IRONMAN USA

I just came back from vacation where I watched the Ironman USA triathlon in Lake Placid. I had two friends from my tri-team in the race which made the event much more interesting. The two of them are Ironman-distance veterans and strong cyclists; they have given me countless tips and have helped my training tremendously.

First, a few things about Lake Placid: I lived in upstate New York for a few years, I know the area, and to this day it amazes me that they hosted the Olympic Games. It's in the middle of nowhere with no freeway access and doesn't sound like the kind of place to hold big events. But that same isolation allows for beautiful scenery and a nice friendly small-town environment.

I watched another friend do Ironman Arizona back in April, but I was with a large group of about 15 people so there were many distractions. In Lake Placid, I was essentially alone watching the race (aside from the thousands of other spectators) which meant I could pay closer attention to the race itself. That may have been a mistake. I'm signed up to do Ironman Coeur d'Alene next year, and rather than being inspired by Lake Placid it terrified me.

I saw many, MANY suffering faces that day. 112 miles is a long bike ride and it seemed to take its toll on just about everybody. By the time the run began both of my friends flashed brave smiles for my camera but it was clear they were hurting. I couldn't help but wonder, if they were struggling with the distance, what chance will I have?!!!

Fortunately, I have 11 months to prepare. They keep telling me that the key is to be strong on the bike so I need to start upping my mileage right away.