2014 Folsom International Tri–Robin

Date/Location:	May 10, 2014 – Folsom Lake, Granite Bay, CA
Distances:	Swim 1.5K – Bike 40K – Run 10K
Time:	2:42:14 (23:56-4:44-1:23:50-1:26-48:29)
Place:	1st/ (3rd OA)
Teammates:	Caryn Galeckas, Rosie Kracher, Suzanne Hartley

As I wake up, I think, "Boy I’m tired!"  It's been a busy week with little sleep but thinking about the extra activities (Life Group BBQ, Anna’s school play, Mother’s Day Lunch at Ariel’s school, painting project for a friend, birthday party, ..) I realize they were well worth it.  Maybe the race wheels Troy and I got at Victory Velo to share will help. 

As I get ready to leave home, already late, I cannot find my purse.  I wake up Troy in hopes that he’s seen it.  I try to look to the Lord and not panic.  I could have left it at the birthday party the night before.  Fortunately I find a spare id and USAT card.

The line to get into the park is long!  Thankfully Troy calls me and we pray for the race.  I feel at peace and relaxed even with the missing purse!  I love my husband! 

As I pull up to registration the line is huge!  I decide to get a spot in transition and warm up on the new wheels.  It’s nice and quiet in the park and I enjoy the ride.  It feels fast with the wheels but will have to see in real time soon.

I run into Dave Campbell.  He and his wife Francie have been up all night.  They had the blessing of welcoming their first grandson.  They are very dedicated to still be here to volunteer.  Want to catch up more but I’ve got 20 minutes to the start!

I find Caryn Galeckas and Suzanne Hartley at the swim start.  We pray for each other.  The best way to start a race!

THE SWIM
A quick warm-up, then… Ready, set, go!  I’m feeling good going out buy suddenly I’m getting pushed down on my back. Okay, no prob…but it happens again.  I stop short and say “hey, watch it!"  I don’t even know if the girl heard me but I feel pretty silly now.  I keep going and find myself swimming over another gal’s legs.  Okay, who is really silly now?!  I get my bearings again and continue on. 

By the first buoy I’m hitting my stride and catching girls.  I am unable to find a lasting draft but I’m trying.

The next buoy means home stretch!  I dig deep to try to catch some other orange caps like me.  This water is so clean compared to Wildflower.  Just as I start to enjoy the swim it’s over!  I jump out, take off my wetsuit and make the long run from the water to the bike.  Fortunately we have water to swim in, but unfortunately it's still a VERY long run up the beach.

THE BIKE
I get a shaky start getting my feet in my shoes while on the bike but manage to do it.  I wave to Dave who is directing traffic as I head out on the road.  I feel like I’m flying, what fun!  A 49 yr old gal in white goes by like I’m standing still.  I cannot match the pace to pass her back after I’ve pulled back 3 bike lengths (a tri rule when you are passed on the bike) but I am able to keep her in my sights which is a nice change.  Thanks Lord for the new wheels!

Around Mile 3, another girl in teal passes. Again, I keep her in sight.  My legs feel good and are spinning well.  I try to remember what Troy tells me…to stay light on the pedals and pull my foot through. He’s always looking for tricks to maximize speed.  I don’t always have the mental focus to do that but at the moment I do.

At Mile 9, I can barely see the 49 yr old but I seem to be making some ground on the girl in teal.  We turn on Val Verde and I think about the Coffee Republic ride that will be heading this way soon.  Too bad it’s too early to see them!  Some of the later racers are in for a surprise when that freight train goes by!

At Mile 13, I see Karen Nickel coming down the road on a training ride.  It’s so great to see her and I wave!  I know that Troy and the girls are waiting for me on the last climb on Powerhouse Rd. 

At Mile 15 I make the turn at Powerhouse and another girl in red goes by.  I am surprised and just stare at her.  She says “good job!” and it wakes me up “oh, you too!”.  Usually I am quick to encourage so I laugh at my response.  We hit the last big climb and I’m able to pull away for a time.  I can see Troy at the top.  I wave.  There is Anna and Ariel holding a sign for me…aw, sweet!  I also see our friend Todd Osterberg and his daughter Jillian.  Wow, what a treat!  Troy tells me I’m the 5th girl.  Cool!

Troy reminds me it’s all downhill and let the wheels take me home!  I will!  I get aero and go!  I can see the teal girl but I cannot seem to gain any ground.  I get passed back by the same girl in red and try to keep the gap from growing as much as possible.  I feel some discouragement now being in 6th but know that’s wrong.  I am thankful to the Lord to be in the mix and I know there is still a run.

I see Karen again coming up Auburn Folsom.  Another boost!

I make it back into the park still in 6th but I can see the same 2 girls.  I know the run will tell all.

THE RUN
I make a good transition and take off.  Those 2 gals are running strong but there are 6 miles to go!  I don’t seem to be closing the gap but I’ll bide my time.

Mile 1 is 7:31.  Not bad.  My hamstrings are feeling tight but I am still able to move well.  I hear footsteps getting closer and I glance back to see another gal.  Oh boy, I’ve got my work cut out for me!  This part of the course is rolling but fortunately they took out a really technical downhill and sand section…phew!

Mile 2 is 7:58.  The gal passes me.  I tell her “good job, you’re running strong!”  I notice she is 39 so there is no threat but I do try to stay with her to stay motivated.  I am right behind her now since I was able to catch up on the downhills.  I realize this is probably annoying but I need the help. 

Mile 3 is 7:33.  We hit some single track trails and I follow her line.  Soon she is slowing down so I decide to go ahead.  I expect her to react and follow but she doesn’t.  I can now see all 3 girls I’ve been chasing.  Sweet!  I plot my next move.  I decide that on the big hill on Mile 4, I will try to catch them especially if they walk.  Again biding my time…

Mile 4 is 7:33.  I am getting just slightly closer to them!  I try to remain smooth and relaxed.  I am totally surprised how good I feel!  Thank you Jesus!

Okay, here comes the hill.  The girl in teal walks and I catch her.  The girl in red continues to run strong even with a few moments of walking…wow, I’ve got my work cut out for me! 

Mile 5 is 8:13.  I use gravity to pull me down the backside of the hill to get ahead and the girl in red does too!  I am flying down and am not gaining any ground!  Be patient, it’s not over yet.  This is so suspenseful! 

Soon I find I am gaining ground.  I pull up on her shoulder and rest for a moment.  I wait until just before the last section before the long straightaway to the finish and then go!  I push with what is left.  My legs almost feel like they are going to give out but I maintain the momentum.  She doesn’t seem to be hanging with me.

Mile 6 is 6:59.  Awesome split!  I see the last girl on the straightaway and I dig deep to close the gap.  I don’t have enough road to get her but I keep pushing hard anyway.  I thank Jesus for a great race! I am doing my best for Him.  Finally, the finish!   Woo-Whoo!  That was great!  I make sure to tell those gals good job.  They were also a great source of motivation!

Name	Time	Age Group	Place	Swim	Bike	Run
ROBIN SOARES	2:32:27	W40-44	1st	25:09	1:20:05	47:13
ROSIE KRACHER	3:14:29	W45-49	6th	33:49	1:37:24	1:03:16
CARYN GALECKAS	3:22:41	W55-59	3rd	25:46	1:41:26	1:15:29
SUZANNE HARTLEY	3:21:44	WATHENA	1st	33:02	1:42:55	1:05:47

Wildflower Olympic Distance–Robin

Date/Location:	May 4, 2014 – Lake San Antonio, Bradley, CA
Distances:	Swim 1.5K – Bike 40K – Run 10K (2.2m + 4m)
Time:	2:42:14 (23:56-4:44-1:23:50-1:26-48:29)
Place:	1st/58
Teammates:	Olympic Distance: FCA TEAMMATES – Cory Floyd, Karen Nickel, Mike Cassidy, Troy Outman; Martin Messersmith Mtn. Bike: FCA TEAMMATES - David Fraser, Timothy Hess Long Course: FCA TEAMMATES - Clyde Floyd, Dan Perkins, Nevah Frogozo, Scott Hodson, Troy Soares; Dale & Tana Jackson; Martin Messersmith

Couldn’t have started this day out any better!  Only at Wildflower can I go worship Jesus and be fed by God’s word.  After attending the church service, I’m more than ready to race for Him. 

Karen, Troy O. and I get on the bus to the swim.  This is a historical day because there is a major course change - the 3rd time in WF history and 2nd time due to drought.  We are swimming at the end of the lake and then running 2.2 miles, with 2 good climbs, to our bikes. Then it’s on to the regular bike course.  And finally, a shortened run of about 4 miles with 1 huge climb.  As a runner, this is good news.  I’m looking forward to it!

Karen and I warm-up and check out part of the course.  We have to run up the Harris Creek boat ramp, down a trail, onto a trail where water used to be and then back up the original boat ramp.  Sounds like a doozy! 

Before I head down to get ready I pray with Karen.  Prayers are lifted up for safety, Troy O’s calf and Karen who is recouping from a stomach bug. 

I walk down the long boat ramp and find my spot at the bottom.  It will be great to have my shoes on early!  I realize I forgot my Pam spray to help get the wetsuit off fast. A nice gal in my age group lets me use her Body Glide.  Thanks God!

Down to the start I find my group.  I hear the water is super dark and wonder what that will be like.  The wave before us goes off and then we are able to warm up.  When I jump in It’s like someone turned off the lights!  Wow, so weird!  I wonder if we’ll be seen at all especially with our black caps (never had a black cap before…definitely not a good open water swim color if you want to be seen!)

Time to line up.  Julie Moss is here announcing and makes me raise my hand since I was on the podium last year and have aged up.  I quickly and embarrassingly raise my hand.  “Follow Robin, she has a good line in the water.”  Oh great, now I have a target on my back…but really anything can happen and this is all for fun!  Then it’s one more tip from Julie.  “Girls, wipe your faces when you get out of the water.  You’ll come out with a nice black face.”  Good to know!

THE SWIM
It’s time!  Ready, set, go!  Into the black!  It takes quite a bit of looking up and some trust in the girls ahead to stay on track.  Finally after 200 meters, the water clears up and we can see!  Yeah!  A gal keeps bumping me.  I wait until she drifts off and then try to speed up and cut over.  Unfortunately I time it poorly and kick her as I make my move…shucks, I hope I didn’t hurt her!

At the first buoy I’m hanging with some of the top gals.  I don’t know for sure if anyone slipped ahead.  It’s nice to have a draft!  The next buoy comes quick.  Now, it’s a straight shot back. 

The gal in front of me starts to weave a bit too much but fortunately there is another.  I jump on and she pulls me well through the previous waves.  Soon the water starts getting dark again…close to home!  I push hard to stay with my draft and just barely hold on.

Finally, I’m done. [5th place]  My wetsuit comes off great except for the one leg with my chip.  No worries, a little extra pull does the trick.  It’s nice to get to my shoes quickly.  I have no towel to wipe the gunk off so I use a sock…lovely! 

RUN #1
Time to climb!  Karen is still waiting to go and is there to give me a high five!  I pass a girl in my age group on the way up.  I like this running thing out of the gate!  I run controlled up the ramp and then start picking it up.  I have no idea if I am the first in my age group or not. Our group was the first wave of gals to go off so it’s possible I’m the first age group woman on this course. [later learned that I was 1st starting the first run]

I take water every chance I get!  Troy tells me that it gets dry out here so don’t pass any aid up.

I’m passing guys and feeling great!  Mile 1 is 8:07.  Soon my hamstrings start to really bother me.  Lord, I put this race in Your hands.  If this is going to be an issue today, I will accept that. 

Mile 2 is 7:16.  I can see T2 in the distance.  Hey, there is Anna.  She runs with me a bit.  I see Troy and give Ariel a high 5.  “How are you doing honey?” Troy asks.  I smile and say “my hamstrings are already getting tight”.  He tells me he’ll pray.  I have an amazing husband!

THE BIKE
I have a good transition to the bike.  I mount and am able to pedal and slide my feet into my shoes which are already on the bike.  Up Lynch I go!  I’m feeling the long ride I did this week in prep for the Auburn Tri!  At the top, I get a nice break.  I start seeing the FCA signs and it reminds me who this is for.

Once out of the park I start to feel better.  I’m seeing some collegiate women and encourage them along.  I still wonder if I’m the first age group gal or not…will hopefully find out at the turn around.  My hamstrings are still feeling tight.  I hope my 2nd run goes well!

At the big hill at Mile 8, I can see 2 big trucks ahead going really slow and blocking the right side of the road.  I can see a girl struggle to stay upright behind them.  As I approach, I can see if I try to pass on the left I’d have to cross the double yellow line…not an option!  I try to get the drivers attention in his side mirror.  I motion for him to move to the left.  A rider comes up and decides to pass on the left, totally not safe especially with riders screaming down the hill!  Finally the driver moves just slightly and it’s enough to pass.  As I go by, I worry for the girl that was struggling and I hope she got by safely.

Now I get to enjoy the nice downhill to the turn around.  I used to brake here in the past and the previous downhill.  So far, no braking…I sure have come a long way!  Thanks God for giving me the confidence!

As I approach the turn, I look for gals.  It’s too hard to tell where I am, and, while trying to stay aero, I may be missing some.  I see Troy O. go by the other direction.

The turn finally comes. Yeah, time to go home!  I catch up to Troy O. and he asks me to pray for cramps he’s been having.  “Will do!”  Poor guy, that is rough!  I wonder how Karen is feeling.

Lots of guys are passing me now but no women yet.  I continue to feel pretty strong.  A fast looking guy goes by and then slows down.  I don’t want to pass so I hold back to see what he does.  I decide to make a move and pass.  He soon passes me back but later I pass him again.

Only a few short hills to go before we turn back into the park.  A girl goes by in blue.  My first reaction is “bummer”!  My second reaction is “it’s not over”!  I discover that I can pass her on the uphills so I continue to press and keep her in sight. 

Into the park we go!  The girl and some other guys scream by on the downhill.  One last big climb.  I catch and pass the girl and say “good job”.  I hear a man’s voice say “thanks, you too!”  It’s not a girl, wow, had me fooled!  Could this mean I am the first age grouper then?  I try not to focus on that and just get to T2.

Finally, back to Lynch.  Will I break here?  I scream down and feel comfortable…NO BRAKES!  Thank you Jesus!

My dismount is good and I’m able to pull my feet out of my shoes.  My transition is fast and smooth…which is not the norm for me!  Again, thanks God! [1st Place]

THE RUN

Here we go!  I run out and see Anna ahead at the stairs with a sign.  I cannot read it but appreciate the love.  I give her a high 5. 

A guy passes fast and I tell him good job.  I soon feel my true legs coming back and I pass him back.  I’m amazed how good I feel!

Mile 1 is 7:31.  Now it’s time to climb Beach Hill on foot - for the first time ever!  Will my hamstrings hold?  I decide to run the whole way steady and not push it hard.  I look for the FCA signs Karen and I put out…it’s great encouragement!

I am still passing collegiate girls and also age group guys.  3/4 of the way up there is a group of folks cheering.  I give them a smile as I pass.  I hear a guy say “hey, I think that’s the first age group girl”.  Wow, could it be true?!

Mile 2 is 8:56.  I’m at the top!  Yeah!  One more mile and then I’m at the top of Lynch.  The Aid Stations are great!  Lots of enthusiasm and aid!  I am passed by another guy and I stick with him.  Soon I am passing him back…”good job”.  Another guy goes flying by.  Will a girl come past too? 

Mile 3 is 7:23.  Yes, Lynch!  Free speed!  I let it rip.  No hamstring pain, just fatigue now.  Thank you Lord once again!  I know I’ve got to push it hard.  I have to really dig deep to keep it up.

Mile 4 is 6:31.  I’m at the bottom…go, go, go!  I enter the finish shoot and raise my hands to the Lord.  “Thank You Jesus!”  I hear someone say “sprint!”.  That could be a girl so I dig deeper and sprint.  I make it across the line with no one near.  Wow, what a day!  And to top it off, I was the first female age grouper to make it to the finish (since my wave went first)! Once the other waves finished, I was 7th overall.

Name	Race	Time	Age Group	Place	Swim	Bike	Run
TROY SOARES	LC	5:09:56	M45-49	3rd	30:06	2:48:32	1:43:02
DAN PERKINS	LC	5:36:59	M55-59	4th	31:03	2:57:00	2:01:13
TANA JACKSON	LC	5:56:42	F40-44	7th	35:30	3:05:12	2:03:08
MARTIN MESSERSMITH	LC	5:57:33	M45-49	37th	35:15	3:05:12	2:08:58
DALE JACKSON	LC	6:07:16	M50-54	23rd	30:12	2:58:07	2:30:18
SCOTT HODSON	LC	6:10:17	M50-54	28th	32:43	3:18:29	2:10:17
TEAM FCA ENDURANCE - Nevah Frogozo & Clyde Floyd	LC	7:04:20	Open Coed	30th	44:28	3:23:33	2:48:01
JODY GALVIN	LC	8:34:29	F35-39	53rd	51:08	4:26:42	2:59:36
TIMOTHY HESS	MTN.	1:09:28	M50-54	5th	7:07	40:25	15:18
DAVID FRASER	MTN.	2:00:39	M70-74	3rd	12:02	1:06:20	26:01
ROBIN SOARES	OLY	2:42:25	W40-44	1st	23:56	1:23:50	48:29
MARTIN MESSERSMITH	OLY	2:54:52	M45-49	24th	27:02	1:25:44	52:45
CORY FLOYD	OLY	3:01:20	M30-34	41st	30:29	1:28:58	54:53
TROY OUTMAN	OLY	3:07:17	M40-44	36th	27:51	1:32:35	57:17
KAREN NICKEL	OLY	3:24:22	W35-39	22nd	31:33	1:41:27	1:02:29
MIKE CASSIDY	OLY	4:03:13	M60-64	18th	34:29	1:47:40	1:20:35

Wildflower Long Course (Troy)

Date/Location:	May 4, 2014 – Lake San Antonio, Bradley, CA
Distances:	Swim 1.2M – Bike 56M – Run 13.1 (2.2m + 11m)
Time:	5:07:54 (30:06-4:46-2:48:32-1:28-1:43:02)
Place:	3rd/142
Teammates:	Olympic Distance: FCA TEAMMATES – Cory Floyd, Karen Nickel, Mike Cassidy, Robin Soares, Troy Outman; Martin Messersmith Mtn. Bike: FCA TEAMMATES - David Fraser, Timothy Hess Long Course: FCA TEAMMATES - Clyde Floyd, Dan Perkins, Nevah Frogozo, Scott Hodson; Dale & Tana Jackson; Martin Messersmith

I started the week with very tight hamstrings. At Tuesday track workout I couldn't stride out or run faster than 7:00 pace at best.  Robin had given me massages and I've been trying to rest up and stretch.  We packed up and headed to Wildflower on Wed.  I was looking forward to time away from work to enjoy both rest and more activity to help loosen my hamstrings. Thursday I ran a little.  A little less tight. Fri I ran 1 mi and still getting better.  Now it's race morning and I feel my best for the week, but they are still a little tight.

This year's drought has left Lake San Antonio empty and dry across 90% of it.  It's a surreal sight.  Thankfully some water remains at the very bottom of the Harris Campground boat ramp.  The course is changed in order to swim there, then run 2.2mi to the regular Lynch transition area, and then complete the rest of the course, minus 2.2mi at the end.

Robin prepares oatmeal for me and I head down Lynch at 6:15am.  I happily see Jim Grant and Dale & Tana Jackson in transition!  I warm up running a little and catch the 7am shuttle to the swim start at Harris boat ramp.  I talk to a woman looking forward to completing the course this year and optimistic because they've waived the cut-off times due to all the course changes.

At the top of the Harris boat ramp it is a crazy sight.  It looks like a 1/2 mi steep descent down to water.  The pros swimming their warm-ups look so tiny from here.  In fact, the 1.2mi course looks more like .8 mi since it's so far away.  The entire ramp has become a transition zone.  Those at the top have a long barefoot run!  Fortunately 1/2 the ramp has carpet on it.  I am very close to the bottom.

I prepare my site and run some more for warm-up.  I talk to Martin Messersmith.  He's always in good spirits. I run into my FCA TeamMates, Dan Perkins, Nevah Frogozo and Jody Galvin at different occasions and we each take time to pray together.

Start time is nearing.  The pros have covered the swim in very fast times.  I run into Darrin Gill as I near the water start.  We raced together over the years but most memorable was in '96 when we both qualified at the old Keahou-Kona 1/2 Ironman.  Good memories.  We jump in for a quick warm-up and we are surprised that the water is pitch black!  The earlier waves have churned up the black silt / mud and you can't see your hand in front of your goggles.  It's eerie.  Just hope it clears up farther out.

Julie Moss announces our group and highlights the top 5 from last year.  I was 5th, it was a good race, but I hadn't remembered that Darrin Gill was 2nd.  When she said that I immediately thought, "I just have to stay near him and I can get into the top 3".  It's a great mental goal for me and I am ready to give it my best.  I pray that the Lord will help my hamstrings and that I will be first and foremost a good example out there, ready to help anyone in need.

Swim
Go!  It's a calmer start with people carefully stepping into the black water and I take the outside (left) so even when we bunch up, I'm not jostled too much.  With my head down it's pitch black but I tell myself to relax and be calm.  After 200yds, the water clears up and I can breathe a little easier not clenching my mouth shut.  I'm outside the pack without a draft.  I feel calm.  I'm keeping my head as low as possible. Remaining relaxed and trying to streamline forward.  The 1/2 way turn comes sooner than expected.  I notice I never started my stopwatch.  I get hit in the goggles but am ok.  Twice I had to stop to clear my goggles.

On the way back I pick up a draft and it's going well. He navigates through the slower ones in waves ahead.  I try to be careful not to run into slower swimmers as I know it's scary to get run over.  Looking down, the clear water starts getting darker and darker until the lights go out all together!  We're in the mud zone.  100yds to go and my hands are touching the oozing sludge below the shallow water.  Finally it gets a little deeper and then we hit the man-made underwater ramp.  Helpers guide us out and it's climb to climb the ramp.  30:06. 15th place.

T1A:
30:00 swim is great for me but I suspect the course was slightly short.  Suit comes right off, find my transition area, sit down and put on my socks & shoes then grab my hat, heart rate monitor and gels and start up the ramp.  I'm at the top before I know it and the volunteers are great.  I'm already thirsty and get water everywhere available.

Run #1
It's neat running so fast at Wildflower.  Without a bike in the legs they feel fresh and I'm flying down the trail.  It's really cool.  At 1 mile, where the bikes make the turn up Beach Hill, we veer off onto a new trail heading right into where the lake used to be!  It's surreal running by the "No Lifeguard on Duty" sign into the lake bed!  I comment to those near me that we're now running the original swim course.  There are soft-sand sections.  I use quick short steps and stay on the surface.  It's like we're running across the moon, somewhere no one has ever run.  It's a good trail.  I'm running fast but wonder if too fast.  We hit the Lynch boat ramp and run up to the original T1 transition.  There's Robin & and the girls!  They have big smiles on and give me high fives.  It boosts me so much.

T1B
I grab more water, get right to my rack and sprint out in my socks.  I jump on and head through the chute. I see Sarah and then Robin and Ariel.  I feel great starting the bike after the short run.  Not the typical out-of-breath-from-the-swim and chilled core.  I like starting the bike like this.

Bike
I pass my friend, Jim Grant, turn onto Beach Hill and immediately throw my chain.  I have to get off to fix it but it's no big deal.  I happily push up the hill, pass Jim again near the top and head out onto the main course.  I feel great on the bike.  I'm using the position and technique that worked so good at HITS Napa 1/2 Iron.  I'm really optimistic.  I feel fast.

On the main road I'm passing many in the earlier waves and not getting passed myself.  I wonder how long I can hold off the faster riders.  I feel like there is a head wind which means I'll go even faster when we make the turn at Jolon.  I have a GREAT ride to Jolon and make the turn, but am disappointed that the head wind seems to only pick up.  Oh well, just gotta push through it.  I'm grabbing water bottles at EVERY aid station.  Unusual for me but need to stay hydrated.  On the rollers I am finally passed by a couple faster riders.  I try to stay near them.  I realize that the first run, where I increased a gap on the fast riders behind me, was why I didn't get passed until later.  But also because God is giving me a good ride.  I still feel good.

The back side is what I look forward to. But the headwind makes it a little less enjoyable.  Darrin Gill goes by and smiles.  I try to keep him in sight.  This is good.  All I have to do is catch back up to him on the run.  Finally by mile 36 we turn into the Canyon and it's a tail wind.  I stretch a little, drink and get back to work.  I'm riding good now after starting to get tired in the wind.  It's warm.  I pour water on me.  And now we start climbing Nasty Grade.  My low gearing helps.  I head straight up the middle and it goes well.  Guys with higher gearing are swerving back and forth trying to lessen the grade.  Near the top my left knee starts hurting.  My seat is too low.  And a little uncomfortable.  Good for the hamstrings, though.  I focus on form.

On the long descent I get stuck behind an emergency vehicle.  I relax and stretch a little.  Now back to work.  I really push hard, through the discomfort, for the last 8mi.  I'm trying to hit 20mph.  It goes pretty good and finally I can relax down Lynch Hill.  I finish with a 2:48:32 bike split, 9th in my age and now in 5th place.

T2
I make a good dismount and transition.  There's Darrin Gill just going out on the run. Soon I'm heading out, too, and grabbing more water.  Robin, Anna and Ariel are at the stairs again with great smiles and now beautiful signs for me.  I tell them, "I would kiss you if I could stop running!"  I'm still in 5th place.

Run
Onto the run it feels stiff which is normal for the 1st mile off the bike.  I don't think the first 2.2mi hurt me any so I'm excited to only have to run 11 more miles.  At 1 mi I see Darrin just ahead.  Alright!  I come alongside and we talk about the swim and bike.  I'm determined to stay with him and pull ahead somewhere on the course.  He's a faster runner than I expected and pulling ahead of me on the hills. I'm catching up on the downhills. 

We pass another guy and now are in 3rd and 4th. Along Harris Campground we're side-by-side reminding me of the Iron War between Mark Allen and Dave Scott.  Cool.  I'm working hard to keep up.  Onto the dirt trails, which I know so well and which don't intimidate me as much as they used to, I'm trailing him but happy with the good pace I'm maintaining.  It's warm, dusty and there's no water below like there used to be.  It makes for a desolate, intimidating run.  But I keep smiling and talking to the Lord, realizing there's no need to worry because when we have faith in God, He gets us through and the worrying only makes me get centered on myself.

At mile 4, which is actually 6.2 now, I take a gel and get as much water as possible to drink and pour on my head and get motivated for the tough climbs ahead!  Darrin's 30yds ahead.  We hit the steep section which I'm thinking I'll walk.. but he starts walking first.  I'll try to run it.. even though my run may be as slow as his walk.  But I know it's harder to get started running again so if I don't stop running, I might be able to get a few seconds on him at the top.  I pass him 1/2 way up and, sure enough, I've got a gap at the top.  My left hamstring is on the verge of pulling when I make it to the top.  Whew, it was risky, but it's working.  More water and then the 2nd steep section.  Another "walking section" I run the whole way. Hamstring holds up.  Get a few more seconds on Darrin. 

Down the steep path to the pasture.  Hard to run in control.. make it to the bottom and now enjoying the flats.  Getting tired.  Another gel, encouragements from the volunteers, more water.  Ok, gotta push hard, last tough trail section to come.  Get sprayed near the park entrance.  Running with a couple guys.  I see the FCA sign ahead and tell them, "check out this sign, it'll really help".  Yes, the sign was perfect, "Christ gives us the strength to do all that we do"  I needed that and I hope it helped them, too.  Over the top and start pushing but the hamstring starts hurting.  I tone it down a little and it's ok.

Into the Redondo Vista camping area!  The many cheers really help.  I'm running strong.  Turning up the last gradual climb I see Megan and her family that came by the booth.  She's running to raise money for Leukemia that her brother is fighting.  She recognizes me and gives me ice!  I say hi to her family.  Great boost.  I push the hill and now cruise down through the campgrounds.  I know I  have to push it because Darrin is back there and guys in my age group are ahead somewhere.  Through the trail to the overflow camping.  I'm really pushing well.  I see Muddy Waters, just like every year.  We both glad to see each other.  He's seen me when my foot problems really slowed my running.  But, thanks to the Lord, I run with good form again now and I think he's kind of amazed to see that.

Mile 11.  I turn onto the paved road and take one look back.  Darrin's not right behind me but may be within a minute.  Push, push, push.  I veer over to see the FCA sign in the shade and am encouraged by the words that true love is shown by sacrifice expressed by God sending His Son to die for us.  I'm reminded that my love for my wife will be shown best when I'm ready to sacrifice my life for her.  I can't wait to finish and see her.

The last aid station.  Water, Gatorade and now put my head down to charge the last hill.  Yes!  With arms up thanking God I crest the top and let gravity pull me down Lynch.  I'm not able to let it roll like I used to.  A 36 yr old goes flying down the hill.  Yes, I think 10 yrs ago I could stay with him.  But the knees and hamstrings are barely hanging on as I go as fast as I can.. never knowing if Darrin will charge by any moment.

Finish:
Finally, the finish chute, so happy, I see Sarah taking pictures, other friends cheering, and there's Robin and the girls!  God is good, thank you for making the smile on my face throughout the race and getting me to the end where I can now rest!  I finished with a 1:43:02 run for a 5:07:54 total, 3rd in my age.  Darrin finished 2 minutes back.  It was exciting racing. Thank you everyone that prayed for my hamstrings.  I'm so thankful they held up.

Name	Race	Time	Age Group	Place	Swim	Bike	Run
TROY SOARES	LC	5:09:56	M45-49	3rd	30:06	2:48:32	1:43:02
DAN PERKINS	LC	5:36:59	M55-59	4th	31:03	2:57:00	2:01:13
TANA JACKSON	LC	5:56:42	F40-44	7th	35:30	3:05:12	2:03:08
MARTIN MESSERSMITH	LC	5:57:33	M45-49	37th	35:15	3:05:12	2:08:58
DALE JACKSON	LC	6:07:16	M50-54	23rd	30:12	2:58:07	2:30:18
SCOTT HODSON	LC	6:10:17	M50-54	28th	32:43	3:18:29	2:10:17
TEAM FCA ENDURANCE - Nevah Frogozo & Clyde Floyd	LC	7:04:20	Open Coed	30th	44:28	3:23:33	2:48:01
JODY GALVIN	LC	8:34:29	F35-39	53rd	51:08	4:26:42	2:59:36
TIMOTHY HESS	MTN.	1:09:28	M50-54	5th	7:07	40:25	15:18
DAVID FRASER	MTN.	2:00:39	M70-74	3rd	12:02	1:06:20	26:01
ROBIN SOARES	OLY	2:42:25	W40-44	1st	23:56	1:23:50	48:29
MARTIN MESSERSMITH	OLY	2:54:52	M45-49	24th	27:02	1:25:44	52:45
CORY FLOYD	OLY	3:01:20	M30-34	41st	30:29	1:28:58	54:53
TROY OUTMAN	OLY	3:07:17	M40-44	36th	27:51	1:32:35	57:17
KAREN NICKEL	OLY	3:24:22	W35-39	22nd	31:33	1:41:27	1:02:29
MIKE CASSIDY	OLY	4:03:13	M60-64	18th	34:29	1:47:40	1:20:35

Copperopolis Road Race (Troy)

Date/Location:	April 19th, 2014 – Milton, CA
Distances:	2 x 21m loops
Place:	9th, Cat 4 M45+
Friend:	Krag Rasmussen

They call it the "Paris-Roubaix" of California because the potholes in the road resemble the cobblestones in old European towns.  Robin & I still like this race because of the hard climbs and the scenic setting.
We meet up with Teammates, Shayne & Charity Marshall.  It's a beautiful day as we prepare to start the 42mi race at 11am.  It's 2 loops of very rough rural roads with a big climb and descent each loop.  I feel confident that I can do well because I'm good at climbing and descending and I don't mind the bumpy roads.  I'm not good at breakaways and sprints.  I'm picturing cresting the climb on the 2nd loop with a few other guys and then working together across the top and down to the finish.
Robin, Shayne & I pray before the race.  We look to God for safety as the bumpy descent brings with it risk of bad injury.  Shayne's 35+ group goes.  Now my 45+ race starts with about 25 of us.  I meet a friend, Krag Rasmussen, from early triathlon days in the Bay Area.  Other than him, I don't know anyone else.
The roads are bumpier than ever.  I stay way back.  Up the first big climb everyone's going pretty fast until the last mile.  I end up in front, focused on lifting my legs and being efficient.  The pack is together but I crest first and that makes me more optimistic that I can get away with some others the next time around.
A Cushman-Wakefield guy, Jim Forester, comes alongside and says, "you don't have your team. Do you want to work together?"  I'm feeling great and agree, but am surprised that he meant right now.  We pull ahead and rotate pulling and get a gap.. but the pack quickly catches us and Jim & I make a deal to do it again the 2nd lap.  Great, I have an alliance :)  Now I hope I don't get "voted off" because of it.
Some guys take a wrong turn in the farm area so the pack slows up and waits for them.  The pack continues to go very slow all the way around the top.  I pull faster periodically to see if other guys will work but the group is pretty set on saving up energy.
On a short climb before the big descent, the pace picks up but I stay calm and crest in 2nd position.  I pass the leader and now have the descent to myself.  Everything going as planned.  Until my chain falls off because of the harsh bumps.  I'm able to pedal to get it back on but loose a couple positions.  Flying down the hill I get back in front but loose the chain again.  I realize I'll have to keep pedaling the whole way to keep the chain on.
The climb through the finish always makes the end hard.  We coast through town and start the 2nd climb.  I want to get water from neutral, as I brought only 1 bottle (bad idea) but someone grabs it just in front of me.  After he drinks 1/2 of it he asks if anyone wants it.  I hesitate before saying yes and it's too late.. he tosses it.  Oh well.
The climb is hard.  I'm really getting tired.  I envisioned pushing it and breaking away with others, but now I find myself wanting to do no more work than necessary.  Robin & I were just talking about the discomfort that is a part of racing, when you have to go to that painful place and it's scary to face it, but you do come out the other side.  I remind myself now to go where it's most uncomfortable and God will restore me later.  I start pushing more.  Soon I'm leading the climb again.  I feel like I could easily blow up but I stay focused on good spinning and it works out well.  And at the top I do recover and feel restored. Thank you, God!
I look around, though, and don't see Jim, my alliance, to make any move with (turned out he flatted).  Of course part of me doesn't want to make a move because I'm tired.  The group is going slower than ever.  I take a turn at the front and watch 2 guys make a medium effort break.  I let them go hoping they'll get away and then I'll break to catch up to them.  The pack stays behind me not making a move.  But the 2 off the front start looking back and slowing up.  Inside I'm saying, "Go, Go!  Get way out there".  But they end up coming back.
Then there's a gradual hill which I attack hoping to get over with a couple others.  Over the top, I look back and see 1 guy!  "We got a break, let's go!"  But then I see around him and the entire pack is right on him in a single line.  That didn't work.
Later, a small guy, 2 others and myself try an attack.  We get a small gap but then we break up because 2 guys pull too hard and gap another.  Plus the pack is smart.  They don't do much work but they immediate bring back any real threats of a break-away.  We turn West into the head-wind.  The pace slows even more.  Again, myself and another guy surge to see what will happen.  After a couple pulls the pack catches and goes by and I almost get dropped!  It surprises me how tired I am that I almost couldn't hang on.  That's it, no more working until the final climb before the descent to the finish.
The small guy takes off!  Alone, into the wind.  Pack does nothing.  Someone says, "Poor guy, no one can stay away in wind like that."  Another says, "He's not a threat, he doesn't time-trial much".  His short legs are spinning like crazy.  He comes back a little and then surges ahead farther… and then, after a short rise, he gets a big gap!  I'm really impressed and only wish I had legs that could sustain a solo effort like that.
Getting near the final climb.  I'm tired, but still confident I can get to the front on this hill.  Suddenly 4 guys attack the hill, catching me off guard.  I react but find myself 6 or 7 back, not able to match the speed.  They're dropping us!  Another guy tells me, "Come on! We can do this! We can make it happen!"  I admire his enthusiasm when I can barely muster an slight, "ok".  He's a great example of how we should react in tough times.. be positive even though deep down we feel hopeless.  I push as hard as I can.  Eyes closed sometimes.  I stay on his wheel but that's all I can do.
Finally, over the top, I get some energy back and do some pulling to share the work.  Into the steep technical sections I pass another guy but also get pashed by someone in the chase pack that caught us.  Far ahead the small guy is still leading, with the pack of 5 chasing.  And then myself and another guy.  And then the chase pack of about 10 more.   It's a crazy bumpy, descent.  My chain falls off again but I massage it back on.  The other guy and I work together.  I'm so tired but I look back and see the pack coming.  Gotta go, gotta push.  The final rise before the finish.  They're bearing down on us.  The other guy is giving me a good pull but I can barely hang on.  I dig deep.  100m to go.  A flyer off the chase pack catches me and goes by.  But we're able to hold off the pack and I finish 9th.  The little guy that went off the front.. finished 2nd!  Wow, that hurt, but what a great workout.  Thanks, God, for keeping us safe, and helping me through those painful moments.

Copperopolis Road Race – Robin

Date/Location:	April 19th, 2014 – Milton, CA
Distances:	2 x 21m loops
Place:	5th, Cat 4
Teammate:	Charity Marshall

It’s a special treat today because Troy and I get to head to a race without the kids. Easter is tomorrow and they are having fun at Nana Sue & Papa Ray’s house. The cousins are there, too, so there is much fun to be had!

Off we head to Milton, a small farming & ranching community near Angels Camp. This race is well known for its very bumpy roads…pot hole upon pot hole upon pot hole! I don’t remember it being that terrible after the first 5 miles and before the last 5 miles. It’s a 2 loop course. Each lap is about 21 miles.

We get to the site and get ready to ride. The Marshalls, Charity and Shayne, are here too without kids. Charity, Troy and I go out for a warm-up. It’s a beautiful day and these off-course roads are nice and smooth!

Troy and I do some last minute prep and then head to the start. We find Shayne and pray for our races. Today, safety is key and most importantly putting Christ first. Charity and I see Shayne and Troy off. Their categories are around 20 guys, not the usual 50. As the girls line up I wonder where they all are and I say “is this it for the girls?”. Yes, it is…wow, only 8 gals!

Ready, set, go! We casually roll out and within moments turn onto the severely bumpy road. I am not very surprised and remember this well. No one is in a hurry to lead the race. We climb the first hill comfortably. Charity takes a turn at the front. We hit a patch of smooth pavement…ahhhhh, that’s nice!

On the backside of the course it’s still calm. Charity and I get a chance to chat about the Good Friday service at Elevation church we missed. The roads back here seem bumpier than I remember. Still, I feel really good and start mentally preparing for the downhill. Troy said that this downhill is the main part of my race. I’ve been descending with more confidence and skill than ever so I hope it goes well!

We are still together as we climb. I take a turn at the front and try to stay relaxed. Just before the top, there is a brief downhill and I push ahead and descend well. Charity goes by and tells me to go with her. I get on her wheel and try to stay close. We climb for a short time and then it’s time! Charity takes off and I try to stay with her. Soon, my bike is vibrating violently as my speed picks up.  I panic on a few turns and grab the brake.  It really does little to settle my nerves.  A few girls fly by and I try to keep them as close as I can.  I’m descending better here than ever but I’m still fearful.

Near the bottom I let it rip and pull back to the girls.  I’m able to make contact.  Soon all 8 of us are together again.  The road is nice and smooth here for once!

We head back to the start for loop 2.  We turn back onto the bumps.  We start the 2nd climb and I feel wiped.  It’s so weird because I didn’t feel I was pushing really hard most of the first lap. The bumps start to feel like a bunch of little hills and it is wearing on my mind and body.

One of the girls, in a Metromint kit, pulls ahead on the climb but none of us are concerned.  In my mind, she will come back eventually.  Soon another gal in black and fruit covered kit (pictures of fresh fruit which is making me hungry) takes off so I ride with her.  I don’t know where Charity is and I hope she is close.  It takes all of me to concentrate on the fruit girl.  When we get to the top, I look back and no one is in sight.  The Metromint girl is way out there and now I’m doubting we can catch her.

The fruit girl and I chat and decide to work together.  After a few miles, I feel really tired and loose contact.  When I look back I see 2 girls coming up on me.  I decide to let them catch me and hope that I can hang on.  I still don’t see Charity and I hope she’s got some of the other girls to work with.  She’s strong and will persevere for sure!

I do okay working with these girls but I feel really tired again and fall off.  I realize that I’m making a terrible mistake letting up because I need help to get to the finish.  I push to catch up again but it appears I missed my chance.  They make a turn up ahead.  As I make the turn, I see a huge trailer intentionally pulling out in front of them.  I am angry for the nerve of the guy doing that when all he could have done was waited 20 more seconds…but at the same time relieved that I get to catch up.  Thanks God for a break!

Together again, we ride towards the last climb.  The Metromint gal is a small dot and the fruit girl is getting smaller too.  Probably won’t catch either of them now.  This means I have a shot for 3rd to 5th place.  Knowing my weaker descending skills and sprint skills, it’s going to be tough to get 3rd.

Up the last hill, we stay together.  Once at the false top I try to pull ahead but they are right on me.  Up again to the real top and now it’s time to descend.  Help me Lord!  I get there first and hang on tight.  I brake again on a sharp turn and the girls go by.  I manage to keep contact going down. Again, violent shaking…a few shout outs to Jesus and I make it down…and still close to the girls!  Yeah!  I pull in close and wait for a chance to go.  The finish is near!

We climb a short hill and go down the backside.   I know gravity is a friend that I don’t want to neglect so I push it even though I have 500 meters to go.  It’s a short climb to the finish and I dig as deep as I can.  The girls fly by and I cannot keep up. They finish 3rd and 4th at the line.  I come across in 5th with a smile and happy to be done.  Thank you Lord for the protection and good ride! 

Charity comes soon after.  Unfortunately the gals she was working with quit and turned back.  I knew she would stay strong and finish strong.  Great job Charity!

HITS Napa Valley Half (Troy)

Date/Location:	April 12th, 2014 – Lake Berryessa, Napa, CA
Distances:	Swim 1.2m – Bike 56m – Run 1/2 Mara
Time:	4:56:10 (32:13-2:08-2:43:05-1:41–1:37:01)
Place:	1st/18 M45-49; 9th OA
Teammates:	1/2IM Aqua Bike: Ryan Moll

It's the first time at this race.  The HITS (Horse Shows In The Sun) organization started creating lower priced triathlons that offered every distance.. even Ironman.. at each venue.  Usually when you offer more for less, the result is not very impressive.  However, getting our first look at the race site, we were impressed.  Professional signage, organized layout, and even mini-chairs at each athlete's transition area!  I signed in, met the CEO of the race organization, and reviewed the course.  Berryessa is beautiful and has a lot of water, compared to other reservoirs during this drought. The run is straight-forward on a rolling, rural road along the lake.  The bike is also along the lake and through Pope Valley.  Robin & I have done the ride before.  We love it but it's narrow and cars can be a problem.  We learn that it is open to traffic during the race.  This is the one concern.

I've tried to get extra sleep this week.  I don't feel energized and wonder how I'll race fast for 5 hrs tomorrow.  We set up camp, the girls meet some other kids and play, and then we go to sleep early.

In the dark morning I eat and make final preparations.  It's cold but will get hotter this afternoon.  I ride a couple miles on the bike.  Set up my transition.  Run a 1/2 mile.  And then figure out how to get my Tri-Tats race numbers on me.  Actually very easy and very professional looking.

The transition director is reminding us that transition is closing.  I go as fast as I can but still am 2 minutes late in leaving.  Down at the water I warm up a little and then join the group to listen to the race director.  Robin, Anna & Ariel are here!  It's great to get hugs and a picture.  The race director says there are 30 doing the full ironman distance!  The rest (220) are doing the Half.

SWIM: Go!  We jump in and many pull way out in front.  I can't see the buoys but the lead kayaker is a big help.  It seems like we keep turning to the left even though it's a straight shot to the far buoy.  I can't get a draft all the way to the first turn.  Finally I find some feet on the 2nd leg of the triangle.  Now I'm feeling better and thanking God for a good draft.  1/2 way across the 2nd leg, I feel my chip strap coming loose and stop to check it.  I loose my draft but make a huge effort and actually catch back up. Yes!  But then someone takes it from me and now I battle for other drafts.  On the last leg to the finish I'm feeling strong, thanks to the drafts, and decide to go on my own for a more direct route.  I push hard but, almost to the finish, I realize I haven't gained ground and should have stayed in the draft.  Even though the swim seemed to take forever, I feel good about it and hope I come in near my 30min goal.  I exit, the cheering is great, the ramp is carpeted. 1/2 way up I shed my wetsuit where Robin & the girls are.  I finish 19th, 32:14.

T1: I transition, grab my bike and decide against my light jacket since I feel comfortable.  I run out on the gravel in my socks, jump on an go.  2:09.

BIKE: I head out and start the climb up towards Pope Valley.  I'm breathing hard still from the swim and even slightly dizzy.  Otherwise my legs feel good and I'm optimistic.  It's overcast so no sun yet.  After 5 mi I realize that I'm slowly getting cold and should've taken my jacket.  My pace is still good, though, and I'm praying for sun.  At 10mi a guy is drafting me.  He comes alongside sometimes and then goes back.  I tell him to "pass or stay back".  He says, "I'm trying to but you're too fast" and then he proceeds to take off, easily pulling far ahead.  I see the leader coming back and take a time check at the "hub-caps house".  At the turn-around I'm really uncomfortable.  Goose bumps and muscles getting stiff from the cold.  The suns pokes out 2 times which feels good but doesn't stay.  I'm 12th place and 12min behind the leader.  I'm getting passed more now.  The road is great and scenic vineyards are all around.  I look forward to climbing back up to the lake to generate some heat.  Over the top then high speed down to the lake road, I see Robin and the girls cheering and taking pictures.  That makes me smile and motivates me.

This 1/2 of the ride is rollers along the Lake.  The hills are never that long.  It works good for me.  I'm feeling more comfortable and loosing up.  I pass the guy who earlier was drafting me.  After getting quite a ways ahead I hear his tire pop and look back as he stops to change it.  I'm really feeling the groove now in the aero-position.  I'm thanking God for making me comfortable.  I maintain a flat, thigh-pushing effort into the roller and over 1/2 way up the climb, come out of the bars to sit-up for the last bit.  Each hill goes by fast and I'm passing people.  At the 2nd turn-around I'm 9th place!  I had taken another time-check of the leader and now am 19min behind.  But ahead of my own goal of a 2:50 bike split.  I'm getting excited at the though of coming in early and push even harder.  I catch a guy in white and we go back-n-forth on the last rollers.  I try to drink as much of my Sustained Energy before coming into the park.  Wow, that was a great ride (despite being cold part of it).  I finish 8th with a 2:43 bike split (7th split).

T2: I forgot to stretch on the bike so my calves are tight.  I stretch just a second but gotta get to work.  Shoes on, grab Garmin, Hammer gels and hat.  Onto the run.  1:42

RUN: Feels good.  Watch says I'm right on schedule.  If I can run a 1:40 as planned I'll finish in 5 hr flat.  I'm so glad to see Robin and the girls in front of the camping area along the road.  High fives.  They say I'm in 7th (turns out to be 8th) and ahead of schedule which is really motivating.  I can see the guy in white up ahead.  He stays on the right side of the road (must've been a rule I missed)  I finally catch him and want to run with him since there's no one else out here except the great volunteers at the 1 mile aid stations.  I learn his name is Andrew.  He tells me the run has really tough rollers.  I feel pretty confident and may pull ahead of him. 

At 2mi my feet have finally thawed out from the bike.  Before that, it felt like my shoes were too tight or socks were bunched up.  Now they feel good.  Suddenly a tall guy goes by pretty fast.  Andrew takes off to try to stay with him.  Too fast for me but I pick it up some and hope I can out-last them.  The balls of my feet are feeling hot, especially on the uphills.  I try to make up for it on the "downs".

The green hillsides and beautiful blue lake views are really pleasant.  Temperature is perfect.  I'm running well, hamstring is holding up, but each mile Andrew pulls farther ahead and the tall guy even farther.  1/2 way to the out-n-back, the leader is coming back.  I count each runner and tell them their place.  I just want to get to the turn-around and feel like every step is getting me closer to home and being done.  This is tough work.  But God is making go better than expected.  I'm trying to give Him my best effort.  Running the tangents (but staying on the right side of the road) and using good form (running from the core).

Finally I see tall-guy and Andrew coming back.  Turn-around is at the top of a hill.  At each station I drink water or Heed and pour water on my head.  1/2 way.  It's a lot of downhill now!  I'm in 9th place.  If I maintain pace I'll break 5hrs.  It's a beautiful view coming down.  Feet feeling better.  I calculate I'll need to be at 4:37 at 10mi in order to break 5 hrs.  I focus on running each climb well and counting down the miles to the 10mi sign.  I cheer for each person running the other way.  I see some people I met beforehand and I see our friend Richard Kane.  It's tough out here by yourself but it is a beautiful run.  There's 10mi.  And I'm way ahead!  Terrific.  I also remember Andrew telling me it's all downhill with 1-1/2 to go.  I'm really looking forward to being done.  At 11mi I'm surprised to see 4:44 which means it's going to be close!  I pick it up but then with 1.1 mi to go I've got 12min left.  The markers may be off.  But I'm going to break 5!  Yay!  Thanks, God, I finish so happy to be under the goal and feel like I was relying on Christ the whole way. 

I finish 9th with a 1:37 run split (16th split) and 4:56:10 total (1st 45-49).  I'm exhausted.  I do a little jog with Andrew to cool down and then collapse on the ground with my great girls feeding me and being great support.  Thanks, God, for keeping my hamstrings working and giving me a good feeling on the bike.

But the thought of the 30 doing the Full haunts me.  I see a couple head out on the run after I've been lying down resting for an hour.  We pack up our camp go to the awards and see a couple more head out on the run.  It's 75 deg now and many people are leaving.  I feel compelled to help these runners out.. so we drive the run course and cheer for the Ironmen starting and the 1/2 Ironmen finishing.  It's great to see their smiles after encouraging them.  It's hard to imagine just starting the hardest part of the race when I feel exhausted and ready to go home.  I hope they make it.  It's nice to have a lot of cheering, but sometimes in life we have to endure on our own.  It's nice to know that with Christ we are never actually alone.

STAR Education 5K–Ariel & Anna

Date/Location:	April 5th, 2014 – Roseville, Ca
Distance:	5K
Time:	Anna 27:14 PR! Ariel 41:17, 1st 5K Ever!
Place:	Girls 0-14 Age Group: Anna 1st Ariel 6th
Other Teammates:	Dave Christensen, Leah Westphalen, Mommy

 

ARIEL

We got there and put raffle tickets in some bags to win some prizes.  Then we went over to the starting line.  We got to the starting line really early.  We stretched and then we lined up. 

The guy directing the race said “ready, set, go” and we all ran.  We were zig-zagging along a trail.  We saw a little boy who was trying to pass us.  We ran into a shady spot and when we turned, we didn’t see our friend Leah. 

Mom said “I hope there is an aid station” and then we saw the aid station.  I took some water and drank some and poured it all on my head. 

When the race was almost over, we saw Leah.  Leah told us she took a wrong turn.  When we were close to the finish line, we saw Anna cheering for us.  I crossed the finish line.  I got some water and they took of my tag that was on my shoe.  And, then I got some food. 

After that they were doing the prizes and we won a roller skating pass.  That’s all!

 

ANNA

We were confused where the starting line was but we figured out where it was.  In the beginning, there weren’t many people there except for my family and our friend Leah and her mom.  I did some stretching on a wood pole.  Then more people started coming to the starting line.

The starter said “ready, set, go”. There were still a few people still coming to the starting line.  I started running.  I felt good and had no cramps.  There were some children in front of me and some behind me.  I started running fast.  I was ahead of all the kids and I was with a few grown ups.  I kept running and there was this lady I was staying with.  But soon she went faster and ran ahead.

I was almost alone but I could still see some runners ahead of me so I could see where to go.  I was looking another way and a runner went past me and said “good job”.  I said “thank you”.  I saw a soccer game going on and I saw some people there looking at me. 

I kept running and got to the aid station. I drank some water and poured it on my head.  They were surprised I was with the grown-ups.

I kept running and lots of cars were passing me on the road but I was on the sidewalk.  I was alone but I still could see the runners ahead. There were two ladies walking a dog and I ran past them.

Up ahead I saw a runner running through some trees.  When I got there I saw a runner turn up ahead.  When I got to the turn, I realized I was really close to the finish.  I started running straight and I turned again and saw the finish.  It was right there.  I ran really fast and I finished!  It was awesome!

Then I waited for Mommy and Ariel to finish.  I saw Mommy running with Ariel right by the finish.  When they finished I was surprised that Ariel had an awesome attitude.