic-ironman-wisconsin-finish/">father-son story</a>, not only did they have a great battle, but an awesome father-son relationship that tested its limits in this race.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Congrats to all!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HsGnRO6nIZE/UjCx90fhz1I/AAAAAAAAAac/BKXJ60fUMM8/s1600/BTp_DjDCEAER1S5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HsGnRO6nIZE/UjCx90fhz1I/AAAAAAAAAac/BKXJ60fUMM8/s320/BTp_DjDCEAER1S5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-64718353958945014222013-08-11T21:23:00.001-05:002013-08-11T21:23:22.415-05:00Rev 3 Dells I thought I would veer away from the usual race reports everyone writes, the youtube clips I sometimes use for humor and offer a different race report. I bring to you an analytical view of my race today and open up the for everyone to be the jury and dissect my race.<br />
<br />
A little info of what was going on coming in. I came off what could arguably be one of my best training blocks ever for this race. To give you an idea of some numbers (simply to lay a foundation of understanding for everyone, where my fitness levels are currently at) 100 swim times were usually in the 1:20-1:23 range, this showed my swim fitness was behind a bit. Power on my rides was great usually riding well in the 280-330 range for sets of 4-6 minutes, and 250-300 for 15-20 minute intervals. My last power test yielded a 291 avg but I will have to double check that. Then there was running, my best run as a 90 minute run with 3x10 minute intervals in the 650-700 range starting at 45 minutes into my run, with runs off the bike with sub 7 pace in some short distance work. I ran 46:xx at Elkhart Lake on a closely resembling course of terrain difficulty, so I was hoping to be within striking distance of that time today. Some comments from coach <a href="http://www.blakebecker.com/">Blake</a> after some key sessions of mine were "Your threshold is definitely rising", "Best run of the year for you", etc. I was nailing all my sessions, I was consistent in my work, and recovering very well. All that was left was to execute.<br />
<br />
Swim: 24:47<br />
I decided to take the swim real easy this morning, more of a HIM effort or a bit less then olympic effort. Touched each buoy on the course and sighted very well and swam straight. Not much else to report other then I took it a bit easier then usual.<br />
<br />
Bike: 1:11:48 269NP<br />
Solid ride for me and I took each corner VERY conservatively with the soaked roads and limited vision. Rode steady for the most part and my watts were consistent through the ride. I still have to download my ride but I am assuming my VI was closer to 1.00<br />
<br />
Run: 58:19 (expecting sub 47)<br />
Ran the first 2 miles at 16 flat and felt good but knew I would be challenged by the course. From that point on it became a run/walk back and forth struggle. I couldn't seem to keep my HR or breathing under control after the first 2 miles. I tried every tactic I could on the hills, lean in, shorten stride, elbow swing, high knees, but only walking would let me go anaerobic.<br />
<br />
I'll add more to this tomorrow but I am far to exhausted to really ramble on anymore, just thought I would let others have some input into my development.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-8020140441313657672013-06-11T17:51:00.001-05:002013-06-11T17:56:48.582-05:00Elkhart Lake/Trinona Double: BreakthroughI don't think it is possible for me to look up a race result from the past 2 years and see a performance that I was happy with. I have struggled mightily with racing no matter how hard, well, or consistent I trained. My season started off on the wrong foot with my bad luck down in Knoxville, followed by the news my bike was damaged beyond repair and that I was becoming a bit sick. Through all of it I remained as positive as I could and knew I would see progress come eventually. This was the first sign to me that I was maturing more as an athlete and giving myself the proper patience that is sometimes needed.<br />
<br />
After a solid race week excited by getting more sleep then I have in years, and actually taking the time to nap I felt rested and ready to go.<br />
<br />
Elkhart Lake<br />
Swim<br />
I was third to start the TT start, not being in the elite wave this time had me hoping to be in the front of the race the entire day, or close to it. I got out to the first buoy and had clear water in front of me. I made the turn left and thought we had to swim around the next yellow buoy before turning right to the middle of the lake. As I approached the following yellow buoy I had a paddle boarder stop me and wave me back on course. I guess we just needed to slowly cut over to the buoy line so that mistake errored me about 50 meters. Once I got back on course I started to catch up with the collegiate wave ahead of me and made my way through them. Once to the turnaround I was in clear water again and ready to get back to shore. Unfortunately the race only had about 3 buoys to mark the about 700 meter swim back to shore so sighting was difficult. I ended up swimming into 2 paddle boarders, and then cutting to the left of the course as well. In the end I was about :05 seconds faster then last year and swam probably an extra 50-75 meters.<br />
<br />
Bike<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fOwUjYGkS3E/UbXUNy1aXHI/AAAAAAAAAXI/FoQ_RIiM8D4/s1600/10578_832965690038_548442790_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fOwUjYGkS3E/UbXUNy1aXHI/AAAAAAAAAXI/FoQ_RIiM8D4/s320/10578_832965690038_548442790_n.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As I headed out to the bike I felt great and ready to tackle the very tricky course. 45k of rollers with some hills that are a bit more difficult if you are not paying attention. My goal wattage was about 260 and I setup my Garmin to take splits every 5 miles to see how consistently I was riding throughout the ride. As we rode out of town I kept the power a bit higher per usual but quickly found my pace and rhythm a few miles in. I could never get into a solid grove but I did maintain an even power output through most of the ride. I was trailing the elite wave but passed most of the collegiate wave and rode solo for just about all 28 miles. I lost a few positions toward the end of the ride, but wanted to drop my power a bit to prep for the run. I ended the ride just above my goal wattage at 262w. </div>
<br />
Run<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R5bD7QCiE-g/UbXUJi_U6CI/AAAAAAAAAXA/zyH4O8uaqc8/s1600/580424_832974687008_76328138_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R5bD7QCiE-g/UbXUJi_U6CI/AAAAAAAAAXA/zyH4O8uaqc8/s320/580424_832974687008_76328138_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
As I started off on the run I looked down and saw that I was running about a 7:15 pace .5 miles into the run. Because this run course is very hilly and long (Garmin measured 6.4 miles) I wanted to run a bit more on the conservative side and stay at about a 7:45 pace before really pushing hard the last couple miles. What resulted was my best run off the bike ever. While it was not as fast as I wanted it was the performance I needed. I found myself finally learning to stay in the moment and take each step at a time. I sometimes during the run found myself in such a deep focus that I wouldn't even notice friends passing on the other side giving praise until they shouted at me after we passed each other (sorry guys!). I got to 4 miles and felt good, really good, and mentally finally strong! At about the 4.5 mile mark on the course a climb starts that is considered to be a cat 3 climb for cycling. I put my head down, shortened my stride and did my best to get over the hill, only losing one position only to regain it on the cruise back down. Finally at the 5 mile mark I gave it everything I had left and pushed it home. On the final stretch I could hear another competitor breathing down my neck and did my best to fight him off for probably a solid .25 mile until Pete Reinhard passed me right before the chute (great finish bud).<br />
<br />
I walked away from this race feeling confident and proud of my efforts. I also finally put together a solid race from start to finish that I can carry with me into the rest of the season.<br />
<br />
The day didn't end with the race, I still had to drive back to Madison, pick up some gear and borrow my parents couch and fridge for some recovery. A quick nap and I was back on the road "home" to La Crosse. I was going to finally get to sleep in my own bed before a race! Bedtime came at 11:30 and I was asleep before my head even hit the pillow.<br />
<br />
Trinona<br />
I woke up at 430 Sunday morning in my own bed for once with the grunt of aches and pains. As I looked outside to see rain I knew I would be battle cold and rain once again, it seems to be the running theme this year for races. When I reached for my phone this was what I first saw<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MMNv6ONynhw/UbXTzRs8vuI/AAAAAAAAAW4/YrdAkpd0LL0/s1600/945597_877671771896_622010565_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MMNv6ONynhw/UbXTzRs8vuI/AAAAAAAAAW4/YrdAkpd0LL0/s320/945597_877671771896_622010565_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
To which I responded with...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-85C1bhjuGhE/UbeldmZ5PdI/AAAAAAAAAXc/BlPezSy_rRw/s1600/IMG_20130609_050903_410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-85C1bhjuGhE/UbeldmZ5PdI/AAAAAAAAAXc/BlPezSy_rRw/s320/IMG_20130609_050903_410.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
I grabbed a quick breakfast and once again did some fine tuning on my fit in the kitchen as I tried my best to get going.<br />
<br />
With the work done Saturday, my goal for Trinona was to have fun and see how hard I could push and hang towards the front. No expectations just an experimental day<br />
<br />
Swim<br />
I was in the first wave which had about 1/2 the male field. It was a knee deep water start. The horn blew and I got off the front right away. It was the usually scrum towards the first buoy with myself and 2 others fighting for space the entire way out. Once we got to the first buoy I saw a couple swimmers already make the turn. As I made the turn I tried to see if I could bridge the gap but found myself down about 25-30 meters already. I decided to find a solid rhythm, keep the pace high and drop those behind me. What resulted was a solid swim that netted me fourth out of the water with a sizable gap to the next swimmer. The key with my swim was a high stroke rate, great sighting, and a solid rhythm. No video was captured however, I feel that this is suitable for what it looked like.<br />
<br />
Bike<br />
As I got towards the mount line and with the rainstorm before the race, the timing mats were wet. Smooth rubber with some water and wet feet do not mix and I was down before I knew it. I was also back up on on my way off before I knew it too. I ended up picking up a spot as well starting the bike. My legs felt surprisingly good given the efforts I put in yesterday. By the time that I got to the 6 mile turnaround I found myself in 4th position. It was here that I decided to go for it and see how long I could hang. My 4th place position lasted until mile 12 when we climbed Garvin Heights (1.15 miles 9.9% avg grade) I simply could not get up the hill fast enough and knew my power wasn't quite where I wanted it. I dropped about 6 positions as I could start to feel the fatigue in my legs from the weekend. Once I got to the top my power wasn't quite as high as I wanted but I still made in back to transition with a solid effort. I did back off some on the last 10 miles with a fast decent, and technical turns on wet roads through neighborhoods. Being on another borrowed bike I simply couldn't take the aggressive turns and risks that I wanted. I got back to transition feeling relatively good but didn't know what the run had in store for me.<br />
<br />
Run<br />
As I ran out of transition I decided to do something I've never really done. Pick a runner up the road, set my sights on them and make the pass. 1 mile in and I made my first pass, as I looked for the next runner and found myself running 7:28 pace, I felt rather good aerobically, but well fatigued from a muscular standpoint. I couldn't keep the cadence that I wanted so I decided to hold as close to 7:20-7:25 pace that I could. I never thought or looked more then 5 steps ahead and continued to stay in the moment. All I did was focus on my breathing, cadence, and keeping as good a run form as I could. What resulted was my best 10k run off the bike a day after a hard race. I bested my effort from Saturday, even though my pace was the exact same. I Simply felt that I ran better on Sunday. As soon as I finished I took my shoes off and noticed the punishment my legs and feet received from my fall 30 miles ago. No wonder the run was so uncomfortable.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4dBCBwAC3Go/Ubem4O2g6CI/AAAAAAAAAXs/H1eBTSEXmhg/s1600/945132_10101244212964308_1330632244_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4dBCBwAC3Go/Ubem4O2g6CI/AAAAAAAAAXs/H1eBTSEXmhg/s320/945132_10101244212964308_1330632244_n.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All in all this was not only a crazy fun, exhausting weekend, but a weekend that really gave me a lot of confidence and signs of things to come. Once I really get my fitness to levels it should be at not only will my race execution be great, but my times should finally show what I can do in training. Onward progress!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A huge thank your goes out to Zach Lammers for lending me his bike for the weekend!</div>
<br />
Stats from the weekend<br />
Miles driven: 496<br />
Miles raced: 67<br />
Total Racing Time: 5:04:17<br />
Hours of sleep between races: 4<br />
PR's: 2<br />
<br />
<br />bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-44074286367194277882013-05-21T20:57:00.002-05:002013-05-21T20:57:42.284-05:00Brief Update: I Wanna Be Like CrowieWell today didnt really shape up to go as planned and I should be out riding my bike right now but can't (I'll get into this in a bit) and with my other bike 2.5 hours away I am left here sitting on my bum drinking a Guiness eating pizza and writing. So here is a bit of an update on my not so stellar start to my stellar year.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Training</div>
Whats that? I would say that I have gotten about 75% of my training in this year. That is a combination of missed sessions and cutting workouts short. First it was a simple time issue, but now with time on my hands it is an illness issue that leaves me drained 30 minutes into any activity that I do. So with inconsistent training I have to readjust my season, races, and plans. Hopefully this illness I have will leave in the next 24-48 hours so I can resume training, especially now that I have about 6 hours more a day free to train.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bike</div>
The bad news, my race bike has a cracked frame and considered to be unrideable per the mechanic. The not so bad news: I didn't really like the bike anyway. The possible good news: I just may get a new bike! After pushing back the idea of buying a new frame this year until next year it seems I may be rushed into that choice now. After talking to Orbea this morning I can use their crash replacement policy (still finding out the details) or I can go through my renters insurance. So really the choice comes down to if I want to stick with Orbea or go to........<br />
<br />
Today's conversation:<br />
Mechanic: I have some bad news I don't think you'll like...<br />
Me: I saw you testing the frame, its cracked right?<br />
Mechanic....yeah, we can talk to Orbea about a crash replacement<br />
Me: Or I can switch to Specialized like Crowie, knock 14 minutes off my IM bike split and win Kona right?<br />
Mechanic: Your a sucker for ads arent you?<br />
Me: No, I just like shiny toys<br />
<br />
So depending on how this plays out I may buy a used cheap frame, go with a new frame, or if Orbea pulls some strings I'll stick with a crash replacement.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Illness</div>
So I have mentioned this "illness" I have a couple times above. Whatever it may be it started right after Knoxville. Originally thought to be a small cold has turned into a 2 week, energy draining, life sucking illness. Since I have yet to visit the doc and I avoid WedMD (as you should too) I am doing a little self-diagnosing (probably shouldn't). Knowing my family history it could have something to do with my thyroid gland, me wearing a speedo in 50's and rain, or quite possibly my allergies are just that bad this spring. Whatever it is I am waiting until Monday and then I am making a visit to the doc.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Racing</div>
Next block of racing starts in 12 days with the Wisconsin World Championships (Lake Mills) and then my first double (Elkhart Lake/Trinona), so helpfully I can rid my body of whatever, and get some solid racing in!<br />
<br />
So with all that said its time to get some decent sleep and knock out a solid swim/run day tomorrow!<br />
<br />bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-87661735967708213612013-05-13T18:34:00.003-05:002013-05-13T18:51:10.938-05:00Rev 3 Knoxville - How it all went down....literallyWell the 2013 season is officially upon us, its didn't take more then the first weekend to make a complete fool out of myself. I was eyeing this race all winter and "spring" (didn't really have one here in Wisco) as my season opener, a great way to test my fitness, and collect some points in the Rev 3 championship series.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I headed down from La Crosse to Madison Thursday night through a driving rainstorm that set tone for the weekend...lots of rain<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/ktAKHww9wPo?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
Friday was spent in the car with both Summer and Bill navigating our way down to Knoxville. Of note we had a short discussion of weekends of racing gone bad. Bill shared two epic stories and Summer had a couple as well, but I was left with no real "epic" stories of weekends gone bad, remember this in the coming paragraphs. The expected 10 hour drive took us about 13 hours to complete and by 10pm EST we had found ourselves settled in at the Quality Inn ("home of the best HOT breakfast in town").<br />
<br />
The plan for Saturday was simple; ride down to the race expo, check-in, drive the bike course, and ride the run course. If we had time we planned to take quick swim and see just how massive a shrinkage problem the entire male field would face on Sunday, sounds pretty basic right? Heh, well the expo was nestled in a nice valley of a field in the center of downtown and we probably passed the expo 4-5x before we figured out exactly where it was located, turns out it was in an awesome park with the downtown "feel" but still have that rural feel as well. By that time we were already running late and when driving the bike course the rain started to come down again. After taking about 75 minutes to drive the bike course, the same time it would take us (well Summer and Bill) to ride the course Sunday, we arrived back at the expo. The rain was now coming down a bit more heavy but we really wanted to scope out the run course. All we needed to do was cover 6.2 miles on a bike at a leisurely 10mph, pretty easy right? Well in my lapse of judgement I forgot how to ride a bicycle, it didn't take me more then 400 feet to fall down crossing some RR tracks right in front of just about everyone and their mother, in fact I believe one of the spectating mothers yelled "be careful of the railroad tracks!" just as we crossed. My crash was pretty pathetic so we will just say it looked something like....this<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/2-6Eb6B9RS0?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
Immediately I wished I was Marty McFly and had a Delorean with me so that I could change this moment in time and go back in time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPeHFDxKUP4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
Raceday<br />
Ok lets cut to the chase here. Standard pre-race routine. Off to the swim start and I hear someone call my name. Small world and another Ben introduces himself to me, we share a mutual friend and chatter some as we walk down to the start. Anywho my wave went off 7 minutes after the pro women. I was one of the first to jump in the "icey" waters of the river. Really the water was not that bad, yes my hands and feet went numb quickly, but when your wearing 5mm of rubber you are well insulated. I started my warmups to the side of the start and about 25 yards back. As I am doing so I hear "5,4,3..." crap I have missed the swim start. I immediately go out like it is the 50 meter gold medal heat in the olympics and I quickly redline myself just to get into the group. I find my way in and quickly start passing the group frantically swimming upstream. Once I got to the turn buoy I decided to back it off just a tad. Howewer, I get my arm caught in the rope holding the buoy and swim under the sucker. As I reappear I get a good smack in the face and my goggles dislodge a bit. Once I get them back on I regained my composure and swim my way back into the dock as best as I can. The whole swim I had trouble breathing well, and my arms felt tight and constricted, oh well that was done. I opted to keep my wetsuit on at my waist until I got to the bike, mainly, well I really don't know why, but maybe I was subconsciously afraid of "shrinkage" you know wearing a speedo and all<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/BEnKLhi83J8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
T1<br />
The run to transition took us up the boat dock, through the boathouse, across a 4-lane road, down a sidewalk, up a small ramp and into the parking garage. It was similar to T1 at IMWI although not nearly as spectacular friendly or epic.<br />
<br />
Bike<br />
Oh man this was over before it even started. Once I mounted my bike I took a gauge at where I was. With no one in front of my and plenty of people behind me I liked to think I was in the front of this sucker, even though I knew much better and that the front pack was about 3 minutes up the road already. I got things settled and quickly realized my powermeter decided to take the day off and sleep in. "Alright" I thought I quickly made the decision to go off RPE and turned my computer off so I didn't waste time trying to fix it. As I circled around the interchange of roads out of town I noticed some of the male pro field coming back. Was it really getting that bad out on the course? I actually felt warm and was enjoying the rain coming down, even if some of those raindrops felt like darts being thrown at my face. I caught a couple of faster swimmers as I crossed the river and headed into the rural and fun part of the course. Because of the day before's unfortunate events at the RR tracks and me having to cross RR tracks 3 different times on the ride I took the first RR tracks very easy, of course they had to be at the bottom of a hill. I later learned one guy took a hard fall on those exact tracks, ok so I wasn't the only one slipping and sliding out on the course. I finally started to settle into a rhythm about 5 miles in and was getting ready to see what I could do on the day. Not a moment later I heard that sound we all know to well"psshhhhhh..." crap!<br />
<br />
I like to think I kept it cool the entire time that I waited for support, but I am sure that the first 2 minutes of me flatting looked something like this, well minus about 50 degrees, add in some rain, beautiful hawaiian island, and of course german accent.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/PJWhNg-QiTc?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
Playing the waiting game<br />
I settled myself on the side of the road and did the only thing I could do...wait for support. I think the 2 church vans that passed along seeing a dude in a speedo, aero helmet, and spandex top in 55 degree pouring rain had them asking a few questions. Figuring that I was more towards the front of the race and early in the bike course I thought it would be a short time until support arrived. 5 minutes passed then 10 and it quickly became apparent all support was following the pro field. Sure enough as they came roaring through back to town 3 motor bikes, 2 cars, and another church van all passed without any help, I even had 2 video men on the back of motorbikes film me as the past, thanks guys for calling in the help! I decided to call out splits for all the pros as they went by, but where I was located they were all passing at about 30 mph so I doubt it helped any of them. Finally support came 25 minutes after I initially stopped. By the time I got my tire replaced I was shivering so badly that it was an obvious choice continuing on would only risk my health and risk the chance of being sick in the days following. First time that I have ever called it a day before crossing the finish line, first time I have ever called for SAG, and just when I do somewhere in the bushes across the street some media got this pic of me...credit goes to Eric Wynn on this one.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dy1slNPas3w/UYhHO78klBI/AAAAAAAAAWc/ayoiqpadWTY/s1600/DK3R9319-631x421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dy1slNPas3w/UYhHO78klBI/AAAAAAAAAWc/ayoiqpadWTY/s320/DK3R9319-631x421.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The ride back to transition...<br />
I got in the van and was joined by Jen Spiller one of the female prose who's crank apparently decided to stop working during the race. We chatted a bit and our driver lifted our spirits a bit as well. Once I got back to transition I brought my bike back in, changed, and went out for a quick jog to the finish line so I could watch Summer and Bill finish great races.<br />
<br />
As we started our trip back to Wisconsin I found this nice little tweet from the former World Champion herself: <br />
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Yup, was pretty cold out there today even Captain America had to call it a day. Cool race kit Captain! <a href="http://t.co/lR7oGk6pWG" title="http://twitter.com/Mirindacarfrae/status/331109610578649088/photo/1">twitter.com/Mirindacarfrae…</a><br />
— Mirinda Carfrae (@Mirindacarfrae) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mirindacarfrae/status/331109610578649088">May 5, 2013</a></blockquote>
<br />
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script><br />
<br />
Along with making the Monday morning rounds of media triathlon outlets with my picture nestled in with some commentary, I guess I have some work to do on my Captain America reputation!<br />
<br />
In the end I look back at on this weekend and will continue to laugh at myself with all of the amateur moves that I made. No race is wasted and the training going into this race will pay off in my next block of racing in June. Starting with my all-time favorite race Lake Mills Triathlon, also known as the Wisconsin World Championships!<br />
<br />
A big thank you goes out to REV 3 and all of the volunteers for putting on a great event despite the dreary conditions. I'll be back with REV 3 later this summer in the Dells!<br />
<br />
<br />bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-22156978055582412922013-02-25T19:16:00.001-06:002013-02-25T19:16:59.484-06:00Chill Out Triathletes!Chiillllllllllll out triathletes! While it seems that we are on our way to losing the mass swim starts at WTC races, this is not finalized, nor is it guaranteed to be forever. Before everyone barks back at WTC for taking away the "iconic" part of IM, or the "greatest spectacle in sports" lets sit back and look at this through several lens. First we should look at why WTC is doing what they are doing. And without an official press release (expected to be soon) we can only guess as to why, so lets take a gander.<br />
<br />
<u>Safety</u><br />
Say what you will about mass starts vs TT/wave starts and the rates of deaths in races. It should be known that WTC had deaths in 3 of their races last year (IMTX, IMNY, IMCDA) that is 3 too many. Unfortunately another 2 swimmers passed away at IMSA 70.3 (mass start) just a few weeks ago. WTC realizes that a problem exists in their product and that safety may be compromised, so they are being proactive to find a possible solution, potentially. I really cannot believe people are so upset about losing mass starts because WTC wants to increase the safety for you (these deaths can happen to ANYONE!). If you really have a problem with this then your priorities are clearly not in order.<br />
<br />
<u>Registration Numbers</u><br />
This is where I think it gets really funny. Common complaints with triathletes: the course is too crowded, I can't register because it sells out too fast, there is only 1 Kona slot in my AG!? This all shows how impossible it can be to make everyone happy. Decrease the athlete capacity and it becomes more difficult to register, increase and the course is too crowded, so what do you want?<br />
<br />
Of course doing these waves starts now suggests that WTC wants to increase the athlete capacity at races, and of course athletes complain about this. First remember WTC is a business and profit is the goal. Sometimes it really amazes me that people do not understand this. Doing wave starts could increase the capacity at races, which in turn could increase the exposure of the sport, and increasing the exposure can increase the participation rates. More sedentary lifestyles motivated by Ironman, more become aware of the importance of fitness...win/win. okay this got off on a bit of a tangent but I think we all know where I am coming from. Triathlon is still a very niche sport.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<u>Skills of Triathletes as Swimmers</u></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Let's be honest, and the truth may hurt a bit, but triathletes are simply not great swimmers. The confidence of most triathletes is shaken the moment a race may not be "wetsuit-legal". Yes you may be able to swim 2.4 miles, but that doesn't put you in the elite category. Add in the fact that most IM's on the NA circuit these days have about a 30-40% first time Ironman rate, most athletes are experiencing a mass start for the first time. This really may not be the most safe option possible. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
I feel that a certain aspect and respect to safety is being overlooked here. </div>
<br />
<br />
<u>Drafting</u><br />
So everyone complains about the drafting on courses, and now WTC has laid out a possible solution and everyone still complains...typical triathletes. Some WTC NA courses have become very congested, especially at the beginning, numerous bike accidents have occurred as well, and yes drafting is rampant. So now that the swim exit might not be as crowded, a less crowded bike course can be offered which can lead to less drafting and yet athletes are unhappy, go figure.<br />
<br />
<u>Athlete Experience</u><br />
I think we will be fine here. Crowds will still show up to watch the swim start, you will still be cheered on during the bike, and people will still scream for you at the finish line. You still swim, bike, and run 140.6 miles. Midnight finish might change a bit, or will it? IMLou has done a TT start since it's inception and from all accounts that I have heard, its still just as powerful as a finish as any other.<br />
<br />
Some athletes are arguing that they will not be racing against each other on the same time. Let's be honest again, unless you are pro, or racing for a Kona slot (approx 250 athletes max) you are most likely racing your own race, so what really does it matter? If anything I think this will help a lot of the triathlete egos and let them race better knowing they are truly racing their own race and not the competitor next to them.<br />
<br />
<u>In conclusion.....</u><br />
For whatever reason WTC is doing this, we must realize it is their product and they can do what they want. In fact, it seems they have partially chosen to take this route based on consumer feedback (that means you the athlete). But hey, you are still going to shelve out the $750 to register, even if you threaten to never race WTC again (we all do it post-race anyway). Every sport evolves over time, and the NFL is having a very similar challenge in regards to athlete safety currently as well. I think that we should all look at this in a positive manner instead of being so negative about it. After all, triathletes are some of the most positive minded athletes I know.<br />
<br />
But if over time, this change decreases the deaths that happen at WTC races then they made the right decision...end of story. Just remember WTC is not the only player in town and you can race several other Ironman-distance races put on by just as great, if not better companies, and still call yourself an Ironman and do your mass swim start thing.<br />
<br />
If you are still really bothered by this I suggest you talk to a widow of an athlete, or family member that has lost a life and see if your opinion changes.<br />
<br />
<br />bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-78192260918340086102013-02-17T22:17:00.001-06:002013-02-17T22:23:16.850-06:00My Week in HoursIt seems like I am good at going from 0-60 very quickly, and burn out quite fast. One of the goals for this year in my life is balance. This has eluded me long enough, usually I invest too much attention into one aspect of my life, or instead I spread myself far too thin. Because of this I am starting to track how I spend my hours each day and see where improvements can be made and what can be cut out. Below is a look at the past week of my life and where the hours stood.<br />
<br />
School (Hours spent on campus): 25<br />
Work (All restaurant and personal training hours): 45<br />
Training (all S/B/R, strength work and recovery): 13<br />
Transit: 10<br />
Sleep: 43<br />
Study: 8<br />
Prep (showering, getting dressed, packing, unpacking): 7<br />
Eating/cooking (usually tied in with another activity such as reading): 5<br />
Errands: 2<br />
<u>Leisure: 10</u><br />
168 Hours<br />
<br />
So I can already tell i am lacking in my sleep, the time counts from my "bed time", still takes me a bit to fall asleep. I get about 80 minutes a day to myself and my thoughts, and I spend an unbelievable amount of time getting ready for the day, showering (1-3 showers a day), and packing for the next activity in my life. I am annoyed by the amount of time that i spend in my car, so I need those warmer temps so I can commute via bike again to work and school.<br />
<br />
Looking at these stats has me to realize that about 70 hours a week will be devoted to school and work, so training will need to be adjusted based around that...until May that is.<br />
<br />
I will post averages up in a month or two. Leisure time will increase significantly while in San Diego :).<br />
<br />
Pictures to be coming as wellbcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-91267278714686667642013-01-08T10:27:00.003-06:002013-01-08T10:29:34.860-06:002013 Race ScheduleEvery year I decide on a race schedule and inevitably at some point in time it goes awry and my schedule changes. Last year I raced one race that I had originally planned for, IMWI, the rest was built into my schedule as the season progressed. I have made a tentative schedule that could very well change, but a schedule that I like, has me racing ALOT, and switching to more shorter distances. Time for a nice change of pace after a few years in the Ironman-obsessed world that is triathlon racing in the States. Plus I can now race 3-4x times and still pay less than an Ironman, win!<br />
<br />
I thought I would take a different route in listing my race schedule this year. So here is my race schedule for 2013 complete with postcard views for you to guess where I am racing. This schedule will have me race in 7 states, do all distances, and one Ironman-esque distance, race twice in 2 weekends(possibly), AND all but 2 races will be races I have never done! So here is my race schedule in chronological order. I will give a moto-pacing session to whoever guesses all the races correctly *note you must supply the moped!<br />
<br />
***Extra credit and <b>you can design my race speedo</b> in 2013 if you guess all races and distances correctly!<br />
<br />
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QAI33h9_WiE/UL7dbTyzWdI/AAAAAAAAASs/McWTxAYk5E0/s1600/filename-knoxville-jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QAI33h9_WiE/UL7dbTyzWdI/AAAAAAAAASs/McWTxAYk5E0/s320/filename-knoxville-jpg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My first race of the year will have me chasing points in one of three races with a new series that I will be doing. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T2BNqIHVdqc/UMIvtGb8MyI/AAAAAAAAAUM/G3hEbmYXj9A/s1600/IMAG0241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T2BNqIHVdqc/UMIvtGb8MyI/AAAAAAAAAUM/G3hEbmYXj9A/s320/IMAG0241.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They brew great beer in this town, great for post race recovery!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6skReZtp0bM/UMIuuSo6ZuI/AAAAAAAAAUE/meo-XUTnW4Y/s1600/Elkhart+Lake+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6skReZtp0bM/UMIuuSo6ZuI/AAAAAAAAAUE/meo-XUTnW4Y/s320/Elkhart+Lake+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Always a competitive midwestern race here</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r_z_eTm9SWM/UMIt8fp45dI/AAAAAAAAAT8/ikwQG9Ff8p4/s1600/Bontrager-Helmet-Renention-System.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r_z_eTm9SWM/UMIt8fp45dI/AAAAAAAAAT8/ikwQG9Ff8p4/s320/Bontrager-Helmet-Renention-System.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This will race will complete the first "double" weekend of racing. Not too far from my doorstep and considered one of the best races in the country</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BKagFQWgeLM/UMkYwvmBZXI/AAAAAAAAAVU/yaiiObtB1o4/s1600/NokomisSkyline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BKagFQWgeLM/UMkYwvmBZXI/AAAAAAAAAVU/yaiiObtB1o4/s1600/NokomisSkyline.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Heard nothing but great things about this city, heard the live music scene is quite enjoyable as well</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iFXsNSvJnow/UMFx35cnhXI/AAAAAAAAATs/3utDeoJasi8/s1600/door-county-beach-ty-helbach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iFXsNSvJnow/UMFx35cnhXI/AAAAAAAAATs/3utDeoJasi8/s320/door-county-beach-ty-helbach.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I hear it is beautiful here in the fall, and really HOT in the summer, right when I will be racing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zkhPU7fed68/UL7eirZ6P2I/AAAAAAAAAS8/AzQdeaQy_oA/s1600/pic_dfie_milwaukee_wi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="138" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zkhPU7fed68/UL7eirZ6P2I/AAAAAAAAAS8/AzQdeaQy_oA/s320/pic_dfie_milwaukee_wi.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
How could I not race in a city I called home for 7 years, especially when they put a national championship in it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UlwoXCCAnx8/UMFr6m6z3MI/AAAAAAAAATM/_BnaP7mBU8Q/s1600/NoahsArk_Overview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UlwoXCCAnx8/UMFr6m6z3MI/AAAAAAAAATM/_BnaP7mBU8Q/s320/NoahsArk_Overview.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I will probably head straight here after crossing the finish line. This "double" won't be easy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9f2I5Rb-VV8/UMFwqEJHogI/AAAAAAAAATk/XCng7CT-GZg/s1600/bandstand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9f2I5Rb-VV8/UMFwqEJHogI/AAAAAAAAATk/XCng7CT-GZg/s320/bandstand.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Live music is always good and so are twinkies and they are not too far from this location. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WDFeKc0QFKk/UMkXU9AQreI/AAAAAAAAAVM/Qxv6wTcptbo/s1600/300px-Bontrager_Solstice_Adult_White-Red-Black.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WDFeKc0QFKk/UMkXU9AQreI/AAAAAAAAAVM/Qxv6wTcptbo/s320/300px-Bontrager_Solstice_Adult_White-Red-Black.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pending qualification at a race I still have to choose, I will be here over Labor Day weekend</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pHgg_1xuLdU/UL7d-pvpbGI/AAAAAAAAAS0/QyCTQUxIyFI/s1600/mt-bachelor-and-buttercups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pHgg_1xuLdU/UL7d-pvpbGI/AAAAAAAAAS0/QyCTQUxIyFI/s320/mt-bachelor-and-buttercups.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yeah this race is pretty epic! Not a participatory event this year, I need that buckle!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7gl4abuS4A4/UMFv_ILZoJI/AAAAAAAAATc/B0AosYqrHCY/s1600/anderson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7gl4abuS4A4/UMFv_ILZoJI/AAAAAAAAATc/B0AosYqrHCY/s320/anderson.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I guess they like their hot air balloons in this city. Heard the course is not easy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-65444047288236762712012-12-11T13:05:00.001-06:002012-12-11T23:06:52.769-06:00How I Plan To Put Fear In My Opponents In 2013As everyone starts to prepare for the 2013 season and deciding how, what, they will change/keep to improve their performances, I have selected 5 ways to not only make myself faster and look far cooler, but also to intimidate my fellow racers as well. I now give to you my 5 intimidation factors of 2013.<br />
<br />
5. Giant Headphones<br />
We all saw olympian swimmers walk onto the pool deck before every event with those HUGE headphones on this summer. No one has any idea of what was blasting in their ears (if anything at all), but one fact was constant: it looked intimidating. I will be sporting this look as well in 2013. From the moment I walk into transition in the morning until I get into my wetsuit. I will compliment this with a focused stare and show no looks on my face. Intimidation factor is directly correlated to size of headphones.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lp_PFtovaac/UMVrFyFphMI/AAAAAAAAAUk/wWMmIm3Y4yY/s1600/77808BC221424DCAB98BF8123ECB3E71.ashx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lp_PFtovaac/UMVrFyFphMI/AAAAAAAAAUk/wWMmIm3Y4yY/s1600/77808BC221424DCAB98BF8123ECB3E71.ashx.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
4. German Accent<br />
I will be listen to all Rosetta Stone German cd's to hone my german accent skills. Anyone in triathlon knows that the germans are uber bikers. It is always a bit intimidating when you met a german at a race because you know they can bike! Sebastian Kienle is a prime example of heavy accent and uber-fast biker correlation. The thicker the accent the faster you are thought to be on the bike!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNttua63LY8">He sounds fast</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rimk6m1eaFk">He is fast!</a><br />
<br />
3. Camera Entourage<br />
Remember when that guy from cycling tried out triathlon this past year? Remember the media frenzy that followed him around all morning in transition along with his entourage? I will now be bringing my own camera entourage, (they may or may not have functioning cameras) to bring the intimidation factor to a whole new level. These camera man may or may not be professional media personnel, or maybe just random people that I pick off the street on my way to the race and have them use their phones as cameras. Intimidation factor will be factored by the size of the media crowd and number of camera's.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L1gIZ4D4HPg/UMeDtyO3pEI/AAAAAAAAAU0/9L48BkKWUGM/s1600/TXHalfIron_0364-577x421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L1gIZ4D4HPg/UMeDtyO3pEI/AAAAAAAAAU0/9L48BkKWUGM/s320/TXHalfIron_0364-577x421.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
2. Ray Lewis<br />
Anyone who watches football knows this man can give one heck of a pre-game speech. Add to that fact he is about 6'5", 275 lbs and may or may not have killed a man, he is downright scary. So I will be bringing him along to give me a pre-race speech on the shore before every race. He may or may not also be seen during the race yelling splits out to me.<br />
<br />
Examples of Ray Lewis's Speeches<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07fhOVQ9wEA">Pissed Off For Greatness</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUra9wrjCfU">Your gonna get knocked out!</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-wumDYaGNA">Mic'd Up!</a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIu6jUomKCQ">Effort</a><br />
<br />
1. Braveheart Face Paint<br />
What else do I need to say? Designed to instill fear in the opponents!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vCODF3HQWDQ/UMVpc3bqdXI/AAAAAAAAAUc/Bl4NXQo6Fz0/s1600/imgbraveheart5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vCODF3HQWDQ/UMVpc3bqdXI/AAAAAAAAAUc/Bl4NXQo6Fz0/s320/imgbraveheart5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-52996645175986458552012-10-08T15:00:00.004-05:002012-10-08T15:00:53.250-05:00Team BBMC Beer Mile 2012<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QyHAlmTDGtQ/UHMwiFPoFgI/AAAAAAAAASU/5gJItsltYxs/s1600/603221_4194863702631_1353554202_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QyHAlmTDGtQ/UHMwiFPoFgI/AAAAAAAAASU/5gJItsltYxs/s320/603221_4194863702631_1353554202_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This was my one last chance to save
my season and end on a high note. The night before the big race, coach Blake
sent out a text with our PBR covered trophy. That is mine I thought. I wanted
this bad, worse then anything ever. If anyone knows me I drink PBR all the
time. I pour it in my Wheaties, drink it with my dinner, and of course wash all
pills down with a nice cold can of PBR. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>PBR, well it’s a way of life for me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GvdqwAXEPTE/UHMwhCcjdnI/AAAAAAAAASM/PfWyB1jB3zA/s1600/550861_4592313446686_1515972116_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GvdqwAXEPTE/UHMwhCcjdnI/AAAAAAAAASM/PfWyB1jB3zA/s320/550861_4592313446686_1515972116_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I stood on
the starting line nearly butt naked with a can of PBR, speedo, and a John Deere
hat on my head ready to lay the smackdown!. “GO” was shouted I had that beer
down in less then 10 seconds. I took off per my usual to hot to handle pace,
but this was the beer mile, too short to blow up. I nailed the first ¼ mile
leading the pack back into transition. I started my 2<sup>nd</sup> beer and
felt the heavy foam of the ice cold PBR sitting in my belly. “Focus” I thought.
I opened my second can and embraced the glory of that good old Milwaukee PBR
taste. This one was a bit harder to take down so fast, but I was getting it
down. I took off for the 2<sup>nd</sup> run and felt Dan hot on my feet. “Oh
man, how did that old man drink so fast”, he passed me heading back into
transition, but not by too much. I knew his stomach was heavy too, “Game on!”.
It wasn’t about speed, it was about chugging, my blurry years of college
reminded me I had the skills to win. We started our third beers and the doubts
came into my head again “you always puke on the third beer” “NO!” I said in my
head, nothing better then having your teammates help you out of the darkest
part of the beer mile…beer #3. I took off, this time I fell back to third
place. As soon as I started running the beer came right back up. I tried my
full belly beer filled hardest to hold all 36ounces of PBR in, but it was too hard.
I tried but it shout out both my nostrils as I was lying down the best pace I
could hold. With the smell of PBR puke in my nostrils I wasn’t going to go out
like that. One final stroll into transition and I tried to find any room left
in my belly for another 12 ounces of good ole PBR, I noticed a lot of foam surrounded
the top of my can “Who shooke my cans!?”, or did I grab the can too hard and
shook it up myself? I knew I made a mistake and took in too much air on my
first 3 beers. Beer #4 down and I cruised back home finishing out the podium
with a fine 10:44 beer mile. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Beer mile
2012 was a complete success. Never in my life have I dug so deep and fought
through such a hard buzz to cross the line before my drunk hit me. I wanted
that trophy but was beat by the better man. Maybe it was my choice to be a man
and drink PBR while my podium mates both drank the very light and unmanly
Miller Lite. Whatever it was, as we walked back home and my drunk settling in
wearing nothing but a speedo I knew I gave it my all and I was about to getting
even drunker as the night progressed. Congrats to “3/4<sup>th</sup>’s” Matt and
Dan “I like my beers light”, you are both gonna fear me in 2013! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gHcIYJTKVr8/UHMwyPd9koI/AAAAAAAAASc/zOcnJz9ctCY/s1600/298690_4194868142742_1662758538_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gHcIYJTKVr8/UHMwyPd9koI/AAAAAAAAASc/zOcnJz9ctCY/s320/298690_4194868142742_1662758538_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment-->bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-88081262900619839172012-10-02T12:53:00.003-05:002012-10-05T14:03:49.711-05:00Ironman Wisconsin 2012 - Keepin' the P<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:DocumentProperties>
<o:Revision>0</o:Revision>
<o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime>
<o:Pages>1</o:Pages>
<o:Words>620</o:Words>
<o:Characters>3538</o:Characters>
<o:Company>UW-La Crosse</o:Company>
<o:Lines>29</o:Lines>
<o:Paragraphs>8</o:Paragraphs>
<o:CharactersWithSpaces>4150</o:CharactersWithSpaces>
<o:Version>14.0</o:Version>
</o:DocumentProperties>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZlyWL0ssseE/UGsrYPL27eI/AAAAAAAAAR0/F5xx3qbvz84/s1600/601460_10100820167844128_813195700_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZlyWL0ssseE/UGsrYPL27eI/AAAAAAAAAR0/F5xx3qbvz84/s320/601460_10100820167844128_813195700_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I never really wanted to write up a
RR from IMWI after the race, and I really don’t plan do so. If you were
wondering how my race went it played out something like this…”perfect swim,
well paced even bike, on top of nutrition all day, great first 10k of run,
started to settle into pace and suddenly I lost it….mentally, and it never came
back.” I had some high hopes (performance-wise) and fell very short of those goals.
Ironman can be very cruel as it can really strip you down to your bare bones,
expose you and any weaknesses you have, and really humble you all at the same
time. Ironman is hard, really friggin' hard, and that is exactly why we all race it. I want to write my thoughts after the race and
what I learned instead of a report of my race. I think there is much more value in that for the future then
what I was eating at mile 65, and I hope everyone can take something away from
my experiences this year as well.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FR0ohwaCelw/UGsrDplA0RI/AAAAAAAAARk/0WDBmwtpuX0/s1600/386265_3823209191193_892555009_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FR0ohwaCelw/UGsrDplA0RI/AAAAAAAAARk/0WDBmwtpuX0/s320/386265_3823209191193_892555009_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>“Keep the
perspective”, this was a motto at an old job I had a few summers ago and it has
become a staple in my life since. Moments after crossing the line and feeling
very empty and unsatisfied I was given a great reminder of what I had just
accomplished that day under my own power. Sometimes when you race with 2500 other
athletes that are in some of the best peak physical shape they have ever been
in, you lose sight of just how far you carried your body in one day and what
you have done. Above all else, finishing an Ironman no matter who you are is
very hard to do and I am proud of that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I have to
look at the positives that came out of the race as well. I had a perfect race
until 124 miles in, maybe next time it can be to 130 miles, then 135, and then
140.6. I still PR’d the race, and improved my swim/bike/run, and transition as
well. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also held back and paced myself
better then I ever have, we all know I struggle with this. I learned that I had
all the physical components to achieve my goals, but my mental fortitude is
what really needs to be worked on. That is something I have bypassed long
enough. Most importantly I had a blast swimming, biking, and running all around
Madison, the city that I love so much, with my friends and family. That is
something that I will cherish forever. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
learned so much about this sport, the distance, and everything in between in my
build up to Ironman that it would be foolish to even think this race was a
failure. It would only be a failure if I gave up on my dreams in this sport and
threw in the towel….not gonna happen. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s8yh32JSKbM/UGsrXmisGBI/AAAAAAAAARs/yK51bXvAh2s/s1600/184084_10100820847512068_158459383_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s8yh32JSKbM/UGsrXmisGBI/AAAAAAAAARs/yK51bXvAh2s/s320/184084_10100820847512068_158459383_n.jpg" title="Trying to hold on..." width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>So where
did I come up short? Well I think the grind of my summer and me going into the
race fatigued already played a role. Maybe the poorly executed race week might
have done it as well. Maybe I stretched myself a bit too thin race weekend by
volunteering Friday and setting back my entire schedule a bit. But most
importantly I was just not prepared mentally and tried to fake my way through
it. You cannot fake your way through an Ironman. My head wasn’t in the best
spot and my focus was not 100% and when that happens Ironman will give you a
stark reminder that you need that focus. <o:p></o:p><br />
In retrospect, my fate at Ironman may have been decided well before I jumped into Lake Monona that morning. The decision I made back in May to come to Madison and bounce around the city (literally) day in and day out might have costed me some valuable recovery time. Or maybe it was the 6 weddings I had in the 2 months leading up to Ironman, all of which I was enjoying to the wee hours of the morning. Recovery, or instead, sleep is something that I never really got enough of this year, and in this sport you really can never get too much sleep, message noted. I went through a bad breakup as well that may have distracted me far too much and taken a lot of my mental energy away from me. My diet wasn't the best either, but when it was good in the spring my training was going really well. t have absolutely no regrets and am looking forward to the future. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>This is why
Ironman is so hard, it’s not just the physical nature of all the hours spent
training it’s the mental component as well. I learned that to another degree
this year and will build off it in the future. You can always learn a lot more in your shortcomings then your successes and that is what I did this year. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I will have
another go at Ironman again sometime down the road, but for now I must keep the
perspective and remind myself that being a 2x Ironman finisher is pretty frickin' cool.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Finally a
few thanks to give. First to my mother and father for being the best supporters
I could ever ask for. To my sister for chasing my around all day and giving me
that great advice at the finish line. To my coach Blake for getting me to the
start line in my best physical shape ever, and calming me down constantly all summer. A
big thank you too all of my teammates on BBMC, talk about a special group of
athletes. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thanks to all that came out
spectated and volunteered and made the day that much easier and fun for me. And of
course congrats to everyone that raced on September 9<sup>th</sup>, I was able
to witness some amazing performances from everyone, great inspiration for next
time!<o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment-->bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-19869835312292766522012-09-18T22:07:00.001-05:002012-09-18T22:07:59.163-05:00Thoughts going into Leadman Epic 250<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bKHDlQuhOgc/UFk2UxOKogI/AAAAAAAAARM/tGg2UKDS9U0/s1600/LeadmanWideBanner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="105" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bKHDlQuhOgc/UFk2UxOKogI/AAAAAAAAARM/tGg2UKDS9U0/s320/LeadmanWideBanner.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Well here we go! When I first saw this race last year in Vegas, I thought to myself "I must do this race!". Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would find myself here one year later in the middle of race week. The idea first popped into my head earlier this summer, and with my commitment to Ironman Wisconsin 2 weeks prior I knew it just wasn't in the cards this year...and then I started thinking more and more about it. The lure of the "double" intrigued me and the more people that told me that I was stupid/crazy/insane about doing this, the more I wanted to give it a shot.<br />
<br />
The real lure of this race is the 223 kilometer/138 mile bike ride, sometimes I even forgot that I have to swim before and run after the ride. But in all seriousness a race with a long swim and bike followed by a short run is right up my alley. After a disappointing Ironman 2 weeks ago this might just be the exact race I need.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TjFfC3_ApzE/UFk2jmoN5AI/AAAAAAAAARU/F85MdJu0iiE/s1600/mt-bachelor-and-buttercups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TjFfC3_ApzE/UFk2jmoN5AI/AAAAAAAAARU/F85MdJu0iiE/s320/mt-bachelor-and-buttercups.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I have zero expectations for Saturday, literally not one. I just want to throw myself into uncharted territory and have fun with it. My nutrition plan? To eat a lot, I'm talking solid food and fun foods! Pop Tart Smore's PB&J sandwiches, grandma's cookies. I have even prepared a new race "kit" that I will be pulling out for the run...think old school Dave Scott, Mark Allen 1980's look. After an up and down summer of training and racing I am just going to take the pressure off myself and enjoy the day as much as I can, although I am sure I have lots of suffering coming my way.<br />
<br />
With all that said I am a bit scared about Saturday, who wouldn't be? The only other time this race was put on, 14 of 40 finished, of course that was in a desert with high winds, but this will be in the cold with a mountain to climb twice and apparently a forest fire nearby as of this morning. I have absolutely no clue if I can or will finish this race and that is what partially attracts me to Saturday. Something needs to be said about doing a race that most are doing for the first time and only have a select few competing, I think less then 200 are entered, that is less then 1 athlete per kilometer. I know when I walk down the beach into Cultus Lake Saturday that feeling of fear will enter my mind and I will be sure to embrace it. The fraternity will be close on Saturday and I can't wait to test myself against the elements, the terrain, and of course my mind.<br />
<br />
And of course there will be this bet come Saturday, I cannot lose this bet!bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-58178658551413632772012-08-03T10:17:00.002-05:002012-08-03T10:17:40.514-05:00A little update...are we there yet?Well as many of you close to me have known, this summer has not been what I expected at all. Never ever did I imagine at the beginning of May that I would find myself here in Madison for the summer. Nor did I think I would be bouncing around city to city, couch to couch, bed to bed, well you get the point. In the past 10 days I have found myself swimming in 5 different pools in 4 different cities, slept in the same bed only 3 times, planning where I will ride/run is become a strategic plan, my transition bag is still packed since early July as I leave for another weekend away with 2 weddings on Saturday. In a sport that demands consistency for success I have just not had the ability to have any of that this sumer. I feel that I am toeing the line of burnout but staying on the correct side of things. Holy crap I don't understand how athletes can do this year round on the road.<br />
<br />
Training has been going well for what it is. The past few 5+ hour rides, and 2+ hour runs have put me in a very confident spot going into IMWI. I am not getting in every workout in, but the key workouts are getting done with signs that I can have a great race some 9-9. Goals will need to be adjusted a bit, but I feel much more fit and ready to tackle the 140.6 miles in a month. In the very least I should be able to PR by a long shot, and that really is all that I am hoping for.<br />
<br />
September has now become even more of a challenge. Move back to La Crosse on the 1st, start fall semester on the 4th, Ironman on the 9th, CPT exam on the 18th, and Leadman Epic 250 on the 22nd. October is going to be a very lazy month, in terms of being physically active at least.<br />
<br />bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-28436361476235392812012-06-21T13:30:00.000-05:002012-06-21T13:32:57.927-05:00Lets Go For the "Double"!Here I am sitting in my bed thinking about where the past 7 weeks has taken me. 8 weeks ago I was sitting at home finishing up my spring semester at UW-La Crosse, preparing for a summer of Ironman training, and living with the women whom I thought I was going to marry. Life was good to say the least. Then within a week, I was left scrambling to find a new place to live after me and Kate decided to go our own ways, left looking for a new job as my current job was no longer financially acceptable, and the thought of spending my summer training for another Ironman seemed very daunting all the sudden.<br />
<br />
The past 7 weeks of my life have been a bit of a mess. I usually welcome change with open arms, but this time it was different. I made the choice to move to Madison for the summer, for my training partners, team, close friends, and to help my mother get the backyard prepared for my sisters wedding. The thought of moving back into my parents scared me so I thought I would bum around on couches and friends houses through the summer. Hey I have traveled through Asia and Europe twice with only my backpack, how hard could this be? The first week wore me down more then I expected, meals had to have some sort of planning, packing/unpacking took more out of my day then I wanted. Maybe this wasn't a good idea?<br />
<br />
My motivation for Ironman started to dwindle, I was wearing down myself mentally and physically. I started to doubt myself, my abilities, and my drive for a second Ironman finish. I was beaten down mentally, physically, and emotionally...<br />
<br />
Then a training buddy asked me about the Leadman Epic 250 and if I was interested. Of course I was, the thought of beating my body down relentlessly for 250 kilometers at elevation and over two mountain passes seemed hard to pass up! Of course, when I checked the date of the race, 2 weeks post Ironman Wisconsin, I knew it just wasn't in the cards. Still the thought of finishing Leadman and completing the "double" intrigued me. A couple weeks passed and my thoughts on doing the double dwindled. Then I read <a href="http://blog.rappstar.com/2012/06/plan-b.html">this</a> on Jordan Rapp's blog. "No risk, no fun", exactly! Why not? What is the worst that can happen to me? I can't finish Leadman and am stuck on the side of the road climbing up Mt. Bachelor? That doesn't seem like the worst place to be bumming for a ride back home. And if I complete the race? Well then sit down, grab a drink because I have a story to tell you! So here I am thinking about attempting the "double" and the only hold up I have right now is clearing a few days out of my schedule to make the trek out to Bend to punish my body.<br />
<br />
-Sometimes you need to have a little "F@ck it" in your life, planning life down to the detail is monotonous and boring. I accept this challenge as I have absolutely no idea if I will be able to complete it, and that is what drives me to say "f@ck it", lets for for it!bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-52629924206496869812012-04-30T22:04:00.000-05:002012-04-30T22:04:29.328-05:00Collegiate Nationals: Not a Race ReportWell I am a few days removed from my first triathlon of the season. The benefit to writing this now, is that it is still April, and I was able to test myself against some very fast talent. After much thought on the 14 hour drive home, I decided that writing a race report really is pointless to not only, you, the reader (mom), but to myself as well. Instead I would like to talk about everything that I have learned over the weekend and share with those that were unable to experience.
1. Traveling to a race is HARD! This was my first time traveling more then 4 hours to a race. A 16 hour car drive from La Crosse down to Tuscaloosa kept me up through the night Thursday and already fatigued going into Saturday. Lesson #1, prepare for your travels before you leave and setup a routine. I don't sleep in cars or planes for that matter, and on the slight chance I do, it is anything but restful sleep. I was absolutely exhausted Friday night at the pasta dinner, and thought I could bank enough hours of sleep Friday night. Wrong, the best sleep you can get before a race is two days out, which, unfortunately for me, was spent playing role of navigator/driver
2. I traveled with a group of 9 other athletes from school, and it seemed as if some of us were on different agendas. Some of us were focused on the race from the moment we left La Crosse, while others were on vacation the moment we left. My vacation was to start after I crossed the finish line and not a moment before. I was also one of the more experience triathletes on the trip so lots of questions were directed towards me. That is a role that I am not used to, and welcomed with both arms, but when I need to make adjustments on 5 bikes before I get to mine it is tiring, especially when unexpected.
3. Eating on the road needs to be planned out. I baked some banana bread, packed some bananas, and brought lots of fluids. That lasted me about halfway through the car ride. Then my diet was consisting of IHOP, gas station stops, and the pasta dinner. I underestimated what I needed to bring, and didn't plan my meals or think them out in advance...lesson learned.
4. Routine. This is something that I was told after I came back when talking to coach. There was absolutely no routine on Friday, intact we were mostly flying be the seat of our pants the entire day. This added stress, lost time, and more time under a baking sun without preparation. A little more pre-trave organization can go a long way.
5. Racing. Well the race may not have gone AS BAD as I made it out to be. My swim was standard, especially for my first river swim ever, and first open water swim of the year. The bike was everything that I expected, nothing special, but was a direct result of where my bike fitness stands right now. It was my run that really brought me down, especially after all the hard work put in over the winter months. Mentally I broke once again after I saw the watch hit 8:00 pace, just .5 miles into the run that was mostly uphill. I need to relax more on the run and be patient. It took me out of the race mentally once again and I need to work on this. By mile 4 I was able to regroup and finish the race in a somewhat proud fashion, but it was that mental breakdown and 3 miles after that really killed me.
So there it is in a quick recap. I have already moved on and the focus is now on 13.1 on Sunday.bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-26904938663728929242012-03-13T23:58:00.006-05:002012-03-31T00:53:38.138-05:00Ironman Wisconsin - Swim Course Preview***As of 3/30/12 the Ironman Wisconsin course has changed and will now be a single loop swim***<br /><br />Course<br /><br />Course: 2 Loops counter-clockwise<br />Turns: 7 left-handed turns<br />Distances: 2x800 meter out portions, 2x125 meter "turns", 100 meter return to shore<br />Water conditions: Low visibility, usually flat, watch out for the snakes and deadbodies!<br />Water Temp: Wetsuit legal all but one year, usually between 64-72 degrees<br />Buoys: You only need to swim around the turn buoys, all other buoys are fair game on each side, including the start.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jjsoRzygwl0/THSSyV3cm5I/AAAAAAAAAMc/QIbsauLXmsA/s1600/wisswim.gif"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_jjsoRzygwl0/THSSyV3cm5I/AAAAAAAAAMc/QIbsauLXmsA/s1600/wisswim.gif" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">WARNING!!!</span> If you want to be in the water for the start, make sure to get down to the swim entrance early. Athletes are bottlenecked every year at the swim entrance and it can take, what feels like an enternity to get in the water. In 2010 I got to the swim entrance at 6:40 and got in the water during the anthem at about 6:55. One you are in the water everyone is self seeded. If you want to get a short warmup in I would recommend getting into the water no later then 6:50. Pros go off at 6:50 and that is when it gets really crowded towards the entrance. <br /><br /><a href="http://chiefreddog.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/images/IronmanWisconsin0007.3190025_std.jpg"><img style="float:center; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://chiefreddog.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/images/IronmanWisconsin0007.3190025_std.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />The picture above shows the start of the 2006 swim seconds after the gun. This is a great picture to show you the places to start. Everyone seems to use two markings to guide where they will start the swim. The red start/turn buoy and the boat ramp in the middle that divides the start line down the middle. Everyone I have ever talked to has said that if you want/ plan to swim under an hour start inside the turn buoy (legal at the start) and between the boat ramp. For everyone else it is best to start on the otherside of the boat ramp or behind those between the buoy and boatramp. <br /><br />Seeding Yourself<br /><br />Where you seed yourself can really set your swim up for success, or really put you in a bad spot quick. Generally the weaker the swimmer you are, or the more you do not like contact the further back you should start. Contrary to belief, if you are a strong swimmer (sub 60) you do not need to start on the inside of the boat ramp on the turn buoy. Feel free to start anywhere on the first row all the way towards the shoreline. Fish always try to stay away from the shoreline because of the "added distance" well a simple measurement shows that you will swim at most 25-50 meters more, so really you trade about 20-50 seconds for a little less contact, and more open water at the start, if those seconds are truly that valuable to you, or you are trying to win the AG swim then swim inside. If you are looking for a rather less crowded swim and to avoid all contact, it would be your best bet to start wide and about 3-4 rows back. Once the cannon goes off let everyone take off and follow in their wake. <br /><br />The First Turn<br /><br />It's gonna get crazy here, but if you approach it the right way you can really avoid a mess, just make sure to "MOOO" as you round the first turn buoy. In 2010 I swam wide of the turn and had minor contact. I talked to racers after that said that were breaststroking around the buoy and trying to protect themselves from the onslaught of arms and legs crashing into everyone's bodies. If you don't like contact and don't care about swimming a few extra yards take the first two turns wide. If you don't mind the chaos and want a fast split then just make sure to be on the pointy end of the group.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=uHGXq-e_Ex0">Video of first turn buoy</a><br /><br />Sighting<br /><br />Besides the buoy's there is not too much to aid in your sighting. On the way out the first time, sight for the bridge, that is, if you can see it will give you a good line to the first/fifth turn buoy. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cjafS_az5is/T14qlJ-XmvI/AAAAAAAAAQk/6RZfBAecYZU/s1600/4c8d8ee98c671.image.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 314px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cjafS_az5is/T14qlJ-XmvI/AAAAAAAAAQk/6RZfBAecYZU/s400/4c8d8ee98c671.image.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719055394628147954" /></a>At the end of each loop there is a large silver condo that is directly above the swim exit, this is a great aid and visual help if you cannot get your head out of the water high enough to see the swim exit. The sun will be rising mostly from the northeast, which means if you breath strongly on your right, it will be hard to see on the return leg of the swim, but if you breath on your left, it will be vice-versa. While swimming on the return portion of the loop, make sure to take some breaths to your left and watch the Monona Terrace pass by, it's a good sight to watch slowly pass by each breath you take, as well as see just how many spectators come out from Ironman Wisconsin. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8PxPPfQ7tiU/T2ApaedQrNI/AAAAAAAAAQw/H5RTC-iXLAE/s1600/2003_Wisconsin_ironman_swim_start2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 254px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8PxPPfQ7tiU/T2ApaedQrNI/AAAAAAAAAQw/H5RTC-iXLAE/s320/2003_Wisconsin_ironman_swim_start2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719617061589658834" /></a><br /><br />2011 AG Times<br /><br />Below is a list of AG times of when swimmers came out of the water by place. As you can see less then 4% of the field swims sub 60, with the majority of the field coming in between 1:05 and 1:40. Based on these times you can approximate when you plan on being out of the water and what place you may be in. <br /><br />51:31- 1st <br />1:00:00 - 92nd<br />1:05:00 - 226th<br />1:10:00 - 536th<br />1:15:00 - 909th<br />1:20:00 - 1297th<br />1:25:00 - 1622nd<br />1:30:00 - 1895th<br />1:40:00 - 2255th<br /><br />Once you are out of the water you will veer to the left on land and be met by plenty of volunteers to strip your wetsuit off. Once that is done you get to run through this!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o8-134kQC-w/T14oIuQcW9I/AAAAAAAAAQY/77kW4BsIQxs/s1600/20100912-IMG_0256-600x399.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o8-134kQC-w/T14oIuQcW9I/AAAAAAAAAQY/77kW4BsIQxs/s400/20100912-IMG_0256-600x399.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719052707128171474" /></a><br /><br />And up this!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0yDcRrP3MAM/T14oCpZVzeI/AAAAAAAAAQM/wBOcsiMfBfQ/s1600/20100912-IMG_0258-600x399.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0yDcRrP3MAM/T14oCpZVzeI/AAAAAAAAAQM/wBOcsiMfBfQ/s400/20100912-IMG_0258-600x399.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719052602744098274" /></a>bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-85173759027754956182012-03-11T22:53:00.003-05:002012-03-11T23:13:38.353-05:00This Week in a NutshellWell another week of training is in the books, and while the winter months of training seem to be very boring, this week I was able to escape the boring repetitiveness of winter training, with some unexpected slip-ups. The week of higher volume so far this year just had to match with a heavy work and school load too. <br /><br />I took multi-tasking to another level this week and decided that I wound't wait for the the pizza man to come when I was off the bike, so called for delivery halfway through my training ride. It was the pizza guys warning when I called and was breathing hard to expect something out of the norm upon arrival. With a well timed call ahead for delivery, the driver showed up in the middle of my final set. I yelled for him to come in, and as he did, he got the sight of a sweaty male in bib shorts, heart rate monitor across the chest and about 4 bottles of water on a stool beside me. Of course all the while watching other males in spandex run around on TV in lava fields. I probably took the cake on oddest encounter for the night.<br /><br />Why do you ask was I ordering a pizza from dominos? Fridge was empty this week and me and Kate had no time to get to the store. So I had to resort to dominos and many other leftovers in our fridge wrapped burrito style!<br /><br />Thursdays run required me to run up to threshold pace on the tready at a 3% incline for 3 minutes, 4 times. This is a staple workout each week with some variety thrown in weekly. This week somehow I found a new way to embarrass myself and tripped in the middle of one of my sets. Only to make it more embarrassing as I saved my face from eating rubber a 9.4 mph was the fact that the women next to me, told me after that maybe I shouldn't put the incline so high (hers was at 0%), and use the safety rails as I run (she held herself up with the safety rails for the duration of her run).<br /><br />Oh don't worry though, I tripped again tonight on my long run, which I decided to run at dusk, sometimes the best time for a run, except when it gets dark halfway through. With this challenge in diminished light I tripped yet again over some uneven sidewalk and bit it right in front of a grandma walking her pug. This was not my best run and I had warning signs early on. Needed a gel or coke about 5 minutes in, the next 85 were spent in survival mode, still got in some good mileage!<br /><br />Swimming went well, even got the chance to swim in a saltwater pool! They just need to add some marine life into the bottom to get the full effect of an ocean swim.<br /><br />The prevailing thought from this week was that I got all the workouts done and was able to put in some good mileage. Mother nature has also decided to grace us with spring on schedule this year, she must have realized how much of a b*tch she has been to Wisconsin the past few years during this time.bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-91835656316050648042012-03-04T23:02:00.000-06:002012-03-04T23:02:00.597-06:00My Race "Bucket List"I have been struggling with posting about something of interest while we finish off this very modest winter in WIsconsin. So I thought I would shy away from my posts about my trainingWith the surplus of races being born each year recently, the desire to add travel to triathlon has increased dramatically and I have even started to assemble my must do races in triathlon. Without further ado here is a list composed a races. Hopefully I can shy away from the lure of Ironman racing to check off some of these races soon, although given the distance and timing of some of these races, they would make for great prep going into Ironman. <br /><br />This list is limited to triathlon only and in no particular order:<br />1. Leadman Epic 250<br />2. American Triple T<br />3. Wildflower<br />4. Escape from Alcatraz<br />5. Roth<br />6. Ironman St George<br />7. Ironman Melbourne<br />8. Norseman<br /><br />Leadman Epic 250<br />The race report from the inaugural race's winner Jordan Rapp was enough to get me interested in this race. Then I watched a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=700kadAoGMo">video</a> and saw pictures of the course, and that was all that I Fitness Minneapolisneeded to know that I had to be racing through the "valley of fire". The distance is unique in itself 5k swim, 223k bike, and a 22k run, a distance that replicates the survivor type race that I have learned to love so much. Put the race in a desert and add in a crazy amount of elevation and you have one serious challenge. I may just give this race a go in 2013!<br /><br />American Triple T<br />4 races in 3 days? If you enjoy racing, pushing yourself, and self-inflicted pain, then this race is right up your alley because it has it all (1 sprint, 2 olympics, 1 HIM). This goes along with the theme of survivor races that Leadman presents. It is an early season race, so top form is not to common with those racing, most are training for a summer Ironman and use this weekend to get in a big block of big training. I have been told that the camaraderie at TTT is unparalleled and thet you will make friends for a lifetime over a weekend of racing, sounds just like my backpacking adventures in Europe. The relative ease of traveling to this race makes it a sure possibility of crossing this off the list very soon!<br /><br />Wildflower<br />Ah yes, the "Woodstock" of triathlon as it is called. I do not know much about the courses that are offered, nor do I care really. The whole reason this race is on my list is for the atmosphere and history behind it. Camping out all weekend, partying, sharing stories, all while racing and getting in some good man-tan weather too.<br /><br />Escape from Alcatraz<br />I have been to San Francisco and figure that if I were ever to race a triathlon thru a big city it would have to be San Francisco. The swim is one of the more famous swims in triathlon, and a challenge as well with currents strong enough to push you under the golden gate bridge, a bike course that seems to be like the IMWI course packed into 24 miles, and a run that climbs a "sand ladder". Yes please! I just know not to expect a PR performance here<br /><br />Roth<br />Germans love their triathlons and the crowd support on this course seems to be unrivaled. Add in the rich history of a race that is only 10 years old and a course that is surely willing to set you up for a IM distance PR, I can't help to wonder why this wouldn't be on my list. The german bier gardens as well provide for great post race recovery make this race hard to pass up. I figure I'll race Roth someday, once I can pull out from my retirement fund as their is a huge bike race that isn't too far away that would make for a great month visit to Europe.<br /><br />Ironman St. George<br />Bring back the old run course and count me in, but not until I learn how to run an IM marathon. This race in a lot of ways attracts me the same way that Leadman does as well. I really cannot picture many other races that offer the spectacular scenery that St. George and the surrounding areas offer. Throw in a great location for post race activities and this race is on the list. <br /><br />Ironman Melbourne<br />We are still 4 weeks away from the inaugural race and I already want a piece of it. The course that is laid out is very untraditional of triathlon, no loops and it is all point-to-point. What may be a logistical issue, is a dream to race through 140.6 miles of Aussie land. Never been to Melbourne before, or even Australia for that matter and I couldn't think of a better way to explore the area for a first time. Maybe once my friends 10 year ban from Australia is up and he is living in Melbourne again I will make a trek "down under".<br /><br />Norseman<br />Okay so really I have no idea why this race is on here. Swimming in freezing temps, biking in horrid cold winds, and running a marathon with the last handful of miles up a steep mountain really epitomizers everything that I hate about each individual discipline and maybe that is why I have "interest" in this race. Anyone who even gives an attempt at this race has respect in my book. <br /><br />If you were wondering why Kona isn't on the list, well it is, it just deserves it's own post about why I want to race on the big island. <br /><br />Hopefully a can start to check off some of the boxes on this list next year!bcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3156672385013410718.post-18124757768020050232012-02-29T22:23:00.005-06:002012-03-04T23:01:28.050-06:00Leap Year= Extra Day of Training!Before I go on, NO, I did not do some crazy themed leap year workout/s today. While hearing about those taking advantage of the extra day and their plans, I had to resist the ridiculous idea and just get the work done that was written on the plan. Today that called for an 80 minute ride with a mainset that included a low cadence in zone 3 for a good portion, while changing positions in the saddle. Actually, come to think of it I did get some crazy workout in. Wall sits after each rep in the main set was included. Yep thats right, coach had me get off the bike, throw my body against the wall and sit for 30 seconds while I slowly slide down the wall dripping in sweat and having the dogs right on top licking all the sweat off my body. Okay so I may have just led you down the wrong path with the whole dog licking me thing, but well they like the salt!<br /><br />Today's workout concludes my first solid month with coach and working hard. I took a dive into my logs the other night from the past 2 years and I have more going for me now then I have in the past couple seasons. No broken arms, and as of now no snow on the ground. Oh, and I am feeling the best I ever have this early in the season too. With the season starting earlier then any other this year (April 21st) it's good that I was able to sneak in this extra day of training to prepare!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J7t4BLF7Swc/T076CeiRMrI/AAAAAAAAAOE/TbnnKmYQXCc/s1600/2012-02-29_22-22-31_973.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J7t4BLF7Swc/T076CeiRMrI/AAAAAAAAAOE/TbnnKmYQXCc/s400/2012-02-29_22-22-31_973.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5714779897643217586" /></a><br /><br />Bring on spring!<br /><br />BCbcaglehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01016498781878102197noreply@blogger.com0