If you read below or spoke to me in the last 10 days, you know I am not pleased with my performance at Ironman CDA.  Although it was a really fun weekend and I had the best support that one could hope for at an ironman, I fell short of my personal expectations in each discipline. Now, it would seem the best thing to do is rest, find some fast races and then hit it again in September at Rev3 as was my original plan. However, my legs have come around very quickly and I feel ridiculously strong for having done an ironman 10 days ago. I am sure a lot of it has to do with the fact I not only rode within my expectations, but my legs on the run were not taxed. The highs and lows prevented me from charging and limited me to a jog for up to 3 miles several times.  I apologize to all those who read this and wonder how I could complain about a 3:06, but an overall 7:07/mi pace is pretty slack even for off the bike.

In the past, I have criticized others for chasing ironman times and seen these people crumble. I realize that my second ironman is not only tougher, but also going to be much harder on my body. Placid taxes you on the bike to mile 111 and the run is brutal if you run it hard. I will be running it hard, storming the hills like the runner I am. In the recent history, I have also noticed the trend of getting back to racing a week after a half or two after a full and seeing success.  It is going to take some restraint each day of training and confidence in the plan that Dr. Phil has made up. However, four weeks is going to be a fun little rest, train, and taper period.

Finally, my biggest draw to Placid is being excited to race again. I really enjoyed my trip to CDA and the race. I also had a great time at Placid last year. I know the course and the venue. Despite having moments on the run where I literally wanted to quit the sport, it was the last several miles of the run where I knew that I was going to be looking forward to my next ironman. Sunday evening after the race, I explained to Lara that my legs felt good and without hesitation she told me to go race Placid. Ever since, I have had a growing thrill for another 140.6.  Thanks Lara, I can’t wait!