Early Entries will close at 5:00pm (Eastern Australian Summer time) on Wednesday, November 30th 2005
Thereafter late entries (with an additional fee) will remain open until 5:00pm on December 5th.
29 Nov 2005
WA Clarification
I'd like to clarify what happened with Gina at WA as what I first put out was a mistake.
She was second off the bike in her age group, behind a former pro. She got to about the 12km mark of the run when her stomach stopped working. And while she fought to keep going, without being able to keep any nutrition inside and feeling increasingly miserable, she opted to stop. A very tough decision.
****
I've changed the initial story on the blog to reflect what happened.
She was second off the bike in her age group, behind a former pro. She got to about the 12km mark of the run when her stomach stopped working. And while she fought to keep going, without being able to keep any nutrition inside and feeling increasingly miserable, she opted to stop. A very tough decision.
****
I've changed the initial story on the blog to reflect what happened.
28 Nov 2005
Chris Has Some Company
Just in from the roving reporters in WA, Mr Hill and Rod Grace are going to Kona!!
Both secured spots at this mornings rolldown event.
Congrats to both .. now how can the rest of us get there?
Both secured spots at this mornings rolldown event.
Congrats to both .. now how can the rest of us get there?
Rainy Weather Outlook
For those of us here in Sydney, it's another wet day. I got soaked riding north on Saturday and I abandoned the idea of getting soaked again while riding on Sunday after checking the Sydney radar loop and seeing some threatening activity.
See weather link on the right hand side.
Here's the forecast for the week ahead:
Monday - showers, windy (accurate so far)
Tuesday - a few showers
Wednesday - mostly fine (improving)
Thursday - fine (that's more like it)
On the extended outlook:
Friday, Saturday and Sunday - showers, chance of thunderstorms!!!
See weather link on the right hand side.
Here's the forecast for the week ahead:
Monday - showers, windy (accurate so far)
Tuesday - a few showers
Wednesday - mostly fine (improving)
Thursday - fine (that's more like it)
On the extended outlook:
Friday, Saturday and Sunday - showers, chance of thunderstorms!!!
27 Nov 2005
A Day of Extremes
Stormy weather forced a half-hour delay in the start of the race, providing a fair bit of chop in the water after the firing of a police shotgun sent arms flailing.
The wind was ferocious on the bike and by the time the athletes were running there was no shade to comfort them from a relentless sun. And it got hotter and still hotter.
Our Hillbillies fought all the way - congrats to Dingo who swam, cycled and ran to a sub 10 finish, earning him fourth place in his age group and just a minute shy of a PB - a relatively decent training day!
"It was the hardest ride,'' with massive headwinds, and Coke consumption began about half way on the bike, Dingo said. "I had a good swim, a controlled ride and a fast run.'' He swam sub 59, rode 5:24 and ran 3:27.
(There were reports that he cramped up in the chute as he celebrated towards the line!!)
JH reached the podium with a third-place finish - not a bad effort for his second ironman in as many months. Mr Consistency! He wasn't actually entered until a few weeks before today. Swim 1:08, Bike 5:25, Run 3:32
Lisa battled with some mechanical issues on the bike (new cleat screw sponsor being sought) and finished her third ironman within eight months (Forster, Korea and WA). It's a journey and progress is being made, step by step.
And to the most courageous, Gina. Second off the bike in her age group (behind a former pro), she made a huge effort on the run. Her stomach threw her a curve just 12km into the run and though she battled it, going more than 30km, she decided to save herself for another day. Canada is already on the agenda - is there going to be another?
***
Special recognition to two former Hillbillies:
Charlotte ran a 3:10 marathon (the fastest women's run of the day) as she quietly and confidently took second place. A superb effort by one of the nicest triathletes you'll ever meet.
And Rod, fourth place in the toughest age group around (the one I'm in too). Awesome, awesome, awesome mate!
***
Extra special thanks to our Ironmate reporters Margreet and Fee who called in reports through the day (I was working so I wasn't able to get every detail on the blog as it happened - there are limits.)
Apparently, one of them or was it both who individually said: "I'd be interested in doing this next year. Count me in!''
Hmmmmmmmmmmmm
For detailed results you can find them through the athlete finder on Ironmanlive, check the M-dot link on the right hand side.
The wind was ferocious on the bike and by the time the athletes were running there was no shade to comfort them from a relentless sun. And it got hotter and still hotter.
Our Hillbillies fought all the way - congrats to Dingo who swam, cycled and ran to a sub 10 finish, earning him fourth place in his age group and just a minute shy of a PB - a relatively decent training day!
"It was the hardest ride,'' with massive headwinds, and Coke consumption began about half way on the bike, Dingo said. "I had a good swim, a controlled ride and a fast run.'' He swam sub 59, rode 5:24 and ran 3:27.
(There were reports that he cramped up in the chute as he celebrated towards the line!!)
JH reached the podium with a third-place finish - not a bad effort for his second ironman in as many months. Mr Consistency! He wasn't actually entered until a few weeks before today. Swim 1:08, Bike 5:25, Run 3:32
Lisa battled with some mechanical issues on the bike (new cleat screw sponsor being sought) and finished her third ironman within eight months (Forster, Korea and WA). It's a journey and progress is being made, step by step.
And to the most courageous, Gina. Second off the bike in her age group (behind a former pro), she made a huge effort on the run. Her stomach threw her a curve just 12km into the run and though she battled it, going more than 30km, she decided to save herself for another day. Canada is already on the agenda - is there going to be another?
***
Special recognition to two former Hillbillies:
Charlotte ran a 3:10 marathon (the fastest women's run of the day) as she quietly and confidently took second place. A superb effort by one of the nicest triathletes you'll ever meet.
And Rod, fourth place in the toughest age group around (the one I'm in too). Awesome, awesome, awesome mate!
***
Extra special thanks to our Ironmate reporters Margreet and Fee who called in reports through the day (I was working so I wasn't able to get every detail on the blog as it happened - there are limits.)
Apparently, one of them or was it both who individually said: "I'd be interested in doing this next year. Count me in!''
Hmmmmmmmmmmmm
For detailed results you can find them through the athlete finder on Ironmanlive, check the M-dot link on the right hand side.
Swim Update
Dingo had a solid swim with both John and Gina following. John was very relaxed, waving and smiling at the spectators and even practicing his backcrawl for a few strokes too.
Lisa emerged out of the water a bit ahead of Charlotte - with both appearing to have given it a solid effort.
Times to follow.
Lisa emerged out of the water a bit ahead of Charlotte - with both appearing to have given it a solid effort.
Times to follow.
Hillbillie WA Coverage
The Hillbillies have two roving reporters on the course in WA - Fee and Margreet.
The first report of the day, 10 minutes into the swim, confirmed that the competitors were being given a taste of some wild weather.
Thunder, lightning and showers rained down on Busselton overnight and resulted in a choppy sea and a half an hour delay in the start.
Ky Hurst flew into the swim and gapped the rest of the 700 or so athletes within the first 500 metres.
The first report of the day, 10 minutes into the swim, confirmed that the competitors were being given a taste of some wild weather.
Thunder, lightning and showers rained down on Busselton overnight and resulted in a choppy sea and a half an hour delay in the start.
Ky Hurst flew into the swim and gapped the rest of the 700 or so athletes within the first 500 metres.
25 Nov 2005
WA - Facts
The 2005 Ironman Western Australia Triathlon is being held on Sunday.
Below are quick facts about the event.
Where: Busselton, Western Australia
Who: 695 competitors from 37 countries and every state of Australia
When: On Sunday beginning at 6am at the Busselton Jetty
Qualifying Spots: 30 slots for 2006 Ironman World Championship (Hawaii)
150 slots for 2006 Ironman Australia Triathlon (Port Macquarie)
Website: http://www.ironmanwa.com
http://www.ironmanlive.com
Below are quick facts about the event.
Where: Busselton, Western Australia
Who: 695 competitors from 37 countries and every state of Australia
When: On Sunday beginning at 6am at the Busselton Jetty
Qualifying Spots: 30 slots for 2006 Ironman World Championship (Hawaii)
150 slots for 2006 Ironman Australia Triathlon (Port Macquarie)
Website: http://www.ironmanwa.com
http://www.ironmanlive.com
WA Women Elite
Perth’s Angela Milne, the leader of the 2005/06 Snap Australian Half Ironman series is hoping her early season form will continue for this Sunday’s Ironman Western Australia Triathlon in Busselton. The former Hawaii Ironman age-group world champion has recently returned to top form after the birth of her daughter 12 months ago, with victories in Yeppoon, Cairns and Port Macquarie.
Milne enters the race as favourite due to these wins over the half Ironman distance but will face tough opposition from Canada’s Marilyn MacDonald who is a two-time winner of Ironman Malaysia. Amanda Lovato of the USA recently won the Soma Triathlon, an international long distance event in Tempe, Arizona and is another woman who could challenge for the Ironman Western Australia title.
Another Australian athlete who is in good form is Ironman UK winner Rebecca Preston. Preston finished 11 th at the recent Ironman Triathlon World Championship in Hawaii.
40 Angela MILNE WA
41 Marilyn MACDONALD Canada
42 Amanda LOVATO USA
43 Sonja HEUBACH Malaysia
44 Imke SCHIERSCH Germany
45 Charlotte PAUL NSW
46 Silke HINRICHS Germany
47 Lisa MARANGON NSW
48 Karly ALLEN NSW
49 Barbara SCATCHARD Canada
50 Cordula MOLLER Namibia
51 Ruth VESLER USA
52 Rebecca PRESTON QLD
Milne enters the race as favourite due to these wins over the half Ironman distance but will face tough opposition from Canada’s Marilyn MacDonald who is a two-time winner of Ironman Malaysia. Amanda Lovato of the USA recently won the Soma Triathlon, an international long distance event in Tempe, Arizona and is another woman who could challenge for the Ironman Western Australia title.
Another Australian athlete who is in good form is Ironman UK winner Rebecca Preston. Preston finished 11 th at the recent Ironman Triathlon World Championship in Hawaii.
40 Angela MILNE WA
41 Marilyn MACDONALD Canada
42 Amanda LOVATO USA
43 Sonja HEUBACH Malaysia
44 Imke SCHIERSCH Germany
45 Charlotte PAUL NSW
46 Silke HINRICHS Germany
47 Lisa MARANGON NSW
48 Karly ALLEN NSW
49 Barbara SCATCHARD Canada
50 Cordula MOLLER Namibia
51 Ruth VESLER USA
52 Rebecca PRESTON QLD
WA Men Elite
From IMG
Germany ’s Lothar Leder, the first person to break the magical eight-hour mark of Ironman will headline the star-studded elite men’s race at Sunday’s 2005 Ironman Western Australia Triathlon held in Busselton.
Considered by many as potentially one of the fastest Ironman courses in the world with its long, flat stretches of road on the bike and an equally flat run course, the chance of an athlete of the caliber of Leder breaking eight hours has become a reality.
Leder’s confirmation now leads to a showdown with the two-time Ironman Malaysia champion, Bryan Rhodes of New Zealand who predicts he can go 7:58 on this course. Leder has recently based himself in Noosa for a three-week training stint to prepare for Ironman Western Australia .
Australian Mitch Anderson of Melbourne looms as a potential threat to take out his first Ironman victory after consistent performances at the Ford Ironman Triathlon World Championship in Hawaii . Placing 14 th in Kona just over a month ago, Anderson hopes his time is now to record his first Ironman victory.
“I am feeling strong after Hawaii and I am ready to race. I am looking forward to going to Busselton after hearing what a great race it was last year,” said Anderson. “Winning an Ironman anywhere around the world would be incredible but to do it in your own country would double the satisfaction.”
Also, look out for Great Britain ’s Paul Amey who won the Port Macquarie Half Ironman in early November and finished third at the recent Noosa Triathlon. Petr Vabrousek, Markus Strini, Mathias Hect, Margus Timm and former Telecom team cycle rider Kai Hundertmarck are all part of a strong European contingent who are looking to upset the race favourites.
Germany ’s Lothar Leder, the first person to break the magical eight-hour mark of Ironman will headline the star-studded elite men’s race at Sunday’s 2005 Ironman Western Australia Triathlon held in Busselton.
Considered by many as potentially one of the fastest Ironman courses in the world with its long, flat stretches of road on the bike and an equally flat run course, the chance of an athlete of the caliber of Leder breaking eight hours has become a reality.
Leder’s confirmation now leads to a showdown with the two-time Ironman Malaysia champion, Bryan Rhodes of New Zealand who predicts he can go 7:58 on this course. Leder has recently based himself in Noosa for a three-week training stint to prepare for Ironman Western Australia .
Australian Mitch Anderson of Melbourne looms as a potential threat to take out his first Ironman victory after consistent performances at the Ford Ironman Triathlon World Championship in Hawaii . Placing 14 th in Kona just over a month ago, Anderson hopes his time is now to record his first Ironman victory.
“I am feeling strong after Hawaii and I am ready to race. I am looking forward to going to Busselton after hearing what a great race it was last year,” said Anderson. “Winning an Ironman anywhere around the world would be incredible but to do it in your own country would double the satisfaction.”
Also, look out for Great Britain ’s Paul Amey who won the Port Macquarie Half Ironman in early November and finished third at the recent Noosa Triathlon. Petr Vabrousek, Markus Strini, Mathias Hect, Margus Timm and former Telecom team cycle rider Kai Hundertmarck are all part of a strong European contingent who are looking to upset the race favourites.
24 Nov 2005
IM WA Coverage
Reminder that there will be ironmanlive coverage of the race this weekend.
See the links on the right hand side here for IM WA and M-Dot (ironmanlive).
See the links on the right hand side here for IM WA and M-Dot (ironmanlive).
22 Nov 2005
Weekend Training with Damo
Sat 6 am york rd gates…..easy 90k ride to kurnell via la puruse,,,save yourself for sunday
Sun 6:15 am york rd gates…back to the hills…to waterfall….
Stop at sutho garage…then start hit after going over main road before auderley….go down auderly and through nat park…no waterfall right turn off keep going for 5k ..u turn then left up waterfall hill back to sutho garage to re group and refresh…that’s 60k e2 hit
Run after in park,last chance to sort out yr pace before Canberra on 6k loops
Me dingo gina and lisa will be in busso ,I should be on email…..damo is boss for sat sun and tue..thankyou damo
Also I wont be back for next tue bike….prog is pretty self explanatory but to summarise
Split into 2-3 groups of your level
1 flat lap e2 starting at bottom of kiosk hill
½ lap e3 to randwick gates
¼ lap e4 to showground
¼ e2 to recover to kiosk
to top of long hill e3
easy down
x4
Train safe
jh
Sun 6:15 am york rd gates…back to the hills…to waterfall….
Stop at sutho garage…then start hit after going over main road before auderley….go down auderly and through nat park…no waterfall right turn off keep going for 5k ..u turn then left up waterfall hill back to sutho garage to re group and refresh…that’s 60k e2 hit
Run after in park,last chance to sort out yr pace before Canberra on 6k loops
Me dingo gina and lisa will be in busso ,I should be on email…..damo is boss for sat sun and tue..thankyou damo
Also I wont be back for next tue bike….prog is pretty self explanatory but to summarise
Split into 2-3 groups of your level
1 flat lap e2 starting at bottom of kiosk hill
½ lap e3 to randwick gates
¼ lap e4 to showground
¼ e2 to recover to kiosk
to top of long hill e3
easy down
x4
Train safe
jh
21 Nov 2005
Nepean Results
At nepean
2nd overall for dean king
3rd overall for lisa who took the run easy saving for bussleton ironman next week
1st cat for alice woo hoo that’s a first I think !!...smashed boyfriend Stephen again??????? haha
1st cat for kim wilson
gezer,ian depree and rod watch out alice will get you soon !! lol..”go the girls”
jh
2nd overall for dean king
3rd overall for lisa who took the run easy saving for bussleton ironman next week
1st cat for alice woo hoo that’s a first I think !!...smashed boyfriend Stephen again??????? haha
1st cat for kim wilson
gezer,ian depree and rod watch out alice will get you soon !! lol..”go the girls”
jh
All Women's Festival
TriNSW will again present the All Women’s Festival on January 28th at the Sydney International Regatta Centre in a new one day format, featuring valuable clinics, in a wonderfully relaxed Tea and Talk format, followed by two easy to compete in format events over varying distances designed to allow anyone to try a ‘tri’ easily.
We’re inviting women from around the state to come and try our sport in a comfortable atmosphere amidst a great safety crew and experts a plenty to assist your day.
We’re inviting women from around the state to come and try our sport in a comfortable atmosphere amidst a great safety crew and experts a plenty to assist your day.
New Club Team Event
t3 Events will present the first ever Australian Triathlon Club Teams Championships (ATCTC) at the Penrith Regatta Centre on May 20 and 21, 2006.
The ATCTC is an all new addition to the NSW and Australian Triathlon calendar, and is designed for triathlon clubs from around Australia to compete for the title of Australian Club Teams Champions.
The Premier Division is the elite category of the ATCTC and is open to both professional and age group athletes.
Each team will consist of four club members, who will race over the sprint distance (750m swim/20km ride/5km run) in a time trial fashion. The four members must keep together and to be eligible for the points, three members of each team must cross the finish line within 2 seconds of one another.
Division 2, 3 and Over 45's is open to all club members. Professional athletes are not eligible to compete in these divisions but points from all divisions count to the crowning of the Australian Club Champions.
The ATCTC is an all new addition to the NSW and Australian Triathlon calendar, and is designed for triathlon clubs from around Australia to compete for the title of Australian Club Teams Champions.
The Premier Division is the elite category of the ATCTC and is open to both professional and age group athletes.
Each team will consist of four club members, who will race over the sprint distance (750m swim/20km ride/5km run) in a time trial fashion. The four members must keep together and to be eligible for the points, three members of each team must cross the finish line within 2 seconds of one another.
Division 2, 3 and Over 45's is open to all club members. Professional athletes are not eligible to compete in these divisions but points from all divisions count to the crowning of the Australian Club Champions.
Kurnell Race Calendar
ENTRIES FOR KURNELL ARE OPEN AT www.trinswrace.org and got to the TriNSW Kurnell Sprint Series tab and then to Race Entry and Confirmation
Race #1 Sunday 18th December 2005
Race #2 Sunday 15th January 2006
Race #3 Sunday 26th February 2006
Race #4 Sunday 12th March 2006
Race #1 Sunday 18th December 2005
Race #2 Sunday 15th January 2006
Race #3 Sunday 26th February 2006
Race #4 Sunday 12th March 2006
NSW Race Calendar
"Coming up in NSW this season are races of every distance from ultra sprint to ultra distance, capped by Ironman Australia next April and the annual TriNSW Club Championships in May.
In between there’s sensational racing such as the Tri Coast Challenge, the Panthers Tri Club Summer Sprint Series, the national tour Olympic race at Port Stephens, the Trial Bay Triathlon, the Australian Long Distance Championship, the Forster Ultra Tri, Invarell Tri, Hillston Outback Tri, the Sparke Helmore Tri at Newcastle, the Byron Bay Tri and the brand new Australia Tri Clubs Teams Champs at Penrith…"
*From Tri NSW newsletter
In between there’s sensational racing such as the Tri Coast Challenge, the Panthers Tri Club Summer Sprint Series, the national tour Olympic race at Port Stephens, the Trial Bay Triathlon, the Australian Long Distance Championship, the Forster Ultra Tri, Invarell Tri, Hillston Outback Tri, the Sparke Helmore Tri at Newcastle, the Byron Bay Tri and the brand new Australia Tri Clubs Teams Champs at Penrith…"
*From Tri NSW newsletter
19 Nov 2005
Wedding Day Sunshine
This afternoon in Woollahra Declan and Steph will tie the knot.
While the day began a bit overcast, the sun is starting to break through. Let it shine each day hence.
While the day began a bit overcast, the sun is starting to break through. Let it shine each day hence.
Train Like Tess and Chris and JP
Ok now .. Tess has been to Hawaii twice .. and Chris is now preparing to go for his second time.
As for JP, well he's already been there - at least twice I think.
Is there a pattern emerging? Perhaps. Each of them trains with a CompuTrainer - so a source has told me.
Ask Wendo (a Hawaii Ironman herself) for a demonstration. Her husband Phil is the Oz distributor.
``If you’re not using one, then you’re drafting off of someone who does!” Apparently!
http://www.racermateinc.com/computrainer.asp
As for JP, well he's already been there - at least twice I think.
Is there a pattern emerging? Perhaps. Each of them trains with a CompuTrainer - so a source has told me.
Ask Wendo (a Hawaii Ironman herself) for a demonstration. Her husband Phil is the Oz distributor.
``If you’re not using one, then you’re drafting off of someone who does!” Apparently!
http://www.racermateinc.com/computrainer.asp
No Air in Me Tires
Ever have that feeling that someone deflated your tires?
Well, I had that on a ride south to Waterfall and back through the National Park this morning.
Alas, I'm home now! Ride completed. Whew!!
Well, I had that on a ride south to Waterfall and back through the National Park this morning.
Alas, I'm home now! Ride completed. Whew!!
18 Nov 2005
The Malaysian Option
Ok .. tears shed .. China a distant memory .. hmmm .. perhaps Malaysia . late Feb!!
Weekend Training
Few different things on this weekend as follows (as per yr prog options)
Sat swim :6 am start at manly dam…2k race included..a great hitout,great scenery and something different
Sat easy bike: after manly swim aprox 7 am from the dam to palm beach and return..a nice ride and again something different
Those staying at the park who cant make it 6 am york rd gates to waterfall and return easy.(note I,ll be doing manly option)
Sat brat race :1:30 pm at hefron park,be early to register
Sat wedding :more hillbillies tying the knot ! steff and Declan good luck !….so be carefull next could be you !!! J
Sun bike : as per last week 6:15 am york rd gates…via la puruse,2 laps of kurnell hit
Sun run :after bike in park
Also nepean tri is on Sunday.
Have fun !
jh
Sat swim :6 am start at manly dam…2k race included..a great hitout,great scenery and something different
Sat easy bike: after manly swim aprox 7 am from the dam to palm beach and return..a nice ride and again something different
Those staying at the park who cant make it 6 am york rd gates to waterfall and return easy.(note I,ll be doing manly option)
Sat brat race :1:30 pm at hefron park,be early to register
Sat wedding :more hillbillies tying the knot ! steff and Declan good luck !….so be carefull next could be you !!! J
Sun bike : as per last week 6:15 am york rd gates…via la puruse,2 laps of kurnell hit
Sun run :after bike in park
Also nepean tri is on Sunday.
Have fun !
jh
17 Nov 2005
No IM China in 2006
As many of you have probably learned, whether from our web site, the WTC press release just announced, or just through the grapevine, the Chinese government has just informed us that it will not sanction the Ironman race scheduled for April 23, 2006.
As a result, our long-awaited and much anticipated inaugural Ironman China cannot proceed as planned due to circumstances beyond our control.
Regrettably, we will have to cancel the 2006 race and focus instead on 2007 by which time we expect to have successfully overcome the current obstacles.
As a result, our long-awaited and much anticipated inaugural Ironman China cannot proceed as planned due to circumstances beyond our control.
Regrettably, we will have to cancel the 2006 race and focus instead on 2007 by which time we expect to have successfully overcome the current obstacles.
Future Ocean Swims
Nov 27 Coogee Express Glass Island Challenge 1k, 2.4k
Dec 4 Bondi to Bronte 2k
Jan 8 The Roughwater - Bondi 2k
8 Palm Beach 1.5k
Jan 14 Shelley Beach (Manly) l.5k
Jan 29 The Big Swim Palm Beach to Whale Beach 2.5k
Feb 5 The Cole Classic (Manly) 2k
Feb 12 North Bondi Classic 2k
**these are just a few of the ones on the calendar at:
http://www.oceanswims.com
Dec 4 Bondi to Bronte 2k
Jan 8 The Roughwater - Bondi 2k
8 Palm Beach 1.5k
Jan 14 Shelley Beach (Manly) l.5k
Jan 29 The Big Swim Palm Beach to Whale Beach 2.5k
Feb 5 The Cole Classic (Manly) 2k
Feb 12 North Bondi Classic 2k
**these are just a few of the ones on the calendar at:
http://www.oceanswims.com
Balmain Ocean Swim
Dawny's Cockatoo Challenge - 2.3k or 1.1k
$30 if you enter online by 4 pm today, $40 if you enter on race day
Race starts at 8.30 am on Sunday, registration closes at 8 am
Registration, start and finish at Dawn Fraser Pool, Balmain.
Shorter swim runs from Dawn Fraser Pool to Cockatoo Island, along southern shore of the island, then back to Dawn Fraser Pool.
Longer swim runs from Dawn Fraser Pool, clockwise around Cockatoo Island and back to pool.
*You can wear a wetsuit or fins - though you will be ineligible for any prizes.
www.oceanswims.com
$30 if you enter online by 4 pm today, $40 if you enter on race day
Race starts at 8.30 am on Sunday, registration closes at 8 am
Registration, start and finish at Dawn Fraser Pool, Balmain.
Shorter swim runs from Dawn Fraser Pool to Cockatoo Island, along southern shore of the island, then back to Dawn Fraser Pool.
Longer swim runs from Dawn Fraser Pool, clockwise around Cockatoo Island and back to pool.
*You can wear a wetsuit or fins - though you will be ineligible for any prizes.
www.oceanswims.com
Heading to Germany
Miracles do happen.
The Socceroos and their miracle man, coach Guus Hiddink (Hup Hup Holland!!!), might have left it late. It doesn't matter.
Australia have ended a 31-year drought and qualified for the World Cup finals again.
This is the sporting story of the year, and for some, the moment of a lifetime.
*from the sydney morning herald
The Socceroos and their miracle man, coach Guus Hiddink (Hup Hup Holland!!!), might have left it late. It doesn't matter.
Australia have ended a 31-year drought and qualified for the World Cup finals again.
This is the sporting story of the year, and for some, the moment of a lifetime.
*from the sydney morning herald
16 Nov 2005
Exercise is good for you
From Tuesday's Globe and Mail
People who incorporate regular physical activity into their daily routine can extend their life expectancy by about 3½ years, according to new research.
A second, unrelated study found that an exercise regime -- even when it is started after the age of 65 -- can sharply improve quality of life too.
What the raft of new research agrees on, however, is that it doesn't take much effort to really improve your health -- as little as 30 minutes daily of brisk walking or the equivalent. But those who exercise more tend to reap greater health rewards. (sic - Hillbillies for example)
Dr. Oscar Franco, an epidemiologist at Erasmus University Medical Centre in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, said there is significant research demonstrating the beneficial effects of physical activity in preventing a number of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and some forms of cancer, but little data on whether being fit actually led to a longer life.
People who incorporate regular physical activity into their daily routine can extend their life expectancy by about 3½ years, according to new research.
A second, unrelated study found that an exercise regime -- even when it is started after the age of 65 -- can sharply improve quality of life too.
What the raft of new research agrees on, however, is that it doesn't take much effort to really improve your health -- as little as 30 minutes daily of brisk walking or the equivalent. But those who exercise more tend to reap greater health rewards. (sic - Hillbillies for example)
Dr. Oscar Franco, an epidemiologist at Erasmus University Medical Centre in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, said there is significant research demonstrating the beneficial effects of physical activity in preventing a number of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and some forms of cancer, but little data on whether being fit actually led to a longer life.
15 Nov 2005
The Animal's IM Report
Pre Race-
Walked to race start - about 2-3k which helped me loosen up
Did a 10min run with 4 x 20second builds to fast with high knee lift
Short swim in the waves to suss out how shallow it was.
Swim
I started front line and ran out into the shallow water where we had to run/dive/run/dive for the first 30m. Settled into the lead pack with one or two guys way out off the front.
Pack broke at the 800m turn can. I got into a bit of a tangle with another swimmer and backed off to let him through - I jumped onto his feet and swam behind for 40m. I looked up to check if we were still on course and ... shit... we were heading the wrong way!, bloody hell you idiot I thought - didn't this guy know how to look where he was going? I hammered past him and straightened us back up but that cost us a bit of time and the lead of the pack was about 30metres ahead - too far for me to chase when we were already going hard. I led the other stragglers around the rest of the way. The 100m soft sand run killed me halfway through the swim - and having to wade through all the shallow water and surf afterwards had most of us walking in e4! Took me a while to recover from that but eventually got going again and swam solid the rest of the way.
T1
Ran into T1 and found some idiot had lost my gear bag! It took me and three volunteers about 2mins to find it - a quick transition followed and out onto the bike still around the top twenty.
Bike
Felt great early and just went steady. Found a few who were tailing me so decided to use them a little. I led the first 20k then backed off and let them pass. I stayed legal and just used them to set the pace. - The pace was very comfortable for me - too comfortable. I was riding very conservatively but wished the other guys could ride my pace. Should I go off the front so early into the race? I led the pack a few times at a quickish pace but as we turned into the light head wind at 40k mark the guys tucked right in on my wheel and I knew they were struggling to hang in. I pushed solid for around 10k then went a bike down or two and rested for 5k. I repeated this about 3 times - it was great because I would rev us up then recover. But when not on the front the pace was just too slow and I couldn't help thinking I was wasting time and not gaining anything.
Finally we got taken by a pack who were moving quicker and I sprang up and nestled in with them. In this were most of the age group winners. It was a slighlty illegal pack - ie - we rotated great on the front but we were all around 5-6metres apart instead of the 8m the draft busters wanted. They are strict on drafting over there , and a bike came up from behind and asked me to pull over - !! Done - ok I admit I wasn't the legal distance apart - but who was? This was at the 110k mark. Needless to say by the time I had pulled over and got my lecture and slash on my number everyone was gone.
I changed to tt mode and blasted out - I wasn't going to risk disqualification so I wasn't going to slow for anyone or use anything. I was spewin ' - all that time I wasted trying to get others to work.AArghh!
Within 10k I had ridden through the pack I had been in - they were all shot. I continued solo and began catching back marker pros. I was feeling strong and was doing it mid - high e2 and was gaining confidence passing a lot of bikes especially pros who started 15min earlier and that had aero helemets and disc wheels! I was at the 140k mark and by now the wind had picked up to strong and slowed me up but I still felt great and just pushed through. Continued strong til the 170k mark where I started getting cramps. I had trouble keeping my nutrition down - and the quads were starting to twitch on me. I eased up and just threw it into the small chain ring at 170k and spun easy home. Got passed by a couple of bikes in those last few k's but didn't bother chasing them. I stretched and stretched - did everything I could to revitalize.
T2
Cruised in off the bike and into the penalty box. Welchy zapped me in and we began joking and mucking around (I had met him the day before). What a top bloke! I took my helmet off - had some water and stayed on my feet. The 4min went quick and I had a chance to calm down and control my hrate and collect myself for the run. Ran out - got the bag - nice fast change and bang I was out on to the course where Chappo was telling me I was still right up there.
Run
After the first 1k I felt magic. I knew I had a shot at having a good run so I went into my pace early. I felt great and was doing it on my ear, the pace was comfortable but - up tempo. I reeled in a few guys but everyone was really spread out and there didn't seem to be many out there to run down. After 15k the quads were going downhill after the heavy smashing they were copping on the flat hard road. I toughed it out but each mile got worse and worse. Aerobically I felt fine, but it was apparent to me that the only thing that could let me down was going to be the quads stiffening up or cramping. It was getting really hot now too - I kept throwing down the salt and drinking water and coke and gatorade. I finished the first lap and there was Welchy screaming at me - " go chris!!" - what an inspiration! Here was the one and only greg welch - cheering for me!
The second lap I was hanging in - but my legs were copping an absolute hammering! At the turn at 31k I knew I just had to put my head down and march home. Physically I was really suffering and every step I thought I was about to cramp - but I didn't. Continually flying past people on their first lap helped me mentally too. At 36k I was really hurting but the fanatical awesome crowd was pushing me home. I got passed by a couple of blokes in my age group in those last miles but there was nothing I could do about it - I had slowed up but still running moderate pace. Soon enough I was heading home inside the last mile - my second lap a lot slower than the first but really happy to finally get to the line.
Over the line and the legs instantly seized up and I felt really sick from all the salt and my stomach was in knots. I shuffled around in pain but happy with the job I had done.
Awesome race - awesome huge crowd on the run!
Goal one was to get a Hawaii slot and I was rapped to do that.
I was a little disappointed with the penalty and the T1 lost gear and everything - but with more in the tank it was a great confidence boost for me. I think I am beginning to work out the ironman distance a little more now - so fingers crossed I can keep it all going strong.
*****PHOTOS SOON*******
Walked to race start - about 2-3k which helped me loosen up
Did a 10min run with 4 x 20second builds to fast with high knee lift
Short swim in the waves to suss out how shallow it was.
Swim
I started front line and ran out into the shallow water where we had to run/dive/run/dive for the first 30m. Settled into the lead pack with one or two guys way out off the front.
Pack broke at the 800m turn can. I got into a bit of a tangle with another swimmer and backed off to let him through - I jumped onto his feet and swam behind for 40m. I looked up to check if we were still on course and ... shit... we were heading the wrong way!, bloody hell you idiot I thought - didn't this guy know how to look where he was going? I hammered past him and straightened us back up but that cost us a bit of time and the lead of the pack was about 30metres ahead - too far for me to chase when we were already going hard. I led the other stragglers around the rest of the way. The 100m soft sand run killed me halfway through the swim - and having to wade through all the shallow water and surf afterwards had most of us walking in e4! Took me a while to recover from that but eventually got going again and swam solid the rest of the way.
T1
Ran into T1 and found some idiot had lost my gear bag! It took me and three volunteers about 2mins to find it - a quick transition followed and out onto the bike still around the top twenty.
Bike
Felt great early and just went steady. Found a few who were tailing me so decided to use them a little. I led the first 20k then backed off and let them pass. I stayed legal and just used them to set the pace. - The pace was very comfortable for me - too comfortable. I was riding very conservatively but wished the other guys could ride my pace. Should I go off the front so early into the race? I led the pack a few times at a quickish pace but as we turned into the light head wind at 40k mark the guys tucked right in on my wheel and I knew they were struggling to hang in. I pushed solid for around 10k then went a bike down or two and rested for 5k. I repeated this about 3 times - it was great because I would rev us up then recover. But when not on the front the pace was just too slow and I couldn't help thinking I was wasting time and not gaining anything.
Finally we got taken by a pack who were moving quicker and I sprang up and nestled in with them. In this were most of the age group winners. It was a slighlty illegal pack - ie - we rotated great on the front but we were all around 5-6metres apart instead of the 8m the draft busters wanted. They are strict on drafting over there , and a bike came up from behind and asked me to pull over - !! Done - ok I admit I wasn't the legal distance apart - but who was? This was at the 110k mark. Needless to say by the time I had pulled over and got my lecture and slash on my number everyone was gone.
I changed to tt mode and blasted out - I wasn't going to risk disqualification so I wasn't going to slow for anyone or use anything. I was spewin ' - all that time I wasted trying to get others to work.AArghh!
Within 10k I had ridden through the pack I had been in - they were all shot. I continued solo and began catching back marker pros. I was feeling strong and was doing it mid - high e2 and was gaining confidence passing a lot of bikes especially pros who started 15min earlier and that had aero helemets and disc wheels! I was at the 140k mark and by now the wind had picked up to strong and slowed me up but I still felt great and just pushed through. Continued strong til the 170k mark where I started getting cramps. I had trouble keeping my nutrition down - and the quads were starting to twitch on me. I eased up and just threw it into the small chain ring at 170k and spun easy home. Got passed by a couple of bikes in those last few k's but didn't bother chasing them. I stretched and stretched - did everything I could to revitalize.
T2
Cruised in off the bike and into the penalty box. Welchy zapped me in and we began joking and mucking around (I had met him the day before). What a top bloke! I took my helmet off - had some water and stayed on my feet. The 4min went quick and I had a chance to calm down and control my hrate and collect myself for the run. Ran out - got the bag - nice fast change and bang I was out on to the course where Chappo was telling me I was still right up there.
Run
After the first 1k I felt magic. I knew I had a shot at having a good run so I went into my pace early. I felt great and was doing it on my ear, the pace was comfortable but - up tempo. I reeled in a few guys but everyone was really spread out and there didn't seem to be many out there to run down. After 15k the quads were going downhill after the heavy smashing they were copping on the flat hard road. I toughed it out but each mile got worse and worse. Aerobically I felt fine, but it was apparent to me that the only thing that could let me down was going to be the quads stiffening up or cramping. It was getting really hot now too - I kept throwing down the salt and drinking water and coke and gatorade. I finished the first lap and there was Welchy screaming at me - " go chris!!" - what an inspiration! Here was the one and only greg welch - cheering for me!
The second lap I was hanging in - but my legs were copping an absolute hammering! At the turn at 31k I knew I just had to put my head down and march home. Physically I was really suffering and every step I thought I was about to cramp - but I didn't. Continually flying past people on their first lap helped me mentally too. At 36k I was really hurting but the fanatical awesome crowd was pushing me home. I got passed by a couple of blokes in my age group in those last miles but there was nothing I could do about it - I had slowed up but still running moderate pace. Soon enough I was heading home inside the last mile - my second lap a lot slower than the first but really happy to finally get to the line.
Over the line and the legs instantly seized up and I felt really sick from all the salt and my stomach was in knots. I shuffled around in pain but happy with the job I had done.
Awesome race - awesome huge crowd on the run!
Goal one was to get a Hawaii slot and I was rapped to do that.
I was a little disappointed with the penalty and the T1 lost gear and everything - but with more in the tank it was a great confidence boost for me. I think I am beginning to work out the ironman distance a little more now - so fingers crossed I can keep it all going strong.
*****PHOTOS SOON*******
Forster Ultra
Forster/Tuncurry Ironman 26th February 2005
The Forster ultra race now caters for teams, and has $20,000 in prize money, to be also spead amongst the age groups as well.
Please go to http://www.forsterultra.com.au/ to check all the details. Entries are closing on the 19th November 2005.
Thanks
Tony `G' (Golden that is!)
The Forster ultra race now caters for teams, and has $20,000 in prize money, to be also spead amongst the age groups as well.
Please go to http://www.forsterultra.com.au/ to check all the details. Entries are closing on the 19th November 2005.
Thanks
Tony `G' (Golden that is!)
14 Nov 2005
Shep 1/2 Results
FYI - Grace had an amazing race - I am allowed to brag!
swim = 35.23
bike = 2.52.45 (with a 5 minute drafting penalty!)
run = 1.38.12 (top 10 female run time overall)
total = 5.06.21
shep half results
http://www.multisportaustralia.com.au
Alice
swim = 35.23
bike = 2.52.45 (with a 5 minute drafting penalty!)
run = 1.38.12 (top 10 female run time overall)
total = 5.06.21
shep half results
http://www.multisportaustralia.com.au
Alice
Kraft-y
Germany's Nina Kraft will end her one year EPO doping ban this weekend. Kraft's web site carries an interview in which she discusses her return to triathlon.
Source:
More Info: http://www.nina-kraft.de
*from xtri.com
Source:
More Info: http://www.nina-kraft.de
*from xtri.com
Brat Help
HELPERS NEEDED!! THIS IS SERIOUS!!
EARN RACE SERIES POINTS BY HELPING
We still need 7 volunteers to hold our race on Saturday. All our races are staffed entirely by volunteer club members- mostly the same few every time. IF WE DO NOT GET THE PEOPLE WE NEED WE WILL HAVE TO CANCEL OUR RACES. If you race regularly please consider helping so that everyone can have a chance to race. If you aren’t racing on the day why not come out and support your club by volunteering your services for one of the following jobs
Marshal- main need for this race
time keeper and recorder
set-up and pack crew
results co-ordinator
If you are racing you can still help by setting up or packing up at the end. Family or friends could help too. Contact this month’s race director Mandy Meredith on 0407233804 OR e-mail mandymeredith@ozemail.com.au
EARN RACE SERIES POINTS BY HELPING
We still need 7 volunteers to hold our race on Saturday. All our races are staffed entirely by volunteer club members- mostly the same few every time. IF WE DO NOT GET THE PEOPLE WE NEED WE WILL HAVE TO CANCEL OUR RACES. If you race regularly please consider helping so that everyone can have a chance to race. If you aren’t racing on the day why not come out and support your club by volunteering your services for one of the following jobs
Marshal- main need for this race
time keeper and recorder
set-up and pack crew
results co-ordinator
If you are racing you can still help by setting up or packing up at the end. Family or friends could help too. Contact this month’s race director Mandy Meredith on 0407233804 OR e-mail mandymeredith@ozemail.com.au
12 Nov 2005
ESource X'treme
EnergySource X’treme is being launched alongside EnergySource 4:1.
The X’treme formulation contains 2,000mg of L-carnatine, 660mg of bitter orange, 1,000mg of taurine and 300mg of caffeine per 100g to provide one of the biggest legal stimulants on the market.
X’treme also comes with High5’s HEAC formulation and blend of natural anti-oxidants.
X’treme gives you the getup-and-go you need before a heavy training session, though it’s just as useful for perking you up when you start to fl ag during races thanks to
its HEAC content.
Recommended use is only 3-4 times during longer-distance races as X’treme kick is so
dramatic. Consult your doctor before use if you have any medical conditions.
The final factor to come into the equation: will your wallet take a bashing? Simply, no.
EnergySource 4:1 is available in Fresh Citrus and Summer Fruit fl avours and the RRP is £8.97 for 600g or £15.97 for 1.3kg. EnergySource X’treme comes in Citrus Blast and its RRP is £19.99 for 1.4kg
The X’treme formulation contains 2,000mg of L-carnatine, 660mg of bitter orange, 1,000mg of taurine and 300mg of caffeine per 100g to provide one of the biggest legal stimulants on the market.
X’treme also comes with High5’s HEAC formulation and blend of natural anti-oxidants.
X’treme gives you the getup-and-go you need before a heavy training session, though it’s just as useful for perking you up when you start to fl ag during races thanks to
its HEAC content.
Recommended use is only 3-4 times during longer-distance races as X’treme kick is so
dramatic. Consult your doctor before use if you have any medical conditions.
The final factor to come into the equation: will your wallet take a bashing? Simply, no.
EnergySource 4:1 is available in Fresh Citrus and Summer Fruit fl avours and the RRP is £8.97 for 600g or £15.97 for 1.3kg. EnergySource X’treme comes in Citrus Blast and its RRP is £19.99 for 1.4kg
New Gels
High5 EnergyGel has also been improved. It now has a thinner consistency, comes in 10 different flavours and is 48% bigger with no increase in price.
New technology preserves the delicate fl avour of the real fruit juice and the thinner consistency makes it easier to consume when your mouth is dry.
The new flavours are:
Banana Blast
Citrus Burst
Juicy Orange
Summer Fruits
Raspberry Rush
Carribbean Crush
Green Apple
Smooth Chocolate
Cola PLUS (with caffeine and choline)
Orange PLUS (with caffeine and choline)
You can get 12 gel sachets for the price of 10 in High5’s new size
retail pack. At RRP £7.92, that means each 38g sachet costs
only 0.66p. EnergyGel Plus is also available with HEAC
formulation (citrus fl avour only).
New technology preserves the delicate fl avour of the real fruit juice and the thinner consistency makes it easier to consume when your mouth is dry.
The new flavours are:
Banana Blast
Citrus Burst
Juicy Orange
Summer Fruits
Raspberry Rush
Carribbean Crush
Green Apple
Smooth Chocolate
Cola PLUS (with caffeine and choline)
Orange PLUS (with caffeine and choline)
You can get 12 gel sachets for the price of 10 in High5’s new size
retail pack. At RRP £7.92, that means each 38g sachet costs
only 0.66p. EnergyGel Plus is also available with HEAC
formulation (citrus fl avour only).
ESource 4:1
High5 has just launched Europe’s first carbohydrate/protein drink for use during
exercise.
EnergySource 4:1 contains fourparts carbs to one-part protein, providing you with the ideal mix of fuel your body needs to perform at its best.
The 4:1 mix is crucial to optimising performance. Research shows this ratio extends
time to fatigue by 29% compared to carb-only drinks and 57% compared to water.
EnergySource 4:1 also contains a highelectrolyte anti-cramp (HEAC) formulation to
maximise fl uid absorption when you’re exercising in the heat and minimise the potential for cramp during long-distance events.
An effective blend of natural anti-oxidants is also incorporated into EnergySource 4:1 to mop up damaging free radicals created through intense or prolonged exercise.
exercise.
EnergySource 4:1 contains fourparts carbs to one-part protein, providing you with the ideal mix of fuel your body needs to perform at its best.
The 4:1 mix is crucial to optimising performance. Research shows this ratio extends
time to fatigue by 29% compared to carb-only drinks and 57% compared to water.
EnergySource 4:1 also contains a highelectrolyte anti-cramp (HEAC) formulation to
maximise fl uid absorption when you’re exercising in the heat and minimise the potential for cramp during long-distance events.
An effective blend of natural anti-oxidants is also incorporated into EnergySource 4:1 to mop up damaging free radicals created through intense or prolonged exercise.
10 Nov 2005
Chris going to Kona
Yup Chris is going to Kona.
From the IM Florida list of qualifiers it indicates that there were four spots in his age group and all top four finishers took their spots!!
Now, who's going to help pace him next October?????
From the IM Florida list of qualifiers it indicates that there were four spots in his age group and all top four finishers took their spots!!
Now, who's going to help pace him next October?????
Weekend Training With JH
Sat bike (for those on your prog)..6 am york rd gates…easy ride waterfall…(wont be many on this ride due to easy week)
Sat swim..email damo for lisas stroke correction, or uni nsw pool 2 pm with gr sellers
Sun bike 6:15 am york rd gates…lapuruse kurnell…at kurnell doing 2 long loops hits with nat park section
Sun run..after bike
Progs coming very soon
Regards
jh
Sat swim..email damo for lisas stroke correction, or uni nsw pool 2 pm with gr sellers
Sun bike 6:15 am york rd gates…lapuruse kurnell…at kurnell doing 2 long loops hits with nat park section
Sun run..after bike
Progs coming very soon
Regards
jh
IM China - travel
Ironman China Tour April 16 to April 25, 2006 through TriTravel
Race fee USD $450 (about A$615)
Travel costs start from USD $2,529* (about A$3450) per person, twin share
Includes:
- Return economy China Southern flights from Melbourne/Sydney into Guang Zhou (it's the capital of the province of Guangdong -- on the mainland, once known as Canton - the airport is less than two years old).
- Return economy China Southern flights from Guang Zhou to Sanya.
China Southern http://www.cs-air.com/en/
- Airport/Hotel return coach & bike transfers.
- 9 nights accommodation at the Five Star “Universal Resort Hotel” in a Superior Garden Room including daily American Buffet Breakfast.
- Services of a local Chinese guide for all transfers and tours.
- Tri Travel’s Tour expert Shane Smith and his crew throughout the whole tour.
All applicable airfare taxes and charges.
Race fee USD $450 (about A$615)
Travel costs start from USD $2,529* (about A$3450) per person, twin share
Includes:
- Return economy China Southern flights from Melbourne/Sydney into Guang Zhou (it's the capital of the province of Guangdong -- on the mainland, once known as Canton - the airport is less than two years old).
- Return economy China Southern flights from Guang Zhou to Sanya.
China Southern http://www.cs-air.com/en/
- Airport/Hotel return coach & bike transfers.
- 9 nights accommodation at the Five Star “Universal Resort Hotel” in a Superior Garden Room including daily American Buffet Breakfast.
- Services of a local Chinese guide for all transfers and tours.
- Tri Travel’s Tour expert Shane Smith and his crew throughout the whole tour.
All applicable airfare taxes and charges.
Brat volunteers needed
WANTED - HELP FOR BRAT TRIATHLON
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 19 HEFFRON PARK MAROUBRA
All our races are staffed entirely by volunteers who are club members. If you race regularly please consider helping so that everyone can have a chance to race. If you aren’t racing on the day why not come out and support your club by volunteering your services for one of the following jobs
marshal
time keeper and recorder
set-up and pack crew
results co-ordinator
If you are racing you can still help by setting up or packing up at the end. Family or friends could help too. We need about a dozen people to put this race on. IF WE DO NOT HAVE THE STAFF WE NEED WE WILL HAVE TO CANCEL OUR RACES! Contact this month’s race director Mandy Meredith on 0407233804 OR e-mail mandymeredith@ozemail.com.au
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 19 HEFFRON PARK MAROUBRA
All our races are staffed entirely by volunteers who are club members. If you race regularly please consider helping so that everyone can have a chance to race. If you aren’t racing on the day why not come out and support your club by volunteering your services for one of the following jobs
marshal
time keeper and recorder
set-up and pack crew
results co-ordinator
If you are racing you can still help by setting up or packing up at the end. Family or friends could help too. We need about a dozen people to put this race on. IF WE DO NOT HAVE THE STAFF WE NEED WE WILL HAVE TO CANCEL OUR RACES! Contact this month’s race director Mandy Meredith on 0407233804 OR e-mail mandymeredith@ozemail.com.au
Looking pretty
Just noticed that Cheeky Monkey is advertising tri-outfits for the races ahead -- of course .. De Soto, Orca, Zoot and Ironman
9 Nov 2005
Peter Reid not racing WA
From his website:
"PETER OUT OF IRONMAN WESTERN AUSTRALIA
I decided to pull out of IM-WA today.
I gave it a shot with the training; but, my body (mentally and physically) was exhausted. All those months of never giving up when I was sick finally caught up to me. I need a break and spend some time at home with my friends. I am looking forward to spending time on the XC skis and supporting my friends who helped me during my rough summer.
There are going to be some big changes next year with my training which I believe will help me get back to top form which I never achieved this year. More on that in the coming months.
Thanks for reading.
Best
Peter"
"PETER OUT OF IRONMAN WESTERN AUSTRALIA
I decided to pull out of IM-WA today.
I gave it a shot with the training; but, my body (mentally and physically) was exhausted. All those months of never giving up when I was sick finally caught up to me. I need a break and spend some time at home with my friends. I am looking forward to spending time on the XC skis and supporting my friends who helped me during my rough summer.
There are going to be some big changes next year with my training which I believe will help me get back to top form which I never achieved this year. More on that in the coming months.
Thanks for reading.
Best
Peter"
Women and bikes
Just happened to see that slowtwitch.com did a review of the bikes of US women in Kona.There are some interesting comments on wheel sizes and materials.
"Finally, here's how it looked among the field of professional women. Seventy-two percent of them rode at 76° or steeper, as previously mentioned. Right about the same percentage chose 700c wheels over 650c, surprising when one considers how many women (American women in particular) chose 650c wheels. Who were riding the smaller-wheeled bikes in the race? Notables include Natascha Badmann, Kate Allen, Katja Schumacher, Lisa Bentley, Joanna Zeiger, Tina Walter, Heather Gollnick, Rebecca Preston and Kim Loeffler. The women's winner and 4 of the top 10 were on 650c bikes. Conversely, Michellie Jones, Kate Major, Joanna Lawn, Belinda Granger and Karen Thuerig all ride 700c bikes."
just stitch this link together:
http://www.slowtwitch.com/mainheadings/
kona2005/kona2005_women.html
"Finally, here's how it looked among the field of professional women. Seventy-two percent of them rode at 76° or steeper, as previously mentioned. Right about the same percentage chose 700c wheels over 650c, surprising when one considers how many women (American women in particular) chose 650c wheels. Who were riding the smaller-wheeled bikes in the race? Notables include Natascha Badmann, Kate Allen, Katja Schumacher, Lisa Bentley, Joanna Zeiger, Tina Walter, Heather Gollnick, Rebecca Preston and Kim Loeffler. The women's winner and 4 of the top 10 were on 650c bikes. Conversely, Michellie Jones, Kate Major, Joanna Lawn, Belinda Granger and Karen Thuerig all ride 700c bikes."
just stitch this link together:
http://www.slowtwitch.com/mainheadings/
kona2005/kona2005_women.html
Bjorn Andersson - bike workout
Mark - what one of your IM NZ competitors is doing:
"Bjorn Andersson is in the midst of some base training in his native Sweden. The humble Swede is planning on turning in a fantastic performance at IM New Zealand in 2006 and is working with his Viking Project (thevikingproject.com) trainers to design the ultimate plan. Bjorn will focus on new types of running workouts and combo bike to run workouts that will get him to the top of the podium. Our favorite Viking Triathlete shares some workouts that have led to his success. Bjorn say's that the key to his cycling performance is lots and lots of volume. Here are a few favorite workouts: Please check with your doctor before performing any of these workouts:
6-7h endurance bike best done a little later in the season when really fit. Consisting of 2.5-3.5h just ride easy then 2h @ IM pace, 1h @ 1/2 IM pace, 0.5h @ oly distance pace. One of my favorites when I'm getting fitter because it gives a good mixture of long endurance but also some faster pacing at the end. It also doesn't completely smoke if you pace right plus it teaches you to keep the intensity up at the end of a long bike which is important and what a lot of athletes have problems with in Ironman."
*from bodyzen.com .. a US coaching site
"Bjorn Andersson is in the midst of some base training in his native Sweden. The humble Swede is planning on turning in a fantastic performance at IM New Zealand in 2006 and is working with his Viking Project (thevikingproject.com) trainers to design the ultimate plan. Bjorn will focus on new types of running workouts and combo bike to run workouts that will get him to the top of the podium. Our favorite Viking Triathlete shares some workouts that have led to his success. Bjorn say's that the key to his cycling performance is lots and lots of volume. Here are a few favorite workouts: Please check with your doctor before performing any of these workouts:
6-7h endurance bike best done a little later in the season when really fit. Consisting of 2.5-3.5h just ride easy then 2h @ IM pace, 1h @ 1/2 IM pace, 0.5h @ oly distance pace. One of my favorites when I'm getting fitter because it gives a good mixture of long endurance but also some faster pacing at the end. It also doesn't completely smoke if you pace right plus it teaches you to keep the intensity up at the end of a long bike which is important and what a lot of athletes have problems with in Ironman."
*from bodyzen.com .. a US coaching site
8 Nov 2005
Noosa Results
Aha .. I found the results today
JH 1st in his age group 2:02:51 ..
Congrats to Eva and Fee Skinner
I think Emily was part of a team though I couldn't immediately determine which one
Apologies if I have forgot anyone else, there were a lot of competitors.
http://www.usmsport.com/series/NTMSF/results.cfm
JH 1st in his age group 2:02:51 ..
Congrats to Eva and Fee Skinner
I think Emily was part of a team though I couldn't immediately determine which one
Apologies if I have forgot anyone else, there were a lot of competitors.
http://www.usmsport.com/series/NTMSF/results.cfm
New Program Time
Progs week this week…please advise of any thing I should know…I,ll put in options for the following
Brat tri or nepean 19/11
Brat run swim 3/12
Canb half 11/12
Sheperton?
Wed brat runs?
Other?
If any of u know of or want to do other races please let me know..or if holidays ,on off prog or whatever advise asap
Well done to all who did noosa…great weekend as usual…we should all do it next year!!!!!!
Congrats to pete mcleans new little one “mia”
I got a crazy week this week sorting out bussleton,progs and catching up on orders plus deliveries so your co-op is appreciated
Also sadly the love of my world “gussy” has been diagnosed with a cancer tumor…and I,m sorting that out…fingers crossed for him
jh
Brat tri or nepean 19/11
Brat run swim 3/12
Canb half 11/12
Sheperton?
Wed brat runs?
Other?
If any of u know of or want to do other races please let me know..or if holidays ,on off prog or whatever advise asap
Well done to all who did noosa…great weekend as usual…we should all do it next year!!!!!!
Congrats to pete mcleans new little one “mia”
I got a crazy week this week sorting out bussleton,progs and catching up on orders plus deliveries so your co-op is appreciated
Also sadly the love of my world “gussy” has been diagnosed with a cancer tumor…and I,m sorting that out…fingers crossed for him
jh
Tasmanian Tour
Apparently Thomas, Eva and Ish plus a few other brave souls are heading to the wilderness of Tasmania in the week ahead.
Bring your skis, just in case! And enjoy!!
Bring your skis, just in case! And enjoy!!
It's in your head
Just saw this:
The Triathlete’s Guide to Mental Training is the first book to explore the all-important role that the mind plays in triathlon training and competition. Internationally recognized psychologist and Ironman triathlete Jim Taylor, Ph.D. and former professional triathlete Terri Schneider give multisport athletes in-depth, yet practical information and skills they can use to master the challenges of the mind while increasing their enjoyment of the sport.
***
This is a Canadian sports psychologist who I think has several interesting books. We have In Pursuit of Excellence
http://zoneofexcellence.com
The Triathlete’s Guide to Mental Training is the first book to explore the all-important role that the mind plays in triathlon training and competition. Internationally recognized psychologist and Ironman triathlete Jim Taylor, Ph.D. and former professional triathlete Terri Schneider give multisport athletes in-depth, yet practical information and skills they can use to master the challenges of the mind while increasing their enjoyment of the sport.
***
This is a Canadian sports psychologist who I think has several interesting books. We have In Pursuit of Excellence
http://zoneofexcellence.com
Nepean Tri Details
Details of the races, online entry and entry forms can be found at www.nepeantriathlon.com and other enquiries can be directed to Gordon Bell on 02 47276083.
The Nepean Triathlon weekend of racing is being held on November 19 and 20.
The Nepean Triathlon held on the Sunday morning consists of a 1km swim in the Centre, followed by a traffic free 30km cycle, and then a 10km run inside the Olympic complex.
The race, one of the highlights of the triathlon season, is the longest running triathlon in Australia and all finishers will receive an Olympic style finishers medallion and a unique 3 coloured print long sleeved finisher’s shirt.
The race will again feature the guys vs the gals with the women starting ahead of the male wave by the difference between the leading male and female averaged over the past five years. This concept proved most exciting in 2004 with Nicholas Hornman passing Angie Sharp with only 300 metres to the finish. The start times will again be adjusted to take account of the 2004 race with the winner taking $1000 with the leading member of the opposite sex taking out $500.
The Nepean weekend also features The Nepean Enticer races on the Saturday afternoon which are short course triathlons for juniors and those who want to complete a short course triathlon.
Race 1 is for 7 to 9 year olds, Race 2 for for the 10 to 13 year olds and race 3 for the over 14 and including adult categories. These races traditionally attract capacity fields and utilize the complete Nepean race set up, computer chip timing etc. and also provides excellent prizes and lucky draws. Race 3 usually fills up before race day so enter early to make sure you do not miss out.
The Nepean Triathlon weekend of racing is being held on November 19 and 20.
The Nepean Triathlon held on the Sunday morning consists of a 1km swim in the Centre, followed by a traffic free 30km cycle, and then a 10km run inside the Olympic complex.
The race, one of the highlights of the triathlon season, is the longest running triathlon in Australia and all finishers will receive an Olympic style finishers medallion and a unique 3 coloured print long sleeved finisher’s shirt.
The race will again feature the guys vs the gals with the women starting ahead of the male wave by the difference between the leading male and female averaged over the past five years. This concept proved most exciting in 2004 with Nicholas Hornman passing Angie Sharp with only 300 metres to the finish. The start times will again be adjusted to take account of the 2004 race with the winner taking $1000 with the leading member of the opposite sex taking out $500.
The Nepean weekend also features The Nepean Enticer races on the Saturday afternoon which are short course triathlons for juniors and those who want to complete a short course triathlon.
Race 1 is for 7 to 9 year olds, Race 2 for for the 10 to 13 year olds and race 3 for the over 14 and including adult categories. These races traditionally attract capacity fields and utilize the complete Nepean race set up, computer chip timing etc. and also provides excellent prizes and lucky draws. Race 3 usually fills up before race day so enter early to make sure you do not miss out.
7 Nov 2005
Macca Nutrition
from
http://foxsports.news.com.au/story/0,8659,17160618-23218,00.html
Fuelled by chocolate biscuits, an expresso, Coke and a Red Bull drink "to get me going", McCormack (1:46.45) yesterday beat Melbourne triathlete Leon Griffin and top Englishman Paul Amey for the win - his first over the 1.5km swim, 40km cycle and 10km run distance in four years.
"This has really given me a taste to try and finish my career at the Beijing Olympics," said McCormack, who veered into ironman racing after he failed to make the Sydney 2000 team.
http://foxsports.news.com.au/story/0,8659,17160618-23218,00.html
Fuelled by chocolate biscuits, an expresso, Coke and a Red Bull drink "to get me going", McCormack (1:46.45) yesterday beat Melbourne triathlete Leon Griffin and top Englishman Paul Amey for the win - his first over the 1.5km swim, 40km cycle and 10km run distance in four years.
"This has really given me a taste to try and finish my career at the Beijing Olympics," said McCormack, who veered into ironman racing after he failed to make the Sydney 2000 team.
Brat 5k/Swim Results
In the 5k run:
Dingo 4th 17:42
Margreet 20:33
Ian Depree 20:47
In the 1k swim (which includes very long beach run):
Lisa 14:13
Scott 14:54
Dingo 14:58
Darren Roberts 15:03
Mel 17:20
Tim 18:37
In the 2k swim (which included 10m swells - my estimate):
Lisa 29:39
Dingo 31:05
Tim 41:12
Dingo 4th 17:42
Margreet 20:33
Ian Depree 20:47
In the 1k swim (which includes very long beach run):
Lisa 14:13
Scott 14:54
Dingo 14:58
Darren Roberts 15:03
Mel 17:20
Tim 18:37
In the 2k swim (which included 10m swells - my estimate):
Lisa 29:39
Dingo 31:05
Tim 41:12
NYC Marathon
It was a busy weekend not just in Florida and Noosa -- the New York City Marathon also was held.
Congrats to Rebecca Wolfe - she's getting faster and faster 3:11 - securing her a Top 100 finish among the women
(Editor note: I did this event in 1999 and I highly recommend it. It's not an easy course by any means and then there are more than 30,000 other competitors to pace off or work through to find open space. You get to cross into all five boroughs of the city, crossing several bridges before finishing in Central Park.)
Congrats to Rebecca Wolfe - she's getting faster and faster 3:11 - securing her a Top 100 finish among the women
(Editor note: I did this event in 1999 and I highly recommend it. It's not an easy course by any means and then there are more than 30,000 other competitors to pace off or work through to find open space. You get to cross into all five boroughs of the city, crossing several bridges before finishing in Central Park.)
Another McLean!!!
Hi All,
I'm delighted to announce Mia Rose McLean was born this (Sunday) morning at
8:30am. Lisa and Mia are doing well.
Weight 3.82kgs / 8.5lbs
Length 53.5cm
Pete
I'm delighted to announce Mia Rose McLean was born this (Sunday) morning at
8:30am. Lisa and Mia are doing well.
Weight 3.82kgs / 8.5lbs
Length 53.5cm
Pete
6 Nov 2005
And he roared in Florida!
Awesome performance Chris - look forward to hearing from you.
Swim 53:56
Bike 5:00:41
Run 3:16:45
Total Time 9:20:03
Swim 53:56
Bike 5:00:41
Run 3:16:45
Total Time 9:20:03
4 Nov 2005
IM Florida Pre Race
Gday everyone.
Its Thursday now and two days before the race. The weather has fined
right up , the ocean has calmed and the wind died to 5-10mph, perfect
race conditions.
Saturday is expected to hit 84d which is about 28/29 C so will be a hot
run.
I am all set to go - finished off with a small swim and run this
morning and everything looks well for a solid race. There is stacks of
Germans around so they are always going to give me a run for my money for the
Hawaii slots , so its not going to be a walk in the park. So I reckon
its a case of " game on!"
Chris Dmitrieff is racing and will defintely be pushing the poduim. I
heard a late entrant of Chris Lieto but this being his third ironman in
a few months I think will be a tough ask to win here.
Its all very exciting and I can't wait for that gun on Sat morn. Good
luck to anyone doing Noosa and Nepean and whatever other races are
coming up.
Keep smiling
chris
Its Thursday now and two days before the race. The weather has fined
right up , the ocean has calmed and the wind died to 5-10mph, perfect
race conditions.
Saturday is expected to hit 84d which is about 28/29 C so will be a hot
run.
I am all set to go - finished off with a small swim and run this
morning and everything looks well for a solid race. There is stacks of
Germans around so they are always going to give me a run for my money for the
Hawaii slots , so its not going to be a walk in the park. So I reckon
its a case of " game on!"
Chris Dmitrieff is racing and will defintely be pushing the poduim. I
heard a late entrant of Chris Lieto but this being his third ironman in
a few months I think will be a tough ask to win here.
Its all very exciting and I can't wait for that gun on Sat morn. Good
luck to anyone doing Noosa and Nepean and whatever other races are
coming up.
Keep smiling
chris
3 Nov 2005
Chris Waterhouse - 273
In the last year he has become faster and stronger, and hungrier. And so he is in Florida waiting for the race to begin.
He’s a man of many names – Animal or Ooffie or just plain Ooff. Even some of his mates don’t know his real name!
Chris, 29, isn’t a mystery to us though. In his first Forster, he finished top 50 overall (which he repeated this year) and got a spot for Kona. In his debut in Hawaii, he finished in the top 200 in 10:21:46.
When racing, and often when training, Chris goes for it. Not unlike his sister. The determination to succeed is a family trait indeed. That being said, he’s learning – albeit slowly – that you don’t need to flog yourself every session.
He tackles the challenge of a long brick with anticipation and as another self learning experience. He now combines strength with his aerobic program.
On Tuesday’s through winter, he’s been rising as early as 4 am to do half of the session on the wind trainer. He completes the session in the evening at a bike track where he enjoys teaching some of the other cyclists what hard work is all about.
Every once in a while, he’d head into the National Park after the track – as you do – dodging the occasional deer. Tess says one time his lights failed in the dark going up the Waterfall hill and it was apparently a very interesting experience. But this Sutho-based surveyor has an internal GPS system that works day or night!
Tess says he often does his long runs on a hilly 6km course, where his fastest recorded time was 30 minutes – so you know it was H I L L Y.
As we’ve heard in recent days from Florida, Chris is quite relaxed heading into the race. And so he should be – the hard yakka is done and it’s time to shine.
Forster 2004 9:19 45th overall
Forster 2005 9:25 45th overall
Cairns ½ 2005 top 20
http://www.ironmanflorida.com/
He’s a man of many names – Animal or Ooffie or just plain Ooff. Even some of his mates don’t know his real name!
Chris, 29, isn’t a mystery to us though. In his first Forster, he finished top 50 overall (which he repeated this year) and got a spot for Kona. In his debut in Hawaii, he finished in the top 200 in 10:21:46.
When racing, and often when training, Chris goes for it. Not unlike his sister. The determination to succeed is a family trait indeed. That being said, he’s learning – albeit slowly – that you don’t need to flog yourself every session.
He tackles the challenge of a long brick with anticipation and as another self learning experience. He now combines strength with his aerobic program.
On Tuesday’s through winter, he’s been rising as early as 4 am to do half of the session on the wind trainer. He completes the session in the evening at a bike track where he enjoys teaching some of the other cyclists what hard work is all about.
Every once in a while, he’d head into the National Park after the track – as you do – dodging the occasional deer. Tess says one time his lights failed in the dark going up the Waterfall hill and it was apparently a very interesting experience. But this Sutho-based surveyor has an internal GPS system that works day or night!
Tess says he often does his long runs on a hilly 6km course, where his fastest recorded time was 30 minutes – so you know it was H I L L Y.
As we’ve heard in recent days from Florida, Chris is quite relaxed heading into the race. And so he should be – the hard yakka is done and it’s time to shine.
Forster 2004 9:19 45th overall
Forster 2005 9:25 45th overall
Cairns ½ 2005 top 20
http://www.ironmanflorida.com/
2 Nov 2005
Weekend Training
Sat bike:6 am york rd gates…easy to sutho garage via la paruse
E2 Hits will be
1st hit for all…. will be from sutho after crossing main road busy area out to waterfall along freeway,left at waterfall through the park out at auderley..meet back at sutho station.
2nd hit for longer people…2 laps kurnell no nat park but incl caltex out and back
sat pm :optional brat swim and run races..
Meet under LIFEGUARD TOWER - MALABAR BEACH. Malabar is the 1st beach after Maroubra, heading south. Turn LEFT off Anzac Parade at Cromwell Place, right into Franklin St & LEFT into Dacre St.
· 2.30pm start for run- entries close 2.15
· 3.30pm 1km swim start- entries close 3.15
· 4pm 2km swim start- entries close 3.45
· $15 entry for each race or $20 for both
Sunday bike 6:15 am york rd gates …90-100k easy to kurnell with park and caltex
Or meet 7 am at calga course for monthly time trial
Please note theres no nepean this w end
I will be at noosa so lisa and dingo will take care of u
I,m going to noosa early thurs so best to get me on my mobile if u need me
0408249106
Regards
jh
E2 Hits will be
1st hit for all…. will be from sutho after crossing main road busy area out to waterfall along freeway,left at waterfall through the park out at auderley..meet back at sutho station.
2nd hit for longer people…2 laps kurnell no nat park but incl caltex out and back
sat pm :optional brat swim and run races..
Meet under LIFEGUARD TOWER - MALABAR BEACH. Malabar is the 1st beach after Maroubra, heading south. Turn LEFT off Anzac Parade at Cromwell Place, right into Franklin St & LEFT into Dacre St.
· 2.30pm start for run- entries close 2.15
· 3.30pm 1km swim start- entries close 3.15
· 4pm 2km swim start- entries close 3.45
· $15 entry for each race or $20 for both
Sunday bike 6:15 am york rd gates …90-100k easy to kurnell with park and caltex
Or meet 7 am at calga course for monthly time trial
Please note theres no nepean this w end
I will be at noosa so lisa and dingo will take care of u
I,m going to noosa early thurs so best to get me on my mobile if u need me
0408249106
Regards
jh
Canberra 1/2 Course
Apparently there is a confirmed course for Canberra 1/2 now and you can look at it on the half ironman's site.
http://www.canberrahalf.com.au
http://www.canberrahalf.com.au
Reid, Leder and Dingo
Well, Peter Reid and now Lothar Leder must be feeling very good .. both are set to challenge Dingo at WA on Nov 27.
A Tapering waverunner
G'day everyone ,
Well I reckon this has got to be the best place to taper. The weather
has warmed to mid to high 20's during the day, the ocean is about
23degrees and only slight winds.
Whatever training is to be done is usually dealt with early then its a
stretch and breakfast and down to the resort pool and spa for recovery.
The spas nice and warm and helps get the blood through those quads. I
have been having 3-4 spas a day!
The yankee tv is pretty cool too with heaps of movies and even a few
ironmans playing like cour-de-alene and canada. Our room overlooks the
ocean , we are about 15metres from the sand and each night we get magic
sunsets -its brilliant.
Theres little to do around except take it easy - I have been having a
daytime sleep each day (something I have never done before) and its all
working a treat as I feel a million dollars!
Yesterday was a brilliant day, about 27d and sunny and glassy. Chappo
and I hired a couple of waverunners and tore up "the gulf" beaches, it
was sick , we went nuts doing donuts and jumping over waves , the things
hammer pretty quick , at one point I hit the swell at full throttle and
jumped about 5ft into the air! Ha! , we were cracking up , we had a
ball.
We have had a front hit us today with humid overcast conditions and
wind has picked up to produce a pretty rough sea. I did one lap of the
swim course and I must admit I did find it a little tough as visibility
was non existent with the chop and swell was difficult to swim through -
even for an ocean kid like me. I think the times may be alittle slow in
the water as a result but will favour the strong swimmers so I should
be ok out of the water. It was freaky because I was the only swimmer out
there and it goes into some pretty deep water and almost 1km off shore!
I was starting to think about sharks - but - phew, got that out of my
head before I freaked completely!
Ironman village opens tomorrow - I heard cervelo are having a stand
there and you can test ride the p3carbon! Yeah boy!
Hope you are all having fun back in Aus - wish you all were here - I
think its going to be a great race!
cheers-
chris
Well I reckon this has got to be the best place to taper. The weather
has warmed to mid to high 20's during the day, the ocean is about
23degrees and only slight winds.
Whatever training is to be done is usually dealt with early then its a
stretch and breakfast and down to the resort pool and spa for recovery.
The spas nice and warm and helps get the blood through those quads. I
have been having 3-4 spas a day!
The yankee tv is pretty cool too with heaps of movies and even a few
ironmans playing like cour-de-alene and canada. Our room overlooks the
ocean , we are about 15metres from the sand and each night we get magic
sunsets -its brilliant.
Theres little to do around except take it easy - I have been having a
daytime sleep each day (something I have never done before) and its all
working a treat as I feel a million dollars!
Yesterday was a brilliant day, about 27d and sunny and glassy. Chappo
and I hired a couple of waverunners and tore up "the gulf" beaches, it
was sick , we went nuts doing donuts and jumping over waves , the things
hammer pretty quick , at one point I hit the swell at full throttle and
jumped about 5ft into the air! Ha! , we were cracking up , we had a
ball.
We have had a front hit us today with humid overcast conditions and
wind has picked up to produce a pretty rough sea. I did one lap of the
swim course and I must admit I did find it a little tough as visibility
was non existent with the chop and swell was difficult to swim through -
even for an ocean kid like me. I think the times may be alittle slow in
the water as a result but will favour the strong swimmers so I should
be ok out of the water. It was freaky because I was the only swimmer out
there and it goes into some pretty deep water and almost 1km off shore!
I was starting to think about sharks - but - phew, got that out of my
head before I freaked completely!
Ironman village opens tomorrow - I heard cervelo are having a stand
there and you can test ride the p3carbon! Yeah boy!
Hope you are all having fun back in Aus - wish you all were here - I
think its going to be a great race!
cheers-
chris
1 Nov 2005
Steph's Kona Experience
My Kona Experience
Someone wise once said to me: “Think of the Hawaii ironman as just another ironman in a different location. Prepare to accept all conditions that will be thrown at you on the day, control the things that you can and manage the things that you can’t.” These words of wisdom have stuck with me ever since I qualified for the 2005 Ironman World Championships and helped me prepare mentally for the day.
My training over the winter months had been somewhat more casual than my preparation for previous ironmans due to a number of personal reasons. Also, my main focus for this race changed as I no longer needed to qualify; I wanted to enjoy the experience and soak up the atmosphere like my fellow hillbillies Tim and Margreet who always seem to have so much fun at races. I usually don’t remember much about my race, everything seems like a blur. I wanted to remember this one as I knew this would be my last ironman for a very, very long time.
Declan and I arrived in Kona on the Tuesday week prior to the race to acclimatise to the hot and humid weather for which the Big Island is famous. But it wasn’t as hot as I had imagined, at least not while standing still. Once I started to unpack my bike, sweat just began pouring off and I hadn’t done any training yet. I thought there was no way I could do an ironman in these conditions. But we were also treated with some mild days and evenings with cool sea breezes.
I rode almost the entire bike course in sections during the following week, taking notes of conditions and distances that might help me to break down the ride. True to legend, it was fairly windy. The Hawi loop was the hardest part of the course but also the prettiest. It has fairly strong crosswinds at the early rolling hills which gradually turn into a headwind for the last climb to the town of Hawi. With sudden gusts from time to time and semi-trailers passing, it’s “hold on if you can” time. However, the days I was out there, the wind was not strong enough to blow me off my bike! Hawi was also beautiful with great coastal views, especially when descending. It is definitely a nice change after spending time in the desolate lava fields.
I normally dread the swim. But once I got in the water, I was surprised how nice it was. The ocean was crystal clear, extra buoyant and the temperature was perfect. There were lots of tropical fish and coral as well. It’s hard not to be distracted! There’s always a bit of chop in the ocean, but it wasn’t a problem here. It was definitely no worse than Busselton. It did seem quite daunting to swim in a straight line for 1.9km. I couldn’t even see the last couple of buoys. But it didn’t matter because I never swam the entire course.
The run course is pretty much in town, at the highway and a lap of the famous Natural Energy Lab. When I first heard of the energy lab, I thought it was a popular tourist spot. I now know why it is famous. I think every person who has run a lap of it during the day will have a lasting memory of the place. It was H-O-T in there! Especially when there is no breeze, the heat just gets trapped in there. Apparently, it radiates the most amount of energy in Kona, besides the active volcano on the island.
There wasn’t much other sightseeing to do and shopping in Kona was non-existent. We did spoil ourselves with going out to dinner every second night and managed to catch up with Mal and Tess for dinner a couple of times. Luckily, we had a lovely beachfront unit. Declan was happy laying by the pool or on the balcony catching up with his novel and working on his tan. I was busy finishing my assignment which was due while I was away. Suffice to say it didn’t feel like I was going to do an ironman soon.
It did really hit me when I rocked up at registration on the Tuesday of race week. It was a big affair in a function room packed with tables, chairs and volunteers. Each athlete gets to sit down for a heart-to-heart chat with a volunteer. Mine was so nice and caring, went through everything in the yellow envelope and made sure I understood it all -- not to mention making me sign three forms before I was allowed to leave. The process made me nervous. I thought to myself; it’s the real deal! I was used to going to registration to get my name marked off and walk away with an envelope.
The next few days were pretty relaxing, going to the race briefing and carbo dinner hosted by Mike “you’re an ironman” Reilly. The food at the carbo dinner was pretty ordinary but the entertainment was spectacular. They had Polynesian dancers performing a ritual which included throwing flaming sticks in the air. They also introduced an interesting aspect of what is truly Hawaiian called the “mana”, it’s your soul and spirit.
Race Day
I woke up at about 4 am to have a High5 breakfast and made sure everything was ready to go. As soon as I arrived at the start, I was on autopilot, going through body marking and getting my bike ready. It seemed like well rehearsed, this is after all my third ironman in eleven months. Drop off the swim bag and it was time for a quick loo visit before I entered the water. The swim start is big and wide with lots of space. The ocean was quite calm and after treading water for about 15 minutes, a canon sounded the start. All I could hear was spectators clapping, the beeps from the starting of hundreds of stopwatches and the churning of water in front of me. The journey had begun.
I settled into a good rhythm, just kept a constant pace within myself and tried to get out of everyone’s way. This is by far the most civilised swim. I remembered the mass beach start at Busselton where I was kicked in the chin and grabbed by the arm before I even got into the water. The swim felt long, especially when swimming towards an open sea, there were supposed to be two ships at the turnaround but I couldn’t spot them until I was well over half way through the first part of the swim. The second part of the swim is harder as you cross a slight current parallel to the course and navigation becomes more difficult.
I was thankful when I came out of the water, happy with my time as it wasn’t much longer than I anticipated. In transition the volunteers even gave me my bag, I got changed, picked up my bike and the longest part of my day started. One thing I noticed early into the ride was the absence of wind. Normally there is a crosswind along the Queen K highway and it becomes stronger further out. Still I rode conservatively, not knowing whether the wind would pick up later. I didn’t drink as much as I had planned because it wasn’t as hot and windy as I thought but still I focused on my nutrition, making sure I was well hydrated and fuelled. Teresa went past me about the 40 km mark - she’s such a terrific athlete. I rode up to her and said `‘hi’’. I tried to keep an eye on her as she has far more experience on this course. The wind did pick up at Hawi but that was to be expected. I lost Teresa after the turnaround as she hammered down the hill with the wind at our backs. I continued with my own pace. After turning back to the highway, I cheered myself up as I was in the home stretch now and still feeling good. If all went well, I could finish before nightfall.
The run went very quickly. The afternoon breeze was beautiful and cool. I saw Lisa Bentley not long after I started the run. She was crying and walking. It was terrible. The town was packed with spectators from all over the world. Every time I ran past Japanese spectators, they would wish me the best in Japanese and I would wave back. I was so excited when I saw Declan for the first time on the day outside where we stayed. I waved and smiled. I was jealous when I saw Daryl from Steam sitting outside his complex with a beer in his hand. I saw John when I was running up Alii Drive and he was coming down. I said “hi” and John said “well done”. He was calm and steady as usual, little did I know he was actually sick. I saw Tess just after the Alii Drive turnaround, she was walking, and I tried to encourage her and told her not to give up. I knew even if she had to walk the entire marathon, she would still finish within the cut-off. I saw her again just as I was coming out of the energy lab and she was running again. I was proud of her not giving up. Her time will come.
The saying “when you got to go, you got to go” is true. I needed to go when I got off the bike but I thought my level of tolerance had increased overnight. An hour later, I saw my stomach swelling up and a cramp coming on. The cramp was so bad; I almost had to walk Palani Rd, the only descent on the run course. That was my lowest point on the day. I popped into the next loo I could see. I immediately felt better and I was happy again.
The last few hundred metres were very special. The crowd was fantastic; I was waving and thanking them. I felt like an artist taking a bow at the end of a concert. It was the perfect farewell.
Lastly, I would like to thank Steam for their generous contribution to my race entry. I’m extremely grateful. To Paul, who has been helping me with training and achieving my goal of qualifying for Hawaii. And to Dec -- what more can a girl ask for.
Someone wise once said to me: “Think of the Hawaii ironman as just another ironman in a different location. Prepare to accept all conditions that will be thrown at you on the day, control the things that you can and manage the things that you can’t.” These words of wisdom have stuck with me ever since I qualified for the 2005 Ironman World Championships and helped me prepare mentally for the day.
My training over the winter months had been somewhat more casual than my preparation for previous ironmans due to a number of personal reasons. Also, my main focus for this race changed as I no longer needed to qualify; I wanted to enjoy the experience and soak up the atmosphere like my fellow hillbillies Tim and Margreet who always seem to have so much fun at races. I usually don’t remember much about my race, everything seems like a blur. I wanted to remember this one as I knew this would be my last ironman for a very, very long time.
Declan and I arrived in Kona on the Tuesday week prior to the race to acclimatise to the hot and humid weather for which the Big Island is famous. But it wasn’t as hot as I had imagined, at least not while standing still. Once I started to unpack my bike, sweat just began pouring off and I hadn’t done any training yet. I thought there was no way I could do an ironman in these conditions. But we were also treated with some mild days and evenings with cool sea breezes.
I rode almost the entire bike course in sections during the following week, taking notes of conditions and distances that might help me to break down the ride. True to legend, it was fairly windy. The Hawi loop was the hardest part of the course but also the prettiest. It has fairly strong crosswinds at the early rolling hills which gradually turn into a headwind for the last climb to the town of Hawi. With sudden gusts from time to time and semi-trailers passing, it’s “hold on if you can” time. However, the days I was out there, the wind was not strong enough to blow me off my bike! Hawi was also beautiful with great coastal views, especially when descending. It is definitely a nice change after spending time in the desolate lava fields.
I normally dread the swim. But once I got in the water, I was surprised how nice it was. The ocean was crystal clear, extra buoyant and the temperature was perfect. There were lots of tropical fish and coral as well. It’s hard not to be distracted! There’s always a bit of chop in the ocean, but it wasn’t a problem here. It was definitely no worse than Busselton. It did seem quite daunting to swim in a straight line for 1.9km. I couldn’t even see the last couple of buoys. But it didn’t matter because I never swam the entire course.
The run course is pretty much in town, at the highway and a lap of the famous Natural Energy Lab. When I first heard of the energy lab, I thought it was a popular tourist spot. I now know why it is famous. I think every person who has run a lap of it during the day will have a lasting memory of the place. It was H-O-T in there! Especially when there is no breeze, the heat just gets trapped in there. Apparently, it radiates the most amount of energy in Kona, besides the active volcano on the island.
There wasn’t much other sightseeing to do and shopping in Kona was non-existent. We did spoil ourselves with going out to dinner every second night and managed to catch up with Mal and Tess for dinner a couple of times. Luckily, we had a lovely beachfront unit. Declan was happy laying by the pool or on the balcony catching up with his novel and working on his tan. I was busy finishing my assignment which was due while I was away. Suffice to say it didn’t feel like I was going to do an ironman soon.
It did really hit me when I rocked up at registration on the Tuesday of race week. It was a big affair in a function room packed with tables, chairs and volunteers. Each athlete gets to sit down for a heart-to-heart chat with a volunteer. Mine was so nice and caring, went through everything in the yellow envelope and made sure I understood it all -- not to mention making me sign three forms before I was allowed to leave. The process made me nervous. I thought to myself; it’s the real deal! I was used to going to registration to get my name marked off and walk away with an envelope.
The next few days were pretty relaxing, going to the race briefing and carbo dinner hosted by Mike “you’re an ironman” Reilly. The food at the carbo dinner was pretty ordinary but the entertainment was spectacular. They had Polynesian dancers performing a ritual which included throwing flaming sticks in the air. They also introduced an interesting aspect of what is truly Hawaiian called the “mana”, it’s your soul and spirit.
Race Day
I woke up at about 4 am to have a High5 breakfast and made sure everything was ready to go. As soon as I arrived at the start, I was on autopilot, going through body marking and getting my bike ready. It seemed like well rehearsed, this is after all my third ironman in eleven months. Drop off the swim bag and it was time for a quick loo visit before I entered the water. The swim start is big and wide with lots of space. The ocean was quite calm and after treading water for about 15 minutes, a canon sounded the start. All I could hear was spectators clapping, the beeps from the starting of hundreds of stopwatches and the churning of water in front of me. The journey had begun.
I settled into a good rhythm, just kept a constant pace within myself and tried to get out of everyone’s way. This is by far the most civilised swim. I remembered the mass beach start at Busselton where I was kicked in the chin and grabbed by the arm before I even got into the water. The swim felt long, especially when swimming towards an open sea, there were supposed to be two ships at the turnaround but I couldn’t spot them until I was well over half way through the first part of the swim. The second part of the swim is harder as you cross a slight current parallel to the course and navigation becomes more difficult.
I was thankful when I came out of the water, happy with my time as it wasn’t much longer than I anticipated. In transition the volunteers even gave me my bag, I got changed, picked up my bike and the longest part of my day started. One thing I noticed early into the ride was the absence of wind. Normally there is a crosswind along the Queen K highway and it becomes stronger further out. Still I rode conservatively, not knowing whether the wind would pick up later. I didn’t drink as much as I had planned because it wasn’t as hot and windy as I thought but still I focused on my nutrition, making sure I was well hydrated and fuelled. Teresa went past me about the 40 km mark - she’s such a terrific athlete. I rode up to her and said `‘hi’’. I tried to keep an eye on her as she has far more experience on this course. The wind did pick up at Hawi but that was to be expected. I lost Teresa after the turnaround as she hammered down the hill with the wind at our backs. I continued with my own pace. After turning back to the highway, I cheered myself up as I was in the home stretch now and still feeling good. If all went well, I could finish before nightfall.
The run went very quickly. The afternoon breeze was beautiful and cool. I saw Lisa Bentley not long after I started the run. She was crying and walking. It was terrible. The town was packed with spectators from all over the world. Every time I ran past Japanese spectators, they would wish me the best in Japanese and I would wave back. I was so excited when I saw Declan for the first time on the day outside where we stayed. I waved and smiled. I was jealous when I saw Daryl from Steam sitting outside his complex with a beer in his hand. I saw John when I was running up Alii Drive and he was coming down. I said “hi” and John said “well done”. He was calm and steady as usual, little did I know he was actually sick. I saw Tess just after the Alii Drive turnaround, she was walking, and I tried to encourage her and told her not to give up. I knew even if she had to walk the entire marathon, she would still finish within the cut-off. I saw her again just as I was coming out of the energy lab and she was running again. I was proud of her not giving up. Her time will come.
The saying “when you got to go, you got to go” is true. I needed to go when I got off the bike but I thought my level of tolerance had increased overnight. An hour later, I saw my stomach swelling up and a cramp coming on. The cramp was so bad; I almost had to walk Palani Rd, the only descent on the run course. That was my lowest point on the day. I popped into the next loo I could see. I immediately felt better and I was happy again.
The last few hundred metres were very special. The crowd was fantastic; I was waving and thanking them. I felt like an artist taking a bow at the end of a concert. It was the perfect farewell.
Lastly, I would like to thank Steam for their generous contribution to my race entry. I’m extremely grateful. To Paul, who has been helping me with training and achieving my goal of qualifying for Hawaii. And to Dec -- what more can a girl ask for.
New High5 Products
Just advising that I recently got a delivery of new products all now available at cheeky monkey
Now got 11 flavours total of high5 gels
Caffeine is orange or cola
Non caffeine is orange, carribean crush, summer fruits, raspberry rush, chocolate, apple, banana, citrus, hmm forgot the other one
Protein bars-chocolate(new)
New 4:1(carb/prot) energy source in berry, very yum…massive electrolytes to reduce cramps and vary level energy levels
New xstreme e source in citrus…massive electrolytes, massive caffeine,ie same as red bull…great for short races
New high5 race belts with toggles
Energy belts with toggles
Bum bag
Water bottle holder
Gel belt
Goodie bag(stronger and bigger than bento)
More coming too soon
Regards
john
Now got 11 flavours total of high5 gels
Caffeine is orange or cola
Non caffeine is orange, carribean crush, summer fruits, raspberry rush, chocolate, apple, banana, citrus, hmm forgot the other one
Protein bars-chocolate(new)
New 4:1(carb/prot) energy source in berry, very yum…massive electrolytes to reduce cramps and vary level energy levels
New xstreme e source in citrus…massive electrolytes, massive caffeine,ie same as red bull…great for short races
New high5 race belts with toggles
Energy belts with toggles
Bum bag
Water bottle holder
Gel belt
Goodie bag(stronger and bigger than bento)
More coming too soon
Regards
john
Eva Extends Tour
Just in -- Eva has signed a contract extension and will continue to train with the Hillbillies!
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