Vineman

When I signed up for Vineman this year I wondered if it would be too soon after Ironman to do a half.

The answer would be no, I believe, if you didn't have a job that eats away every day and night of the month of July, prohibiting you from working out.

I did exactly four workouts between Ironman and Vineman 70.3 - one 30 minute computrainer workout, one 3 mile run, one 5 mile run and a relatively normal 3 hour bike ride. One workout per week is not the best pre-race training, as I am sure my coach would agree.

I was relatively calm heading into this race, partly because this was my third year in a row, partly because I am coming off a much longer race, and partly because I just didn't have time to think about it.

I was fine for the swim and bike portions of the race. I actually felt GREAT on the bike and was able to meet my goal bike time. The run, ah the run (is this sounding familiar?)... I was running just fine until 6 and a half miles into the 13.1 mile run, when my body decided it was done for the day. Done, done, done. I was tired and not feeling so great. I kept thinking that I really should have found some time to get some long runs in, but that it just hadn't been possible with work.

The GGTC aid station was a great boost at mile 4 and at mile 9, as it's always fun to see your teammates and friends. Ashli, thank you for your support and for recognizing I was not in my usual mood to chat. You know me well...

When I crossed the finish line, I found Chris, Jake and Jake's parents cheering me on. I laughed and said I had realized during the run that you just can't fake a half marathon. This realization has motivated me to get moving in my marathon training after this crazy month is over!

All and all, it was a great day full of friends and loved ones. Dian has already asked if I will be doing it again next year...


(This photo is of my friend Sam volunteering at a prior race. It was featured on this year's race website and I laughed everytime I visited the webpage. Sam's famous!)