TBF Tri-For-Real (Troy)

Date/Location:	July 8, 2012 – Rancho Seco Park, Herald, CA
Distances:	1.5kmSwim - 40km Bike - 10km Run
Time:	2:08:24 (23:30-1:04:40-40:15)
Place:	1st, M40-44
Teammates:	Dave Campbell

We're at Rancho Seco County Park, in the shadow of the giant reactor towers!  Before my race I get to watch Anna do her first open-water triathlon!  It's amazing watching her swim in a lake, with all the bumping that goes on with mass-starts, and round a buoy and sprint for the finish.  She races up and carefully goes through her transition just as planned and now is out on the road.  Very exciting… but I've got to warm-up for my race now.

I run and stretch. No time to bike.  Last night we had to camp a 1/2 hour away because the gates closed here.  So we didn't have as much time to prepare for our races.  But I feel like it's going to be good anyway.  My focus is on the bike.  It was my weak link in my last race so I've changed my seat position and hope for good results today, my last race before my Vineman attempt in 3 weeks.

I rush down to the water.  Swim a hundred yds in my new, warmer wetsuit.  The water is already warm so I'll actually have to make an effort this morning to stay cool.  I fill my suit with water, pray, and line up.  This is the "Over 40" wave with 100 athletes. I hear my friendly competitor, Dave Campbell, but can't find him in the crowd.

The Start:

Go!  It's a wide start and a nice straight shot to the buoy.  I feel like I'm swimming fast.  I pull ahead of a guy next to me, round the buoy and head into the sun on the long back stretch.  I never find a good draft.  I'm side-by-side with the guy next to me, which is helpful when I try different techniques to see which is fastest with less energy.  Periodically I pull the neck of my wetsuit down to let in some cool water.  I'm very warm.

Around the final buoy I let the guy next to me get ahead and stay in his draft to rest up.  With 200 yds to go I make my move by him and go all out.  He picks it up but isn't close enough to get my full draft.  Good effort, good plan.  I come out of the water in 23:30, 9th (1:15 behind Dave), I get out of my suit well, and Anna and Ariel are there to cheer for me :)  I have a good transition and I am out on the road.

The Bike:

This is my focus.  At San Jose I couldn't get into the groove.  I've adjusted my seat since then.  So far it's going well.  I absorb the 6 speed bumps heading out of the park.  On the open, rolling roads, I have a tail wind.  Goal speed going out is 25.  Last time I raced this course, I passed guys going out and then got passed coming back into the wind.  So I have to save some energy for the return.  I'm looking for Dave.  There he is.  He always has great aero position.  12 yrs older than me and still hard to catch him.

"Good job, Dave!"  I pass Dave, 55yrs old, but another 50yr old passes me.  Now I pass a 44yr old (my age group).  Can I stay ahead of him on the way back?  Nearing the turn-around, it's nice to be so familiar with the roads, since we drove them last night and this morning returning from our camping at Camanche Lake.

On the bike is a good time talk to God and go over the previous day and the days to come.  I realize He takes care of everything so why do I get frustrated and grumpy, thinking things aren't right sometimes?  I always look back and see its futility.  I want to look back and see someone always joyful, relying on the Lord.  Thanks, God, for this good time together on the bike.

I make a good turn-around and see Jeff, the 44 yr old, right behind me.  Slight headwind now.  This is where I have to make it count.  I work my position.  I focus on the road just slightly ahead when going up the rollers.  It's working out, I'm maintaining a good speed, even into the wind.  I'm not slowing as much as I did at SJ.  I'm staying ahead of the 44 yr old.

Towards the end, I'm staying above 23mph and realizing that the goal has been met today!  I finish in 1:02:12, 4th in the above 40 wave.  I felt much better on the bike and am excited to hit the run now.

The Run:

After a great transition, Anna & Ariel cheer me on and Anna tells me she got 2nd!  Wow, I didn't expect that.  I'm pumped up and still feeling inspired from the great run race in San Diego.  I don't know what place I'm in but am ready to catch a few.

Mile 1: 6:50. I feel great, confident, motivated.  I encourage those from earlier waves that I'm passing.  It's a warm day but I'm trying to ignore that.  I drink at every aid station.  Now I see 2 guys far ahead.  I time it.. 1min ahead.  I can catch 'em.

Mile 2: 6:38.  I check the time again and I'm only 40 secs back.

Mile 3: 6:19. We make the turn-around and I'm getting closer to one guy while the other pulls away a bit.  I also see Dave Campbell behind me.  Wow, he's closer to me than I thought he would be.

I'm working hard and confident I can hold the pace.  I'm thanking the Lord for making my running possible.  For years I endured a painful achilles heel ailment and now I run pain-free.  Thank you, Lord.  And He's always helped me run well in the heat, as uncomfortable as it is.

I catch the 50yr old, Steve, that passed me and put 4 min on me on the bike.  I'd love to ride like that when I'm 50.

Mile 4: 6:23. We're on the dry, winding single-track trails near the lake now.  I've got the next guy in my sights.  I feel like I'm doing great and not slowing down but I'm mindful that anything can happen.  I can slip, fall, cramp, or get injured in some way.  So I continue to thank the Lord and appreciate what He's already done for me.  I make my move and pass the guy, finding out that he's 39, and not in my age group.  Maybe I'm close to the front in my age group?

Mile 5: 6:19. I don't see anyone else ahead except for a relay runner that I'm trying to catch but is really running fast.  I drink as much water as possible at the aid station.  I cheer on the runners going the other way.  My legs are getting tired but I have to push with everything now as there's only 1/2 mile to go.

Mile 6: 6:31.  I see the spectators.  I hit the grass and try to sprint.  There's Anna ready to run with me.  She starts going and I have to pick it up even more to catch her.  It's a perfect connection and we sail in the finish.

Thank, you, Lord. All the credit goes to you. I finished the run in 40:15, 2:08:24 overall, 3rd in the above 40 wave and 1st 40-44.  This was my last race before my big even, the Vineman, and what a boost it was.  First, to gain confidence in the run at the Independence Day 15k, and then to nail the bike and the run at this tri… I now feel ready for the Ironman!

Great Job Dave!

Name	Time	Age Group	Place	Swim	Bike	Run
TROY SOARES	2:08:24	M40-44	1st	23:30	1:04:40	40:15
DAVE CAMPBELL	2:12:18	M55-59	1st	22:14	1:07:54	42:09

Coronado 15k (Troy)

Date/Location:	July 4, 2012 – Coronado, CA
Distances:	15km Run
Time:	1:00:30
Place:	6th, M40-44
Teammates:	Robin Soares

I'm glad to be on vacation in San Diego where Robin's family lives.  With busy work & longer training, I'm tired.  But today we have to race.  It's a great event.. large turn-outs.. patriotic.. very competitive. I look forward to it but maybe I'll just take it easy.  I don't feel like I can run fast.

The kids are with Grammie and Papa as we drive to Coronado Island.  It's a little foggy & cool.  We warm up & stretch.  Runners are coming from everywhere, filling the large beautiful park along the bay.  The race announcer says "It's a perfect day for running!"  True.  Last year was a little hot.  I remember being way back (99th) at the 1/2 way turn-around and then making a big effort that felt good and moving up to 50th at the finish.

Before the start a guy talks to us about his big marathon come-back he's making after injuries.  He mentions fast times & his goal to "crush" everyone in his age.  We're interested to see how he does today.

The National Anthem is sung.  We line up a few rows back in a crowd of 1200 and pray together before the start.  Go!  Right off the bat we have to sprint just to keep up with the field.  The grass course funnels down to the bike path.  Nicely winding along the water, then the golf course, then onto the roads.  I'm behind a small woman that seems to use no energy to maintain this pace.

Mile 1: 6:40. On the road now I focus on efficiency. I try to match her running style by thinking "light".  I lean forward slightly and try to "fall-ahead" while tapping the ground just enough to stay afloat.  Nice thoughts but my engineering brain knows that 165lbs turns into over 300lbs every step.  The real help comes from the Lord.  When I focus on Him, I feel more capable, relaxed and joyful.

Mile 2: 6:05. Wow, that was a fast mile.  I'll continue focusing on efficiency and the Lord above.  The woman is pulling ahead but I keep her in sight.  I'm starting to pass a few runners. I see the guy we spoke to before the race and he says to me, "I'll probably turn at the 5k mark.  Don't want to push it."  Interesting.  Now we turn onto the Navy base and start thanking the military volunteers for their service.

Mile 3: 6:35. We head back and forth on the straight roads in the base.  I still see the fast woman farther ahead and hear someone say, "… first.." to her.  Maybe she's the first woman.  Now I feel better for being able to stay with her.  But as we turn the corner I start to see other women already heading back to the finish!  Maybe what they said to her was, "51st".

Mile 4: 6:33.  I encourage the runners heading back.  I plan to pick it up after the turn.  Counting runners I find I'm 50th.  Great improvement over last year.  That feels great.  I start ramping it up.  I'm happy to see Robin on the other side and we encourage each other as we go by.

Mile 5: 6:27.  Good to see the pace picked up some.  This is the fun part because last year I remember picking off so many runners on these straight stretches.  I feel good.  I'm moving up.. 44, 43..

Mile 6: 6:10.  Wow, great mile.  I'm thanking the Lord for feeling so capable.  We head off the base now and I know it's only a few more miles.  I hope to move up to under 40th. Go, go, go.  I try to relax and lengthen the stride.  But I'm starting to feel some soreness

Mile 7: 6:20.  Onto the sidewalks now.  Some people are cheering.  I see the woman ahead a little closer.  I start to keep splits to see if I'm gaining.  I'm in 40th now and still gunning for the next runner ahead.. 39th..

Mile 8: 6:14.  Another great mile.  Onto the nice curving road.  I'm slowly catching her but she's also picking up the pace.  38th now.  I see the talkative guy that was downgrading his race to the 5k.  Looks like he stopped altogether and now is chatting away with the volunteers.  Funny.  We make the turn onto the bike path.. Here we go!

Mile 9: 6:04. I've moved into 37th place after passing the "effortless woman" and telling her her stride was inspiring.  I pass a guy, moving into 36th. I curve around to the park with the cheers of many spectators.  Onto the grass and the guy I passed moments ago now comes sprinting by.  I give my best sprint but I'm out-matched. Did I break 1 hr? Close, 1:00:30.  37th pl (6th in my age).  Thanks, God, that was exciting and unexpected.  I feel great!

Silicon Valley Triathlons - Robin

Date/Location:	June 23 & 24, 2012 – Morgan Hill & San Jose, CA
Distances:	Sat - Long Course Relay 1.2mSwim Sun - 1.5K Swim-40K Bike- 10K Run
Time:	Sat -  33:13 Sun - 2:32:05 (26:18-1:51-1:17:40-2:13-44:03)
Place:	3rd, WRelay 4th, W35-39
Teammates:	Long Course - FCA: Jessica Bonner, Karen Nickel, Les Wong, Marilyn Watson Other: Kathleen Calkins, Kathy Winkler Olympic - FCA: Christy Floyd, Clyde Floyd, Cory Floyd, David Fraser; Other: Tana Jackson

Long Course Swim - Saturday

I’m excited to swim for my friend, Karen Nickel, today. I hope to beat Troy’s time…it should be close(= The girls are probably still sleeping back at the Ridder’s house. It was so nice of them to keep the girls at their place so I can focus on the event! Troy and I drive out towards UVAS. We stop at the long road leading to Karen’s campsite along the way. I pick Karen up and drop Troy off. This way they both are getting warmed up on the bike.

Before the races begin, Troy and I lead the FCA Endurance sponsored group prayer. It’s the perfect way to start the day and remind us and others it’s all about Him. It’s so nice to be here with many FCA Teammates, new friend and old friends. In addition, I’m with my training partners this season, Karen and Jessica Bonner.

I tell Jessica to stay with the pro racer, Kathleen Calkins. Kathleen is a super sweet gal that is also super fast. I know that Jessica and her will be well matched for the swim. Troy takes off in his race first and I warm-up for my race. I run into fellow relay racer, David, that I met in transition. He is excited for his first triathlon experience. We swim over to the start and wish each other well. It’s a small field of relay racers and Aquabikers.

Ready, set, go! A few swimmers sprint ahead and I do my best to keep them in my sights. For a moment, I think I’ve got a draft but then the swimmer drifts off to the left. I opt to stay the course since I'm good at swimming straight. I wonder if it’s to my advantage or disadvantage to swim alone. I make the first buoy feeling strong. Out to the next buoy I focus on my stroke and keep my head down as much as possible. I’m passing swimmers from the previous two waves now. I don’t notice any swimmers from my wave which means those swimmers ahead of me have pulled far away.

By the 3^rd buoy, I’m feeling tired but I continue to put my head down and reach out with each stroke. I’m still passing other swimmers and wonder if I’m swimming faster than Troy. I can see a few swimmers from my wave and it motivates me to push hard through the last buoy.

I can see the swim finish now and I remind myself to go for it. Karen is waiting for me and don’t want to let her down. I’m kicking hard and trying to maintain efficient form. Soon I’m at the shore and I stand up and run straight up into transition…there’s no need to take the wetsuit off today. I hit my watch and see 33:13. Yes! I’ll take it! I hope that trumps Troy;) I run up to Karen, take off the chip and put it on her ankle. “Go Karen!” She runs out of transition and off she goes.

I wait for David to finish and cheer for him and his teammate, Issac, who is taking off on the bike. Now it’s time to head back to check on the girls. It’s going to be a long, fun day!

Finish Strong Karen!

---

International Tri - Sunday

Today Troy and the girls drop me off at the same road as yesterday.  I bike in. I’m a one-man band today. I’m not as excited. Mostly I’m feeling tired from the long day yesterday and late nights catching up with old friends. I know that it’s not all about me and I pray for reminders of that.

I set up my spot and run into Tana Jackson and fellow FCA teammates, Clyde and Cory Floyd. We all meet up later at the pre-race prayer. Troy and I again lead the group. I feel led to thank the Lord for giving us all the ability to race even with the challenges we face daily with health or circumstances. Anna prays for the group to have fun today…what a sweetie! The sun comes out as we wrap up the prayer. It’s a beautiful morning!

Today while I swim, Troy and Anna are going to practice some open water swimming. Anna is doing a kids triathlon in a few weeks and she will have to swim 50 meters in a lake. I warm-up and then swim over to the family to give Anna some encouragement. Anna is putting on her spring suit and Troy his full wetsuit. I hope Anna is warm enough!

I get to the start of my race and line up with the other ladies in purple caps. I’m wearing an almost new wetsuit sent from our friend Patty at www.WetsuitRentals.com. I’m hoping it will make me faster than my old one. Ready, set, go! I go out quick and tuck in behind another swimmer. At the first buoy, I’m alone and I can see a few purple caps ahead of me. I’m really noticing that my arms are tired. I expected to feel more recovered but it makes sense because I swam over a mile yesterday. The wetsuit may make me faster but my body is going to make me slower.

I’m passing quite a few swimmers from the other waves. There is one purple cap way out in front of me. I use the same strategy as yesterday to put my head down and stretch out my stroke. I’m relieved to see the last buoy is much closer than yesterday. I’m swimming about 0.3 miles less today…yes!

I’m finally heading to the shore and I am looking forward to getting on the bike. A swimmer from the wave behind me goes flying by and I get right on his heels…wow, he’s an aquabike or relay guy several waves back! I stay in the draft even as he pulls away. I feel like I woke up from my slumber and I continue to push to the finish. I get out of the water ready to pull off my wetsuit quickly. I struggle to pull my arms out and then I cannot seem to get my legs out either. I have to pull it off with my hands. (I realize later that I never put “Pam” on the suit to make it slick…rookie mistake).

I run up to my bike and pull on my new FCA Endurance race jacket. I struggle to pull it on but it’s well worth being warm out there! I run out with my shoes on my bike and manage to put my feet in will swerving very little. I’ll need to work on that more in the future!

Starting out I feel great! I get aero and pass a hand-full of riders out there. It is quite chilly even with the jacket and I’m really glad to have it! After a few miles a girl passes me. I make an effort to catch back up but she is too strong. Before the first turn at 5 miles, I’ve been passed by several different girls. My legs are tired and are not able to respond. I can feel the frustration setting in and I am reminded of how often I tell people that with the Lord, even a bad race day is a good day. I see a girl with a flat and I ask her if she needs help. “I need a tubular tire.” “I don’t have one, I’m sorry!” I feel bad riding on. I pray that bike support will find her out here. Lord, my bike is still working, forgive me for being a grump!

I turn on Oak Glen and ride out to beautiful Chesbro Reservoir…I find myself thinking, "it's the only beautiful thing as there is a headwind and many riders ahead"  There I go again, being negative, Lord, help me to be content.  I see several girls riding back from the out-and-back section. I see an FCA jersey…I think it’s Cory Floyd. I try to continue to push the pace as much as possible despite being a ways back. I still feel the chill even in the sun.

I make the right turn to the out and back section. It’s narrow here that no one can pass. To make it even more challenging, it’s a downhill so the cautious riders are going really slow. I remind myself that I have been in the "cautious rider" category so don't get upset if I have to slow down. I make the turn and start to pass the riders ahead little by little.

At the top, I am able to pull ahead of a few riders. I see Clyde Floyd approaching. “Go Clyde”. He’s a fast rider and I expect he’ll pass me. It gets me motivated to ride harder to try and hold him off. Soon, I’m back on UVAS/McKean Rd. and the head wind continues to be strong. I’m trying not to be negative but hopeful. A girl in a Facebook jersey goes by and then settles into a slower pace. I pick it up and pass her. In a few moments, she attempts to pass me back but I push hard to keep her from getting past my front wheel. I don’t want to go back and forth, having to back off each time she passes. I want this to stick so I keep up the effort. It’s a good challenge that has me motivated. Thanks God, it was a good way to get my mind back in the race.

Knowing someone is chasing me down, it makes the rest of the ride on McKean go by faster. I turn off into the neighborhoods just before the finish. I continue to push hard. The road has cones for us but it’s such a narrow section, that in order to pass, I have to go outside the cones. It also makes me focus on looking ahead at where I want to go.

I sense a rider coming up on me and I pick it up. I assume it’s the FB girl so I press hard when I see a wheel coming up on me. I hold them off for a moment and then they pass. It’s actually a guy and he kindly tells me “nice colors” in reference to my jersey. “Thanks and good job to you!” As he goes by I notice another rider right on him. This other rider is clearly drafting off of that nice guy. I try to pick it up so I can tell him to stop. They are going too fast so all I can do is shout…breathing hard, I can only get out, “drafting!”. Then I feel a little silly, probably the emotions of the moment, not really my job to tattle-tale. If this is a pattern with this guy, then he will get caught. God sees and knows all.  I’ll let Him handle this.

I’m relieved to see T2 approaching. I’m tired and running doesn’t sound so great but it does sound better than being on this bike! I find my rack but I don’t see my bag. This is a 2 transition race where we drop off our T2 bags but can't actually place them. I rack my bike on the next rack over and look around for the bag. I find it under a bunch of bags. That’s going to cost me some time. I rip it open and get my gear on.

I head out feeling slow and unmotivated to run fast. I see Jessica Bonner at the FCA booth and wave. It’s nice to see a familiar face. It looks like the girls and Troy didn’t make it back in time to see me head out. I’ll see them hopefully in 45 minutes if it goes well.

On the way out to the first mile, a girl in black with a 38 on her calf goes by quick. I can’t let another girl in my age group go by without a fight. I pick it up and get on her shoulder. Well, Lord, now you’ve given me another motivator…thanks! It’s hard to run this fast but it’s worth a try. Mile 1 is 7:37 even with the boost.

The girl seems to be bothered by me hanging out on her shoulder. She picks up the pace and I continue to hang on…mostly because she’s slowing down through the aid stations. We hit the out and back. I start looking for Tana and other familiar faces. Soon I see Clyde. “Great job Clyde”. Mile 2 is 6:50.

The girl pushes harder and breaks me. I wish it was more like Troy yesterday when he did that to another guy. I try to hold the same pace and keep pressing on. I see Tana…”I’ll see you soon”…I anticipate her passing me in the near future.

I make it back out to the lake. First out-and-back, done. Thank you Lord! There is a girl already heading to the finish line. She must be first. Mile 3 is 6:59. I feel extremely uncomfortable so I know I’m doing what I can. I just try to keep my eye on the girls ahead of me. I pass a few of them going out to the perk ponds. The girls heading back are looking FAST! I see Megumi who I beat at Wildflower. She’s quite a ways ahead now but I can’t be discouraged. Next I see Maria Hodges. She is the wife of Troy’s old boss at Humpty Dumpty’s Kitchen in Grass Valley. She’s been trying to make the Philippian National Tri team and she’s probably looking to make this race count. “I think you’re 9th, good job!”.

Mile 4 is 6:55. I make it out to the ponds and can now see that I’m most likely in 14^th behind the girl in black. As I make the turn and head back, I can see 2 girls running really fast behind me. I have another reason to push it…thanks Lord! It hurts bad but I’ve got to hang in there. I see Tana again and tell her good job.

Mile 5 is 6:52. Ugh! One more mile! Why does the last mile always seem so long?! I have no idea what is going on behind me and I don’t dare look. I keep looking ahead and trying to catch the guys I see ahead of me. I get to the lake and see the finish line…almost there!

Mile 6 is 6:55. I hit the bridge…yeah! I pass the photographer and he cheers me on. I don’t hear him cheer anyone else on so I can safely say I’m all alone. I can’t let up because I see Ariel and Anna waiting for me. I try to tell Ariel to go but she waits for me. I tell Anna to go and she starts moving. I catch up to Ariel and know that she cannot run very fast and the finish is 100 meters off. I pick her up and catch up to Anna. I hold Ariel tight and dig deep to keep her in my arms. Once we are almost to the finish, I put her down and we all finish together. Wow, what a tough day Lord but what a great ending! Thanks so much!

 

 

 

 

 

Go Christy, Clyde, Cory, David & Tana!

Name	Race	Time	Age Group	Place	Swim	Bike	Run
FCA TEAMMATES
TROY SOARES	LC	4:38:46	M40-44	3rd	32:04	2:40:59	1:21:55
JESSICA BONNER	LC	5:17:33	W20-24	2nd	28:01	3:00:22	1:43:08
LES WONG	LC	5:33:10	M50-54	6th	37:54	3:02:25	1:48:56
FCA Endurance Relay -ROBIN SOARES (Swim)KAREN NICKEL (Bike/Run)	LC	5:44:55	W Relay	3rd	33:13	3:17:27	1:50:51
MARILYN WATSON	LC	6:17:50	W50-54	6th	42:07	3:30:06	1:57:47
STEVE CORRALES	SPRINT	1:53:57	M45-49	13th	18:24	1:03:10	27:07
TIMOTHY HESS	SPRINT	1:37:29	M45-49	3rd	15:18	53:07	23:04
ALICIA BUESCHEN	SPRINT	2:04:09	W30-34	7th	21:27	1:09:10	26:31
ALYSSA HESS	SPRINT	2:19:33	W20-24	4th	15:17	1:26:49	30:23
ROBIN SOARES	OLY	2:32:05	W35-39	4th	26:18	1:17:40	44:03
CORY FLOYD	OLY	2:37:01	M25-29	10th	28:20	1:17:46	46:56
CLYDE FLOYD	OLY	2:48:50	M50-54	14th	33:33	1:16:48	54:28
CHRISTY FLOYD	OLY	3:22:26	W25-29	18th	36:48	1:32:42	1:08:01
DAVID FRASER	OLY	3:44:19	M65-69	3rd	40:26	1:39:10	1:15:18
OTHER TEAMMATES
Kathleen Calkins	LC	4:24:56	Elite W	1st OA	28:55	2:28:23	1:23:56
Kathy Winkler	LC	4:46:37	W45-49	1st	28:53	2:43:38	1:30:45
Tana Jackson	OLY	2:34:35	W40-44	3rd	30:15	1:15:12	44:51

Silicon Valley Long Course Triathlon - Troy

Date/Location:	June 23, 2012 – Morgan Hill & San Jose, CA
Distances:	1.2mSwim - 56km Bike - 13.1m Run
Time:	4:38:46 (32:04-2:18-2:40:59-1:30-1:21:55)
Place:	3rd, M40-44
Teammates:	FCA: Jessica Bonner, Karen Nickel, Les Wong, Marilyn Watson; Other: Kathleen Calkins, Kathy Winkler

6/23/12

This is a big race for our FCA Endurance team. The race director gave us a great discount so we made this the main event of the season. We'll see lot's of our TeamMates!

Robin drops me off so I can ride a few miles to the lake to warm up. My seat is a little low but I can’t adjust it. It’s stuck. This is my last long distance race tune-up for Vineman. Even though I'm not feeling rested or fast, I will need to push it. The run is my main concern as I haven't gone over 8 miles in 7 weeks.  I set up transition, run a mile easy to warm-up, and stretch.

Robin & Karen Nickel arrive. They’re doing a relay together. Jessica Bonner is getting ready.  Tana is racing tomorrow. Tana is he legendary Energizer Bunny and Jessica looks to be following in her footsteps, excelling at each distance she tries. This is her first ½ Ironman, she’ll do great. I’m also glad to be racing with FCA Endurance Teammate, Les Wong, and the others racing tomorrow.

Race announcer Nick Tuttle is always happy to announce the FCA Pre-race Prayer. Wow, this is a great way to start a race. Even though I sometimes wonder if it will be as meaningful as the time before, I’m always surprised. Immediately after the announcement, a military Chaplain named Bob comes up to tell me he’s glad to see FCA here and that he was a big part of it in school. Another thing that’s exciting is when we circle up to pray near the start area, with about 10 people, it often grows to 20 people by the time we’re done praying.

I can understand this.  When I was starting in triathlons, and found myself far from home, moments before a big event, I'd feel small again, humbled, aware of my dependence on God for His assurance and in somehow serving Him.  If I saw a group praying, it was a reminder, as well as an example that it's ok to bow your head and talk to God.  Even if I couldn't hear them, I would stand close and pray by myself.

As we finish, I feel ready.  The smiles and calmness on the faces around me indicate we are all ready and assured we will have something to be proud of as we race.  After a few goodbyes and a kiss from Robin, I swim out to the start.  The water is perfect.  Warm and clean.  Uvas is a big improvement over Almaden Lake, which is closed, and the reason we're here.  Plus I'm in a new (used, but looks new) Aquaman Tri-Blitz wetsuit from Patty at www.wetsuitrentals.com.  It's warmer, faster and has a top-down zipper which, after watching a video, I was able do myself.

Go!  It's a smaller wave.  After 5 min I'm not getting passed as much as usual.  I like my position.  I find myself bumping into a guy on my right.  We all have a tendency to veer to one side and he must veer left.  Side-by-side we bump all the way to the buoy.  Around the buoy I pull ahead.  I'm feeling buoyant and comfortable.  At the backside I start bumping into a guy on my left.  It's the same guy.  This is strange that now he's veering to the right.  It gives me reason to push and finally I'm a little ahead.  The last buoy comes sooner than expected which is a relief.  Now it's a straight shot to the boat ramp.  I'm recalling my Berryessa swim.  When guys start to pass for the push home, I pick it up and am able to hold them off.  I stumble out, manage the bottom-up zip exit and enjoy the ease at which the suit come off.  32:04.  4th place!  Wow, I'm never near the front like that.  Up to the bike now..

It's a little chilly.  Overcast skies.  I gladly put on my FCA Endurance bike jacket.  This has been a lifesaver for me.  I love it.  I even see race announcer, Nick, giving his approval, "That's going to help, you don't want to be chilled".  Off on the bike I immediately start trying to find the "groove".  My seat has been "sore" for weeks and cyclists know how uncomfortable it is to sit on a pain like that.  If I can just find the right position.. that allows fast cadence and power on the hills..  I'm managing, pedaling through the rolling hills of South Almaden.  A peloton of weekend riders go by and we pass back 'n forth a couple times.  They're careful to keep out of the way.  I think back to the many training rides with my old training partners, Clint, and the gang, through these hills.. usually drafting off of Clint.

Over Baily and down Santa Teresa.  This is the best part.  Tail wind.  Flat.  Fast.  Just when you're tired of straight, the course meanders through the pretty countryside again.  And back out to Santa Teresa.  Same as last year, right when I'm feeling pretty fast, the lead girl goes by.  It's Kathleen Caulkins, a friend of Robin's.  "Good Job Kathleen!"  A guy is with her.  A few more guys pass me.  I'm doing the best I can but just don't feel the groove or the power. Can never give up.  Just keep trying.

We head back North, through the reservoirs and rolling hills, which help to block the head wind.  It's neat to see the T1 area, now empty of bikes, as we race by.  My plan is to push the last 10mi.  Just 30min.  I want to get 20mph ave.  Go!  I finally find a position that's working.  I push all the way to the finish, get my 20mph ave, and am relieved to finally get off.  3rd. 2:41.

My bike shoe pops off as I dismount but a volunteer brings it to my rack and tells me "you're going to fly by those guys like you've got wings on".  I thought about that a few times later.  I start on the run with a pretty small stride length.  Just getting the feel of it and wondering how this 13mi run is going to go.  I see Robin at the FCA tent.  And then the smile of Laura Schuster cheering me on.  Great having support to start the toughest part of the race with.  Mile 1 7:55. Heading South on the scenic exercise path I watch the runners ahead coming back.  There's Kathleen. Mile 2 7:01.  I wonder where the turn is.  We turn at about 2.5mi which is sooner than expected.  Mile 3 6:43. I'm happy to see my pace dropping below 7min/mi.  I'm feeling pretty good.  The advantage of an uncomfortable bike can be having legs saved for the run.

A 40yr old "Hammer" guy in in my age group passes and makes it stick. Something tells me I can run like him so I make it a goal to catch him by the end.  Mile 4 6:42. We come back though the main park and head North to the perk ponds.  Mile 5 6:34.  I see all the leaders and Kathleen coming back again.  The next turn-around comes, again, sooner than expected.  Mile 6 6:39.  We turn-around again and head back out towards the perk ponds.  I pick it up and am gaining on him.  At the next turn-around I catch him and run side-by-side.  We both ask each other where the rest of the course goes.  Will it be short like last year's 9mi course?  Mile 7 6:19 We continue side-by-side.  I'm getting water at every aid station and eating gels.  We're entering the main park again.  If we're going to end soon, I've got to make a move now because I can see he's a better sprinter.  I start my surge.  He reacts and matches my  pace.  I'm a few steps ahead.  Mile 8 6:14.  That was a hard mile.  I'm coming up on the bridge over to the finish line.  I see Laura and she yells, "On the home stretch!"  But I wonder if I really am.  This is why you're supposed to study the course beforehand.

Right before the finish line, they send us out on another loop.  The good news is that I've got a good gap on the Hammer guy.  The bad news is that I used up a lot of energy.  Ok, just gotta get to the final turn and then I can turn it on again for real.  Mile 9 6:26. I never look back.  Thank you Lord for helping me feel good on this run despite how I felt coming into this race. Mile 10 6:46.  I'm nearing the final turn, going a little slower but trying to be steady.  I make the turn and see the Hammer guy 50yds back.  I think I can hold him off.  Mile 11 6:35.  I pick it up.  The legs are hurting a little but I really feel good otherwise.  I know it will be a strong finish.  Mile 12 6:19  This is it.  When I cross the bridge for the finish I take my first look back and see a gap.  Now just sprint in for the finish.  Thank you, Lord!  3rd pl.  1:22 run split.  4:38:46 total.

Long Course

Go Jessica, Karen, Les & Marilyn!!

Sprint

Go Alicia, Alyssa, Steve & Timothy!

Name	Race	Time	Age Group	Place	Swim	Bike	Run
FCA TEAMMATES
TROY SOARES	LC	4:38:46	M40-44	3rd	32:04	2:40:59	1:21:55
JESSICA BONNER	LC	5:17:33	W20-24	2nd	28:01	3:00:22	1:43:08
LES WONG	LC	5:33:10	M50-54	6th	37:54	3:02:25	1:48:56
FCA Endurance Relay -ROBIN SOARES (Swim)KAREN NICKEL (Bike/Run)	LC	5:44:55	W Relay	3rd	33:13	3:17:27	1:50:51
MARILYN WATSON	LC	6:17:50	W50-54	6th	42:07	3:30:06	1:57:47
STEVE CORRALES	SPRINT	1:53:57	M45-49	13th	18:24	1:03:10	27:07
TIMOTHY HESS	SPRINT	1:37:29	M45-49	3rd	15:18	53:07	23:04
ALICIA BUESCHEN	SPRINT	2:04:09	W30-34	7th	21:27	1:09:10	26:31
ALYSSA HESS	SPRINT	2:19:33	W20-24	4th	15:17	1:26:49	30:23
ROBIN SOARES	OLY	2:32:05	W35-39	4th	26:18	1:17:40	44:03
CORY FLOYD	OLY	2:37:01	M25-29	10th	28:20	1:17:46	46:56
CLYDE FLOYD	OLY	2:48:50	M50-54	14th	33:33	1:16:48	54:28
CHRISTY FLOYD	OLY	3:22:26	W25-29	18th	36:48	1:32:42	1:08:01
DAVID FRASER	OLY	3:44:19	M65-69	3rd	40:26	1:39:10	1:15:18
OTHER TEAMMATES
Kathleen Calkins	LC	4:24:56	Elite W	1st OA	28:55	2:28:23	1:23:56
Kathy Winkler	LC	4:46:37	W45-49	1st	28:53	2:43:38	1:30:45
Tana Jackson	OLY	2:34:35	W40-44	3rd	30:15	1:15:12	44:51

Folsom Cyclebration - Robin

Date/Location:	June 8 & 10, 2012 – Folsom, CA
Distances:	11m Time Trial; 35min Circuit Race
Time:	TT - 30:06
Place:	17th in Omnium - 9th in TT; 16th in Circuit

Time Trial - Friday, June 8th

The whole family drives to the TT start.  I somehow failed to register Troy for the Omnium and I am trying not to worry about him getting in.  Just last night in Bible Study we were studying Matthew 6:  "Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?…do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.  Each day has enough trouble of it's own."  It's hard to resist the flesh and have faith instead.  Either way, today God's will will be done and it will be good.

I drop off Troy at registration and park the car.  To my delight he gets in with no problem.  Thank you Lord!  Troy goes first and I'll go next, 15min after he finishes.  Once Troy heads out I try to bike around the undeveloped neighborhood.  I should've brought the trainer so I could be next to the girls.  Warming up on the road doesn't work when I need to stay nearby the car.  Lord, I will be content and do what I can.  It's certainly hot out here and the wind is picking up.  I stretch and wait to see Troy heading back on the levy trial.

He comes back and reports that a water bottle is necessary even for a 11 mile ride.  He grabs me a bottle and off I go.  I'm the first in my wave of Women 4's.  With a 30sec gap between each rider, I hope not to get passed.

Ready, set, go!  I take off from a foot down position (last year, they held the bike for us).  Immediately I feel flat but hunker down in my aerobars and try to push.  I am confident that I'll ride faster than last year when I was spooked by a girl that had crashed into a protruding fence on the course.  Within the first few minutes I'm already getting passed by the 2nd girl.  Ouch!  I try not to get dejected and continue to push. 

The miles go by soooo slowly!  It's hard to stay motivated until I notice the girl ahead of me is coming back!  By the turn-around, I am so close.  It looks like breaking last year's time of 29:12 is going to be close.  How is that possible?  Aren't I in better shape too?

I drive harder and catch the girl.  As I pass I say "good job" and she says "darn, you all with aerobars!"  I hadn't even noticed before that she didn't have any.  I know she's just expressing frustration and not anger at me.

I cannot wait to finish!  I'm pooped and ready to put my tired legs out of misery!  The time is counting down and by the time I see Troy and the girls just before the finish I'm already over my goal.  I smile anyway and thank God for another opportunity to race.  I cross the line and I am done!  Phew!  Now, it's time for the Circuit Race on Sunday!

Circuit Race - June 10th

Here we go again! 

This is my 2^nd time doing this Cyclebration race… and the closest I’ll ever get to doing a Criterium. I’m nervous about the close quarters as last year 3 girls crashed into the guard rail right behind me. My strategy is survival. I know that I must not ride in fear so I’ll be going to the Lord a lot!

Our friend and Victory Velo teammate, Todd Allington, brought his wonderful teenage daughter Hannah to babysit our girls. After we get them settled with her, we warm-up together on the nearby bike paths to stay out of the way of the junior racers. There was quite a lot of wind last night so we are weaving to avoid the twigs on the ground.

We head back to the start for some last minute preparations and head to the start. Troy’s group, Elite 5s, is taking off right ahead of my group, Women’s 4. The head referee tells his group that this is not a race but just a chance to get mass start experience. What?! What are we all here for if it’s not to race?!

As Troy’s group takes off and we pull up to the start, I hang off to the back-left of the pack. Ready, set, go. We start out pretty leisurely but within the first 2 minutes a girl sprints off to the front and the group immediately responds. I am able to stay with the group and fairly close to the other riders but I know I should be closer drafting.

The first lap ends with little drama even with the tight turns and round-about. On the second lap I pull up to the front behind a few girls. The same racer sprints ahead and we take off after her. We catch her quickly and I find myself leading the backside of the course. I purposely try not to exert too much energy and hold a conservative pace. Soon, I am passed and swallowed up by the group. Lord, thank you for keeping me upright! Please keep us all safe!

Coming through the start line again we have 4 laps to go. I decide to go out front on the start of the 3^rd lap to make the others think I like to lead and then I fade so that I might seem like no threat. I lead up to the 2^nd turn and get passed by a few going into the round-about.

The pace the pack is holding doesn’t show a sense of urgency which makes me wonder if the men are going to catch-up with us. Sure enough on the start of the 4^th lap, we hear that the men are catching up. I’m hanging back the 4^th loop and trying practice getting into the draft. Right before we head into the round-about, a motorcycle comes in front of us to make us “neutral” or to hold up our race. We are coasting and waiting for them to pass. It’s not until we are in the round-about that the men pass. This is unsafe! Lord, keep us all in one piece. The women are shouting to each other to move over and the men are yelling at us to do the same. It’s all so chaotic! Phew, they finally pass and we can resume our race!

We come through the finish line and now it’s 2 laps to go since we were passed. I move to the front again at the start and lead the girls up the hill to the first turn. I again allow myself to be swallowed up into the group. I hope my plan pays off. Lord, I just want to finish in one piece!

One more lap! You can sense the tension rising and I get nervous about getting knocked down. After the first turn, I take the lead and push the pace. I’m totally risking getting killed the last 1K by doing this but I feel like it’s worth it to stay in one piece. I lead all the way through the round-about and the following 2 tight turns. I push hard going to the last turn and suddenly a girl goes by. By the time I make the last turn, I’m at the back of the pack. Oh no! I dig down as much as I can but it does little to move me up. I manage to pass one girl back as we cross the line. Wow, that was tough! Thank you Lord for Your protection! I have a lot more to learn and a lot more confidence to build! I’m so glad I’m done!

Folsom Cyclebration (Troy)

Date/Location:	June 8-10, 2012 – Folsom, CA
Distances:	11m Time Trial; 35min Circuit Race
Time:	TT - 26:15 (27:25 w/late start)
Place:	20th in Omnium - 9th in TT; 26th in Crit; 22nd in Circuit

Stage 1: South Canal TT (10.7mi)
We show up Friday afternoon in Rancho Cordova for Stage 1, the South Canal TT.  It's hot.  Anna's riding her bike.  I'm helping Ariel ride hers.  My start is coming up but I want to raise my seat.  This turns into a big event.  Robin & another guy are helping me.  By the time I'm finished, it's almost go time.  I rush to the starting area, get checked in, a timing strip on my helmet and roll to the start line.  "You missed your start.  Go!"

I'm off.  I don't know if missing my start counts against me.  Oh well, I'll know my time, and I've got my goal: get 25mph (25:41).  I've done this course before in 24.8.  It doesn't seem that hard, it's only 10.7mi.  But soon reality sets in… going all out for 26 min is going to be very hard!

I'm already getting hot and thirsty.  I don't have water.  I figured I wouldn't need it.  I'll have to push through.  I'm motivated.  I'm working hard and feel like I'm going fast.  I see the guy ahead at 30 secs (maybe more).  Wind is behind me.  Averaging 26… 27..

It's completely flat except for 3 overpasses.  We hit 'em early on.  These are killers for my pace.  They seem small but really take an effort.  1/2 way to the turn-around and the wind is changing.  It's getting harder.  The guy ahead is no closer.  My triathlon training should help me in this event.

At the turn-around I make a clean turn and start the push for home.  My #1 guy ahead has passed #2 ahead.  And now I'm about to pass #2 as well.  I pass and he jumps into my draft and stays there.  I'm pretty sure that's not allowed.  I continue pushing hard to catch my #1 guy.  I'm breathing hard, my lungs are burning.  I'm praying that God will help keep me safe and from doing any harm to myself.  I should've carried water.  I'll be sure to warn Robin.

I'm really happy to see 25mph average!  I'm going to do it, finally!  I catch #1 guy with only 1/2 mile to go, going over the final hill.  But the wind is in our face and coupled with the hill… my average is now going down.. 24.8… 24.7...

I'm pushing as hard as I can and as much as I want to sprint, there just isn't anything left in the legs.  My lungs are burning.  I'm focused on God.  It hurts. , I want to ease up, but I'll give it my best… finally… I'm done!  24.5mph (26:15).  Wow, that's tough.  Slower then before.  But maybe it was the wind.

Thanks God for keeping me together.  I continue riding to catch my breath, if I stop I'll surely overheat.  I get back to Robin, give her the warning, and she grabs a bottle heads to the start.  I hope she does well.  The girls and I make our way over to a viewing area and get to see her race out and then back.  She looks fast.

Checking results I was surprised to find I was close to last.  I would be expected to have an advantage riding in the aero position since it's what I do most of the year.  But these cyclists are good all-around I realize.  It's humbling, and that's a good thing in itself.  Before we leave we get to see our friends, Lance & Todd finish their efforts.  They're also gassed and hot, but their speeds are amazing.  27mph!  Wow, we're very impressed.  Later, the results change and I was 9th (of 24).  That was with my 0:50 late starting.. I may have been closer to 3rd if I'd been on time.  That's a lesson in being prepared before the race.

Stage 2: Criterium (30min)
Saturday.  I get a good 7mi warm-up.  Robin and the girls are at Anna's swim meet.  Last year I tried an aggressive strategy to keep the pace moving, and ended up about 30% back at the finish.  This time I'll try a relaxed approach and try to set up for a sprint at the end.  It's a full field.  We're going clockwise (opposite from last year).  It's a 30min race.. it was supposed to be 40.  That will work against me a little.

Go!  The pace is ok.  A couple guys string it out periodically.  First I'm near the back and each lap move a little forward.  I'm noticing I'm not as comfortable as I felt last year.  I try to keep focused on the wheels around me.  I ask the Lord for safety.  There's so much out of your control.  If someone goes down ahead of me, there's not that can be done.

1/2 way through I develop a plan to take the last corner on the inside and try to sprint alongside the pack at the end.  There's a crash to my left.  With 2-to-go I find myself at the front of the pack.  I have a good vantage point now for getting into position as the others pass back to the front.  1-to-go and I'm trying to get in my position on the right (inside corner).  Most of the group is moving up on the left (outside).  I'm sliding farther and farther back.  I'm so focused on the inside corner that once I get there, most of the pack is already ahead on the outside.  To make it worse, I have to slow in the corner a little and coming out am shifting gears.  Now it's go! go! go!  I dig deep knowing each person I pass is a point.  But I can see most of the group is already ahead.  I give it all I have and come across in 26th (out of 47).  I'm glad to be safe.  I thank the Lord.  I'm disappointed in my strategy and plan to try the opposite (outside) tomorrow.

Stage 3: Circuit Race (45min)
Sunday.  Robin, the girls, and I are all here. Todd Allington's daughter, Hannah, is babysitting them as Robin & I race.  Robin's event is right behind my group.  After our warm-up we line up.  Our friends, Lance, Todd, and Kevin are here cheering us on.

My group starts and I try to sit back in the pack.  Last year I did some work near the front trying to help with Lance, Kevin and Todd's game plan.  But this time I only have 1 Victory Velo teammate, Rich, and unfortunately we didn't get together to plan anything beforehand.  He had a good placing yesterday so I know he's a good rider.

After a couple loops (2.5mi per loop) I find a good place to move up is the turn onto Blue Ravine on the way to the Round-about.  This is also where Robin's group had a crash last year.  Each loop I make a move here just to get back into the top 10 position.  I slip back during the rest of the loop.  With 2-to-go I'm in good position but we catch up to Robin's Women's-4 group and have to neutralize as we pass.  I kind of lose position going into the final lap but I work hard to get back up.

Through the round-about, down the expressway, I start moving to the outside.  It's working.  I'm swinging wide as guys are picking it up.  Then I shoot around the corner and there's plenty of room to work with, putting me in the top 5 going into the final sprint.  I immediately jump up and sprint but see guys in my peripheral vision passing on both sides.  In my fatigue and all-out effort to sprint, I don't try to get on any wheel, but just to gut it out on my own.  300m is a long way!  Unfortunately, even though I started exactly where I wanted to be, I finish, again, closer to the back.  22nd (out of 39).

It's exhilarating, scary and tiring at the same time.  I'm so thankful that Robin & I both finished safely without falls.  It's humbling for both of us to work hard and end up closer to the back but it's good to be humbled and our hat's are off to the cyclists' training regiment - there's so much strategy and practice.  It's very impressive to see them explode out of the last turn and finish at high speed.  Good experiences for us.  Good weekend of racing.  Thanks, God.

I was actually 20th (out of 65) in the Omnium, which is the combined 3 Stage race.  13 pts for the TT, and 1 pt each for the road racing.  Not too bad.

Berryessa 2 Mile Swim (Troy)

Date/Location:	June 2nd, 2012 – Oak Shores Park, Lake Berryessa, CA
Distance:	2 Mile
Time:	54:01.40
Place:	6th, Men's Wetsuit Division

I drive to Berryessa alone this year. The family supporting Anna at her swim meet. Robin’s sending me updates. I arrive to a beautiful scene. Berryessa Lake is shining, calm and warm. Families & swim teams, including all ages are camped out and excited about swimming. I get an update that Anna is doing the butterfly for her relay team. I’m so proud because the butterfly is such a difficult stroke for me.

My prayer for today is that the trip and event can be for God’s purpose. That would make it worthwhile. Otherwise it could seem wasteful, spending 7 hrs just to swim for 1 hr. It’s already been fun driving here. Taking the nicely-banked corners of Suisan Valley Rd and Hwy 121 in my Impreza was enjoyable. Now I’m registering and am asked about our 3_strands@sbcglobal email address. I explain that it’s from the Bible, that 3 strands of a rope are not easily broken; and that the strands are Husband, Wife, and God. They comment that I’m going to need all the help for the 2mi. I happily acknowledge that although I don’t have my wife, I do have God with me.

I have 25 min to go for a run. I see another guy with the same idea so I take off after him. It takes a while to catch up. I find out he’s looking for a trail he was told about. We meander around and finally find it..Stipple Creek Trail. It heads North, winding along the lake. It’s great, but after a mile I have to head back. He’s not doing the swim so continues on. Maybe some day Robin & I can explore it more.

I stretch and, very carefully, put on my friend, Todd Allington’s, wetsuit. Mine ripped recently. Into the water, I warm up over to the starting area. The 2mi non-wetsuit swimmers are taking off in 5min waves. I’m used to the wetsuit group being pretty small so not surprised to only see a few of us in the water. I casually swim into the starting corral, just to be called out by the announcer. Oh, there’s an official entry point with a line of swimmers. Everyone has timing chips. Uh oh, I didn’t get one.

I run across the campground to registration, get my chip, strap it on, and run back, hurting my feet on rocks in the process. Whew, 1min to spare. My heart rate calms down, I pray and then… 5, 4, 3, 2, 1..

Go! This will be my longest swim in years. The beginnings always feel great. I latch onto some feet going by. Too fast. I latch onto a woman’s feet to my left. This is good. A little faster than I could maintain on my own. It’s a straight shot to the yellow balloons of the first turn. Then we go around 2 islands, then straight back. I accidentally hit the woman’s feet about ½ way to the first turn and she veers far left. Is that a tactic to keep me from drafting? It works as I don’t want to swim off course that much. I continue straight and at the turn we actually both arrive at the same time.

Behind the island I’m starting to feel good again. Getting my groove. Stroke is strong. Water is clean. This isn’t so bad. The woman passes me. She’s swimming straight and strong. I jump into her draft. She’s pulling us through some of the non-wetsuit swimmers ahead of us. I glad to be meeting my goal of getting better at drafting. I start kicking harder… and then get a calf cramp! I never got that before.

The cramp forces me to swim slower, using less of my left leg. The woman pulls far ahead. I have to let her go. I continue on. My temperature is perfect in this wetsuit. We go behind the 2^nd island and make the final turn. Now it’s a straight shot home. 45min. I’m on a good pace. If I pick it up I might be able to match my previous time of 52. I start to kick harder again… calf cramp in the right leg! Ok, I have to focus on my arms and do the best I can. I’m watching my time under water, 51, 52, 53.. Getting close to the finish. I see the ground coming up from below. At the ramp I stand to hurry up through the finish.. sharp rocks.. ow.. I stagger across in 54. Whew, I’m glad to be done. That was a good swim that I’m happy with. Just need to prevent calf cramps.

I pack up and head out, reflecting on the day. I’m thankful that God answered my prayer, that today was worthwhile. I got to talk about God, had a fun run, a great swim, and just felt God’s blessings. And Robin’s emails of Anna’s successes today add to the enjoyment. Thanks, Lord, for being with me wherever I go.