For the Glory!

I don't care if you've just sweat blood racing a 5k or spent the majority of your last 12 hour IM regurgitating gels and Bonk Breakers, NOTHING feels better then finishing a race!  For some of you, eating 5 pizzas may be better than finishing a race, I'm not judging.  Before I start "fatting" out on some delicious food topics, let's get into my main point; we don't spend enough time appreciating the "glory".  Think about it really hard.  We spend hundreds of hours in preparation for one day of performance, execute our race plan and before we know it, the race is over.  Sure, we all feel like celebrities on Facebook with all the "good jobs" and "congratulations", but do we really take the necessary time, giving credit to massive amounts of sacrifice it took to get across that line?

Personally, I know I don't...which leads me to think there might be others out there who also dumb down their accomplishments.  Of course there have been others who have completed races before us and have even posted better results, but "glory" is relative to each person.  Sometimes, it's the simple things that can give us some glory.  A solid fartlek run or interval session deserves some credit too.  On too many occasions I've woken up the next day, forgetting what I subjected myself to.  The shower is always a good reminder since steam will irritate any sun burns or road rash. The first few steps out of bed are also a tell tail sign of hard work, screaming calfs...etc.  

I know when it comes to being an athlete; each race is just another "check box" and it's probably about time I figure out what the heck to do with the finisher medals I've earned. Volunteers are so eager to hand them over as I struggle to stand up straight and catch my breath.  Next thing I know, I've had my moment and I'm wondering how I'll race again in 2 to 3 weeks. This is why I've decided to make next season more about the post-race "GLORY", forcing a more jovial, laid back mindset, harnessing every amazing emotion so it lasts until the next race.  Hopefully, this means I can smile even more when I'm on the podium (fingers crossed)!  I'm not saying I'll change to unhealthy eating habits (like most do), but I'll spend some quality time trying to give myself some peace and enjoyment I've missed out on (more Froyo?), reflect on what it took to accomplish that goal and soak up the "GLORY".  Waking up at 4:30 am, 5 days a week means an early bed time 7 days a week...Even then, it's impossible to feel caught up. 

So it's almost time to hang up my tri-suit for the season.  My last two races are within 90 days from now and will certainly require just a little more training.  Luckily, I've avoided any further injury, meaning I was able to actually get in some decent run mileage.  I actually competed in my first open half-marathon last weekend.  It was the Halloween Halfathon at Ft. Desoto! A flat and windy course with some perfect weather made for a great day (Finished 1:22).  Like most local running races I was still beat by a girl...(dangit),  BUT I'm confident I'll eliminate future "chicked" moments very soon!  I'll just need to lose 20 pounds immediately.  As I roll into the end of the season, I still want to challenge myself to be the best version of "me", achieving goals, sharpening coaching fundamentals etc.  The main reason I'm reflecting is to seriously learn from my experiences.  Just like we need to rest and absorb fitness, the mental aspect of training needs it's time as well.

Swimming! It's the one aspect of triathlon that holds most back from taking the "plunge".  It's the one discipline where you can work 50% harder but only get 3% better.  If you continue to practice improper technique, odds are you'll never reach your full potential.  Simply put, it's nice to have some eyes on you from time to time, helping you fix the short, choppy stroke, non-existent kick and overall lack of coolness.  Come down to St. Pete Beach Masters and get your swim on, it'll be worth your time!  

Another exciting announcement!  Amrita Bars in Tampa!  Visit Jett City Espresso to get your dose of maximum nutrition!  Also, if you're interested in getting your hands on a box or so, I'm your man!  I'm serious, this stuff if wholesome, nutritionally dense and will definitely be easy on your stomach!