Cuttingadventures

Blues Cruise 50K October 2011

2011-10-04T07:52:00.006-10:00

The Pagoda Paces are a running club based out of PA who hosts the annual Blues Cruise 50K trail run. The run takes place at the Blue Marsh Lake, Reading, PA. This years course featured a single loop consisting of 95% single track. The first time I ran the Blues Cruise was 2007. The course was so much fun the first time, that I decided to run it again.

Usually runners prepare for a 50K similar as they would a marathon, such as logging in long runs of up to 20 miles. Usually that is how I normally would do it, but in this case, I can't resist signing up for events with no more than a 10 or 13 mile long run. So be it, that is how I prepared for the Blues Cruise the first time, and the second. Needless to say, that's the hard way. Either way, as long as you cross the finish line, that is what counts.

Running on trails is a wonderful experience, of putting you one with nature. The serenity of it all, the quiet of the forest, the challenge of the terrain. This year, the terrain was muddy, slippery, and wet. We crossed a nice river, which reminded me of Xterra Guam, but MUCH colder.

Half way through the run (mile 14 or so) I was feeling dizzy. Luckily the aid stations were well stocked with goodies that I was able to get enough sugar in me to recover. Drinking coke and gatorade got me to the finish line. The volunteers were very helpful, and encouraging. They'd say things like, "You are doing great!" They even offered me some beer, since I probably looked like a needed one to numb the pain! HA! All the positive reinforcements they offered were music to my ears. It took quite a bit longer to finish this year, but walking away with 1st. in my age and 5 overall female was, well, an accomplishment. Another 50K under the belt feels good.

I hope to return next year. Cheers! Run on and run strong!

Lake effect Snow Storm

2010-12-10T10:04:00.002-10:00

Second season in central NY is exciting. Syracuse has been reported to have 95 hours and 10 minutes of snowing. It's snowing now, and it's going to snow some more, making it great conditions for fun in the snow to x-country ski and snow shoe. I am looking forward to some outdoor exercise that is something different than running. After completing the 100 mile and the 100K run last August, I have been enjoying less pounding and find myself getting in some great swim workouts with our new head swimming coach, Fernando. He is very highly respected in the swimming world, and an absolute joy to work for.

The raiders swim team is feeling the positive vibrations, and we showed our stuff in the snow one evening. We are looking forward to winning more meets after training trip to FL. and doing well at the Patriot League Championships in February @ Bucknell.

2010-04-18T15:20:00.000-10:00

I am drinking an iced coffee, that I requested Jayne bring out to the course. It might be considered contraband!!!

I really enjoyed the scenery, and that is one of the major reasons why I wanted to enter this event. We ran over the same stretch of road for 50 miles on Sat. and I thought, how am I going to look forward to running over the same stretch of road the next day for 44 miles?? Believe it or not, I actually looked forward to running the 50K the next day.

The snow cap mountains in the background look absolutely majestic. When Jayne and I ran the 9 mile trail section of the 50K on Sunday, we ran in those mountains.

Here I am taking a walk break. I am so close to finishing, and that guy behind me ended up passing me when we did our turnaround at the 3 mile mark on the last out and back. I don't remember Jayne running with me here. I think I was in the delerious state. Not quite euphoric, but still delerious.

Las Vegas Ultra running

2010-04-18T15:00:00.000-10:00

The perfect dinner before a 50 mile run is eating with friends. Lisa and I enjoyed the grilled Salmon and oh- don't forget a glass or two of Vino!! It was a beautiful night to enjoy our meal outside.

Race morning, and Eric and I enjoy a nice warm up run together. This was Eric's first race in two years after some health problems. Let's just say he tore up the course. He was first overall by about 30 minutes to the 2nd. place finisher. I had the pleasure and privledge of running with him from mile 16 to 22. After that he got faster and I slowed down. I don't know how he does it, but I do know that he knows his shoes. Eric owns Red Rock Running Co. in Las Vegas. It is a fabulous shoe store, and he has a good memory for what shoes you buy and wear. Thanks Eric for your company on the run. It was good to see you running with so much joy and strength.

It was a really beautiful morning. The winds were light, which did give way to stronger winds by the afternoon. The temps were very nice.

The Canyon is an amazing place. Too bad we didn't spot any burros though.

Las Vegas

2010-04-18T14:57:00.000-10:00

You gotta love the milling around before the race. It's a rather subdued crowd. Simple people looking to run mega miles.

Looking out into the vast unknown of the canyon was not as intimitating as preparing for an Ironman on race morning.

The road seemed to go on forever. Mile markers were placed every mile, and the support crew at the aid stations were very helpful.

Labor of Love

2010-04-15T09:21:00.004-10:00

hI have about 5 min. to post a few pictures and my description of the Labor of Love 2 day ultra running event. Below is a small summary that I wrote on the plane. It really only touches the surface of all the accounts of the weekend. Jayne played the perfect host for my stay. And all my wonderful Vegas friends where around to share the visit, Lisa, Kim, Julie, and most of all Chicky, who was our fan out on the course. Kim drove out to meet us with less than 5 miles to go on the 50K and actually had a cooler of ice which was my saving grace for the tight IT band. Chicky and Jayne brought me an ice coffee, which really gave me a boost for the final 10 miles of the 50 mile run on Saturday. I will have to follow up with more stories. In the meantime......

This unique experience of ultra running is the ultimate endeavor that will test the body, mind, soul and spirit a basic life principle; to be in the moment.

Running for distances longer than the average person cares to drive sounds like a daunting task. In a runners’ mind – the distance is merely a small obstacle to conquer. Every step, every breath brings us closer to realizing that we can make anything happen. Our energy takes us in the direction we are going. If we feel tired, we slow down. If we feel energized we speed up. The continuous motion of traveling from point A to point B (finish line) using manual locomotion over distances greater than the average marathon (26.2) sets the stage for what I describe as a delirious euphoria of painful delight. In other words it’s a: “Labor of Love.”

The Labor of Love was the perfect fitting title to Calico’s Racing ultra run event at Lovell Canyon in Las Vegas, NV.

When a challenge is presented to run distances from 80-100 miles, how can one refuse? The Labor of Love ultra run offered different running options for everyone. I signed on for the 50miles on Saturday, followed by the 50K on Sunday. I completed 80 miles over a two day period. Finishing both runs is a stepping stone to my first 100 mile ultra in August 2010, called the Viaduct Ultrarun, located in Landsboro, PA.

J.C. Stone 50K

2010-03-21T11:21:00.002-10:00

After spending a swim and dive season catering to the needs of the team, I was itching to sign up for a race, and actually put a race number on and go out for a run. I found a really low key event just outside of Pittsburgh and signed up to run the J.C. Stone 50K. The race is in honor of Charles C. Stone who served in the Vietnam war. The race is also used as a fundraiser for the Hampton Rotary Club. The course is on a paved five mile loop around a beautiful lake area, called North Lake. We run the loop six times, plus a small out and back section.

The temperatures were absolutely perfect for a good run. Many people took advantage of the beautiful weather and were out there running. Even though there were only 60 people signed up for the race, there were hundreds of folks out running, and cycling on the same course. I really like the fact that there were many distractions. I kind of wish I was running with Yigo. He would have loved it.

I don't have any pictures of the event. But you will have to take my word for it that it was a delightful course to race. The terrain was gently rolling. I was happy about that, so the muscles can get a little break from flat.

The race started at about low 40 F temperature. Legs stayed cold for about the first 3 laps. I decided that I needed to give my Vibram 5 fingers a little practice, so I ran the first loop in those shoes. They really were feeling good the whole way, but after a long decent into the start finish area (the boathouse) my feet felt like they needed a little relief, so I changed into the standard running clod hopper. (Mizuno's)

On the first lap, I chatted with a few people. I wanted to know what pace they plan to run, so I could reference the effort I was putting out. I did wear my watch, but the first lap included a little out and back, so it was more than 5 miles. After that it was easier to keep track of pace after each lap of 5 miles. I felt like I was running way too fast from what I normally do a marathon at the start. But since the weather was so cool, it felt easy to run.

The two runners I ran with during the first lap were running too fast for their predicted pace, so I knew that I was okay. I was thinking that maybe I would run 8:30 pace for the entire run, but since we were not running trail, it was easy to run 8 minute pace. I tried to imagine that I was running with my dog on the second lap. That was good, because I would see other runners running with their dog, and it made me feel good. On another lap, I tried to imagine running fast with Amy, since we ran a 9 miler at 7:15 pace a week prior, this gave me confidence.

After the second lap, I was running a steady 8 minute pace, and this seemed to feel good. So I continued that pace for the rest of the run. The only problem was that my second toe, which is longer than my first was slamming against the shoe, so that was painful. Then the bottom of my other foot became very painful. It was like I was running on numb feet. Yuk. Not to mention the chafe in my fat thighs. Thank goodness I preplanned and brought the bagbam. Ah - then of course my leg start to talk. The infamous quad language of...hey let's get really tight now, and pretend to cramp. Not really a full blown cramp, but enough make, every step you will feel, along with the the quad yelling, Run Forest Run!! I tried to ignore, the legs and the feet, and keep the pace.

It was a great day!

Despite the pain in my feet and the chafing, I managed to finish in an even 8:02 pace.

NY Snow storm

2010-03-06T06:59:00.003-10:00

It snowed all night and all day, then the sun came out, making it a perfect snow play day!

Raiders Dive Team

2010-01-02T16:08:00.000-10:00

Colgate swimmers and divers are getting in some quality training hours in PR.

Winter Wonderland

2010-01-02T16:03:00.000-10:00

We found our way to upstate NY and after living 3 years on islands, this is a drastic change to say the least!

Yigo seems to enjoy himself. We play frisbee and he loves slipping and sliding.

Good thing we are well stocked with lots of coats, gloves, hats, and boots!

Yigo will never give up his favorite pastime.

Skaneatles I'm All In!!!

2010-01-02T15:43:00.000-10:00

This is a two day triathlon festival we did in Skaneatles, NY. (pronounced - skinny-atlas)

The first day was a sprint triathlon. The second day we did a point to point swim in the morning. This is Amy and I before the swim. It was called, "escape from the judge." The boat in the background is called the Judge.

Later on in the afternoon, there was a 2 mile time trial on our bikes up a nice climb. That was painful, and I was miserably slow comparatively.

After lunch and before dinner, we did the final event; a 4 mile run. It was a nice course with a few hills, and a little cross country, and a grass finish.

After the the run, I needed to find a shower, and change clothes to get ready to go to the
ST. fair with Dana and Stephanie.

The St. fair was a blast. I saw the butter sculpture - and apparently it was a very poor sculpture.

I hope to go to the state fair next year.

Swim race in Adirondacks

2010-01-02T15:24:00.001-10:00

It was my second day in upstate N.Y., and I planned on competing in a Master's open water 1 mile cable swimming Championships in Mirror lake. This is the same lake they swim in for the Lake Placid Ironman. Skin suits were allowed still, so I wore my nice Blue Seventy suit. The conditions were perfect. Lake was very smooth. I think I was still feeling a bit jet lagged, but felt excited to get my endorphins flowing.

The race was conducted by starting small groups off in waves based on your seed time. The waves were 20 seconds apart. I started in the 3rd. wave. I was feeling a bit paranoid that I may have over estimated my seed time. We had to do 4 loops to complete one mile. It's a quarter mile out to the turn buoy. About half way into the swim I was thinking, damn, I am SO tired! But I stayed with it, and found a groove, especially after a girl passed me who was wearing a FULL skin suit. (long sleeve, and down to ankles) I literally swam next to her for the last half mile. She started in the wave behind me, so she beat me by 20 seconds. I was second in my age group.

It was a rewarding swim, and I felt good that I was racing. Afterwards I went shopping in the adorable town of Lake Placid. I'd like to return to this area sometime soon. I am sure that in the winter it's an exciting place to be and be seen.

Last days in HI

2010-01-02T15:10:00.001-10:00

Before leaving Hawaii, there were a few trails that we needed to explore. One of the trails was on Ohau, and the other trail I explored solo is located on Maui. the trail on Maui is the most highly used and was the most widely traveled trail on the 1800s. It served as a pathway for the Missionaries returning home from Mauna Olu Seminary to Lahina. It's a very trying trail, because it zig zags, and is very rocky, and open to the high winds and hot sun. I really enjoyed taking in the view of Mt. Haleakala peaking above the clouds.

Yigo travels from HI to NY

2009-09-30T23:47:00.001-10:00

The trip from Honolulu to Newark by plane is approximately 8-9 hours. It can be even longer for a pet, since they have to be dropped off at the Airport 3 hours early. He likes his kennel so that was good. My mom and I drove to Newark airport on a rainy and miserable day, but despite the weather our excitment was mounting the closer we got to knowing that Yigo was landing on the tarmac on flight #14 CO. We waited curbside at Terminal C, as we watched for the white van with the little paw prints to drive up. It was like watching water boil. When the van arrived, I told my mom, "stay calm, so we dont' excite Yigo." I said that more for myself. When his crate was taken off the van, I could see that he was doing well, and wiggeling his little butt, waiting to get out and run!

The paperwork process to release Yigo to us was a breeze. I showed them my I.D., I signed a form, and we were off. We had to go through the airport to get to the parking lot, and I was glad to have another hand to help carry the kennel, and walk Yigo. He was in great spirits.

Yigo is the Man!!

2009-06-14T18:33:00.000-10:00

This is Yigo, he is from the GAIN Shelter in Guam. He is the BEST pooch ever. He probably has about 10 different mix of breeds in him. We play frisbee at least three times a day, and he can run up to 20 miles if the weather is permitting. Who can ask for anything more?

Hawaii 70.3 hot hot hot

2009-06-03T10:27:00.006-10:00

I'm always a bit nervous before these triathlons, but spending the weekend with friends helped eased the tension. Here we are at the packet pickup on Thursday evening.

The Vegas gals and Linsey appear to be calm cool and collected after picking up race numbers. Next stop - dinner!

After dinner we took care of our bikes.

Friday was a busy day. We had lots of errands to run, plus get in some last minute exercise. Jayne and I also did some recon as to where the bike to run transition was located and where the finish line would be set up. I wanted to verify how the last half mile of the run would look like and exactly where the finish line was located.
We still needed to make time for a quick swim to feel the current and wave action. The buoys were already set, and Tina and Jayne observed that there were no large fins to be seen, but found the course to be a tad long.

This race was the first half ironman for Linsey. Even though she had no idea what to expect, I knew she was going to finish well. She placed 5th. in her age group and broke 6 hours. Wow!! Here she is looking rather stylish race morning, getting psyched while listening to her i-pod, and waiting patiently for the rest of the gang to get out the door! Let's go ladies!
Lisa worked on the computer right up to the last minute, while I adorned Tina with a pretty flower tatoo.

Surprise !!!

Race Morining Group Photo Op! Girls are looking ready to race.

The waters are looking great. The swim is going to be fun.

Pre-race transition set up and prep is a bit daunting. We were oblivious to Jayne taking photos.

I think Tina was looking for her lap-top. Tina is relaxed for her day of training with full support, and it's time for Linsey to make her debue.

We are ready to swim, and giving out hugs to our friends. For the start I situated myself to the buoys closest to the beach, which was fine, as I had good line to the first turnaround buoy. I did get bonked in the head by an arm, but quickly brushed it off. The swim was nice, I always found some feet to following, as I bridged up to different packs.

The bike ride was nice. I was a bit hot with my jersey on, but it was how I carried my spare tire, and 2nd. water bottle. Needless to say, putting it on in transition had to of cost me a good minute in transition. With about 10K to go on the bike, Jayne was on the infamous, quad burning hill before we turn onto the Queen K. I was smiling, but my butt muscle was not!!!

I really enjoyed the run. I shared water with different runners. I paced off of different runners, including the owner of Momentum Multi Sports, Le Nyugen. He really encouraged me to keep a strong pace. My goal was to push the last 5K. I've learned the hard way from racing Buffalo Half (3xs). To my surprise, I turned it on and posted a 45 sec. faster split for 3 miles. The first 10 miles was even split. It wasn't blazing fast, but it was smart running. My instructions for Jayne was to locate her with one mile to go, and she was right there taking pictures. It was great to see her. Just before I saw her, I passed a female runner. Sandra, she recognized me, but I didn't realize it was her.

Lisa finishing strong!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now it's Miller Time!

Race Venue and Spence and I enjoying the Post - Race party with the Locals.

We were all very happy to have completed the Honu Half.

Linsey and I walked away with Hardware. Nice Koa Wood Bowls!

After all the beers we went to the market and picked up some good steaks and salad, and grilled out by the pool.

The next day we had one last visit to the beach before our plane departed.

One final look at the lava......................

The ride to the airport was a bit cramped. We managed to pack five girls, 2 bike boxes, 2 bikes, 3 very large suitcases, a large wheel case, plus a few lap tops into the minivan. Jayne had shotgun.

At the airport, only a few minutes before boarding the flight to Oahu.

Final Parting Shot ...........................................OAHU

Next 70.3 race??????????? Sometime next year, I vote for going to Mooseman in N.H. As always a thrilling adventure with the pretty Vegas Ladies.

Momentum Crit Series #4

2009-04-08T08:51:00.000-10:00

This was the last race of the series. The start time moved to late afternoon, after the Tantalus TT race in the morning. The crit course was a little different than before, and less boring. They added a dog leg type of turn before the start finish line. Some parts of the race was a little wet - which made for sketchy turns and slick painted surfaces.

The tradewinds were blowing as usual, and gusting up to 25mph on the open flightline. We rode into the wind through the start-finish-line. The tail wind on the back side, made for a nice recovery section for the heart rate, but not necessarily for the legs. Still, I was feeling strong - despite racing every weekend for the past month. About 10 minutes into the race, there were a few IT&B guys that were ready to make a get away from the front with the tailwind. I could sense that they were getting bored with the pace. I decided to take that initiative, and give it a go by pushing the pace, not really breaking away, but to make an attempt to string out the riders and wake the field up a bit.

As we approach the water we make a wide sweeping left turn into the wind, then another tight left, then a right, into the wind again. They left me up there through all the turns, until one guy accelerated by me through the start/finish area. I waited for a few guys to go by, and when I saw a wheel I wanted I jumped back into the pack to recover. Russ had thought that I was done after my pull, and I'd be too tired to get back into the group, but I was fine, and managed to stay in the field without struggle. The chemistry of the race seemed to change after all that commotion, and things got more exciting, but no one or no group really got away, at least not for long.

Since this course had three different turns going into the finish - I knew that if I positioned myself well, I'd beat my friend, Spence. pictured above riding next to me. He'll whip my butt any given day, on a straight out TT race, but not this crit race, and not today.

Russ is looking on in the background, as my teammate, John, and I blast through the wind to the finish line. I finished 11th. overall in the men's field.

12th. Annual Lava Man Triathlon 1.5K/40K/10K

2009-04-01T14:25:00.008-10:00

The 12th annual took place on March 29th, 2009. This years’ race drew approximately 800 competitors. http://www.lavamantriathlon.com/
This race draws a wide range of athletes from first timers training with LLS Team in Training program, fast age groupers from all over the U.S. and International waters, as well as top professional triathletes.
Lavaman is a must do race for all triathletes. It’s located on the Big Island of Hawaii in the Waikaloa resort area. The winds are fierce, the heat is a given, and the terrain on the run is a mix between road, lava rocks and sand. I will affirm the after party is indeed as the website advertises, “One of the best.”

Why pass up on taking the short flight over to Kailua-Kona for the Lavaman race experience, even though I’m still tired from the 30+ mile jaunt up Mt. Haleakala, and the state team TT race? I love to race!! Russ and I traveled together, and he is always a good race supporter.

Race morning – what a BEAUTIFUL SUNRISE!!

Upon arriving to the transition area, I was a little surprised that the line for body marking was a mile long, but with an hour until race time, there was nothing to worry about. The volunteers were in full force everywhere. The body marking method used block letter stamps dipped in ink, rather than drawing our numbers.

The race began with a nice swim shaped like an M. The pre-entertainment to demonstrate exactly where we will swim in relation to the buoys was watching a guy on a jet ski taking the course at warp speed. The swim segment had five different waves. Each wave started three minutes apart. My age group 40 & over was the final wave to go. The swim support and volunteers in the ocean was the best I’ve ever seen. They kept a close eye on everyone, and ensured that we maintained a good line in relation to the buoys. The water temperature was perfect. I wish the swim was three times longer to give me a bigger lead over the faster cyclists and runners. I knew that I’d be swimming through the packs that left before us. My main objective was to not get kicked, and try not to swim over anyone. Everything went swimmingly smooth, so after we exited the water we ran about 500 yards to T1 for our bikes.

I quickly buckled my helmet and pulled my bike out of the rack, ran out to the mount line, and jumped on the saddle. Bike strategy was to save some energy for after the turnaround, then attempt to go a bit harder into the head wind. On the way out, I was climbing, and feeling pretty good, when I see a girl fly past me. Wow – she is 7 years older than me, how did she do that? I stayed within myself, rather than trying to race her. The wind always gets stronger later in the day. I felt the gusts slowly build, and bring my speed slower and slower towards the end of the ride. About a mile and a half before we turn off the main road, the wind picked up, and I had to steer my wheel into it, and leaned to the side. I was glad to be approaching Waikaloa Beach Rd., because when we made that left turn, the winds were at our backs. It pushed us our final quarter mile to the next turn into T2.

I hobbled/ran in my sore barefeet to re-rack my bike – zip my Zoots onto my feet and gallop out of transition to start the run. Our course starts out on crushed lava for about 500 or so feet. The next 4 miles we are on the road. I’m feeling okay – but my legs won’t speed up. After the first aid station I’m thinking; this is going to be a long 10K today, and that’s when a younger female passes me. She started 3 minutes ahead of me. Oh jeez. Actually, I recognize her gait – from the Xterra Enduro21K run, where I tried to chase her down. She’s good. I keep up a steady effort, slow and steady. The course goes past the Hilton, and it looks flat, but there is a steady little climb with a head wind. Then a 40 yr. old guy starts to pass me, so I take advantage of him, and sit behind him and draft. That felt good, my heart rate dropped, and I could cruise. We turn left, and I see the older girl that passed me on the bike, coming the other way. She is flying of course. Man, if I could only feel that good!
After the next aid station we make a U turn and start to head down the hill with the tail wind. I’m really trying hard to run as fast as I can, because I know there are two other girls younger than me that will catch me sooner or later before the finish line. I’m not having doubts, I just know they are running faster than me.

I’m so thrilled to know that we only have two miles to go. We meander through the Hilton resort area on the path. I’ve faded from the guy I was drafting off of. Damn, if only the swim was longer……………..I’m looking forward to the finish, but at the same time, I am staying in the moment, and noticing all the people laying around at the resort watching us run by as they are drinking their Mai Tai’s. Yep, those other two youngsters behind me did pass me, but I don’t think they made up overall time on me. After the path, the terrain changes to a spectacular rugged, Xterra like dirt trail on a ledge, with rocks. It was twisty and rolling. I prefer that kind of running to the sand or the road. The trail is short lived, and the path becomes sand, at which point I can hear Russ screaming my name to “GO!!!” I smile to myself, and I do my best to speed up. He yells and yells, and guides my form to pump my arms over the sand to stay strong. He’s my guide to the finish by briefing me that I have 400 yards to run, and he mentions that no one is behind me. That’s nice – to know. I’m elated to see the finishing shoot, and I sink into the sand with every attempt to run. It’s a great feeling knowing that I’ve earned one more race t-shirt and finishers medal. What a great day. 1st. in AG by 11 minutes and 10th. Overall female. Finish time: 2:19:31.

Russ and I enjoying a beer at the after party

Everyone brought home awards back to Honolulu.

Mike and Spence literally smoked the course, and finished 12th. and 15th. respectively. Sandy won her AG, and Amy took 2nd. in her AG.

Mike and I finished 3rd. for the U.S. BEST AMATUER SERIES

Gotta love the sneeky peek view of Maggs compression socks on the podium.

Next race - Honu Half - Better start getting in shape - not much time left!

Full results can be found at http://www.theracershub.com/

Race photos located at www.hawaiiphotoman.com

Pictures of Hawaii State Team Time Trial

2009-03-23T15:02:00.001-10:00

Hawaii State Team Time Trial

2009-03-23T14:47:00.005-10:00

The HI State Team 40K Time Trial Championships were held yesterday at the Kualoa Regional Park. It was a beautiful day, with blistering NEasterly cross winds. All the HACC teams were Co-Ed, and we all raced well. My team was called BS3, because we had three riders with the first names beginning in an S, and one with a B. Bryant, Steve, Stephen, and Shannon. We practiced one day and we were happy with our riding chemistry.

I spent most of the week recovering from the previous weekend's long run in Maui.

We came up with some code words for when one of us was getting dropped off the pace. It was to yell, HACC. When we started off, I was very nervous, and I tried not to overlap wheels with the first riding, who was Steve C. But, in order to stay protected it's necessary to echelon across the road to get a good draft. As soon as, a big gust of wind would blow into me, and if I was not protected, I could not hold Steve's pace, and I'd yell HACC. He immediately would have to sit up out of his aero bars to give me a draft with his body. One the way out I rotated to the front one to two times. After the turnaround point, Bryant suggested I sit out of the rotation. This seemed to work much better, and I was able to stay on the back without much difficulty. So we rode this way most of the way back. I felt like I went as hard as I could, and especially for the finishing sprint, when I push so hard I really felt it in my butt muscles after the race was over.

We won the entire Mixed team division with a time of 58:47. I was pretty happy with that time, as it's the first time I've ever broken an hour for a 40K. I doubt I can ever accomplish that on a solo ride. It was great run, and I look forward to the Tantalus TT in two weeks. Ride on!

Run to the Sun

2009-03-16T14:01:00.000-10:00

The trip started off with a journey across the ocean via the Hawaii SuperFerry. I drove the car on the Ferry and enjoyed the 3.5 hour trip over to Maui.

I hung out on the beach and read a book the day before the race.

I made reservations to stay at a B&B called the Hale Lani. It was cute place on the first floor of a private home in a neighborhood located in Kihei.

2009-03-16T13:52:00.000-10:00

I have to admit - this is one of the Craziest runs I have ever done (so far). Not feeling 100% prepared due to taking 4 wks. off last month from running because of the broken toe, had me praying more than ever the night before. We had to check in our special needs bags by 0400, which is 30 minutes prior race start. It was a small crowd at the line up of the race, and you could feel the nervousness of the runners, as we stood around wearing our required relfector vests and waiting for the "ready set go" signal from the RD. As soon as we started running, there was a hard and heavy downpouring of rain. Argh, coldness. That only lasted a few moments, and it stopped. As we ran in the dark - I noticed that the couple from Vegas were setting a pretty good pace. I didn't want to go too fast, so I did my best to hold back and stay around 9-10min. miles. Around mile 5 I ran up to a girl putting out a lot of effort and breathing hard. She mentioned that she was a relay runner. So I paced off of her to keep the Vegas couple in site. There was a 3rd. female in our little pack, and in the end she was the ultimate winner. The relay runner, took a tumble off the side of the road. We held up to make sure she was okay. The 3rd. girl took a potty stop, and I kept on running, because I did not want to lose sight of the Vegas runners. I caught back up to the couple from Vegas, and I noticed the girl was running stronger than the guy. Around mile 12ish I decided to pass the girl and take the lead. I thought she would let me go to wait for her buddy (which was really her husband), but not a chance, she stayed on my heals and continued to chase me for the next 10 miles up the steep section between miles 13 and 15, and for the next 7 miles up the first section of Crater rd. into a very very fierce head wind. I had a feeling that my pace and my effort was not going to stay strong enough to hold 1st place. I was trying to stay positive, so I kept plugging away - and my legs got heavier and heavier, until there was no zip in the gait. I was toast. We finally come out of the winds into a forested area of the road, which reminded me of Tantalus, because of the trees, and the peacefulness of the surrounding. My pace slowed from all the hard effort I put out tyring to keep a good gap between me and second place. I was approaching an aid station at mile 22, and the runner from Vegas passed me. I also had a feeling that I was not going to see the last of the girl I ran with for a few miles at the beginning. I was right about that, because she passed me on the mountain between mile 27 and 30. I guess I started out a little too fast.

The aid station I was looking so desperately for was AS12. This was the 26.4 mile marker, and I really wanted to put on my gloves, fresh shirt, vest, and headband. Finally, I made it to my special needs bag, and the volunteer ladies there were SO wonderful and helpful in getting me dressed, and cheering me on. I am very grateful to their enthusiasm. Off I went, giving them one last hooray by raising my arms in the air and they cheered.

Now I am thinking - Russ's plane lands at 9am. So that is about now - then he and Holley will start driving up the mountiain, and I will see them soon! I am excited to know that I will see them, and I only have 10 miles left. Surprisingly, these miles went by fairly quickly even though I was not moving quickly. My back was starting to tire, and I even got on the ground to stretch it. I also tripped on a rock in the road, because my feet where barely clearing the ground. Oh man, what did I get myself into? Okay - my friends, Cheryl and Gil said, it's not that bad - just keep going. So that is what I did. Then there was this LONG line of cars coming by me, and the last car was Russ!! He honked the horn, and I was relieved to see his smiling face.

He got out to run with me, and the first thing he said was, "this isn't so bad." I'm like - yeah - right. Actually, I couldn't really speak clearly, and it was not because of the altitude, it was because my lips were SO cold. My body was okay. I was dressed perfectly. I just wished that I had some spring in my step. My right foot was hurting at the ball. Probably just because of the miles.

Russ is enjoying his banana, as I keep on plugging away to the top of Mt. Haleakala.

2009-03-16T13:10:00.000-10:00

It was amazing running with the feeling that you were on top of the world. This shot looks like I'm going to run right off the edge of the mountain. I was barely getting one foot in front of the other - and when the wind blew it either brought me to a halt or it pushed me so hard that I actually had to pick up the pace.

I saw some incredible rainbows eminating from the ocean.

In this shot - I think I told Russ and Holley "this is Crazy" They were thinking - Yeah - we know - that's why we are in the car and you are out there running!

How many more switchbacks??

2009-03-16T13:05:00.000-10:00

Once we finally came down from the mountain we had a good lunch and took a stroll along the beach to enjoy the sunshine and good weather.

2009-03-16T13:03:00.000-10:00

The trip home on the Super Ferry was long - but the views were beatiful, and the sun was shining. You can see the whitewater as a result of the powerful engines.

View of Diamond Head coming to Oahu

View of Waikiki skyline.

Russ was excited about the fact there was a snack bar on the boat!

Frisbee time!!

2009-02-27T19:55:00.000-10:00

Our dog, Yigo, is THE best frisbee catcher ever!! Sometimes Russ and I will go out to the lawn with four different kinds of frisbees to keep him occupied. It works great in place of a six mile run. Although even if Yigo runs six miles, he still has enough energy to play frisbee.

A dog is the best companion in the world. Sorry to you cat lovers. But canine's rule in our household. haha.

Momentum Crit Series #2

2009-02-13T15:00:00.000-10:00

John, myself, and Steve cool down after the men's Senior race. The course is wideopen with no technical turns. There is a headwind on the start/finish stretch, and a tail wind on the other stretch. The event takes place on the flight line of the Marine Corp base in Kaneohe. The race went well for our team. There were 28 riders in the field. John got 3rd. I got 8th. I'm not sure what Steve got, but our other teammate placed 6th. After the men's race 45 min. race, I did the women's race, which was only 30 minutes long. There were only 8 or 9 women in the field. We had three HACC representatives. I decidedthat I would try to get away and stay away which is what I did.

I love the mountains in the background. I took a few opportunities to go to the front of the men's race to really get my heart rate up. I think the next guy is wondering who was going to go after me. No one was able to stay away due to the headwind and the level playing field of the pack.

I like how our team is packed together in the middle. Very cool.

Broken Toe!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-02-09T09:18:00.000-10:00

They say not to sweat the small stuff, so I'm tyring not to sweat the fact that my little toe is broken. And no, I didn't kick the dog, or kick my husband, I ran into the bed post, because my dog was under my feet and I tripped.

Not sure if this helps or not - but buddy taping the toes together after a break is one of the therapies to help the toe heal straight. Duck tape seems to work best, and a friend suggested I use it. The nice thing is taping does prevent pain when swimming. Riding is mostly painless now. It's been three weeks, and I ran today with Yigo. Not too comfortable, and I cut out a space in my shoe to eleviate some pressure. We'll have to see how another three weeks goes. Not a pretty picture huh?

Still Chillin' in Hawaii

2009-02-09T06:44:00.000-10:00

Beautiful palm trees.

Aside from landscape photos - Yigo is my favorite subject!!!!!!!!

He is always read to pounce.

Beach Stuff

2009-02-09T06:38:00.000-10:00

This new camera is so much fun, and I still don't know all the features as of yet.

The picture of the surfers are from the top of Diamond head.

Lazy Sunday afternoon

2009-02-09T06:36:00.000-10:00

It's the second weekend of the new year (2009) and we decided to wander into Waikiki so I can play with my new Nikon camera and have a beer at "The Yard."

The Waikiki skyline has sure changed in the past 20 years I'm sure. Diamond Head is barely visable behind those two new buildings on the far rights. The significance of those buildings is that we use them to spot the finish for the Waikiki Roughwater 2.4 mile swim. They look like harmonicas.

I had fun taking some cool pictures of the beach, and capturing a great view of Diamond Head.

Merry Christmas from Hickam Athletes 2008

2009-02-09T06:26:00.000-10:00

Christmas is always fun with friends, especially those who enjoy a good bottle (or two) of red wine!! After we stuffed ourselves silly, Russ invited the guys to a friendly game of poker, and of course the one who didn't know how to play, (Luis) won!! The rest of us went for a walk to burn off a few calories.

Xterra Enduro 21K World Championships

2008-12-10T08:21:00.001-10:00

Here we are, the mob squad, after completing a very memorable run in the valley and hills (lots of them!) of Kualoa Ranch. Each one of us had a different plan and expectation of ourselves going into the race. Linsey, ran it as part of her last training run for the Honolulu marathon. Not sure if that was such a smart idea, as it was no walk in the park kind of course. But hey, she's young and can handle anything. She's so good, she finished 3rd. in her age group, and the girls ahead of her were in the top five! I wanted to finish in top 7 so I can make some spending money. I met that goal, despite my quads cramping at mile TWO, and finished 6th. (more on that later) Rachel, from San Francisco, purposely did not taper for the race, so she would have no excuses for how well, or bad she ran. And she fell on her knee a week ago, and it still hurt. Despite her non-excuse attitude, she ran great! Rosie, had a smile on her face the entire run. She started running a year ago, and looks forward to improving and getting faster. She also ran strong completing this grueling course in under 2 and a half hours.

Linsey and I with plenty of time for photo ops before the race. No, Linsey had not been drinking.

This is part of the course as we come out of the mountains

We arrived very early.

2008-12-10T08:20:00.001-10:00

We arrive at the event venue and anticipate what the day has to offer.

Did I mention that the course meanders roughly a total of 3000ft. elevation gain through the mountains in the background?

This is the finish line.

2008-12-10T08:17:00.001-10:00

Candid photo of our photographer

More views of the venue as the mountains give a spectacular backdrop.

Awards presentation

2008-12-10T08:16:00.001-10:00

Now this is what Xterra is all about - Party time!

Free Beer for all podium finishers.

Overall Male and Female winners. Overall winners made some serious cash of $2000! Nice. Although I was dissapointed with the race director, as he or she double dipped the overall winners in their age group.

Linsey on the podium! More free beer!!

Winners in Male and Female 40-44. Fun Stuff. The guy on the far left, he is from Brazil, and he was singing christmas songs as we were climbing and climbing, and passing people who were walking with their heads down. It was unbelieveable. We ran together for a bit, and then he got a way from me, but on the final 5K loop (which was the same as the first 5K loop) I caught back up with him, and passed him. This course was amazing. As the winner from Oregon said to the press, "There were a lot of hills, then a little flat, but mostly it was hilly."

My race summary: I normally start longer races with a very conservative pace, and plan on catching people at the end. I did not want to risk having to make up a lot of ground by using that strategy, so I decided to start out harder than usual, and get my heart rate up and hold it. There wasn't a problem holding a high heart rate, because the course immediately started upwards over a series of climbs in the first mile. The trails were wide open, because they are used for tourist bus rides, since Kualoa ranch is a popular filming location for movies such as Jurrasic Park, 100 first dates and Lost.

Up and around the pack goes, then it thins out before the first aid station at mile 1.7, and we descend down a long and steep grassy/dirt section. Just before descending a young gal wizzed past me, and got in the way of my line (plus I took a water handup which didn't help), so I felt like I was breaking my stride, and half way down, my quads seized up. OMG - I have over 10 miles left, and I don't know what to expect, or how I am going to hold anykind of pace. I limp off the hill, and get on the flat, and deal with the tighness, until we started climbing again, and they feel fine. I'd say the most intense climbing was about half way into the race, and we went up switchback, and it just went on forever. Then off the jeep trail into the thick jungle, cool!

It's super muddy, and it looked like a single track ski slope. Fun, except the quads started to seize again. Wow! That's painful. I rubbed them, and thank goodness that section was short, and we got onto some other single track, that was SO much fun, and the pain went away. I did carry Ultra fuel with me, and I did drink some gatorade at the aid station, plus I aid a gel. So now my legs feel great, but we have to do that 5K loop again. No worries, just keep going. Some guy told me I was 30 seconds behind the 5th. place girl. I could see her on the last loop, but she was running strong, and probably the same pace as I because I could not get any closer. And still fininshed 30 sec. behind her. It was such a fantastic run! Thank you Xterra. $10 of the proceeds from all the race applications went to Children's Diabetes research.

More Texas riding

2008-10-21T10:37:00.000-10:00

My TX trip is never complete without going for a long ride (100miles usually) with Rod and Carolyn. This ride we call the Brownie ride, because we can buy fresh homemade brownies at the store in Kendalia.

Kendalia Store

Harry's bar in Willow City

Boomer - Sue and Lesli's pet pot belly pig. Oink - Oink!

Longhorn 70.3 October 5th, 2008

2008-10-21T10:32:00.000-10:00

After spending 2 years overseas, It was time to take a trip back to TX. and do a triathlon. I signed up for the Longhorn 70.3 half Ironman while still living in Guam. I started the ball rolling, and the gals from Vegas got their tri outfits ready and decided to join me in Austin, TX. Mostly for the margaritas, and red wine.

Here we are after finishing the race. Everyone had a good day.

I was pleased to walk away with the overall Masters trophy, second overall amateur, and 13th. overall female.

After the post race margaritas, we took a ride through the hill country on a route we call the Willow City Loop.
It was the best ride of our lives!!

Austin, TX

2008-10-21T10:23:00.000-10:00

Capital

These Boots are Made for Walkin'

View of the Bike Course

Pre-Race Dinner and a Sunset

2008-09-16T13:13:00.000-10:00

I coach the Campbell H.S. girls x-country team. This is the start of a Girls X-Country meet in Kapolei, HI. There are about 5 different teams running. This was our third meet of the season. It's considered a practice meet, so no points are awarded.

This is half the team stretching out after the race. They are a great group of ladies, and I really try to push their limits. I think they have a love-hate relationship with me, because on some days I bring watermelon and we have balloon relays. Other days I make them run in the rain, and oh - that did not go over so well with one of the parents. That's okay - they will still run in the rain as far as I'm concerned. Heck, I even ran with them. Fun times ahead.

2008-08-24T15:22:00.000-10:00

Finishing up the ride through Waimanole on the quiet back roads as we enjoy the flats!

2008-08-24T15:14:00.000-10:00

Here is Gil climbing away. Notice the dense forest.

Linsey and I finally at the top

At the top with a great view of Diamond Head in the background.

Chillin' out as I take more pictures before we descend Round Top Rd.

Tantalus Ride

2008-08-24T15:11:00.000-10:00

It was a great day to climb Tantalus. Gil was our fearless leader. He was nice enough to let us join his secret training course, which consists of climbing up two ridgelines and finish off with Tantalus.
I got a good shot Gil and Linsey coming over the back side of heartbreak hill and on to our second ridgeline in Hawaii Kai

This Linsey making it to the top of our first ridgline, called Kamehame. The average gradient is suppose to be about 9%.

The second ridgeline is called Waialae Iki, with an average grade of 4.5%. Here is a good view from the top.

Here we are heading up Tantalus. These guys were going so fast they were a blur! The forest is so beautiful up there. The climb is a total of 4.5 miles and average grade of about 7%

2008-08-11T08:46:00.000-10:00

The finish line at Waimea Bay.

The top three women

Top three men

For complete results check out www.waikikiswimclub.org and click on Ocean Races

Sunset Beach to Waimea Bay 2.3miles

2008-08-11T08:43:00.000-10:00

It was a clean sweep for the Sun and Surf North Shore Series. Saturday's last race of the series was the best of all because the current pushed us. Men and women started together. I tried to look for some familiar faces to draft off of at the start line, but as soon as the gun went off, I was on my own. Even though it was a straight shot from one beach to the other, we needed to stay at least 30 feet from the shore. I could see a handful of swimmers to the right of me, but no one to the left. It was really really fun the way the waves pushed us along. It felt like I was wearing a pull buoy. I enjoyed the scenery on the bottom too. I was about three quarters of the way to the finish, when a few guys came up along side me, and I took the opportunity to get on the train and draft. It was great, because I stayed with them to the finish, sort of. They broke 50 minutes and I couldn't really turn it on at the end, so ended up 8 seconds over 50 minutes.

I realized half way home, that the race organized presented me with the Male overall trophy.

Bathing beauties.

Chillin' out during awards

Picking up hardware

2008-08-04T08:41:00.001-10:00

A real live Peacock!

Slowly making the climb.

Spectalular view of North Shore

Ahh - so close yet so far to the top!

Peacock Flats

2008-08-04T08:38:00.002-10:00

One afternoon I decided to explore the Peacock flats trail. The road leading to the trails is NOT flat - but there is a reason they labeled the trail peacock flats. The trail is located near Dillingham Airfield. After I parked along side of the road, I spoke with a wildlife employee who told me that the paved road lead up to the top where those pine trees where located on the bluff at the 5 mile mark.

The trees = 5 mile mark

I had NO idea that I was going to be going uphill for 5 miles. I trotted and trotted, and stopped every once in a while to enjoy the view.

At the 3.5 mile mark - there was another gate to go through.

It was so beautiful and peaceful up there. I very much wanted to go to the 5 mile mark so I can take a look at the trails - unfortunately I had a meeting to attend, and I was running out of time. I figured that I can descend the 4 miles w/out killing my quads in less then 40 minutes.

But before I could turnaround I was so surprised when I spotted a peacock crossing the road! I'd like to attempt this climb again one day when I have more time.

Chun's to Waimea 1.6 mile

2008-07-27T10:30:00.000-10:00

The third race of the series was another successful day. This weekend, I carpooled to Waimea Bay with Amy, another hardcore triathlete. (12 Ironman completions) Wow! The race was a point to point from Chun's bay to Waimea bay.

Race registration

It was a mass start beyond the breakwater. We knew that we had to swim against the current, but we were not clear on how to maneuver through the rocks near the finish. I managed to catch up with swimmers that steered me in the right direction. Amy however, went a little out of the way to the big rock, and a volunteer on a paddleboard was kind enough to tell her to go the other way. She may have added a couple of minutes to her finish time.

Finish Line

I scored another 1st. place plaque in my age division. Yippee. In two weeks we'll be swimming the last race of the series from Sunset Beach to Waimea Bay. It will be a total of 2.4 miles.

Getting pumped up!

Amy's strong finish

Happy laps

2008-07-23T17:38:00.002-10:00

Our Master's group swam a solid set in efforts to lock in that open water pace strategy and prepare for race #3 this Saturday on the North Shore. www.hawaiiswim.com
Today's special:
Warm 250 choice, 200 (50F/50Back), 100 IM
Main set: 4 times
200 pull @ 3'
8 x 50 @ :55
100 kick
leave on next top
200 cool
scm 3550

Tinman Triathlon

2008-07-21T16:31:00.001-10:00

The infamous Tinman Triathlon of Honolulu, HI was a huge success. Linsey got 2nd. in her AG and I placed 3rd. in Elite.
Our plan to leave the house super early in order to get good parking worked out great. Plus I needed the extra time to change out my back wheel, since there was a slow leak in the valve stem. I rode a Nimble Cross wind on the front, and a Kyserium clincher on the back. Worked fine. We had similar experiences with our legs on the bike and run. We felt really really tight on the ride, but to our surprise, we felt pretty good for the run. This was a really fun race, and it's known as the "people's race." I look forward to coming back next year.

Sample Swim Sets

2008-07-16T06:11:00.004-10:00

These sets are courtesy of a small masters group at University of Incarnate Word in San Antonio, TX.

W/U 600
Pull 2x300 @ 4'30 descend
Swim 3x200 @3' 10 neg split
Kick 6x100 @ 2'10
Swim 12x50@ 1 switchers
Cool 200. Total 3200 scm

W/U 600
Three times through- no breaks
2 x 100 kick @ 2'10
2x 200 swim or pull @ 3'20/3'10/3'
4x 50 H/E/E/H @ 1
Cool 200
3200 LCM

W/u 600 Preset 4x {3 x 50 @ 10 sr 25k/25d, 25d/25s 25s/25k
Main set 6x 150 @ 2'15 pace swim or pull
5 x100 @ 1'45-these should be much faster with a major negative split
4x 50 @ 1'15 very fast
Kick 6 x100 @ 2'20

WU 600
Preset 3 x 100 @ 1’50”
Preset 4 x 50 @ 1
Set 3 x thru
300 pace @ 5
3 x 100 choice @ 1’50
Kick 6 x 50 @ 1
Total 3200

W/U 800 Preset: 3 x {3x50 @ 50 1>3
3 x 200 @ 3 make it 60sr
3 x 150 @ 3' a little bit faster now... 60 sr
3 x 100 @ 3'
200 pace or better 60 sr
3 x 50 @ 3 afayc
Set- 18 x 50 @ 1; by 50 -Kick/Drill/2 breaths
Cool 200 3850 LCM

W/U 800 Preset 16 x 50 @ 1’ every 4th kick
Set: 3 times thru- 3 x100 choice @ 1: 50 big descend 1>3
2 minutes rest 200 broken 10 at the 50s
400 25 kick/25 swim total 3100m.

WU 600
Preset 200 @ 3'15 free
100 @ 2'15 kick
50 non free
Set #1 of each is swim, # 2 is pull. Nothing crazy, just pace it out. If you're feeling good you can neg split
2 x 400 @ 6
2 x 300 @ 4'30
2 x 200 @ 3
2 x 100 @ 1'30
Kick 5 x 100 @ 1'50 try to neg split
WD 200
Total 3650

WU 600
Preset 2 x 150 @ 2’30 middle 50 non free
Set 6 x 100 swim @ 1’30 pace
2 x 200 pull @ 3 neg split
4 x 100 swim @ 1’20 pace
2 x 200 pull @ 3 neg split
2 x 100 swim @ 1’15 pace
2 x 200 pull @ 3 neg split
100 fast
WD 100
Total 3500

WU 600
Preset 6 x 75 k/d/s by 25 @ 1’15
Set 3 x 300 @ 4 pull BIG desc 1-3
3 x 200 @ 3 swim Big desc 1-3
3 x 100 @ 1’45 non free BIG desc 1-3
Kick set 2 times thru
100 @ 2
2 x 50 @ 1’10 faster
4 x 25 @ 40 odds fast, evens EZ
Total 3450

W/U 600
Preset 4 x 100 +/- fins at 15 sr 25 k/50d/25 s; mix it up
Preset 8 x 50 @ 1'; 25 NB/25 perfect
Set 12 x 100 free @ 1'45 pace 50 fast @1' non free
Kick two time through
100 @ 2'15 2 x 50 @ 1'15 faster 4 x 25 @ 45 odds very fast evens ez
Cool 200 4k LCM

800 w/u choice
Minimal breaks for equipment only:
4 x 150, 2:45, 50K/100S
4 x 125 (or 100), 2min, P, 3 breaths/length
4 x 100, 2min, IM, descend
4 x 75, 1:30, K
4 x 50, 1min, shooters w/ fins
4 x 25, 1min, blocks (ez back)
100ez
=3100

W/U 800 (2-2-2-2)
Preset 5 x 100 @ 2'05 25k/50s/25k
Main Set 7 x 200 1-3 swim neg split @ 3'10 4-6 pull descend @ 3' 2 minutes rest 200 afayc
Kick 6 times 100 @ 2'10 50 very fast @ 1'10
Cool 200 Total 3800 lcm

WU 600
Preset 9 x 50 @ 50 2ez 1 build
Set 3 x 300 swim @ 4'30 100 pace, 200 neg split
3 x 200 pull @ 3 neg split
3 x 100 non free @ 1'45
Set 9 x 50 @ 50 or 55 or 1' go the fastest interval you can hold.
#1,4,7 are 25 free / 25 fly
#2,5,8 are 25 fly/ 25 free
#3,6,9 are all fly
WD 200

WU 600
Preset 3 x 100 @ 1’40
2 x 100 @ 1’30
Set no breaks:
200 kick @ 4
5 x 100 swim or pull @ 1’30
200 kick @ 4
5 x 100 non free or IM @ 1’45
Set 10 x 100
1-5 @ 1’30 holding between 1’10 -1’15
6-10 @ 1’45 holding under 1’10
WD 200
Total 3700

Cutting it close at the Kalaeola Crit

2008-07-15T07:46:00.004-10:00

Taking it at the line makes for an exciting race. The course was fairly technical, but the corners were wide. After about 3 laps or so, the race was between the two of us alternating laps. Tactically I was lucky in that my competitor, Tanya, pulled on the last lap. I also heard her make a little noise as she tried to pass me in the sprint. I am far from being a sprinter, and Tanya is the HI State TT champion. Great Race.

The latest from Scientific American Mind Magazine

2008-07-13T14:24:00.002-10:00

"The "runner's high" phenomenon may be widely known, but until now there was no evidence (other than athletes' anecdotes) that the effect actually exists. Neuroscientists at the University of Bonn in Germany finally confirmed with a new type of PET scan that strenuous exercise indeed releases a flood of endorphins in the brain, likely causing the widely reported euphoria that follows a hard workout."

NICE!!

2008-07-12T20:05:00.000-10:00

2008-07-12T20:04:00.000-10:00

We swam in between the two large rocks and rounded the one on the far right.

Swimmers rounding the final buoy and coming into the finish

SURF'N SEA NORTH SHORE SWIM SERIES #2 CHOLO'S WAIMEA

2008-07-12T19:56:00.000-10:00

The second swim of the series is a 1.2m in Waimea Bay.

This is the view as we walked to the start

Ron and Loni had key issues, so Ron decided to stash them in the pink bag.

Let's get wet!!

2008-07-07T16:07:00.000-10:00

Settled in Hawaii

2008-07-07T15:12:00.002-10:00

Aloha from Honolulu!

After the long flight from Guam, we stayed a few days in a dumpy hotel that allowed pets in Pearl City. It was quickly apparent that we didn't want to extend our stay, so we checked out as quickly as possible and checked into temporary lodging on Hickam. Our dog, Yigo, needed to stay in the kennel, where he roamed around freely all day. After one week, he must have lost 10 lbs.
Permanent lodging finally became available and we moved in all our crap. Well - it's nice stuff, but we have a lot of it!! No central air, so we are living off the tradewinds to stay cool through the open windows. Oh yeah - it's summer, and there are no tradewinds. Darn. Still not quite as hot as Guam, that's the truth!

Russ has hit the greens with a vengence and played in a four day tournament. I started off with a 10 mile trail race called Mango Madness. www.hurthawaii.com. The hills were relentless. The swim, bike and run races are endless in Hawaii. I'm fully emerged in the Hickam Area Cycling Club (HACC), www.hacchawaii.com, as well as swimming with the Masters group at Pearl Harbor, and doing the Waikiki North Shore swim series events. www.swimhawaii.com.

We have been here one month, and I've ridden around the island two times. Once was only 140K with a group of really serious cyclists from the Quick Release team and a few Bocca athletes. The second ride was with HACC and we rode 120 miles. I look forward to more hard rides to get back in shape for the next big race in Texas in October.

The greatest thing about this time of year, is watching the TDF and the swimming trials. I so admire Dara Torres! She rocks!

Stay fit and be safe