Ironman CDA Completed!

(Mom and Dad for a finish line photo. It was great having them here to watch along with Kate and Aron)
(the finish! Thanks to the guy to my left for getting in my photo and looking at me? What is that about?)
?

140.6 completed!

Ironman Coeur D’Alene has come and gone. It is still sort of surreal that I completed a race that I trained eight month for. Having my whole family there was awesome along with the addition of my extended family (all those I knew working the events in the previous two years as well as those that have helped along the way with advice and product).

To say that race day conditions were perfect is a laugher. The first time at a North American Ironman they offered everyone the chance to do a Duathlon. Are you crazy, after training this long and hard, you think that 20mph winds, two foot swells and white caps would keep me out of the water? Not a chance! However some people did take that option and given the conditions it was probably smart of them to do so.
(Victor and I talk strategy a moment before the swim start. Yes Victor won the race in a time of 8:33:32)

The cannon sounded and the sea of racers took to the water like lemmings walking to the Cliffs of Moher. I did my best to get up front and avoid the thrashing normally felt while swimming in the middle of the pack. I made my way as best I could to the front but was caught about 2/3 of the way there and had to weave my way around slower swimmers. While doing so I received a kick to the chest by someone choosing to do the breaststroke, and a few knocks to the head from others swimming pretty much on-top of me. With the additional battering from the waves it was a great time. After completing the swim, I felt pretty good about my time 1:09 total. I was 280th out of the water from 2,200. I feel that if I had trained in an industrial size washing machine I could have done even better, as I would have been well prepped for the beating I took from the waves and winds that knocked us all around.

My swim to bike transition was good. No major issues with the wetsuit, as the strippers did a great job of pealing it off my legs. Everything I needed in my transition bag was set to go. However, my T1 bag was tied in a not, and I know that I didn’t due it. Why would I want to make it harder to get my shoes and helmet out? Off to the bike exit, feeling good, fresh and excited. As I put on my bike shoes, my right quad seized up and cramped like no other. I’m still not sure why this happened. But I do know that it hurt like a mother F*&(. So I quickly stretched it and was on my way.


The bike portion was great. I loved the course with the short climbs and rolling hills. The great views of Hayden Lake where breathtaking too (I took a moment to actually look around on the 2nd loop of the bike). My legs felt good and wanted to move on the bike, but I kept telling myself that I had to take it a little easy knowing I had two laps of the hills and headwinds (20mph). After 36 miles of the bike, I was still feeling strong but could still feel a little tightness and discomfort in my right quad. Funny as my Knee which I was concerned about was not even thought of, due to it feeling 100%. Crazy what race day and adrenaline will do. From the turn around and a few climbs afterwards, my legs started to cramp again causing some pedaling issues, this was nothing that a few hits from my hand wouldn’t loosen up, for a brief moment. The ride back into town on Gov’way was tons of fun, a false flat that was wide open leaving little me to battle the headwinds. What a great time that was and I knew there would be a rematch coming on the second lap! As I approached the special needs area, I made sure to stop, get my new bottles with PowerBar endurance formula and Carbopro. I also ate a Cookies & Cream PowerBar, a couple salt tables and some Ibuprofen for the knee just incase as I still had a marathon to run. After some more stretching of my left hamstring and right quad I was back on the bike after a 15min break it seemed like. I didn’t want to take that long, however I did need to stretch. While climbing the hill back into town I noticed a sign on the pavement in chalk, it was written by the family wishing me luck. It took me by surprise. Felt like I was in “The Tour” climbing the long steep mountain passes…. (loving the hills on this course, after all the training in Colorado!)

As I proceeded on the bike out to Hayden Lake again and back, my legs kept cramping on me, espically when I started to climb, so I started to stand on some of the hills to use different muscle groups thinking it would help. It did somewhat but it was not a cure for sure. After a few more stops on the bike to eat a few bananas (tired of gels and bars) and to stretch my legs I was back on the saddle and rolling into town headed to T2.

A quick pit-stop it seemed like for my second transition, 1 minute quicker then my first one. After taking some more salt tablets, putting on my flats, and hat I was off. Oh wait, need sunscreen! In the spirit of the Ironman and taking it all in, I hit up the 5 cute volunteers offering sunscreen application. They where all smiles and saying how much fun they’ve had all day, I’m sure it was for them. Thank you ladies for not letting me turn into a well turn turkey on course.

Once I started the run, I felt ok, but not 100% for sure. I knew that my legs had cramped up and now with a marathon ahead of me, I was wishing/praying they would hold up. About a mile in, I started to feel a little tired (not sure why) and my quad chose to cramp up. After a little stretch and some water/Gatorade at the aid station I was back on my horse. I was moving pretty well keeping focused on making it to each aid station and seeing how I felt. Running through downtown Coeur D’Alene was very cool, with folks cheering left and right for bikers and runners. Definitely a cooler experience to run this race then it has been working them and watching the last two years! (feeling OK, on this part of the run, only 1.5 miles in!)


Mile three of the run I hit the aid-station and chose to eat some pretzels (knowing I needed some salt) and a few chocolate chip cookies. I was tired of eating bars and gels. I didn’t think I could do it anymore. Why not cookies and pretzels? This was my routine for next 7-8 miles, two cookies, a handful of pretzels and a mixture of water and Gatorade. It was a very long 8 miles to say the least. The whole time I was out on the course I didn’t think if quitting. I knew that I could run/walk a marathon in the time before the cut off. That was a very long time when I started (almost 9 hours). I knew I wouldn’t be out there that long at least. The second (Yes I'm reaching for SALT! and I'm out..ahhhh)
lap of the run was much the same, but my goal was to negative split it (a seemingly easy task as it had taken forever for the first lap) a little more running and it was easy. Running in my state is sort of funny to say, it was the Ironman Shuffle, but with out the shuffling noise at least. I pushed on and when you are out of it and walking in a race like this you seem to strike up conversations with others and form packs to push each other. This happened to me around mile 16. Funny to listen to folks and why some signed up for the Ironman and how many others have done too. A few seasoned IM racers told me to drink the chicken broth for the salt/sodium content, as I was out of salt tablets. I gave in and had a cup at mile 20. Not to bad, but not the best too. I chose to give it one more try at mile 23 and wash it down with some Gatorade. As I was getting ready to dispose of my trash, I told a volunteer that the Chicken Broth was missing something. She asked what? I told her it needed the Chicken and Noodles. She laughed and said she’s look into that. At this point I just wanted something solid to eat!

A mile from the finish I chose to take it all in and enjoy the last moments of a very long day. Running down Sherman I was slapping out stretched hands from little kids lining the course. As I approached the finish line I could see Coach Shawn, and in the VIP tent my dad. My long day was completed! I crossed the finish line entering a close nit community/family of others crazy enough to call themselves “Ironman”.

After hugs from Shawn, and my father, I was looking for Mom. Where was she? In the VIP tent? Then out of the corner of my eye she appeared from around the corner of the Timex Truck. She came over and said “I missed it!?!?” “I had to go to the bathroom, and I can’t believe that I missed you cross the finish line”. Yes it is true, my mother who had held it for so long, thinking I was going to finish a little sooner, couldn’t wait any longer. Murphy’s law I guess. The first words to I said “I’m not doing it again, sorry”. That being I will not do another IM race for at least a year, and then I’ll see how I feel.

After doing the race I can say that it is true when people say that everyone’s Ironman Race is different. You have good moments and bad, it’s what you do that determines your character race outcome. At no point did I think if quitting. I just knew that it was going to be a longer day that I had expected. Knowing what I’ve learned from this race, that being to not expect a lot come race day and take what is given. This I hope will make my next Ironman Race an even better one physically and time wise too. I’ve also learned that walking a good portion of a marathon is painful!

Thanks to all of you for taking the time to read the blog entries as I took this journey. I feel like Humpty Dumpty, having fallen apart in August of last year, and now having all the pieces put back together again is a great feeling. Now once my Knee heals I’ll be all smiles. I have a doctors apt on Monday and MRI next week to see what is 100% going on and what needs to be done. I’ll keep you posted.

Thanks again and enjoy the photos. Also for your viewing pleasure Jenna’s husband did a little clip he posted on YouTube. Here is the link from the race of Jenna, Courtney and I doing IMCDA. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXD39n1mVTA

Sorry this entry seemed to be never ending. It was a long day, so a long entry is appropriate.

The night before

Twas the night before Ironman Coeur D’Alene and all through the town not an athlete was out and about, not even a seasoned pro. All the noise and hustle and bustle was coming from the event staff the grand circus ready for the big show.

All the training is done, the bikes are on racks and the water is awaiting 2,300 people to enter all at once. Yes a mass swim start of 2,300 of your closest soon to be friends. What a rush!

Well not much done today, a few tune-ups on the bike (no adjustments), staying off my feet as much as possible and lots of fluid intake. A trip to the movie theater with Trish to see Evan Almighty, which was pretty funny. Then a pre race meal at Outback. Sure why not? There was not wait and chicken was on the menu to it was perfect. No reason for Pasta as I’ve consumed it all week long and if I don’t eat pasta for the next month I’ll be a happy camper. Maybe it’s true when they say you are what you eat. I’ve eaten so much pasta that I’ve become so lean, and skinny like a dried piece of pasta.

Ok, time for bed or an attempt to sleep with my mind trying to count and chase those damn sheep I’ve been seeing all week since being here in Coeur D’Alene.

A big shout out and THANK YOU to my friends and all those that have given advice, tips, and trip along this journey I’ve chosen to take. It all means to much to me and I’d call you out by name but I’d fee like I’m at the Oscars trying to not forget anyone while the music is playing.

Tomorrow is the day. I’ll be sure to let everyone know how it goes if I’m able to write when it’s over.

Day 3 in Coeur D'Alene June 21st

Tuesday morning started out great. Everything seemed to be going as planned, the flight was on time, traffic was non-existent to the airport and the TSA security line moved along like a creek with fresh rain. Carole and I arrived at the gate with no major issues or hiccups. We even had the exit rows to stretch or legs which was a nice treat. To mention that this is a small world and even sport of triathlon is 100% true. On the plane I saw two friends I know, Koren from Florida and Mike from Chicago who will be racing on Sunday too.

The luggage wasn’t lost and seemed to be pretty much the first off thee belt which was nice, so we cruised over to the rental car terminal to pick up my chariot. No maps needed as this is my third trip to beautiful CDA in three years. On the trip Carole played a good DJ. Her choice in tunes was good, nothing to hard core and not a ton of Hip Hop which I thought would be due to her Hotlanta roots….Just kidding Sharpee. I guess traveling on the freeways of Denver and Boulder seem to give one a lead foot. As I was driving 69 in a 60 (normally a good pace to drive at or a little faster) and Officer Farvria pulled me over. That’s right I was pulled over. But I was also pulled over by a motorcycle cop who was on the side of the road.

Damn Him.
“Do you know why I pulled you over?” asked Officer Farvria
“NO.”
“I clocked you going a steady 69 in a 60”
I should have replied with when he asked why I pulled over “because you ran out of donuts and coffee and needed me to pick some up for you”.

My first ticket in 10 years and it was on the way to peaceful Coeur D’ Alene. Oh well shit happens. The kicker is that the cost of the ticket is $101 bucks.

After we got to CDA and settled a little Carole and I had some breakfast and then we where off to meet up with her friend Scott Riggsbee (an inspiration to everyone). He is a double leg amputee from the knees down. He is competing in his first Ironman, once he completes it he will be the first double amputee to do so. After meeting him, sharing training stories and see the drive and determination, not to mention the great personality and smile he seems to wear all the time. I realized that my sore knee is nothing in comparison to what Scott has endured to reach the point he is at now. He told me a story when he ran in a marathon a couple months back. His prosthetics didn’t fit right due to his weight lose, from training for the ironman, that it caused rubbing and bleeding. This blood just pooled in the cup of his prosthetic, which had to be dumped out every 15 mins or so. He sucked it up and completed the marathon in close to 6 hours.

So you ask, how is Jon’s Knee? It is great now. No reason to complain about it or even pay attention to the slight discomfort I have.

Last night, the parents, sister and brother in-law all arrived. It was great to see everyone for the first time since Christmas. Today we all had a great breakfast, Kate gave me a cool belated birthday present (Red Sox t-shirt that is in Irish Caelic). I showed them some of the great bike/run course (by car of course), toured the Expo area and introduced them to some friends along the way. Now after a great dinner of chicken and pasta is getting close to bed time. Have an early morning swim with Jenna at 7am to check out the sun glair. Ok my DQ Rootbeer float just arrived as my parents have returned. Off to enjoy that, ice the knee and hit the sack.

Fathers Day and Packing Day

Happy fathers day to my Pops and all you other dads out there.

What a great weather day here in Boulder for a sprint triathlon. Temps reached 97* degrees by the middle of the afternoon (long after the race had ended). Before I headed out to the race I made sure to take off my race bracelet (as I wasn’t going to race and had to get in the mind set that this race wasn’t to be). Once I got on site, my mind switched back to event mode and I was back in my element setting up tents, and making race day look as good as possible for all those involved. I was there on behalf of Zoot Sports as their Colorado Ambassador. The 5430 Sprint felt

like Zoot was present 110%. Barry Siff (race director) loved the set up of the tear drop flags and then the addition of the flags to the race start arch! As well as the staggered appearance at the swim exit. I will always love the hands on aspect of event marketing and race day. The ability to think on your toes, react to situations that you can’t foresee is a great rush, especially when the job gets done just in the nick of time.


Once the race and awards had been handed it out it was time to get my workout in for the day. Off to the pool for a semi-long swim at a nice easy pace. After the swim feeding my face with anything in sight was on the agenda. Love that part of the day! Once I had recharged with about 3 turkey burgers and some macaroni salad it was time to pack my bike, as it is being shipped off to Coeur D’Alene tomorrow via FedEx. Best way to go as there is less hassle on the plane and in the airport.


Now that the bike is packed the other part starts to sink in, I’m doing a flipping Ironman Race in 7 days! I am so stoked to do this race. It was the first Ironman Race I witnessed two years ago, staying up until Midnight and helping the last runner make it to the finish line just under the midnight cutoff. After going back last year I had been infected by the Ironman Bug. So 330 day from signing up is now down to 7.


Well I need to go and double check my packing list. Sort of like Santa does (still believe in him, don’t you?) before taking off the night before Christmas. I don’t want to get to CDA and realize that I left my Zenith Wetsuit on my floor or closet.

Before I go, for those of you who are interested in tracking my race day progress I have been given my bib number. I’m number 452. You can check the race at www.ironman.com. You’ll want to click on the Ironman live tab at the top. From there you’ll want to click on Track an Athlete.

Off to finish checking that list and eating the cookies and chocolate milk left out for me by me! You thought I was going to say left for Santa...

Knee'd to know

Well folks, it is June 16th and the knee is still being a big pain in the arse but really a pain in the knee. I have been doing PT, ice, heat and massage. It has improved leaps and bounds (I haven’t been jumping) but I do feel a difference each day for the better.

I did a test ride on it today, along part of the 5430 sprint course in Boulder. Felt good on a majority of the ride. On a pain scale of 1-10 (10 being the worst) I hit 4,5, and 6. Once I hit 6 I changed a few gears and spun trying to move my knee/foot on the pedal to see how it felt then. Overall it was much better to ride on it this time then my ride outdoors almost two weeks ago. I finished my ride with some nasty head/side winds at 30+mph and with some discomfort but NO major pain. I actually wanted to get off the bike and run. But did NOT.

I can’t believe that Ironman Coeur D’Alene is now only 7 days away and I leave on Tuesday June 19th. I was in Boulder working the Zoot Sports tent for the race expo today, helping see the best wetsuit and some of the finest race apparel on the market. I was getting all jazzed up to race (I had an entry but bagged the race due to the knee not being 100% and knowing that my Ironman is more important) and it is hard to be around those folks,wanting to race to test the knee and see how it will be. But staying on course and doing as I’m doing will be best for my race.

Scott Geffre today lent me his 606 Zipp; Wheels as he said my 404’s are slow. So I hope to make him proud and do the best I can with the sick set of race wheels. My bike looks so damn good now. I just need to make sure engine is working on all cylinders.

OK, my pizza is digging in the oven (thanks Devin and Jen for the Chicago deep dish, BEST Birthday gift idea...LOVE IT). I’m off to eat, ice the knee and then go to bed. Early morning as I’m headed back up to Boulder for the race to shoot for Zoot and 5430 Sports.

Cheers everyone

Knee'd to know, update

Ok, so last Sunday I did the 100mile elephant rock ride. Again a good time minus the knee pain I had towards the end after mile 60.

This week I’ve been taking it easy and babying the crap out of the knee. A forced taper you can say. On Wednesday I visited the PT next to our office and he was kind enough to look me over for no charge (avid cyclist himself). He informed me that I had hit my knee on the leg of the table just right and with all the working out that I’ve been doing it just compounded the sensitiveness of the area. So the diagnosis is that I’ve severely bruised the cartilage behind the knee cap. The inflammation in the area is also causing my meniscus to become aggravated too.

So doctors order: Rest the knee, meaning don’t do anything stupid such as running for a week and a half. Spin in a small chain ring on trainer and everyone’s favorite workout, Auga-jog! So I haven’t done a lot this week but ride my bike twice and swam. I’m headed out to swim and do some aqua-jogging here in a little while. I must say that having followed orders and keeping my knee up and iced as much as possible has been paying off. Not to mention taking ibuprofen too (not that I like taking pills/drugs) but it does help with the inflammation and irritation. From a week ago I’d say that the knee is now about 85%-89%. Why not 90%, why not. It’s like moving up in an age group during race season and I’m not quite there yet for the recovery. I think that if I hadn’t turned 30 on Wednesday I may feel like its 90% by now.

The spin today on the trainer on a pain scale of 1-10 (10 being the worst) felt like a 3-4. It was more annoying then painful. I could feel a slight irritation. Unlike last Sunday when I could barely push-down on the pedals with out wanting to grind my teeth or cry.

What have we learned from this?
1) My body is not as invincible as I thought.
2) A knee injury is not anything to be stupid about in trying to rush a recovery. Listen to your body and those educated in the field around you.
3) This can be a blessing in order to help me taper and recover for the big day 14 days away from today. Keep icing and doing the exercises the PT has me doing to flush out the inflammation/scaring on the cartilage too.
4) Ice really does make things feel better

Have a great rest of your weekend folks or what’s left of it. I’m off to some work done on the bike and hit the pool for a swim and aqua-jog.

I'm now 30? Crazy to think that.

Well it has been a few weeks since my last entry. Sorry for that to my friends who seem to check on the blog updates regularly.

To say the least I’ve been a little busy with work and training. More training then work it seems. Not true but it seems like that with early morning run/swims and afternoon bike rides. All wile trying to fit in eating for 12 plus hours a day. I never knew that I would think that eating over a pound of pasta, chicken sauce and a salad wouldn’t be enough to make a dent in my stomach. I’ve found eating to be more like a part-time job which makes you work overtime. I eat pretty much anything in sight but have found a few items that I’ve grown to love. That being a few glasses of cold chocolate milk! What a great creation.

On the training side, things have been going great over the last couple weeks. I’ve had some killer bike ride with my friend Andrew Johnson


who is racing in Roth’s Ironman race in Germany at the end of June as well. He’s shown me a few great long 90+ mile routes that we’ve hammered on at about 20mph. Great to ride with someone who is a few notches above to push me a little harder. During our journeys we’ve come across a few odd sites and with a new addition to my camera family (digital go pro hero) I was able to snap a few of these on the bike ride. Yes while pedaling and going 18+mph. I was wearing a helmet (don’t worry mom…ha ha)

(the coolest tree house i've seen. In the middle of no-where on a ride with AJ)


This past weekend was packed for high volume. A great two hour run on Saturday morning followed by a fifty minute run later in the day. Sunday caped off the weekend with a 100+ mile ride at Elephant Rock followed by a run. I was right on track up until I ate brunch on Saturday morning. While eating I banged my right knee on the tables leg. Not much of a thought given to hit, except it hurt for an instant. During the second run of the day my knee became a little sore but nothing major that required me to stop. So I continued on for the last 25 minutes. Sunday morning when I stepped out of bed, I could hardly put weight on it. Just thought it was stiff and needed to stretch. So I did and it felt all better once I used the TP Massage Ball rollers. (check it out, really a workout life saver. www.tpmassageball.com ) Elephant Rock Ride started out good with a steady warm-up pace with friends. Around mile 40 my right knee started to get sore and painful as I pushed down on the pedal. I tried to pull more on the upstroke keeping my feet light on the pedals. This was good except for when I had to climb the many hills on the course. No matter, no pain no gain right? WRONG! I finished the ride in just under 5 hours which I was very happy with considering my knee hurt and a slight head wind for the last 25 miles of the ride. As I started my transition run I could put any weight on my knee. I had to stop, massage it and realize that the run just wasn’t going to happen. I put me in a bad mood, as I wanted to nail the long workout day. Coach told me to “ice the shit out of it and NOT run”. So I listened to the advice and did just that.

Today was a test day for the knee which didn’t go the way I had hoped. Having iced the knee for two days at work and home, I was headed out on a planned two hour lunch ride. Five miles into the ride the knee flared up with great pain. So I tried to spin for the last 13 miles and get some time in. The whole ride sucked as the knee just didn’t feel any better during any point of the ride. So I axed the run and returned to my desk to ice again.

Having this nagging injury now is a good mental test I guess. One that I very much hate, espically with the timing. I’m thinking that I just busted my ass for over 5 months to have the last three weeks seem like shit due a stupid accident with a table during a brunch. Come on now. This can’t be happening.

A few years ago I would have tossed my cares to the wind and said screw it, while I went for the run on a bum knee. Now that I’m older and turned 30 (today….holly crap it is weird to see that in writing) I realize that this is the best thing, taking time off to heal it. Maybe I need the extra time due to old age too..lol.

Well only 18 days until the race starts. Once I get my race number I’ll be sure to supply you all with that so you may track my race progress as it unfolds.

I’ll be sure to update this as little more regularly as I get closer to the big race day. Thanks for reading and the words of encouragement. Yes I’m really 30 now?!?!?!


here are a few more swim images from wildflower. Thanks again to Karen and Eli at Zootsports for the best wetsuit on the market! That of course being the Zenith!

A fine line we walk/run

It’s been a good week of moderate workouts since Wildflower. Saturday was crazy working at Bicycle Village during the “Tent Sale”, fun to work with Scott and AJ however. Sunday was a perfect Colorado Day. Temps in the mid 80’s with some slight winds.

Sunday was a long ride out in Boulder and Estes Park at a moderate pace. Of course moderate means “push it” once in a while. Nothing crazy as I’m still keeping an eye on the hamstring, which by the way has seemed to heal quite nicely thanks to my Chiro Dr. Terry.

The title of the blog “A fine line”, we all know it and we all walk it too. We all try to push the limits while training and just living life. Thinking that riding our bike on a 28 degree day up Lookout Mountain is a good idea while the sun is out. Great ride on the way up while you burn up and sweat. The ride down is a different story. Flying down icy snow covered roads at 30+ mph all while your fingers turn into ice-pops, pretty much is the Wrong side of the “line”. While all of my training I feel has been spot on, I have tested myself and pushed a little harder somedays and backed off on the days I’m not feeling so 100%. So I’ve been listening to my body and that is good. Today I listened to my body, and followed the training plan. What I did NOT listen to was the weather forecast. A planned 50 minute run, no problem. Thunderclouds in the boulder area on the drive home, no worries, I’m headed home. Storm clouds in the Denver metro area, not to threatening.

Off to Wash-park for the run. One lap in and I’m feeling fleet a foot, fresh and pick up the pace a little. As I start on the back stretch of the park, the clouds turn jet black, the winds pick up with insane gust of 20+ mph. I keep on running listening to my Ipod. Great song, can’t stop now! The rain starts and the winds are steady, nothing like running in the rain. The rain started nice and easy, as people in the park and trail scattered like ants from one picnic to the next, I just kept on running thinking that it wasn’t that bad. Well I was the one who was wrong. The rain picked up and I picked up the pace to finish my second lap, or that was the thought. Half way through the rain turned to hail and heavy winds. It was stupid outside and I was running? Why? I was stuck in the middle of nowhere with about a mile to my car. The lighting was illuminating the dark sky while the hail fell feverishly. I tried to run in the hail for a little while it was still the size of peas. Then it started to hurt and sting as they increased to the size of grapes. So I took cover under a tree. Not much relief there. I was cold, wet, and being pinged by hail. While under the tree a couple joined me for a brief moment to seek shelter from the storm..ha ha. They where kind enough to offer me shelter in their car just 20 yards away. With that offer came a ride to my car too. What a life saver they were. If it wasn’t for Nate and Jessica, I’d be under a tree still shivering like a falling leave. So thanks to the kindness of strangers who share the same passion and stupidity of running in a thunderstorm!

Next time I’ll be sure to not only listen to my body while training but also the weather man, even thought they correct 90% of the time about being wrong 50% of the time.

Wildflower Recap

(Erin Kummer, Myself and Tim Hola)

Well the trip to Wildflower was a good time. I went out there to have fun and work on a few things, such as nutrition, the swim and bike and just enjoy the run as if it was a long training run with friends.

Leading up to the race it was great to see friends from Zoot, PowerBar, Laura and Colleen from Cal Tri and Grady from Clif Bar. Thursday was pretty much arrival day, re-building my bike and getting settled. Billy and Erin where in the crew and it was lots of laugh from the moment we sent food shopping.

I can say that camping is part of the tradition at Wildflower and I was spoiled sleeping in the RV the last couple years. I wish I took Andy and Justin up on their offer to sleep in the RV too. Oh well, I wanted to be like the majority of racers and tent it out. Erin who talked me into camping bunked out and took Billy Edwards (pro friend) up on the offer to take a spare bed at the house he was at.

Friday was a day of easy workouts, a photo-shoot for Blueseventy and their Timex/Helix wetsuit. Tim and Erin did a great job of not laughing or smiling to much like they did at Team Camp in April..Thanks ya’ll.

AJ and Billy (Colorado Boys)

To say that I didn’t sleep much is true. I think that I may have only gotten 4 hours of sleep, not great the night before a race. It was great to know that it happens to others and people I respect and look-up too as athletes and people. Tim Hola was kind enough to let me know that he too has butterflies the night before races and that it’s a good thing. I can say that getting to know Tim over the weekend was fun and seeing the other side of people is great. If no-one knows Tim, I can say that he is one of the best Top elite age group triathlons out there. If anyone can have a mentor in the sport, Tim should be on everyone’s list. So thanks Tim for the support and advice. Wish you the best in the rest of you season and see you around Denver.

OK, Race day and it’s time to space out, get my head in order and ready to race. I was looking forward to the swim, especially in my Zenith Zoot Suit. Once the horn sounded, I dashed to the front of the line knowing I could hang and create some distance. The first leg of the swim was awesome. I was seeing different colored caps from waves 10min prior to mine. I was in good form. Then we hit the turn buoy and the winds created some nasty choppy water that wasn’t so fun to swim in. I can say that all those years of being the family dingy getting the boats in Sebago Lake back in Maine came in handy swimming in the chop. I kept up my form even though I slowed a little in the waves.

(Swim images, and may do I make the Zenith look good in the water..hope you like it Karen)

The bike ride was a good test and hilly course. The 20mph headwinds did a number on a lot of racers. Times where slow across the board and I wasn’t too happy with how I rode. I realized after the race that in my spaced out mind, I had laced a 9 speed cassette on the race wheel and NOT my 10 speed... Damn it that is why Nasty grade was so flipping hard. Again a good test and learning experience to take away. Make sure I double check my crap before I leave!
(The start of the bike leg)

The run started out good. I felt comfortable after a minor adjustment with my race shoe. I did take off a little to fast for only being on a “long run with friends”. I dialed it back a little and found a good comfort zone at 8min/mile. Then the hills on the run kicked in and I took it easy and pushed a few when I saw a few guys in my age group pass me. Probably not the best idea as I felt a slight pull on my left hamstring. I didn’t think much of it and ran through it. Around mile four with a large steady climb, I tried to pick up the pace again when I felt a pull on my left hamstring this time. One so hard and tight that I had to stop and massage it for a second. I stretched it and tried to run again. My hamstring wasn’t going to have any part of that. At the aid station I asked for some medical hoping to wrap the leg and keep on running easy. No luck. I was told that if Medical came to me, I’d be DQ. So I chose to make the run a mental test and gut it out. I took the Jeff Galloway program of Running/walking into full effect for the last nine miles of the run. To say it was painful is an understatement. I am happy that I did gut it out and finish the race even if it was as slow as possible.

(the finish of a very long day, but a positive one, for what I found in it)

Over all it was a fun weekend, seeing old friends, meeting new ones and catching up overall. I want to give a big shout out to Tim and Erin for having an awesome race both winning their age groups and making Team Timex standout.

Thanks for reading and keep checking in as I’m only 45 days away from my Ironman Race. To say that out loud is a little crazy. Only seems like yesterday that I had signed up. Cheers.

Andy thanks for taking the race day photos for me mate, see you at IM-CDA!

3 days until Wildflower :)

I’ve been making my packing list and checking it twice. I don’t think I’ve forgotten anything. Oh wait, I need to take my bike... Now that would be very funny, only for an instance.

It’s the day prior to departure for Wildflower and I can’t wait. I think I have everything I need all while trying to pack light since we’re camping! I must say that the Zoot Tri Bag is the only way to travel. I have all my race gear, in the backpack and then sum. When I say ALL my race gear I mean all my race gear, minus my bike of course. The built in check list actually comes in handy too. It mentions sunscreen which I left off my personal list. I need sunscreen for sure. I just received some new goggles from Ben Bigglestone at BlueSeventy. You should check them out as they are some of the most comfortable goggles I’ve tried in 4 years. Looking forward to wearing them on race day.

With hardly any cell phone service at Wildflower and no computer (a nice break) I’ll send a race recap on Monday most likely. My goal is to have fun, work on nutrition, pace on the bike/run portions and to monitor my Sport Hernia. Luckily it has not flared up as of late, so all is promising. But after Ironman in June it’s going to need to be repaired. So we’re keeping an eye on it this race.

Have a great rest of the week and weekend. Thanks for reading and the support!

Cheers,

California here I come again!

Wildflower is right around the corner. I can’t wait to get to CA and see some friends and race such a hard course. A big thanks for my great friend Laura Miller and her folks over at Tri-Cal for their support and the hook-up on the Race Entry. I have to cross that finish line now.

With that crossing the line in mind, this past weekend was very busy. I had a long ride planned for Saturday, but working at BV cut into that. Sunday was going to be a nice fun 5mile road race followed by a short day at BV. When I woke, I felt bad about not getting in the long ride so I chose to ride the trainer for about 2 hours prior to the run. Since I live close to Cherry Creek, I ran 3 miles to the start of the race. Just as Coach and I had talked about on Friday. A 25 minute warm-up getting to the cattle corralled runners with about 3 minutes prior to the start. The race was starting good, but around mile three when I tried to pick up the pace and sit in cruise control, I realized that I should have eaten more food before the ride and run. The tempature hovered around 75 for the run and it felt like that too. My sun burn can prove it too :). After the run I hung out for about 10 minutes taking in some water and a small stretch to get a cramp out of my calf. Then it was a light 3 mile run home and off to BV to work on a few bike fits and everything else under the sun needed by customers.

The poor showing at Cherry Creek Sneak put me in sour mood, but I have to realize it’s not a race, but more a training day. I did learn from it. I know that I needed more fuel in my tank prior to ever starting anything that day.

I’m stoked to go to Wildflower with Erin whom I met at Team Timex, and Tim Hola who I’ve known a couple years now from PowerBar. Two great people and super athletes whom embody all that the sport is.

Time for bed now, as I had a good swim today and a nice 1.5 hour bike ride while watching “Hero’s”. Tomorrow is the last Basketball game of the season for us at AMG and then it’s home for more packing to make sure I don’t forget anything.

Yet another trip to San Diego!

This entry is not a repeat. I’m writing from CA again. Yes I did return to Colorado on Sunday the 15th of April. I just returned to California yesterday. I am in town for yet another FJ Trail Team event. This time we’re activating during the 24 hours of Granny Gear Mountain Bike race at Vail Lake. About 1 hour north of San Diego.

I was been able to get a nice run in today and some free weights at least, with a free pass from the hotel to Gold’s Gym. Tomorrow will be a long swim at 24 hour fitness and then afternoon set up for the crews at the expo site.

I am way overdue for photos for ya'll. So please enjoy some event images from Sea Otter and the FJ Trail Teams. On a side note, as many of you know, I love to eat and I tend to eat pretty much anything. While here I found a new cookie. It’s from Chips Ahoy and it is a ‘Chewy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip’. Out of this world! If you come across a bag, I recommend you try them.

I hope everyone has a great rest of the week and keep updated on this as more entries will follow as Wildflower is around the corner and then Ironman Coeur D’Alene.

Sea Otter Bike Classic and Sea Level Training

Well I’m on a plane again headed to San Jose, California for yet another FJ Trail Team event. Who will be at the Sea Otter Bicycle Classic in picturesque Monterey.. Sea Otter is the biggest and best bike event start the season. 60,000 people over 4 days will attend, race, catch up over last years stories and hopefully test drive the FJ Cruiser.

This past weeks training went well. I was on schedule for all that was asked of me by Shawn and Peter. The bike rides where indoors due to the ever changing weather of Colorado. Have to love that fact that it is April and we’ve seen more snow this month then all of March. With the new friends I made at the Team Timex camp from shoot, I’ve found that the tri community is very small and six degrees of separation are more like two or three.

At camp I became friend with a few of the Colorado natives and have gone a few training runs with Erin Kummer who is a great athlete and person to be around. She’s full of energy and has a great view on the sport. Well grounded and she loves the challenge of the race and training. This past Saturday she invited me out to Boulder for a Trainer Ride (cold and icy outside) at her coach and friends house Joanna Zeiger. That’s right “THE” Joanna Zeiger. I have know the Zeige’s for a year working on PowerBar and think the world of them so I couldn’t say no at the chance to see Mark and Joanna again while doing a training ride in her basement. It was a good time and memory lane was well visited along with a different view of how great Mark and Jo are. After the ride we went to dinner with a few of their friends and talked Tri, movies and the crazy weather. Good times had by all.

The next day I had a long run 90 minutes worth and I was crossing my finger during the night that the snow would stop so I could run outside. I awoke to what seemed like a movie set. Large snowflakes where falling and sticking to tree limbs and the ground, and accumulating fast. Erin called me see what the conditions where like in D-town(Denver) as she made mention that Boulder had overcast skies and semi mild temps. So why not do a long run with a cute girl in Boulder. So I made the Easter trek to Boulder and he headed out for a now 120 min run. 20 minutes into it life was great. No wind and no snow, until Erin asked me why I wasn’t or didn’t wear sunglasses or eyewear. I said “it’s overcast and not snowing”. Right then and there I jynked myself, as the snow started to fall ever so gently from the clouds. As our run time increased so did the intensity of the snow. It was very calming and relaxing actually, yet annoying at the same time without glasses to keep the flakes from getting into my eyes. The last two/thirds of my run I felt like a battering-ram running with my head down to cut the wind and keep my eyes shielded from the falling snow.

We finished the run in good spirits but hungry for food and Eater Eggs. No, we didn’t see any hidden eggs on the run, but I was looking for some, as they should have been easy to spot, all bight and painted in the white snow. Oh well there is always next year.

Overall the week and weekend of training was a blast, hanging out with good people and training with people that get what I’m doing as they are in the same boat but at a much faster pace. During the long run my side stitch in the lower right groin area flared up a little and forced me to Jeff Galloway the last 3 miles or so. More news on the cause of the side pain in the next entry once the doctor has had time to exam the images from the ultrasound.

Well folks I hope that you’re well and Spring is actually visiting you, as I know I have to try and find it in CA again since she only teased us in Colorado. Until you read again. Cheers.

Ignite the filre...Race Season has Started...

Well folks it official now. The start of the race season is upon us. I was just in Oceanside, CA for the 70.3 race (half Ironman race) shooting for Timex. I must say that it got the blood flowing and made me very excited for my half Ironman at Wildflower which is 4 weeks away followed by my Ironman in June.

The determination and drive for the people on the course was great. The fans showed up in full force with their hands clapping and vocal cords turned up high. The race had a definite chill in the air before it started, with temps in the high 40’s to low 50’s. It was a great sight when the sun broke over the roof tops.

It was a great race overall and being able to see friends in the community I know and love so much was an added bonus.

Once the race was completed, I hoped in a truck with a few friends from Timex and joined the rest of the New Timex Team at their camp to shoot all their photography for weekend. The trip was great with a ton of laughs, talking race strategies with the various athletes and friends who will be doing their first Ironman too. That being Keith Myers of Timex. He and his wife are doing Lake Placid. GO Keith!

During the Timex Camp we shot product images as well as some images for their new Bike Sponsor, Trek who is showcasing the new TTX Equinox. What a great bike that is. Sunday morning with the marine fog overhead Treks photographer took four riders out and I jumped in the fan too. Doing some crazy riding images that gave me new insight as to how some things are done on a photo shoot. It was awesome. Nothing like sticking half my body out of a mini fan doing 30mph with a two thousand dollar camera to get close up images.

While here I had the opportunity to do some training, so not to get out of shape for my races. Thanks to the folks at Timex and Team Sports for their flexibility and opportunity to help them out.

Now it is back to the great home of Colorado and the running trails of Boulder!

Is it Spring yet?

Ok, I haven’t been astute about writing and I’m sorry about that. Things here in the great state of Colorado have been great. I think that Spring has actually arrived and it’s NOT going anywhere! We had a nice thunderstorm the other day with floods and lighting! Good thing it took place on my day off. Yesterday it down poured but let up late in the afternoon. So my 2 hour bike ride took place on the trainer while watching a movie, followed by a 40 minute transition run, took place outdoors in the light ran. It was perfect and refreshing.

Earlier in the week I went for a run with Howard (director in the office) along the trails in South Boulder. He showed me around gave me a lay of the land. All I can say is that it was running Nirvana. The air was fresh, the trail soft beneath my feet and relaxing on the mind. I can’t wait to run on the trails later next week.

Today I had a nice long run early in the morning. Great day with 47 degree temps and 5mph winds from the north. After the run it was off to work at Bicycle Village here in Denver, where I picked up the 2nd job last week. I help on the sales floor, fitting bikes, product ambassador for Zoot Sports and the great new wetsuit “Zenith”.

Next weeks workouts are still in the works, but swimming will be key as I have to get ready for Wildflower’s long course (1/2 Ironman distance race). That race is May 4th and can’t wait to race it after working it the last couple years. I want to thank Laura Miller and Tri Cal for their generosity in comping my entry for the race too.

Have a great week everyone and keep posted for past race photos form the winter. Cheers!

A week in the desert of Anza Borrego, CA

Currently as my fingers type across the keyboard, I’m flying back to Denver, Colorado after a week in Borrego Springs training our new field crew for their promotion. Training did include some classroom time and best of all some 4 wheeling in the desert. This consisted of hills climbs, rock crawling (really cool to see the suspension of the car work and how to engage the suspensions to your favor by “left foot” braking. We also had the crew practice recovery tactics (pulling FJ Cruisers ‘vehicle for promotion’ out of deep sand and even when they are high-centered too, sort if like getting stuck on top of a turtle shell…ha ha).

Overall it was a great week of 4 wheeling and thawing out in the desert sun. However it wasn’t as warm as I wished or expected for southern California standards. Temps ranged in the mid 50’s to low 60’s with only a day or two in the 70’s. We had some rain the first night and a windstorm with blowing sand, very crazy to see first hand. Then to add to it, at 3,500 feet there was snow in the mountain tops, so awaking in the morning for a run, I saw a rainbow and snow atop some of the mountain tops on their west face.

I was able to do a couple runs while out in the desert, but unfortunately not as many as I needed or even the important long run of over a 1:30. Lots of my excuses stem from staying up late (not drinking) but talking shop with co-workers and clients about what we can do to tweak the Trail Team experience and ideas for later dates and even in the following year. The runs that I was able get in were great and peaceful, both at sunrise and sunset. I did notice that my night run was short as I didn’t really want to run into the wild coyotes as there are an abundance walking around and howling. A few snake tracks could be seen too that I didn’t want to meet first hand.

The highlight of the week wasn’t running in the desert but 4 wheeling and getting to see the crews in their element. Doing some of the things with the FJ Cruiser that we did, especially, the FJ I had (was stock, just off the showroom floor, nothing aftermarket or special, like 3 inch lift and fat tires). It was insane to look up at this hill and know my goal was to “fail” the hill climb as it was instructed, so

we drove halfway up and then had to back down in a straight line. Then we hit a few steep down hills in soft dirt and washouts. The rock climbs where the best by far! The high speed flat sections where cool too, with tops speeds of 50mph on 3-4 inch of loose sand underfoot and taking S turns like it was nothing, kicking out the backend of the FJ and letting off the gas so the front tires would bite for better traction. I learned that trick from one of the professional drivers Kevin Hans from NH that was out to help with training.

Well pictures speak a thousand words, so I hope that you enjoy the ones I’ve included and it speaks better then how I’ve tried to describe my last week and first time 4 wheel to you. If you’re interested in the FJ Trail Teams, the promotions I helped launch, check out our their website at www.fjtrailteams.com

warm weather training

This week has been a little uneventful training wise compared to last week with the conversation atop Lookout Mountain with the police officer This week consisted of only a really bad basketball game on Tuesday the 13th (we lost by a ton 30points). We played the best team in the men’s league. We played well for the first 10 minutes keeping it close, that being a ten point deficit. Then all of our shots seemed to be hitting a manhole cover over the rim. While all of their shots just fell through and touched nothing but twine.

The best part of the game was when two tall Jones (tallest player on their team) was on a fast break and I tried to stop him. Standing my ground, and covering the family jewels. I took a charge! It was a little crazy with this guy jumping up. For a moment I thought he was going to jump right over me. I could see part of his leg (knee) up by my chin. It was insane to see him jump that high. Who said white men can’t jump. This guy did, I saw it and felt it first hand.

After that point of the week, nothing much else really happened that was to exciting. Just the normal running and biking and lifting. I however have started to see the chiropractor again to help with all the nuances that come the miles of training. I have felt a big difference in power on the bike and a little less pain on my IT-band while running too.

Yesterday was the final race of the series for Chilly Cheeks Duathlon. What a perfect bluebird day it was (bluebird for those not familiar with the term, equals a blue-sky day, not a cloud in the sky). The temperature was 36 degrees at the start of the race. 18 degrees warmer then the last one on Jan 20th (still waiting the race photos to arrive so I can post them for you). The roads were clear of any snow pack and or ice making the running more enjoyable and the bike that much faster. Due to the clear roads and full ten miles of biking compared to breaking it up 4 and 6, I rode with clipless pedals, helping me to average 19mph on my cycle-cross bike. I think that must have been pretty good for racer number 71 (Sam Wood)who decided to draft off me (non-draft legal race mind you) for about 2 miles and up a slight 400 ft incline. Once we crested the top he passed me and rode off. I did catch him on the run, so it was my payback. The best part of him drafting off me, he had a full tri bike with aero bars and zipp wheels. I guess it goes to show that you can’t really buy speed, all the time! I was pleased with my performance, finishing under an hour at 59:44, twenty minutes faster then the first race. Some of that had to due with the course being cleared, and not having to run through snow up to my knee caps.


Some big news before I depart for another week. On Wednesday I was selected to be a member for Team Polar for the Colorado and Denver Metro Area. After reading about some of my team members via email, I can say that we’re looking to have a great season out here and the training rides / runs for those who live close will help a ton, as many of them are planning on a long course race.

Well I’m off to San Diego for work for a week and some warm weather runs. Have a great week everyone and talk at you later. Hope you enjoy some of the images from this past weeks race.

Spring in Denver!

Today was a day that Denver has known as typical winter. Temps in the high 50’s to low 60’s and snow in the mountains where it belongs for all those skiers.

You can tell that everyone seemed to have cabin fever, just itching to get out and ride their new bikes on a bluebird day. (bluebird being clear sky’s).

As we started out Sunday ride from the parking lot of Starbucks and did the 10 mile warm-up to the base of Lookout Mountain, we came across another Starbucks. Go figure. They really are on every street corner in America. We rolled up on this one Starbucks and there where 25-30 riders hanging out and talking about their planned rides. You just knew it was going to be a busy day full of people who love the outdoors and I’m one of them here in Colorado!

Today we rode up Lookout Mountain again. I did one and half climbs. After the first one, I left the crew as they did a second climb, to go and do a few rollers to work on speed and maintained cadence at an average of 22mph over the rollers.

Funny thing happened as I crested the first hill. I was going downhill at 34mph. 10mph over the speed limit for cars. Out of the corner of my left eye I noticed a police car on a side street. As I passed the street I saw his lights come one and he let the siren go off once as he approached me. He rolled down his window and asked to talk to me on the side of the street….NO JOKE. I was a little taken aback. I thought it was because I had earphones in but it wasn’t that. He didn’t care. He asked me for identification and where I had come from. He explained to me that he was looking for someone that I matched a description of. That being, a man of his mid 20’ to early 30’s on a bike in a blue outfit. I had a blue jacket on. He also mentioned that this guy didn’t seem to be mentally right due to the activities that the community / neighborhood members had called and complained about. I know that I’m not mentally right for wanting to ride on freezing days and for doing an Ironman race itself.

In the end, I was able to continue on my way and the officer asked if I saw someone looking like me or similar that I notify him as he was potentially dangerous. During the rest of the ride, I didn’t seem to come-across anyone of that match. Good thing I guess.

The rest of the day was great. Nice easy ride down Lookout to my car, followed by a easy transition run to stretch the legs and get them used to running right afterwards.

Moving forward this week, basketball on Tuesday again and then the last Chilly Cheeks race on Saturday. I’ll be sure to let you know how it goes. I’m still waiting for my photos to post on the blog with you all.

I hope everyone has a great week and keep in touch ya’ll. Jen F. I'm working on photos for you and others...stay tuned.

Super Bowl Sunday....

I know it has been a couple weeks since I last wrote. Sorry for that. I’ve been a little busy here on the work front and training front too. Last weekend I was up in the Colorado Mountain at Solvista filming a few short web-commercials for my client with Warren Miller! That was a great time, seeing how the ins and outs work of making a commercial. It was so cold up there I must tell you. We woke every morning to temps on average of minus 10. That’s right! On day one we reached a high temp of 8 degrees, I’m just happy that it wasn’t windy out. Once our commercials go live on the web, I’ll be sure to include the link for you to all view and check out our handy work.

As training goes. It’s been steady and that is a good thing. I’ve had to re-arrange a few workouts from one day to the next but they have been completed. Lots of running on the treadmill which is starting to get to me. Even thought I have enough music to start a store. I can’t wait for the tons of snow to clear the sidewalks and local parks so I can run outside. The temps will also have to rise too as lately the minus temps are not my friend outdoors. However this past weekend was ideal… Our temps here reached 45 degrees and on Super Bowl Sunday that means it’s a great day for an outdoor bike ride. Especially since my Patriots didn’t play and I had money on the Colts and knew they where going to win! So what does one do? Go on a 39 mile bike ride that will kick anyone’s ass. There where four of us, Cody, Eric, Andy and I. We headed south to Red Rocks; west on Grapevine Mountain (8 mile climb at 9%) then over to the west side of Lookout Mountain with another monster steady climb before we even hit the top. Then, finally down hill on the east side of Lookout into Golden, Colorado and back to the starting point, Starbucks. When it was all said and done, we traveled 39 miles in 3 hours 19 minutes while climbing over 4,000 feet in elevation! That was followed by a short run and a long nap….

I must say that I thought just a ride up Lookout was good enough to be called “epic”. No way. This was more epic then just a ride up Lookout, and it probably felt worse as I’m still out of shape. So as the weather gets warmer and these rides become more consistent they will get a little easier.

Moving forward as soon as I get the photos from the “Chilly Cheeks” race from a couple weeks ago, I’ll be sure to post those for you to look at too. The final “Chilly Cheeks” race of the series will be on Feb 17th. My goal is to do a little better then the last one and just enjoy the different format of riding my cross bike and running in the snow.

Hope you are all well and if you’re in the Midwest…It was only a matter of time until the cold found you. Sorry folks.

First race of 07!

Well more snow this weekend. That’s right! It makes five weeks in a row. We received 6” of fresh new snow today. Just as the temps started to warm up mid week another blast of cool artic air and warm southern moister hit Denver!

At least it held off until today, Sunday. Yesterday turned out to be ok weather wise for the “Chilly Cheeks Duathlon” which I participated in with a friend Jodi. The high at the start of the race was 20 degrees with overcast skies and a few snow showers. The course was to be snow packed trails and roads with patches of ice too. The first part of the race consisted of a 1.5 mile run on snow covered trails. This was true, but the part of snow packed was not true. It was all loose snow that once steeped in reached the top of the shin. It was a long run that seemed to go no-where fast. The deep snow made for a great high knee work out! The bike potion’s of the race where good with minimal patches of ice but tons of hard packed snow. I rode the course on my cycle cross bike which held up perfectly on the route. I did loose my water bottle on the second bike leg, which sucked as I had to turn around and pick it up. Not the biggest race with a clean up crew! The race only had 150 entrants and my goal was to not finish last…Which I didn’t. Placed 26th which I was happy with, considering it was a relatively hard run and moderate bike course. The next race will be on Feb 17th, on the same course but in different orders.



I must say that the race was good, with the beard as it helped to keep my face warm on the bike ride. Once the race finished, I chose to shave the beard off, which was great! I realized that I’m not a beard man. Some seemed to like it on me while, I didn’t think it was me. You can be the judge and let me know if you wish.



Other then this week’s race, training has been good and steady. A little cross training with the AMG Ballers (corporate basketball team) and weight lifting again has started to make differences in my fitness. I’m seeing gains in the running fitness level and overall when finished working out. I like it! My coach has a great idea of what is going on, and I’m able to be open with him, sharing ideas of what I’m looking for and hoping to do in the following week. He does a great job of creating the openings to play basketball and lift and bike.

Well nothing else new, except for the fact that my Pats lost today and I will not be taking a trip to Miami now. To bad, so sad, as I wanted to get to warmer climates. Now I have to root for the Colts, as it just makes it fun to root against my friends in Chicago…any takers...

Take care ya’ll and enjoy the snow and colder temps in the Midwest and New England.

more snow....ahhhhhh

More snow….

Well the first week of 2007 has not changed a lot weather wise from 2006. That’s right, Friday the 8th we had another snow storm in the Denver Metro area. Our office wasn’t open again as Boulder received 15” of snow through out the day. Since I don’t have a Trio yet, I didn’t get the memo until my boss called me 3 miles from the office letting me know that I didn’t have to come in. So from now on, I’ll be taking my work computer home mid-week just incase. During the next snowstorm I’ll be able to work from home and do as the company President and Vice President say in our emails; to go outside and build a Snow Fort and or Snow-Man.

This past weeks training was normal. With the exception of the fact that I started lifting weights again for the first time in what seems like forever. My body was telling me how much it didn’t like it too. I was sore for a few days. On Tuesday our corporate basketball league started in Boulder. We only had 1 sub for the first game. I felt like I was running all over the place. But it was a blast to play again. We lost by 4 points in the end, but as they say when you’re young, “it doesn’t matter unless you had fun”, I did.

By the end of the week, I was feeling a little tired and run down from lifting and helping my buddy move to a new apartment. Around Thursday I was feeling under the weather and wasn’t sure why. I thought I had the 24 hour stomach flew as I couldn’t sleep and felt sick and didn’t want to touch food. The more I thought about it, I realized that I probably had food poisoning from breakfast or from dinner. All I know is that I hadn’t felt so sick for a as long as I could remember. I tried to work on Friday and left early as I was white as a ghost and just a waste of space.

To fight the cold weather and feel like I fit into Denver, I have started to grow a beard. I'll be sure to add some images of this in the upcoming post. It's being taken off on 2/1/07. Due to client meetings. Plus it's really itchy

Once home and a nap, I felt better. As the day went on, I kept feeling better. So no workouts on Friday all day and Saturday I felt like a new man. Did a little running on Saturday and today I didn’t do anything but watch TV, clean and hang out with some friends at Gov’s Park to watch my Pats beat the Chargers!

So now everyone have a great week and be sure to keep your hands clapping for the Patriots as we’re getting ready to play those darn Colts.

What a year!

Well I know that I missed a week with an entry and sorry for that. Since I last wrote, some of you may have seen the news and the weather we’ve had here in Denver. A small storm called a Blizzard! I must say that it was pretty cool and crazy to see first hand. Cool since I know how to dive in snow compared to what seemed to be 90% of the population here.



I was actually stuck in Boulder the day of the storm due to the highways being closed and so many accidents on the back roads. So I spent the night with my boss and his cousin who goes to CU. We slept on the floor and went to work the next day, only to find out that the office was closed! Sort of, we had a key so we worked a little while,with a few other diehards in the office. Once the highways (route 36) opened up again I headed home around 2:30pm. The road was a mess. Abandoned cars littered all over the road. I counted 60 cars in a 15 miles stretch of road. The snowplows actually drove around the cars on both sides of the road and even the middle too. The drive home to say the least was interesting. Due to the storm I had changed my travel plans home to leave a day later, on the 24th. Good idea to make sure I got on the plane, but a very profitable one for the airlines…lol. No matter it was great to be in Maine with the whole family and Kate and Aron who came from Florida too.


Yes while in Maine, I stayed true to my goal and my workouts, running every other day while there. The weather was great. Temperatures around the mid 40’s with very little wind. Even my run on Christmas day was very peaceful and relaxing as many people where not on the roads in the Sebago Lake area.

Then the trip home, just as I was getting ready to leave, the Weather Channel and National News was watching Colorado again for a possible 2nd Blizzard! Seriously, what’s up with all the snow? It snows in the mountains NOT in the Denver Metro area, not like this at least. The forecast for Denver and this storm on the 27th of December predicted another 18” of snow in a total of 2-3 days. The start of the storm was to hit its peak in the early afternoon hours. Of-course, just as I’m scheduled to land (1pm) at DIA…come one..give me a break and let the snow hold off so that I may land is all that I was thinking. I was able to land, and as soon as I did, the snow started to fall heavily. This time around it was wet and heavy snow. Great snowball, snowman snow! Compared to the light fully snow we had a week ago.

Since I’ve been back in Denver, I’ve been bitten by the cold bug. Not sure what I have and I feel that since a lot of my friends have been sick or walking around with colds, that I’ve become the pea-tree dish for all that they have/had. Yesterday I lost my voice and felt like I was hit by a semi. With a lot of rest and some good comfort food, I feel better today but about 80% not the 100% that I would love to be at.



No matter how I feel I still need to keep on track and work out. So my goal is to do what my competitors are NOT doing. That would be using their brain it seems. Today I rode up Lookout Mountain today twice on my cycle-cross bike due to patches of snow and ice still on shadow side of the road. I can say that it was a great ride and I was happy that I rode. It was very tranquil being on the road with very few cars and knowing that I was the only stupid one out on the last day of 06! The temperature was perfect around 33, but coming down was a lot different, the wind blowing on my face and hands hurt! More then skiing has. So once I hit the base of the mountain I was happy to start climbing again to warm up.


Well over all today was a great day to end 06 on. A great bike ride on my own, enjoying the views of Denver from above at my own pace with nothing by music in my ears and a goal in my heart to work hard and finish this race in June.

To all my friends who have read all these entries to-date, thanks and I wish you all the best in 07! Enjoy the photos from Lookout Mountain too. Jennifer, I hope these are good for you! I’m looking forward to starting new in 07 and getting the training in full swing.

Take care and keep in touch ya’ll

Another Week In Natures Playground

Well I must say that adjusting to life in Denver/Boulder is going seamlessly. Work is still trucking along and being able to contribute a ton to new projects and think outside the box has been so enjoyable.

The weather too has been very enjoyable and spoiling. Temperatures in the mid 50’s and 60’s all last week was great. Then this weekend approached and reality arrived with it. Temps hovered around the 30’s and snow in the forecast. So with that being know, my long bike ride was put on hold and the first trip to the slopes was planned with some old and new friends. We woke early and drove up to Breckenridge for a Sunday retreat to the slopes and the snow. However the snow wasn’t bad in the city after all, nor was the day as a whole. The wind was out as normal at Breckenridge and the snow was floating like a feather from the heavens. As we took a break and enjoyed our lunch the blue skies arrived and the winds calmed to a breeze. It was a great first day in the end on the slopes and a great cross-training workout. My quads felt the burn towards the end with a few tree runs, Karie and Jody’s idea…I was great with a few moguls, but NO they wanted trees. So once we hit the open grooms it was time to tuck and go! That’s when I really felt those quads burn. What a great feeling.

The week leading up to the weekend was good too. A few late nights at the office, decent runs, early morning rides on the trainer while watching some new movies from netfix.

The start of the week was great too with the company holiday party for AMG. It was held at the Sculpted House. It was in a Bond movie and Woody Allen’s the “Sleeper”. The house has also been on the Travel Channel. It’s a must see. One of the coolest houses I’ve had the chance to be in and enjoy. It’s an architectural marvel. The photos don’t do the house any justice, sorry. I must say too that I wouldn’t change a thing and feel that this company is a great “family” and the size/atmosphere makes living in Colorado that much more enjoyable.



So with that said, enjoy the images (Jen I’ll be sure to include as many photos as can at your request. Lookout Mountain will be added soon). And have a great week everyone. I’m off to bed after a nice run on the treadmill…early to rise!