My Race Goals

This is one of the hardest posts I've written because it lays it all out there. It's like telling that first crush that you like them with nervous anticipation because you don't know what they're going to say back. I'm publishing my goals and predictions, but have no idea what the day and my body will give back to me...the blessing and curse of this distance.

First of all, here is Ironman Triathlon 101.

1.) The distances: 2.4 mile swim/112 mile bike ride/26.2 mile run ONE LONG DAY

2.) The main rule: You have 17 hrs to finish. The race starts at 7am when all 2500 participants start swimming at the same time. The course closes at 12Midnight.

3.) There are rest stops and some food, but for the most part, you're on your own.

So Now...Without Further Adieu...

I Present to You...

My Personal Realistic Goal Ranges if I Have the PERFECT RACE
(Bib #2055)

2.4 Mile Swim

1:25-1:40 (yep, that's 1hr 25 mins to 1hr 40mins of straight swimming)

It's a broad range because the swim is intended to be a nice long warm-up for the rest of the day. Plus, the swim is always unpredictable with the amount of kicking, drafting and commotion that takes place at the start.

112 Mile Bike

6:30-7:00 (yep, once again, that's 6 1/2 to 7 HOURS on a bike saddle!)

I'm hoping to average between 16-18mph overall for the ride. On normal conditions, it shouldn't be a problem. Wind is the big unknown factor. Other unknown factors include mechanical issues (flat tires, chains, etc.) and nutrition.  This is also the time where I'll ingest a huge amount of liquid calories and try to remain hydrated.

26.2 Mile Run

4:00-4:30 hrs

Running is, by far, my biggest strength and I'm actually looking forward to this portion of the race. For me, the marathon leg will be a celebration. I hope to soak it in, take my time if I have to and walk if I have to. I promise to high-five as many people as possible! The big unknown??  The expected 95 degree temps...yeah, yeah, yeah...It's a dry heat. You know what?  Fire is also a dry heat, ok?!?!  95 degrees is just blazing hot with or without humidity!  My Marathon PR is 3:29, but I obviously don't plan to come close to that.  I've never run a marathon at 3:00 in the afternoon, after 112 miles of riding, in 95 degree heat.  

 So there it is... Realistically, I can go sub 13:00 hours. It's where I've trained. It's where my fitness level is and I know I'm completely capable of doing it. 

I know I'll have so much love and support heading my way. If UFOs are spotted in Tempe, don't worry. It's just me floating on air.

I've made a lot of predictions, but there's only one guarantee I'll make: I will savor the moment.

www.ironmanlive.com

Bib #2055 

And now, if you'll excuse me....My Chariot Awaits.

Even our cat, Brutus Buckeye Sapp-Barrett, is admiring my machine! 

(and judging by his waist girth, he could use a lesson or two!)