10/17/2010 AustinIronman 70.3

I completed my first official sanctioned 70.3 Ironman race this past weekend in my home town Austin,TX.

I now know what Ironman is all about! This race was way more competitive than Barb’s race and about 3000 participants total. I literally was pushing hard the whole race. From the swim, to the bike, to the run, it was non-stop go.  The run was hot by the time I got to it. I ran an 8:30 min pace the first 6 mile loop and then had to drop the pace by the second loop. Honestly, I know most runners will relate to this I when I say it was all mental from here on out! Walking was no option for me.  My drive at this point was my family and the sacrifice it takes to achieve such a big goal. When I turned the corner and sensed I was near the finish it seemed like I would never get there! I picked up my legs to go faster and finally made it to the finish line! Yea!!!

This is what I gained from the whole experience:

I learned what it means to endure some level of pain and determination to get to the end.

Along with loading up on carbs and proteins the day before STAY HYDRATED! I realized this as I was running and I couldn’t catch up to my thirst.

During your tri training get proper rest. This is key to your mental and physical state of mind. I on the other hand have two little kiddos…sleep is unpredictable as are colds.

It hit me today as I was massaging a client, if we don’t ever push our limits, how will we ever know how far we can go? Nothing comes easy it takes discipline, support, and hard work. Positive attitude is KEY over everything. This can make or break you. You have to create your experience in the whole midst of things. I hope that this can help inspire you all to challenge yourselves physically and grow from the experience.