The weather was perfect for the swim. Cloudy and cooled off for the bike and a bit of rain, overcast for the run. 1 hour after the race the sky's opened up. As mentioned in my previous e-mail, my ultimate goal was to finish under 7hrs, although I would settle for 7:30 then it was I just don't want to be pulled off the course.
I started fuelling Thursday by eating pasta at supper, drinking water with lytes. Friday and Sat were the same only I included Carbo Pro.
Sat. we went for a swim in the lake, went for short ride to ensure the bikes were in good working order and left them at the bike transition for the night. Had an excellent sleep. At moments I felt overwhelmed (the beauty of team mates to remind you that we have put in the training). Breakfast bagels and a banana. We went for a short swim and run before the race. I felt calm the day of the race. I just wanted to get ur done!!
Swim- Did a short warm up before the start. Positioned myself at the back. The swim went much better. Although it was difficult to get into a rhythm because of the congestion. Every time I found a space a swimmer would swim in my path. All part of gaining experience. I focused on keeping a pace, staying calm and focused(remembering I still had to bike and run). Swimming Lake Chaparral definitely improved my confidence (thank you for having me swim the parameter of L.C). Spotting was much better. I wasn't thrown off when I would spot. The second loop was better than the first. Still was very happy to get the swim over with. It was sooo much better. I was hoping for 45min or under. Still I'm pleased.
Bike- The thoughts of 90k was daunting. However, It surprisingly went by quickly. I fuelled at every station ie. bananas. I drank C.P throughout the ride. Kept my cadence at 90+. I worked hard but also had to pace and preserve for the run. The hills were not as bad as I thought they would be. I thought the hills going out to Bragg Creek were more challenging(lucky for me). Actually passed a few people going up hill:)). I let it rip going down hill. I just did not want a flat tire!! I felt like I had a good ride. I was pleased with my bike time ( I thought I would be 4hrs). I felt good after the ride and needed to remain focused. I focused on keeping fuelled up.
Run- The first 2k's were OMG!!!. I changed my mind set and focused on form,breathing (reminded myself that I'm on the last leg and I can't whimp out now!!). Again, encouraging others. I fuelled at each station with coca cola, water, oranges. I focused on the 1st 10k, on the turnaround I was ready to be done. However, on the inclines (at that point they seem like hills) I was able to run them. I focused on form (lift my legs). At the last 3k I felt my right calf muscle spasm. I thought NOOOOOOO!!! My calf muscle cooperated and got me at the finish line at 6h 51min 49sec. :)))) I will carry electrolyte tabs next time. Apparently, they work if you take them hourly. I felt good after the race. Actually felt better than after the Oly,
My experience was awesome!!!!.
Audrey:)))
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