Racing

Sunday, June 26, 2016

California Sprint Triathlon - Anna

Date/Location:	June 26, 2016 – Shadow Cliffs Park, Pleasanton, CA
Distances:	Swim .5mi – Bike 9mi – Run 5km
Time:	1:31:01 (24:41 – 1:55 – 35:11 – 1:45 – 27:28)
Place:	6th (73rd Overall)
Friends:	Robin Soares (FCA, Sprint), Troy Soares (FCA, Int’l), Clyde Floyd (FCA, Sprint), Dan Smedley

START

As the first wave started, Women 39 and under, were still trying to figure out if we should do the first or last wave. The race director suggested we do the last wave. Daddy tells us to go now so that the time is most accurate. Mommy and I start swimming even though we are behind a little. I feel great but it’s kind of hard to swim with my shortie wetsuit on. It feels like it’s pulling on my arms but it does not hurt.

We keep swimming and we see kayaks. I watch my mom underwater so I don’t get lost from her because I love her and we are doing this together. Finally we get to the first yellow buoy. I’m so happy because I feel great. I’ve been able to swim freestyle most of the way. We turn and I feel fine and the water is warm.

Halfway to the next buoy, I think I see a small fish. I start getting scared of what is under the water because it’s hard to see. Finally we get to the buoy and I’m not scared. We turn and head for shore. I’m feeling okay. We see people fishing on the side and I don’t think they are going to catch much fish because we are scaring them all away. I also see a boat parked on the side. I start seeing seaweed on the ground and the ground again. We are almost there.

Finally we get to the finish of the swim. I start to run up the ramp, unzip my wetsuit and pull it down halfway. I keep running to my bike. I get to my bike and take my wetsuit off. I put on my shorts, shoes, race number, helmet and glasses. I take my bike and run out. Mom is right behind me.

BIKE

I get on my bike and starting going up a hill out of the park. I pass some people. We get onto the road and I stay to the right while Mom bikes behind me. People pass me. One girl passes me but I pass her back. My watch beeps for the first mile. We go a little farther and we turn right. We bike down a short road and turn left.

I see black smoke ahead and I tell my mom that I think there is a fire. As we get closer and closer to the black smoke it starts to turn white. The fire must almost be out. We keep biking and up ahead we see a lot of bikers huddled up. As we get closer and closer, the bikers start going again. We have to go the left side of the road to pass the fire truck. When I go past the truck, I smell smoke even though the fire is out. It was a car that was on fire. But, it was all burnt except for a little bit in the front. So it really was a fire! Too bad for the people ahead that had to stop!

We keep on biking and turn right. We bike and bike and bike. There is a small but steep hill. That’s where I pass some more people. Then it was a downhill. It feels great going down! We turn again, bike a little bit more and turn once more. Up ahead I can see the turn to the park/transition.

When we get into the park, we have to get off our bikes at the dismount line. We run our bikes in. I run past my bike rack on accident. I cut through some dirt to get back to my spot. I take off my helmet and glasses and put on my running hat.

RUN

We run out of transition and I hit my watch to start. We both have to go to the restroom so we quickly go. We then are off on our run!

I love running! We are side by side. We run on the dirt, then on pavement and then back on dirt in a bike park. I was about to run one of the jumps there but I realized that was not part of the course. Too bad!

We come to an aid station and my mom tells me to walk and drink. That’s the first mile.

Then we keep running and there is another aid station already! We don’t grab anything because the course loops back to this spot. We go down a hill and up a steep hill. We run out to the turn around and head right back. So we go down the steep hill and up to the aid station. Now we walk and drink.

We keep running and I see a 13 year old girl at the top of a hill. I pick it up and pass her on the downhill. That’s pretty cool!

It’s flat for a bit and then we come to a hill. My mom says this is the last hill and I charge it. There is a downhill on the other side. My mom says “don’t wait for me, go for it!”. So, I fly down the downhill. We are close to the finish my mom says. I keep running and I feel like I need to go faster to stay ahead of my mom. I go on a small and twisting path. I almost didn’t see the left turn to the finish. I turn and rush into the finish and pass someone on the way.

I cross the finish line ahead of my mom. I feel happy! Thank You God!

My time is 1:31:01.

California International Triathlon–Troy

Date/Location:	June 26, 2016 – Shadow Cliffs Park, Pleasanton, CA
Distances:	Swim 1.5km – Bike 40km – Run 10km
Time:	2:17:36 (26:56 – 1:31 – 1:05:28 – 1:09 – - 42:32)
Place:	7th (31st Overall)
Friends:	Robin Soares (FCA, Sprint), Anna Soares (FCA, Sprint), Clyde Floyd (FCA, Sprint), Dan Smedley

We wake up about 3am to drive down to Pleasanton. The last time I did this race, I was recovering from broken ribs. It was a great experience even though I had to go slower. However, my bike was actually very good. Today, I’m healthy, but I’ve been working long hours and not able to train much. Like last time, I’ll do the best I can.

We arrive and get transition spots together. It’s a full house! An hour early is not going to be enough. Anna is doing her first Sprint Triathlon! We’re so excited, and concerned, for her. Robin is doing the Sprint also but will hang back with Anna to keep her safe. We head to the beach for the FCA Pre-Race prayer which Nick Tuttle announces.

There’s 8 of us praying. It’s so great to meet other Christians before the race. And too realize there are others concerns besides my own. The race is starting and the plan was for Anna & Robin to go last. But Anna’s wave is first. Not wanting to cause confusion, I send them off now trailing the first group. Anna has a smile and starts calmly. Hoping it goes well.

Swim
I have the clear goggles again. Didn’t pack the dark ones. I did learn from the last race and apply slick spray to my wetsuit. I start about 4 rows back. Go! It feels hard but I do my best to stay smooth and efficient. Sighting is really hard with these goggles. I don’t even try to draft, all my focus is just trying to swim. Around the buoy, now I can see better. The water is very warm which is what Anna wanted with her spring suit. But I have to let cool water into my suit sometimes to keep from overheating.

This swim feels so long. It’s a good course, though. Finally around the 2nd buoy I can hammer home.. but my hammer doesn’t seem any faster. There is a girl alongside me that I’m trying to pull in front off. She really pushes me. The bottom starts coming into view and I prepare for the exit. Up, run, goggles, cap, wetsuit off… oops, Garmin is in the way. Back on, Garmin off, wetsuit off. It comes off great with the spray slick! 26:56, about 3 minutes off but to be expected.

Bike
Grab my bike and go! But I see I don’t have any shoes in the pedals. I run back to transition, get my shoes from my bag and head back out. Rookie mistake. Heading out I see the Chavez family, here supporting today. Onto the course I’m excited. There is a long gradual climb which went so well last time I’m looking forward to it. I wonder where Anna & Robin are. When I see a smaller rider way ahead I wonder if it’s them. My form feels better on the bike. Focusing on pressure on the seat and lifting my knees forward. I feel like I’m flying. It’s fun.

We go on some new streets, but we eventually get to the road up the canyon. Cool! I keep the same position and it feels great for the gradual climb. I’m passing a lot of people. I wonder if I’ll go faster than last time. Around the turn at the top and now descending, my favorite. However I’m not really feeling the groove on pushing the descent.

Onto the big boulevard, we have a whole lane to ourselves. It’s a cool course, both urban and rural. Good roads. Onto the sprint course now, which I used to do a lot when I was starting in ‘92. Great memories. On a climb along the back of the park, there are 5 challenged athletes struggling to get up it. Some are grunting and all are working like crazy. Awesome. So impressed. A guy in my age group passes me. Maybe he’s 1st? I pick it up, catch him on a corner and push all the way to the park. He pulls ahead again. Tall. Could be a good runner.

Swooping into the park, I have a good dismount into running. But my shoe unclips. Someone says they’ll get it so I keep running to my transition. All the way to the end.. when it starts to look unfamiliar… someone yells, “You’re over here!” It’s Anna! She’s already done and taking her bike out of transition. “Dad, what are you doing? You’re over here, come through here.” This is such a great moment. I was hoping she would get through the race ok and seeing her done is a great joy. Thank you, Lord, for making it great. And then to have her help me in my race, when I’m supposed to be helping her, is funny! 1:05:28, a little faster than the last time.

Run
I head out on the run and see Carrie Chavez and think of how I’m trying to run like her husband, Steve. He’s so fast and always smiling. Quick steps, powerful, and having fun. That’s what I’m trying. I have doubts like, “How long can I keep this up with minimal sleep and training?” But I know I have to give God my best and adjust when needed, always staying positive. I get some calf pain, but I don’t let it concern me. Just see if it goes away. The tall guy that passed me is no where to be seen so I must be ahead. But a younger guy passes me and I make a goal to stay with him.

Onto the flat bike path my calf feels better. I try to just “fall foward”, getting more speed with same effort. We run right through a pump-track with bike waiting for us to cross before they careen into the jumps. Onto the trails along the levy and creek I think about how much Anna probably like this after running trails in Auburn. I drink as much water as I can at every aid station. It’s nice and cold. On the descents I try to open up. Down across the river I pass the young guy and then shorten my steps for the climb. Back n forth, I finally pass him for good the next time we drop down across the creek. Along the levy I see our FCA tent in the distance and think I hear Robin & Anna cheering so I wave. I’m pushing well but it’s hard to think of doing this loop again.

I come through the finish area to start lap #2. The announcer cheers me through. I see Carrie Chavez again and say, “Do I look like Steve yet?” She says, “Yes, you do!” That’s motivation. Ok, I can do this lap again. On the 2nd lap I do everything the same. Falling forward. Pump track. Push the descents. The tiredness really sinks in with 1/2 mi to go. But the finish line is there and it’s great to be done! 42:32, about a minute slower than Folsom Tri but better than expected. Thank you, Lord, for a super fun, exciting race. Even though I came into it unprepared and slower, you make it so much fun, protecting me as I push myself beyond the comfort zone.

Sunday, June 5, 2016

San Diego Rock n’Roll Marathon–Robin 2016

Date/Location:	June 5, 2016 – San Diego, CA
Distances:	Run 26.2
Time:	3:41:05
Place:	12/408
Teammates:	FCA TEAMMATES Sierra Snyder

Doing the SD Rock n' Roll Marathon for the second time. My very 1st marathon was this one in 2002...just before Troy and I got married. I'm here on my own this time. My parents live in SD so they are my support crew. My mom drops me off early at a strategic spot...near a secret set of porta potties. The secret to every great race is finding a secret pit stop. I call Troy and the girls and pray with them. Troy is racing the USA Production tri in Folsom and the girls are volunteering. I meet up with FCA teammate, Sierra Snyder, at the start for prayer. So awesome to find a familiar face and sister in Christ. My goal today is to run 3:30. That time in the past had been doable but not sure if I'm quite trained up for that. Gonna try. My hamstrings were cramping on my last long run so not sure how they will do. My Garmin tends to register the miles earlier than the actual mile markers so I'm adjusting the pace accordingly. Instead of putting the virtual runner pace at 8:00 (3:30 marathon pace), I set it for 7:56. I get into my corral, #3. I see the 3:30 marathon pacer in Corral #1 and the 1:45 pacer for the half marathon in Corral #3. Well, that is a dilemma. I decide to go onto Corral #2 as a compromise. Corral #1 starts and they hold #2 for 30 sec. Okay, here we go! I feel great as usual starting out and make myself slow down. Mile 1 is 7:49. Slow down! The great Olympian Meb goes by with a "Meb" pace stick in hand. Huh? He's pacing a group? Wow, that's nice of him to pace folks! And he has the Olympics coming up soon. He flies by looking like he's jogging. Mile 2 is 7:56. Perfect! Mile 3 is 8:01. There is a bit if a hill here. On pace. Mile 4 is 7:54. Feeling strong! A long way to go yet! There is an "Elvis" running just behind me. It's cool because of all the constant cheers for him and because he responds with a "thank you baby" or "thank you man" in the voice. Mile 5 is 7:53. Up ahead I see small a-frames of pictures lining the street. As I get closer, I can see that they are pictures of military men and women killed in the line of duty. It lists their name and age they passed. It's so overwhelming that I start to cry. A little further down the street are people holding large American flags. I am sad, appreciative of the sacrifice and inspired to keep pressing on. A few guys go by with a M70 Champs bib on their backs. Whoa! These guys are in their 70s and running past me like I'm standing still. This must be a half marathon champs race versus my full Marathon...yet, still extremely impressive no matter their distance. I hope my racing career continues for that age!

Mile 6 is 7:47. The 1:45 half marathon group catches up to me. Hum, I think I'm still on pace but better stick with them now. Mile 7 is 7:49. Great to have this pace group! Thanks God! Keeps me focused. I see a sign that says "If Trump Cam Run, So Can You". Ha, good one! Mile 8 is 7:32. Downhill...weee! The pace group pulls off and I'm alone again. I still have Elvis! There are runners going all directions now. I see half and full marathoners coming the opposite direction and am confused. I just separated from the half folks. I figure out that I'm running back the way I came and these folks are heading out to where I came from. Mile 9 is 7:56. Here comes a hill! Mile 10 is 8:09. Still feeling alright. Mile 11 is 7:54. I'm feeling strong and hoping that I'll actually be a bit a ahead of pace at the half marathon point. Mile 12 is 7:58. So far I've finished a pack of Clif Bloks and a gel. I have 3 more gels to go. Mile 13 is 7:53. I cross the half marathon point at 1:45. My average pace appears to be 7:53 so I set my virtual partner to that pace and hope I can hold on! Mile 14 is 7:43. Elvis passes me and I try to stay near. I can already see the top guys heading back. Wow! Mile 15 is 7:56. Approaching Sea World. Still feeling like I can hold the pace but I'm definitely feeling more fatigued. Mile 16 is 8:01. Getting harder. We run through a row of screaming cheerleaders. They are handing out leis and I think of grabbing one for the girls but I'm not willing to carry it. A gal runs by in a wonder woman dress and tells me she likes my jersey. Mile 17 is 7:55. I see Sierras' hubby, John, and their kiddos cheering. So great to finally see a familiar face!! I see them a second time as we loop back. So helpful! Thanks God!! Mile 18 is 8:04. It's really getting tough now. I take my 3rd gel. I'm surprised I've eaten so much...already more than I ever have in a straight marathon!

Mile 19 is 8:08. Oh boy! Want to be done! Slowly starting to fall off pace. Mile 20 is 8:20. Just trying to minimize the damage. My heart rate is now hovering around 170. I know from many past races that that's the danger zone for bonking. I'm fueling well this time so that hopefully won't happen. Mile 21 is 8:23. Okay, I’m still loosing ground. Still hoping to finish close. Pretty soon I’m heading onto Hwy 163. I hear there is a hill around here. Oh my! That is a steep hill up ahead! A much older gal passes me and I try to stay with her but she surges. I pass a bus that is for athletes to take a break if they overheat. Sounds nice but I want to get this over with! I hit the hill. Oh boy, I’m hurting! I don’t know how long this is.. I cannot see the end! I look at my watch. 3:30 is clearly out but maybe I can do under 3:35? Mile 22 is 8:58. Almost to the top I can see now. I really dislike this freeway! It was kind of cool at first but now I just want to see real streets again! Yeah, the hill is over but the damage is done. I’m just trying to survive. I am now realistically looking at 3:38 to 3:40 now. My heartrate is above 170 and I know and feel that I’m giving a good effort. Mile 23 is 9:06. 3 more miles, 3 more miles! Mile 24 is 10:21…and this is with a downhill. Lord, help my attitude! Help me not be so frustrated. Mile 25 is 9:19. One more mile! I can do this! Finally we take an offramp! I’m headed straight down to the water and downtown. Yes! I will finish, I will get that jacket…all because you are sustaining me Jesus! Mile 26 is 9:07. I see my Mom and Dad as I come towards the finish. I cross the line with such relief and in such pain. Thank you Lord for helping me get it done!

Folsom Triathlon (Troy)

Date/Location:	June 12, 2016 – Folsom, CA
Distances:	Swim 1.5km – Bike 40km – Run 10km
Time:	2:17:50 (24:58 – 2:01 – 1:08:24 – 0:52 – 41:34)
Place:	1st (20th Overall)
Friends:	Flor Hodges (FCA), Elise Winter, Dave Campbell, Trudi Hughes

After doing the difficult Olympic distance Auburn Triathlon, I’m looking forward to a flatter, faster Folsom Triathlon. But more than that, I’m preoccupied with thinking about Robin’s Rock-n-Roll Marathon which she will be starting about the same time! After the girls and I jump in the car at 5am we get to talk with Robin on the phone as she is being dropped off at her start by her parents. We get to pray for her race. I wish I was there to support her. But she has the Lord and hopefully I can help some athletes at my triathlon this morning remember that they, too, have the Lord with them. Racing under FCA Endurance has been so rewarding, being encouraged and being able to encourage others through Christ.

Our girls are so helpful in moving FCA gear when we arrive. Also, they are volunteering at the athlete’s food tent today. Very proud of them. I set up my transition, get a little run in and we make our way to the start for the FCA pre-race prayer. Race announcer Nick Tuttle lets everybody know. About 8 of us join together in prayer. Some have concerns about the swim. Some just want to give God their appreciation and their race before the huge effort before them. I want to be focused on Him throughout the race because I realize the risks of injury, frustration or self-centeredness and I want to be on guard against them. A few people pray, including my daughter Anna. There’s so much to do before a triathlon, but this always feels the most beneficial.

TeamMate, Flor Hodges, is here and will be exciting to watch. Her husband, coach, and my good friend, Rob Hodges, is here volunteering. He tells me there’s a pastor here doing his first triathlon and that he knows Pastor Lincoln Murdoch. I’m hoping to meet him and also think about how much I’ve learned from Lincoln. He is an exciting pastor and triathlete from Omaha, Nebraska. If you ever get a chance to hear him, you’ll never forget it! Here’s a recent interview he did.

Swim
I jump in without much warm-up. The water is cold in Lake Natomas. The sun is directly at us for the 1st 500 yds. By mistake, I have clear goggles. It’s so bright it hurts to look. But, as long as there is sun shining at me, I should be going the right direction. I start a few rows back this time which is more my speed. Go!

As we go, I notice an underwater cable stretched the length of the course for the rowing races they have here. That’s great! But does it go the same direction as the course.. as the sun? I’m hesitant to rely on it even though it sure is comfortable to just swim with my head down. I imagine swimming right past the turn bouy. But I do see the buoy and boy is it great to swim a different direction. The water is clear and brisk.. actually very cold in spots. It’s a great day for a race!
Coming back I find a guy slightly faster to draft behind. Even though he swims off course a few times I set myself to go wherever he goes. (Later I see my Garmin path shows the zig-zags of this section).

The last stretch I try to push my arms and kick more. Don’t know what my pace is but I know in a race every second can count. I never want to see that I missed a place by a seond or 2. 24:58. (I’m in 4th place, 4 secs behind 3rd. And a few more secs behind Elise Winter. A minute behind Sena.)

Bike
My swim was good. But my transition isn’t. I get hung up on my wetsuit. Need to start using the spray slick again so I don’t give up time. Despite the hang-up, I actually get out before the guy ahead of me (and am in 3rd). Being on the bike always feels good when you start. Over the highway, down Folsom Blvd, and up into the more rural roads.

I’m pushing hard, breathing hard, drinking a lot, trying to be smart and give my best effort to the Lord. I encourage others.

After 8 miles I see a familiar bike.. it’s Sena Minshew on her green machine. She’s always smiling. Then I see a familiar kit. it’s Elise Winter from the Freeplay team. She’s a good rider so I’m glad to have caught her. We encourage each other as I go by.

There’s not much wind. About 13 miles I pass a guy in my age group (and move into 2nd). We’re on an out-n-back which is great to see other racers. I see Flor coming back and cheer for her. I turn and then see Elise behind me. We go onto the canal bike trail. A guy in a different age passes me. I try to pick it up to keep him in sight. I’m staying with him and really working hard. We go through the tunnel with the bump and then onto familiar American River Bike Trail. I pass a rider while coming into the park. At that moment I think, “This might be a no-passing zone..” Next thing I realize I’m going the wrong way and have to turn-around. As the guy I passed moves back ahead I have a feeling that’s the way it’s supposed to be. (Later found out it was a no passing zone). I come in with a good dismount into running and rack my bike quickly.

Run

Heading out, our friend, Dave Campbell, who has finished his Aquathlon race, yells to me to try to match his time of 40 min on the run. It’s great to get a challenge like that. Even though I don’t think I can beat him, I’m going to try my best now to get close to 40min! Rob Hodges is working the run course and cheers me on.

My achilles is feeling good.

Thank you, Lord! My legs are stiff but should loosen up soon. I try to run really smart, anticipating the turns and inclines of the trail. The wooden bridge.. can’t wait to get back to it. It’s warming up. I drink water at each aid station. I eat 2 Hammer Gels along the way. I pass a guy in my age group at about 2 miles (and move into 1st).

I start seeing the Every Man Jack racers already coming back. Wow, they are so fast! I don’t know what place I’m in and just figure with those guys I probably won’t place at all but that it doesn’t matter because I feel like I’ve really raced well today for the Lord and am just excited about performing well.

Finally, the turn-around. I’m tired but know it’s slightly down hill and I’ve got to keep the speed up.

My pace is good, hopefully will be under 42 min. I cheer for Elise again. With a couple miles to go I think about our track workout where we practiced Surging and Settling. I better try it out. At the wooden bridge, despite being pooped, I surge all the way across and then settle back into pace. It hurt but felt rewarding. I chase down another guy before the main finish area and finish very happy with my race. Thank you, Lord. Run was 41:34. Was surprised to finish 1st in my age.

Anna and Ariel did so well in the food tent, kindly preparing plates of post-race nourishment for the athletes. Ryan Coehlo puts on a great race, and creates a great atmosphere. You can tell it is a passon of his. Announcer Rick Tuttle is awesome and seems to know everyone. I loved talking with some athletes at the FCA Endurance tent.

So many people are trying out the challenge of triathlon. Some have to borrow bikes. It doesn’t matter what gear you have or how much you know. It seems to be a race against oneself in many instances. It’s great to see people challenging themselves. I think it’s the biggest challenge we face. I know I couldn’t do it without the Lord Jesus in my life.

Name	Place	Time
Flor Hodges	1st	2:18:33
Troy Soares	1st	2:17:50
Elise Winter	1st	2:26:38
Jesse Moore	1st	2:02:18
Trudi Hughes (sprint)	5th	1:58:05
Dave Campbell (Aquathon)	1st	1:05:30

Sunday, May 15, 2016

Auburn International Triathlon (Troy)

Date/Location:	May 15, 2016 – Auburn, CA
Distances:	Swim 1.5km – Bike 40km – Run 6.2km
Time:	2:34:54 (25:21 – 2:19 – 1:21:00 – 1:10 – 45:04)
Place:	1st (4th Overall)
Teammates:	FCA TEAMMATES: Robin Soares (Half), Dave Fraser (Mini), Mike Bradley (Mini), Flor Hodges (Int’l), Mike Pirnat (Int’l), Trixie Bradley (AquaBike), Troy Outman (AquaBike) More: Dave Campbell (Int’l), Elise Winter (int’l), Farah Avasarala (int’l), Jim Silk (Int’l), Richard Kane (Half), Keith Hansen (Half), Andrea Ivan (Half)

Love having a great local triathlon tradition. Don’t like being undertrained. But that’s not a big deal, just do the best I can for the Lord.. that is the goal.

Really cool having Mike, Trixie & Dave to ride to the start with! It’s light out at 5:45 when we start down the hill. Great to see so much water at Rattlesnake Bar swim start! Of Course the first people I see are Francie Campbell, her daughter and grand-daughter, and Sarah Outman, all volunteering. I complete body marking, transition set-up, warm-up run with my favorite triathlete, Robin, and a pre-race prayer with FCA Endurance TeamMates, Robin, Dave Fraser, Mike & Trixie Bradley, Flor Hodges, Mike Pirnat, and Troy Outman.

Robin is doing the World’s Toughest Half. Her start is 5min before mine so we get to swim out to the start together which is cool. Water temp perfect. Swim course director (Boost Swim?) is on a paddle board and very good at explaining the course. Robin takes off and I pray she has a good race on such a difficult course.

I’m floating near some friends, Dave Campbell and Jim Silk who also make the race competitive, even being 10 yrs older than I! They are impressive athletes.

Swim
Go! I hope to be with the pack for a while like at HITS. But instead I’m quickly getting left behind. Everything seems to be working right, but I just must be going slower. I’ll just do the best I can and keep hoping I’ll move up. To the first buoy is beautiful. Easy to sight, cool clean water, and a slight downstream current. But around the turn it’s directly into the sun. Can’t see the buoy so try to follow others. Eventually I have to stop for a moment to get a bearing. Don’t like loosing time. Soon I’m feeling confident again that I know where I’m going. Some 1/2 Ironman athletes are passing me. I wonder if I’ll meet up with Robin, the timing is about right. [Later I find out she was about 100 yds behind me].

After the 2nd turn, it’s a clear shot to the finish boat ramp. I push hard. Thinking about the steep bike ride ahead.. but first gotta finisht the swim well. As the bottom of the boat ramp comes into view below the water, I prepare for a smooth exit. Up, goggles off, sleeve off, pull Garmin off, other sleeve off, then run to transition.

Coming into T1 I go right by my rack and stare at the unfamiliar bikes. Troy Outman is nearby at the same time and yells to me where my bike is. Thanks, Troy! Ok, warm day, no socks or jacket, just helmet, glasses, pack my bag and go!

Bike
I recently changed my seat position. It’s working better for these steep hills. I feel like I’m going pretty fast. I focus on being efficient and fast without over working. I see Rob Hodges on Newcastle Rd. Then Greg Winter on Shirland Tract. Huffing and puffing up the switch-backs I’m glad to see Dave Campbell. He’s a faster swimmer and runner than me so I have to get ahead on the bike. Along Auburn-Folsom Rd, the only flat part of the whole course, I’m thrilled to see my girls with our good friends, the Nickels (Jeremy, Karen, Ellie & Ben). They cheer loudly and my speed picks up. Through the finish area and then into the twisty neighborhood roads that we know so well.

One thing is very evident, there are a LOT of volunteers patrolling every turn and cheering enthusiastically. Police at all the intersections. I try to thank them all. They make me feel special by looking out for me so well. Up past the sweet smells of Ikeda’s and then onto the Hwy 80 frontage roads.

At the first aid station on Bowman Rd I always look forward to see my friend from High School, Doug Olson, he’s always on the ball, cheerly loudly. He also has a wonderful family. This time he tells me that he thinks my wife is ahead of me! Wow, can that be? I start going even harder. I sure want to see her before she continues on toward Colfax and I turn-around on the shorter course.

I see guys coming back and start counting. I’m 7th at the turn. No sign of Robin. Hopefully behind me. Coming back I catch one guy. Then I’m so glad to see Robin, Troy Outman, and Trixie Bradley about 2min apart. I pass another guy (Philip Clark). But he comes back time and again. I go by fast on a downhill and then as soon as it pitches back up, he’s right there. Is he drafting me? Coming into town I go by real fast onto Borland Dr. and then look back to check. Nope, he’s not drafing. He’s just really strong on the flats and goes by as soon as we start climbing.

Through the twisting neighborhoods. Great volunteers calling out the corners. I can’t catch him and roll into T2 in 6th. 4th place (Jesse S.) is 1-1/2 min ahead. Good dismount. Painful barefoot running in the Overlook Park lot. Shoes, hat and gels and I’m off running on stiff legs.

Run
Looks like I passed Philip in transition as I’m now in 5th. It’s a beautiful run behind the Overlook Park (very green) and down across the Dam Overlook to the turn-around. I see the 4 leaders coming back. Philip is only 10 secs behind me. I push all the way back up the road. And even more up to the Maidu Aid Station where our church will be helping later. I’m pushing hard, all the way to the top onto the canal trail. But then my hamstring starts to pull. I ease off a little and keep rolling. Everything else has been great. The right achilles hasn’t given me any trouble. And the hamstring only came on after really pushing.

I’m very conscience of the roots and rocks and am telling others, too. I’ve fallen about 3 or 4 times out here. Once in this race last year. Coming through the finish area is great. The crowd and the announcer are enthusiastic. I get more water and head back into the beautiful trails. I’m tired but know it’s a shorter loop this time. Piece of cake.

Looking up to the FCA Endurance tent at the Maidu Aid Station, I’m thankful for the day the Lord has given me. I’ve been able to push, I’m not injured, and He makes something hard actually fun. This is the last time up this hill. I still have to push because I never know what might be around the next corner. Maybe the 1st place guy in my age.

Gasping, I descend onto the Canal Trail for the final mile. Up ahead are 2 guys and 1 looks like he’s in my race. Do I have enough course left to catch him? And if I come up on him, will he surge ahead? Be calm, steady as she goes. I know they’re tired just like me and I start thinking of their safety. Feeling a little push from the Lord, I yell to them, “Watch out for the rocks and roots!”

Surprisingly, when they hear me, they start to concede and move over some to give me room. “No, you’re ok” I say. But the more I try to help them, the more they make it easier for me. I pass and thank them. Still surprised that it didn’t turn into a painful sprint for a 1/2 mile! However, the pace is still high and it really hurts getting up that final steep wall before the street. But then I turn into the park and the finish is close. I have a good sprint and finish very happy! I’m 4th overall. Turns out to be 1st in my age.

I congratulate some of the guys behind me and then get to witness Dave Campbell (59) out-sprint a young guy, Jeremy Pond (17). That’s quite an age difference and made for some great photos.

After praying and thanking the Lord, I head to the FCA Endurance aid station on Maidu Dr. On the way there I see a girl in the International race running the wrong way. I get her back on track. And then I see a young couple running together finishing the Sprint for their 1st tri. We met them yesterday and got them a couple helmets as they didn’t own any. I’m so glad to see them making it. The rest of the day was really enjoyable with Anna and Ariel and our church helping at the aid station, especially helping Robin as she ran through on her way to 5th overall for the women!

Thanks, God, for a great day!

Auburn Tri Long Course–Robin-2016

Date/Location:	May 15, 2016 – Auburn, CA
Distances:	Swim 1.2M – Bike 56M – Run 13.1
Time:	5:59:10 (32:25 – 2:19? - 3:25:11 – 1:47 - 1:57:30)
Place:	2nd/7 (5th Overall)
Teammates:	Mini: FCA TEAMMATES Dave Fraser, Mike Bradley International: Dave Campbell, Elise Winter, Farah Avasarala;FCA TEAMMATES – Flor Hodges, Mike Pirnat, Troy Soares Toughest Half: Richard Kane, Jesse Moore, Toughest Half AquaBike: Trixie Bradley, Troy Outman

We are up bright and early and soon biking down to T1. Teammates Dave Fraser, Mike & Trixie Bradley are with us. It’s so awesome to roll out of my own bed and bike down to a race start!

This year I make sure the first thing I do is get body marked. Last year I totally forgot!! Troy and I do a warm-up run. We gather all of our FCA teammates for prayer time. It’s so awesome to share this common bond of racing for Christ!

Down to the swim start we go and are just thanking the Lord for WATER! Last year we had to hike out way past the boat dock. Now we can get in right next to it!

THE SWIM

I pray with Troy and then swim out to the start. It’s great to get in a nice warmup on the way! I meet up with Trixie. After moving to the left of the group and getting some instructions, we are off! It’s a crowded start but soon I’m taking off with 2 other girls. There probably is another gal out there somewhere in front but all I see are these girls. We swim along the shoreline as told and head out to the first buoy. I’m amazed that I’m still with these gals and that they are swimming straight…a rare occurance! With the men’s wave still far ahead, I can basically put my head down and go! I’m feeling great and strong!

At the second turn buoy, I’m still swimming well and right with those girls. As I make the turn and the sun is in my eyes, I loose sight of the girls. To complicate things, there are a lot of guys here and Int. swimmers coming up as well [later I realize Troy was now ahead of me]. I finally find the girls but they are off to my far right. The next turn buoy is an orange pyramind. I look up and see a triangle and go for it. I then look for those girls and they are heading further right. Maybe I have something wrong. I lift my head high out of the water and look right. Oh yeah, there’s another pyramid to the right…oops! I head right and chase them down.

By the last turn buoy, I’m all caught up! Now it’s just a push to the finish! I’m still feeling great and strong. A quick glance at the watch tells me I’m close to swimming under 32 minutes! I close the gap on the 2nd girl and chase the first girl to the boat ramp. I hit my watch and I’m just a tad over 32. Yeah!

T1
I partially pull off my wetsuit and run up to my bike passing the 1st girl. As I run in, I see Troy Outman heading out. I get to my bike and throw on my jacket. It’s not cold but also not comfortable. After HITS, I’d rather be warm! As I exit, Francie Campbell is there cheering me on. She tells me that Troy is ahead of me and to go get him.

THE BIKE
This course is not the called the “World’s Toughest” for no reason. The first 7 miles are virtually uphill! My shoes are on the bike and I’m actually able to slide my feet in. The last few times I was wearing socks and I couldn’t feel my way into my shoes. Note to self, bare feet are better!

A few miles up the road I see Troy O. He’s having trouble with his chain dropping already. I pray for the problem to resolve. A girl from the Oakland Tri Team passes me and I am able to pass her back. I pass another girl with a Braveheart Tri Club Jersery with a sword on the back. That’s a cool jersey!

I make it to Shirland Track and hit the steep hill. Always a toughie but I make it. Once at the top, I enjoy the down. The goal is to push the flats and downhills today so I’m looking forward to these parts of the course. I see Troy O ahead of me and suddenly a squirrel comes out of nowhere and heads right for him and another guy passing. At the last second the squirrel turns around and heads back. Oh, thank you Jesus! That was close!

A girl in pink goes by FAST! She’s clearly a bike specialist. I know I cannot match her on the bike but maybe on the run?

Mile 6. The first set of climbing is done! I turn on Auburn Folsom Road and look for the girls. They might be waiting with Karen and her kiddos. The girls got to sleep over there last night. Sure enough, there they are! I start waving so they know I’m coming. Anna’s holding a sign that says “I can do all things through Christ”. I wave and smile. What a great boost!

I pass T2 and sort of wish I could stop here like the Mini folks! I see Elise Winter’s husband, Greg, and their kids. “Hello Team Winter!”

Mile 10. Crossing over Foresthill Road. So impressed already by the volunteers, CHP and Auburn PD. Things are running so smoothly. I feel safe and encouraged!

I already see the top International guy coming back! Wow, might see Troy soon! As I climb up past Lake Arthur I see him! He’s flying and smiling! He’s got to be top 4 or 5! Nice! And, just a bit after him comes Dave Campbell. He looks strong and is definitely top 10!

Mile 15. I see our friend Sam at the International turn around. He’s so ethusiastic, love it! I wish I could turn here! Just keep climbing!

Mile 20. Geisendorfer Road! This is one of shortest but steepest climbs on this course! I am so relieved to get that over with. Now for my favorite part of the course, Canyon Way! This is where I can get in my aerobars and try to hammer.

As the road turns into a climb, I see my old college running teammate, Jesse Moore, coming back already on his bike! He’s about 10 miles ahead of me by this point! Blows my mind! I still need to climb up to Colfax and bike in and out of the Bear River Campground!

Mile 25. Down to the Bear River Campground I go! I’m a bit too cautious but do get some good momentum at the bottom that is until I see a dog off leash. It seems ready to chase me and takes a few trots towards me. I tell him no as I slow around the turn and he backs off. Dear Lord, please protect others from this dog. May there be no accidents! I try to get my speed up before I start the climb out.

I climb well out of the campground. There is a lot more downhill ahead now but still plenty of ups!

Mile 40. Boy, Canyon Way is tougher on the way back than I remember! That Oakland girl from the beginning of the race passes me. I’m unable to match her pace but I’m not giving up hope!

One last major obstacle ahead, the out and back on Lake Arthur. The turn for this part of the course is WELL marked and well supported…which is good for those who might not know this part of the course well. A guy goes by smiling and says, “you must be the leader since you’re wearing the yellow jersey”. It takes me a moment to get it and then I laugh and say thanks.

Part way up the road, another girl passes me. At the same time, that girl in pink flies down the road. Wow, she’s still looking strong! And she’s followed by another girl in black. Never saw her. She must’ve had an amazing swim.

Further up the road I surge and pass the girl back. I make the turn and hammer down. I see another girl, blond, coming up the hill fast! At the same time, the other girl passes me back! I dig deep and try to keep her close. Shortly after the blond gal passes. Don’t get discouraged! Keep fighting! This bike is almost done!

Mile 50. So close now! Those 2 girls are out of sight but I’m still focusing on pushing the downs and flats hard. I’m happy with my last miles and start switching focus to the run.

T2
I dismount while keeping my shoes attached to my pedals successfully. I’ve got some work ahead of me. I likely have 4 women to chase down unless some of them are Aquabikers. I hear Stephanie Artis cheering. My legs feel like jello! I don’t feel I pushed the bike too hard yet my legs say different.

THE RUN
Again, proving to be the “World’s Toughest”, the course goes right onto the Western States Trail. I was thinking no problem but with my wobbly legs, this is going to be hard to navigate! After a half mile, I hear footsteps behind me. I look back to see if I need to pull over and before I know it, I trip and fall. I go down on my right side. The guy behind me asks if I’m alright as he goes by and I say yes. I quickly assess the damage…torn up knee and a sore hip…likely a cut there as well. I keep going and try to stay focused on my footing.

Mile 1 is 8:34. I was hoping to average 8:15 for the first 5 miles but I don’t see myself being able to do that. I’m getting negative. Lord, please help me stay joyful.

Mile 2 is 8:55. Ugh! My fear of falling on this sometimes rocky trail is not helping. I wonder where the girls are. I know once I near the Murphy’s Gate turn, I’ll get to see. I’m really looking forward to the FCA Endurance aid station there. Seeing familiar faces will be a boost.

The course is wider here, mostly smooth and level. Should be able to pick up the pace but it’s hard. The girl in pink is coming back and she looks strong! Wow, I was wrong! She’s a runner too! Not far behind her is the girl in black also looking good.

Mile 3 is 8:36. I see the Oakland girl heading back and nobody else! Okay, two of those gals that passed me were AquaBikers.

Almost to the aid station. I see a poster “Don’t think of them as hills but as mounds of opportunity”. Ha, good one! “Go Robin!” It’s our Auburn FCA Endurance leader, Kris Kennedy, cheeing for me using a cone as a bullhorn. There is lots of cheering, lots of cow bells and lots of smiles. I’m wonderfully overwhelmed by my teammates and track buddies. It’s a great boost!

Heading back I see a girl coming behind me and she looks strong. I remember her, the Braveheart girl. Got to try to hold her off!

Mile 4 is 8:21. Wow, running great. I hope this boost lasts!

Mile 5 is 8:53. Off the wide main trail and back on a narrow, rocky trail. Many climbs ahead and I hope it’s an opportunity to catch the Oakland girl!

The Dam Road! That’s it’s name for real! Okay, here we go, time to climb! I pass the guy from the bike that commented on my yellow jersey. He’s still smiling and he encourages me as I go by. I tell him good job too.

I see the Oakland girl ahead! Wow, maybe I can catch her!

Mile 6 is 10:01. Ugh! Once at the top it’s down to the green gate. I see the Oakland girl in the distance.

Mile 7 is 10:03. Yeah, an aid station! I take my gel. I’m almost to the gate and the Oakland gal is coming back. She’s looking better but I still have a chance. She tells me good job and smiles. I do the same. So nice of her!

As I turn at the gate and head back there is the Braveheart girl coming fast. She looks pretty young. Hopefully she’s not in my age group…still, need to fight to stay ahead no matter what!

Mile 8 is 8:35. Nice to see a sub-9min split!

Time to go up again…but this time to Troy’s aid station. I’m hurting good now!

I see Ellie Nickel and the girls up ahead. I can tell they are having fun! Got to smile even though this is tough. I give Ellie a high five. Ariel runs alongside me all the way up to the booth…I’m impressed but too tired to tell her.

Troy comes alongside me too and I tell him I feel terrible. “You’ve got a girl right in front of you. Go after her.” I want to say no way out of frustration but I say “okay”…because deep down I know he’s right that there always is a chance. Anna hands me a cup of Coke and my buddy Karen hands me water. I see lots of familiar faces from church. I tell them thanks.

Right as I turn the corner and head up to the canal, the Braveheart girl passes…and she has a 40 on her calf. Oh dear, she’s in my age group. I have Troy in my head and I try to pick up the pace but I feel maxed out. Just keep trying!

Mile 9 is 9:52. Come on legs!! I’m alone now with no one in sight. I see a track friend, Ann, as I head back towards T2. She cheers enthusiastically for me…much appreciated!

Mile 10 is 9:35. Past T2 and the finishline I go. Just one more short loop and I’m done. I’ll get to see Troy and the gang one more time. I hear folks cheering for me.

Mile 11 is 9:08. Not bad! I’ll take it! I just want to finish this thing! One last climb to the aid station and it’s pretty flat after that!

I make it back to the Aid station. I try to give most of the crew high fives and smile. Troy and the girls are smiling too. He and I know that it’s been a tough run.

Mile 12 is 9:45. Ugh! Almost done! I pass Ann again and she encourages me to keep fighting. I make it back to T2 and know the finish is near! I see the finish and try to “push” through. I cross the line looking up to the Lord and thanking Him for getting me through. Yes, indeed the “World’s Toughest” is done!

Note: during the race, our friend, Dave Holloway, was flying above and took this picture:

Sunday, May 8, 2016

TBF Happy Kids Duathlon #5 (Anna)

Date/Location:	5/8/16, Granite Bay
Distance:	1mi R – 3miB – 1mi R
Time:	28:20 ( 7:49 – 12:19 – 8:12)
Place:	1st Age / 2nd overall
Teammates:	Ariel

Go! Off we go! I'm running fast and there is a girl next to me. She’s setting a good pace. We keep going and I stay ahead of her. I don't want her to pass me. We get onto the dirt path and I keep running up and down the hills. I stay in front of the girl and keep the pace. I'm second overall so far. I see the leader, a boy, in front of me and the lead cyclist in front of him. We cross a road and keep running.

Soon, I see the finish line for the end of the run. I get to transition. I get my helmet on quick and jump on my bike. Now I'm first because I passed the first place boy in transition. He is putting on his bike shoes so it slows him down. Pretty soon though he passes me on the bike. I keep biking and come to the bridge and bike across.

Once across, I bike on a weaving road. The course makes a big loop. I go downhill, uphill, downhill and then turn. Now I'm heading back. I see little kids on their bikes heading towards me. One of them has a bike with fat tires. Then I see pink and I know that it's Ariel. She looks sad for some reason. I say, “Good job”. I’m sad for her because it’s her first duathlon and she’s sad. I ask Jesus to give Ariel some of my strength to keep going.

I'm on the bridge now and I see the first place boy ahead of me. Soon I am off the bridge and I’m coming down the hill to transition. I put my bike back, take off my helmet and start the run. A boy passes me going out of transition. I didn't think I have the strength to pass him back. Then I see the fast girl from race #2 and #3 cheering me on. I feel motivated and pass him. I keep running and I'm back on the same dirt trail I was on before. Then I go uphill and downhill for a while. I go across the road and I'm on another trail. While I'm running I see the finish line. I run strong and finish. I get first in my age group and second overall! Thank you Mom, Dad, and that friend for cheering me on!