Deuces Race Report

I learned two things today...

First, "show low" a poker term became the name of this tiny little settlement near Fort Apache in the early 1800's as the right to settle was won on a hand of "seven up" - and so became Show Low, AZ!

Second, 40 - 44 mens division is FAST! As we were scarfing down the post race BBQ, I was just in earshot of the awards...in my previous age group 2:31 took 3rd...in my current, 2:14...

I had a good race, but not that good...top 15 maybe, 64th overall. The official results aren't posted yet but swim was almost exactly the same time as last year @ 30 minutes, transitions slightly faster, bike 1 mph faster @ 20.5 mph, and 8:33's on the run vs 9:15's last year. 2:40, a 9 minute PR.

BSG, Bjames, Dan, Mary and Cathy all raced well.

Raffle/beer time in looming! Feeling lucky & thirsty, not necessarily in that order.

Mean muggin' with BSG pre-race.

Show Nuff...

Well it's here...the season's first race. Deuces Wild. Show Low. AZ.

BSG, BJames and I headed down yesterday. 12+ hours in the car. But worth it. Boys weekend racing. killer race. A little altitude (7,000), a little wind, a lot of schwag. This race has a post-race raffle that includes $30k plus in sweet tri gear. Certainly one of the reasons for the road trip! In addition, the course is a mixed bag...fast in parts, a grind in others...part trail, part not, all fun!

The goal here is to, of course PR...but giving it some thought I am weighing out all the variables...Last year I had a great race. 13th in my age group. 2:49:25.

Swim (1500m): 30:03; T1: 2:39; Bike (40km): 1:17:13; T2: 2:09; Run: (10km) 57:24

I was also 3 weeks out from Ironman so my fitness was HUGE, but I was tired going into a taper. This year I am leaner, lighter, stronger and tired as well, coming off of a big week...75 mile ride, 16 mile run...and I know...HTFU! I think, given a good day tomorrow I can make up a little time on the bike and run. So, fingers crossed.

Just about ready to run thru transition, take a dip, packet pick-up and chill.

Race report tomorrow.

Finding time.

Breathe...

Finally, 13 weeks of travel have come to an end (and not leisurely, pleasure travel either)... and a corporate restructuring, lawsuits, new item launches, Ironman training, short bus puppy, marathon, yard work...

Ever feel like you're wheels are spinning a bit too fast? I am sure if you hang out in my "Circle of Trust "I am bound to get a resounding HTFU!

I have had the best laid intentions to update my blog. Regularly. I promise you. So again , I will commit.

11 weeks into Ironman training, prepping for the Mad City (thanks K) and a week and a half post marathon... My legs feel like they are coming back. Had 2 back to back sunrise runs 7.5 and 14.5, both solid...Tomorrow the plan includes hill repeats on Lookout Mountain...I cannot wait!

17 days to my first race of the year in Show Low with the boys and the best schwag give away in triathlon history! Not sure that I am ready for the chilly waters.

Lookout Hill climb report tomorrow. Peace!