tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84225503750690722182024-02-19T20:11:59.114-08:00Swim-Bike-RunRacing and Training in the HillsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.comBlogger75125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-63946436406023130002016-09-21T05:16:00.000-07:002016-09-21T05:16:47.401-07:00Ben Nevis Braveheart Triathlon, 2016 ChampionThis race in its original form (Cross Triathlon, 90km MTB leg!) had caught my eye in 2012 but at the time I did not own a MTB or had ever ridden one but if I could borrow one or something maybe next year I would give it a go. It ran up and down Ben Nevis after all and sounded awesome. Much to my disappointment the race disappeared, to be resurrected in 2015 with a road bike instead. I have said this before but I love the idea of a race that starts in the sea or lake at the bottom of a mountain and visits the summit, I don't know why but it inspires me, I always feel a real connection with the environment and excitement before and during the race that I often don't feel at other times. It seems to bring the best out in me and after a long season that started back in March, ups and downs but never really feeling I had hit a race right I was really looking forward to this one. Would I finally get to see the view from the top of the Ben?<br />
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I traveled up on Friday morning, checked out a bit of the bike course and had a swim in Loch Linne with Simon (<a href="http://sunartmedia.com/">Check out his site</a>) then headed up to stay with friends <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Marie-Meldrum-813837372044168/?fref=ts">Marie</a> and Donnie after registering and attending the briefing. I had a great nights sleep and woke up at 4.45 for breakfast feeling refreshed.<br />
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I also find the atmosphere at these races amazing, meeting friends, catching up and talking to other competitors its always a relaxed, friendly feel. T1 was no different today, I got set up quickly and had time to say hello to friends and get warmed up. The loch can apparently get cold but at around 14 today this felt fine, once we got going ;).<br />
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I really enjoyed the swim, super easy to navigate out and back, 2 laps with plenty of kayaks to make sure you did not cross over into oncoming traffic. You also go little glimpses of the hills each time you turned to breath and it was shaping up to be a beautiful day. I came out after a trouble free swim in 10th position, fast through transition and out onto the bike.<br />
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After checking out the bike course and some very useful advice from last years winner <a href="http://www.alirobinsonracing.com/">Alistair Robinson</a>, the game plan for the bike was a steady effort both out and back, keeping effort level as even as possible and ideally as low as possible without loosing touch. A good run would be possible if I kept to this, I often ride hard out of the swim to make up time lost but with such a long run I did not need too chase too hard. The road surface is superb, with a slight long climb out to the turn around point, then its slightly faster back in but with a very slight headwind usually. At the turn around I was in 2nd behind last years second place Chris Watson, I knew my effort level had been perfect Upper Zone3 or Tempo so knew it was looking good for the run. On the way back it was great to get waves and encouragement from competitors on the way out still, smiling faces and amazing views always welcome on what can be a lonely effort on the bike leg of a race. I came in to T2 just in front of Chris, popped for a comfort break on the way out and started the run in 2nd.<br />
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Now comes the interesting bit! I got off the bike feeling weirdly excited about the run, I wanted to try and run all the way up but was not sure if it would be possible. I also knew I would have a fast run down so was in with a chance of winning after a steady bike. On top I had a lurking fear that a super fast local hill runner might be just behind off the bike and storm past me on the way down. The summit had its usual top of cloud but a surprise awaited. Now this is a long, long climb, with steep sections of steps and loose scree, pacing it right from the start would be key. I got to the checkpoint after a steady run out ready to head on to the hill, Chris was now just over 1min in front. I settled into that uncomfortable but sustainable effort level just below threshold and tapped away, I hit my threshold but my legs kept going. I eventually caught Chris on the steepest of the stepped sections just below the Half Way Lochan, we had a chat, unusual perhaps in a race but it just felt right, top bloke and I carried on into the lead. I kept expecting my legs to give up or feel to heavy but they just kept going. I only walked when the path became to busy with walkers to allow running and dropped into a zone. Head down slightly, I was sucking in air through an open mouth but my legs just kept going. Near the top of the zig zags I noticed blue sky, then we popped out above the cloud, it felt and looked amazing. A friendly face from Cumbria, Paul Dobson (<a href="http://www.fellrunner.net/">check out his website</a>) was on the hill to support and get some pictures, seeing him just pushed me on, by now I knew my legs were with me so I pushed harder to the summit. A handful of blue berries the summit, 10 seconds to reset ready for the down. I hit the first half to the lochan hard, more encouragement from fellow competitors and seeing my friend Marie powering up the hill as 1st lady spured me on. The second half of the descent required a little more care and by now I could feel muscles cramping from the efforts dodging rocks, walkers and picking your way down the mountain. On the last bit of trail, I felt smooth and controlled. Hitting the tarmac with about 3km to go was the first time I really felt the efforts of the last 5hrs+ racing hit home. I got a bit paranoid about being caught but reasoned I just had to maintain pace and it would be ok.<br />
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I crossed the line with a finishing time of 5hrs30.31, super happy to win the race but more pleased to have finally felt the hard training come together and pay off. It means a lot to me to have it all come together like this, on such an amazing mountain like Ben Nevis. As much as I love racing and getting a good result, the feeling on mind and body working so well together in such an amazing environment is my main motivation. I find life is as simple and amazing as it can be when you hit it right in the hills. So many things made this a special day that I wont ever forget. I hope everyone else found something special during your day, you were part of mine.<br />
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Special thanks to the race organizers and marshals for putting on this amazing event, it was lovely to be involved in the build up to the event as well so thank you for the opportunity. If you are interested in entering next year I cannot recommend the race enough- <a href="http://www.bravehearttri.com/">www.bravehearttri.com </a><br />
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Also Marie, Donnie for letting me stay and such good company, Dobo and Jane for support on the hill and anyone else up there on the day, sorry if I scared anyone hurtling down the hill but I know what I am doing, honest! ;)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-50773142989502144172016-09-20T13:29:00.002-07:002016-09-20T13:29:45.818-07:00Update, Legend Half, Helvellyn Tri and Hells Hop build up for the Ben!Its been a while since my last update but its certainly not been a quite few months. After racing Oravaman I decided to enter the Always Aim High Events new race <a href="http://thelegendtriathlon.com/">The Legend</a> middle distance. Its a fantastic course with hills and a mixed terrain off road run but is still very fast. As usual the event is superbly organised and the local support out on the course is great, much like the Slateman. I was really happy to finish <a href="http://tdleventservices.co.uk/race-results.php?event=2351">3rd</a> here, sharing the podium with some really fast young guys but felt a little flat during the race, particularly the bike. I had not really had a solid block of training since Celtman so fitness had eroded a little, although I had been racing well and still performing ok, so it was time to top up.<div>
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Next up after some good training was <a href="http://www.trihard.co.uk/helvellyn-triathlon">Helvellyn Triathlon</a>, a local race that always attracts a strong field and is a super challenging course, with 25%+ gradients on the bike and a run up and down Helveylln, 950m of ascent and descent. With the help of <a href="https://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/">Blair</a> we had come up with a plan to target the <a href="http://www.bravehearttri.com/">Ben Nevis Triathlon </a>as an end of season goal, so this race would provide a perfect chance to test out the form after 5/6 weeks solid training. The race went well, I was happy with <a href="http://www.trihard.co.uk/results/helvellyn-results">5th</a> place although I did prob overcook the first hill on the bike and my back locked up on the steep hill as a result on the run. As I said though, it was just a test and I felt confident the training plan had done the trick. </div>
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However something had come up that could be a spanner in the works, a big problem I have is saying no sometimes and I just could not pass up the opportunity to take part in a swimrun adventure in the Outer Hebrides. <a href="http://www.hells-hop.com/">Hells Hop</a>, from the team who brought us Celtman, Loch Gu Loch and many other awesome races was an unreal adventure. We began the day 1-2km (depending who you ask!;)) from shore, jumping from the side of a tall ship into a 2-3m swell and swimming back to shore. The Captain of the Lady Avenal was heard to say 'You came here to swim didn't you?' when questioned about how far he intended to go before stopping the engines! We then mad our way via sea stacks in the Sound of Barra, peaty Lochans, rough moorland, trail, tarmac and surf swims back to the finish in Lochboisedale at the Borrodale Hotel. It was superb and everyone who took part agreed. Unfortunately after taking the lead with around 8km to go, my partners ITB became so sore he could barely walk, so we had to pull out. I carried on and finished the course missing 1 swim but it was still and adventure to remember. South Uist and the outer Hebrides are a wonderful place and I cannot wait to go back soon. </div>
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Anyway, 4 days off the bike, with some heavy swimming and hard running was not exactly the ideal prep for a peak at Ben Nevis but sometimes its good to throw out the rule book and do what you love. I actually felt very relaxed about the race, the 2 turbo rides I did the week after Hells Hop felt ok, along with a good session during a staple 30mins of 30sec Max/Easy Effort run. During this session I had averages better than before Celtman so the signs where good. Not a taper I will repeat though I think!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-40928045229282876742016-07-19T14:59:00.001-07:002016-07-20T00:02:46.829-07:00Oravaman 2016! Wow, what an experience, <a href="http://oravaman.sk/?lang=en">Oravaman </a>delivered on all fronts, it truly has everything that makes an event great from my point of view. I can honestly say I wont forget my week in Slovakia in a hurry. Once in a lifetime comes to mind but hopefully I can go back next year. I hope I can do it justice with this blog and hopefully this will be an race report with a slight difference.<br />
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It was actually around this time, a few days after the race (2015) that I came across the Oravaman triathlon. With over 2400M of ascent on the bike, 1000M on the run, all off road and visiting a mountain top it promised to tick all the boxes for me, it was clearly hard, extreme, possibly the <a href="http://oravaman.sk/information/race-course/?lang=en">hardest half distance</a> in the world. I then came across a film, I have never seen a film like it from a race before, the love for the event and what it represents for the community in which it takes place was instantly clear and I knew I had to race it.<br />
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Check it out, see what you think -<br />
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So a quick email to the race director Peter and the date was in the diary, this is where the Oravaman experience began, in the year before arriving in Zuberec I made new friends because I would be taking part in the race, they offered help, advice and we got to know each other. Oravaman was becoming more than just another hard race and when we finally arrived in Slovakia this really began to show.<br />
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The thing with Oravaman is, it truly is a celebration of the beautiful yet challenging landscape in which it takes place, it is a chance for the local communities to welcome visitors from around the world or cheer on friends and local heroes competing and it also brings people together in a way I have never experienced in a race before. Everyone involved just wants to make your day as a competitor as special as possible and they want nothing more than to see a smile on your face. Just watching the event come to life over the days leading up the event was amazing, the sense of community and family grew. This seems to transfer across to the competitors as race day approaches and goes by. Like all good races it is special and has its own unique character that has to be experienced to be believed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiej14igdrTo7qFqNfdNA9yNzYkouiWQFMxdC3eLTpQnCgBXJRGmWTA72N67qEf_Xu7QrlwkfmZs3SJi3kdH8Y5ZhyphenhyphenN4rEt9BVLvXemhYcENmdKxU-vmCJO3PT2hIYvJpXJaU7qPC4WxM/s1600/bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiej14igdrTo7qFqNfdNA9yNzYkouiWQFMxdC3eLTpQnCgBXJRGmWTA72N67qEf_Xu7QrlwkfmZs3SJi3kdH8Y5ZhyphenhyphenN4rEt9BVLvXemhYcENmdKxU-vmCJO3PT2hIYvJpXJaU7qPC4WxM/s320/bike.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am going to keep the race day brief but after the last few months of frustration and disappointment, Oravaman was just what I needed to remind me how much I love this sport and what it gives me in return for the efforts in training. Condition's could only be described as epic, wind, rain and cold for race day after a weeks perfect weather in the lead up. The swim had a huge headwind blowing between the middle 2 buoys at the first turn, it was rough to say the least but I had a good swim for me, coming out inside the top 30. I lost time in transition faffing trying to get a top on the headed out onto the bike. The wind and rain continued, it got pretty spooky at times, I had 2 crashes on the descent from Huty, hitting the deck as the road felt like glass due to the surface water, wind and a polished surface. I was relieved to hit the final 12km climb to T2, which also has the steepest part of the course (14%) for the final KM, I felt pretty good and knew I had paced the hills on the bike pretty well as I pulled away from some other competitors, but my quads started to cramp on the last KM. The run felt brutal, but is up there with the best I have done in an XTRI or anything off road. 95% off road with single track, forest trail and a brutal climb underneath a ski slope leading to a fast but rough forest trail descent. My quads screamed but I gave it everything and knew this at the finish.<br />
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I had no idea what position I had come in and honestly stopped worrying as soon as I got on the bike, today was about coping with what mother nature threw at us, getting to the finish line in one piece and knowing I gave it everything. It was far from a perfect race but like I said, Oravaman is more than a race, its a celebration and it reminded me the of reasons why I do these races. I felt so alive after the finish it was unreal. For those interested here is a link to the <a href="http://www.sportsofttiming.sk/en/race/results/1954?rid=2171&eventid=2&genderid=2">results</a>, all things considered I was happy to come in in 9th position in such a strong field after the day we had had, but if I had come in 50th I would still have been happy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIULJHgyZSnc-xoBktx3IslkwWMCmY_oJohnI83t-eKCflqf5bzgA0L0utN3vXpqfUhzeqqCDCvEkuO90dN0wpjUXkHj2jGFW98I35FFsDkWXjvMhtWZNfslaquZbTfxwcxlm0gRMpbo/s1600/finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIULJHgyZSnc-xoBktx3IslkwWMCmY_oJohnI83t-eKCflqf5bzgA0L0utN3vXpqfUhzeqqCDCvEkuO90dN0wpjUXkHj2jGFW98I35FFsDkWXjvMhtWZNfslaquZbTfxwcxlm0gRMpbo/s320/finish.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I had the 3 course home cooked traditional Slovakian post race meal and a pint of Kofola, chatted with other competitors about the day we had just experienced, met up with my new friends and chatted then headed to bed completely spent. The awesome after party with live band carried on till late despite the rain and mud, no one seemed to want to let it stand in the way of a good time but why would they after the conditions on race day? :)<br />
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I hope I have done the race some justice with this report but I do not think you can truly appreciate how special it is unless you experience it. With short course and relay options as well as the full distance it is attainable for most, so check it out, I promise you will not regret it!<br />
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Bude Ako Nebolo as they say in Slovakia, "Like never Before"! There is plenty more to come this season so stay tuned!<br />
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I have to say a huge list of thank you's for this one and hope I mention everyone-<br />
<br />
Peter Pala, race director for your help, kindness and efforts to make our visit so special.<br />
Mark Wilkie, for welcoming us, showing us around and introducing us to the real Slovakia, legend ;) (Check out Marks <a href="https://www.facebook.com/harmoniahuty/">chalet</a>, perfect location for a training camp, skiing or just a chilled getaway)<br />
Tina and family for your support out on the course in the pouring wind and rain at the top of the hill!<br />
The staff of <a href="http://penzionpribisko.sk/?lang=en">Penzion Prebisko</a> for amazing food and accommodation for our stay.<br />
The volunteers of Oravaman, Mountain rescue and the local police service for keeping us safe and making the day so awesome.<br />
All the amazing competitors and new friends I made.<br />
The town of Zuberec and all other locals who lined the streets to cheer us on.<br />
The country of Slovakia for being so amazing!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-76603257866462355042016-07-04T03:44:00.001-07:002016-07-04T03:49:57.620-07:00Taking the rough with the smooth...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdmO0uQL6v3eLdy4Gg4e-k2HVJ10Hri800H0Y2LMd13qmLwpJd-HMwpBuhyphenhyphenwE_ULma9sUmoDpCiBSehDMIVQ6w5pLr3Q_4R543PIYm2MQEW9lW_oUIQ3FMH3gO4rg7oOW66eAm9Yuc2X0/s1600/shieldaig1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdmO0uQL6v3eLdy4Gg4e-k2HVJ10Hri800H0Y2LMd13qmLwpJd-HMwpBuhyphenhyphenwE_ULma9sUmoDpCiBSehDMIVQ6w5pLr3Q_4R543PIYm2MQEW9lW_oUIQ3FMH3gO4rg7oOW66eAm9Yuc2X0/s400/shieldaig1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quiet contemplation, Thanks Marie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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So at a time when I should have been another race report, I found myself once again cursing the gods of triathlon after a series of bike issues forced a withdrawl from Celtman 2016 after only 110km of the bike. The worst thing about it was the fact I knew there was nothing I could do about it, it was a dose of bad luck right when I did not need it. Maybe I have been lucky not to suffer such misfortune the last 2 years and it was just my turn but it did not make it any easier to accept.<br />
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The 110km went something like this- First cattle grid, lose gel bottle at high speed, same at second (I have tested this for 6 weeks on bumpy, rough, lake district roads with no issue, seems it did not like the XL Torridon cattle grids), Chain drops twice, hit pothole at about 60kmhr, front tire blow out (close one), second puncture after another 15min of riding then I hit a bump in the road and the bars dropped (second close one), this took a while to fix as the bolts were hard to access with a water bottle installed. This time I took the hint, it was not going to be my day and worse still I was lucky to be un hurt so far. I think you have to pick your battles and it was clear this one was a lost cause.<br />
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I wont lie, it took me 3 days to get over this. After so much hard work over the winter and knowing I had gotten into the best shape of my life it felt like now or never (I know that's not how it is now:)) and I guess after missing Slateman through illness I felt I deserved a good day. My brother had traveled from Bristol to support the bike leg with Jo and a good mate had driven from Ambleside to do the run with me. I felt bad to have dragged them all the way to Torridon for not even half a race.<br />
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I am a lucky guy though and have amazing family and friends, many of whom were in Torridon for Celtman and realized there own goals starting, finishing and some not but finding their limits. Although it took me 3 days to get over it the recovery started there.<br />
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Check out the picture above that Marie sent me. Its taken about 9pm the night before the race, a bit of quiet time down on the front at Shieldaig. I can sit here just looking out forever, its an awesome view and my point is the journey to the race brought that into my life. That moment I felt calm, happy and am privileged to visit these places doing what I love. I have many, many moments like these, all the time and am lucky enough to have photos and videos to remember them but they are not needed. My life has been enriched by these experiences/friends and continues to be along the way to each race or challenge. The race really is such a small part of why I do this. All the messages of support the last few weeks have been awesome, so thanks everyone for this.<br />
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So I quickly got back into training, spotted the local <a href="http://www.windermere-triathlon.com/index.html">Winderemere Triathlon</a> was taking place the following weekend, entered and won! The Olympic distance is not one I would usually count myself as a contender for but I have been working hard with <a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/">Blair</a> to change that. I dont like hearing myself giving excuses so try to do something about it ;). A surprisingly good swim for me, fastest bike split of the day (despite a dropped chain!) and a solid run givens me good confidence going into <a href="http://oravaman.sk/?lang=en">Oravaman</a> in 2 weeks time. I know the competition level will be high but hopefully I will have a good day, if not I guess it will just be another awesome experience along the way! Its an amazing journey whatever,<br />
<br />
Lucky guy for sure!!<br />
<br />
Thanks again for everyone's support over the last few weeks, it means so much.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdtEJh8Sr8kSKunWEkeV2HnAW6Vr_RmbZkraB1ZgyULHLEdW4g8KzQ65IQ-25lG_CKen3ZM5EHG4Wxa_6KdF5AzWMQRc_VSF_z-SyTdXIokLFo4ArDvVYAoOp048JyB67c3V-1NKM8qlQ/s1600/norseman+road.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdtEJh8Sr8kSKunWEkeV2HnAW6Vr_RmbZkraB1ZgyULHLEdW4g8KzQ65IQ-25lG_CKen3ZM5EHG4Wxa_6KdF5AzWMQRc_VSF_z-SyTdXIokLFo4ArDvVYAoOp048JyB67c3V-1NKM8qlQ/s400/norseman+road.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moving forwards, always :) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-16557069361521744352016-05-26T13:28:00.003-07:002016-05-28T15:06:04.495-07:00Slateman 2016 Race Report...but noooooo! Stay Positive!! Its about the time I should be writing another race report, analyzing the performance and looking into how that fits onto the grand plan that kicks off the season proper. However there isn't one to write, near enough 4 days in bed was not part of a new taper I have been perfecting and I did not forget to set the alarm clock for race morning, no, I got sick on the Thursday evening, a nasty virus that has been going around. Its the classic tale of illness in work, me being the third lucky recipient. Its the worst I have felt in years and bizarrely I got through the whole of this winter without any illness, talk about bad timing. Still not feeling 100% now but happy to get any easy swim and run in the last two days, feeling better by the minute.<br />
<br />
Anyway the reason for writing this no race report is a positive one, in the past something like this could really knock me and leave me feeling very negative for a long time but I have chosen not to let it. Its amazing how much time, effort and passion we invest in things that matter to us so its never easy to deal with when things don't go to plan but that's life, no matter how many hours, how much effort or how great you feel it owes you nothing. It is what it is and the best way forward is to look at what you can do, not what you cant.<br />
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<br />
<ul>
<li>First thing I did was to remember the bigger picture, I have loads of races I am looking forward to this season, more exciting if I am honest and they are all still there.</li>
<li>Secondly, I looked back over my recent training, its been great and all that is in the bank, with a cautious approach to begin training again nothing will be lost.</li>
<li>Realistically, this race was 1 training session in the many months of training and racing already done, a drop in the ocean. The light taper week went well, I missed the race day and then would have had 2-3 days off after anyway and hope to get some harder sessions in towards the end of the week. This is still a possible target.</li>
<li>If not all the training is not going anywhere and 1 session does not make a successful build.</li>
<li>The numbers are great, a result in a race would be nice to confirm that but its not needed, if I was less confident in this I would be questioning stuff more.</li>
<li>Get the rubbish luck out the way early, always a good thing!</li>
</ul>
<div>
It does amaze me how much better I am at dealing with this sort of stuff now, essentially triathlon is a game, a hobby but the things you learn can be so useful in all areas of life. Having a good coach always helps in this situation, <a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/">Blair</a> was super positive as always and in touch, cheers Blair!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
That will do for now I think, hope its useful, stay positive and keep your eye on the prize! 4 weeks and change till <a href="http://cxtri.com/">Celtman</a> ;) </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-37025384520175817962016-04-14T00:35:00.002-07:002016-04-14T00:35:20.643-07:00Kurio Compression, Totally Bespoke<div class="MsoNormal">
It seems every big sports brand now offers some form of
compression garment, along with a few smaller specialist companies who started
out in this market. Its not exactly a new thing though, having been used in
treatment by Doctors for many years previously. Its proven to improve
circulation and increase blood flow which has to be a great thing for improving
an athletes recovery and performance right? I think so, which is why I have
tried various forms and brands over the last 8-9 years, looking for something
which works for me, with extremely variable success.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7KZuerZaF76sdnePaQgTMwgGB0nVroaX26RfFd9jW87sDSKmOYDHDpZ57_l06Sg2jtVuJ2eUfc0NhgMFaGBafzYdGuHnD05VLt2SbX6FeOxAb_xLj0VBl0lMGrimjqgH3OmUdq3LyV4o/s1600/kurio+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7KZuerZaF76sdnePaQgTMwgGB0nVroaX26RfFd9jW87sDSKmOYDHDpZ57_l06Sg2jtVuJ2eUfc0NhgMFaGBafzYdGuHnD05VLt2SbX6FeOxAb_xLj0VBl0lMGrimjqgH3OmUdq3LyV4o/s320/kurio+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Here’s a few of the claimed benefits-</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 16.0pt; margin-bottom: 8.0pt; margin-left: 18.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 18.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt; vertical-align: top;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: "symbol";">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR">Improved
venous return (the rate of blood flow back to the heart)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 16.0pt; margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 18.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt; vertical-align: top;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: "symbol";">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR">Reduced
muscle oscillation (vibration)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 16.0pt; margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 18.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt; vertical-align: top;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: "symbol";">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR">Kinaesthesia
(body awareness)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 16.0pt; margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 18.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt; vertical-align: top;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: "symbol";">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR">Reduction
in DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 16.0pt; margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 18.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt; vertical-align: top;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: "symbol";">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR">Improved
posture, body shape and support<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 16.0pt; margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 18.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt; vertical-align: top;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: "symbol";">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR">Changes
to blood flow<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 16.0pt; margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 18.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt; vertical-align: top;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: "symbol";">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span dir="LTR">Body
moisture wicking<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 16.0pt; margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 18.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt; vertical-align: top;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: white;"><span style="font-family: "symbol";">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--></span><span dir="LTR"><span style="color: white;">Help
to prevent swelling and deep vein thrombosis during long periods of travelling</span><span style="color: #34383d;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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I first tried some compression tops from one of the most
well known brands out there, to try and improve performance whilst training for
rock climbing. In all honesty the tops just felt like any other Lycra top,
stretched horribly and were not actually comfortable in any way. I felt no benefits
and quickly the tops got shoved in the draw, I still have them actually but
never think I might use them. I have tried a pair of leggings from a different
brand but found the same issues. For the last 2 years I have been using Compress-Sport
products, which I have found do not stretch out and have been useful for
recovery, I’ve practically lived in them between hard sessions and after races.
I do believe they helped recovery but always found some drawbacks. I often had
slightly cold feet whilst wearing them. However I could never use them during any exercise as my
legs quickly went dead and I also suffered with soreness over joints where
ligaments etc passed close to the skins surface. I tried the larger sizes but they did not fit over the muscles and were to long and slack in places.</div>
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The problem is they just do not fit quite right. Compression
needs to be graduated, with less compression the closer you get to the heart
and also in the correct place over the muscle group. If it isn’t you are never
going to get the full benefits. It also needs to be at the optimal level, too
much will lead to poorer circulation, too little and we are back to stretchy
tops with no benefits. When you think about it, it’s clear the standard
Small-XL sizing is just not going to provide this. The only solution for true
performance has to be custom made and quality material choice for the garment
is essential.</div>
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Enter Kurio Compress! <a href="http://www.kuriocompression.com/why-made-to-measure.php">http://www.kuriocompression.com/why-made-to-measure.php</a>
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So I was pretty excited when U.K based company Kurio
Compression contacted me and asked if I would like to try a pair of there
totally bespoke leggings. They are a driven and passionate team who clearly
want to deliver the best possible product to help athletes improve performance
and are leaving no stone unturned in order to accomplish this. After a long
chat this became clear, they have researched every aspect of their product and
this is ongoing. Just check out this link and the research they have had
conducted on there own product and others in order to achieve this.</div>
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<a href="http://www.kuriocompression.com/technical.php">http://www.kuriocompression.com/technical.php</a></div>
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Pure attention to detail! I had 34 measurements taken of my
legs and after a week or so 2 pairs of leggings, one for recovery and one for
training arrived. Being U.K based for design and production certainly has its
advantages, I did not expect it to be that quick!</div>
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Unboxing the leggings are well packed and come with a letter
with care instructions etc, hand signed which I thought was a very nice touch
and shows the care and attention to detail taken to produce them.</div>
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<o:p> </o:p>I am now living in these and have to say I am initially
blown away with the performance. Perfect fit, no more cold feet in the recovery
tights and my legs just feel slightly warm whilst wearing them, a good sign of
increased blood flow. Recovery has been excellent and I have suffered no DOMS
after wearing the tights, plus my legs feel fresher going into the next session.
I also wore them on the flight for a recent trip to race in <st1:country-region><st1:place>Malta</st1:place></st1:country-region>
and had fresh legs the other side. In the leggings for training I have found a
pair that I can exercise in with no ill effects and they certainly feel
supportive whilst being comfortable to wear. It’s difficult to quantify if they
lead to an increase in performance but I will give opinion on this after more
testing. So far so good, I will post another review to update on the long term
performance, durability etc and will certainly be putting them to the test over
the coming months training and racing.<br />
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I will post an update once they have had a good thrashing! Be cool to hear what people think about compression and Kurio. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-17966302906897094872016-04-07T06:37:00.001-07:002016-04-08T06:55:26.888-07:00Xterra Malta Race ReportIf you are looking for an early season triathlon opener, some sunshine, perfect racing temps and an awesome country to visit, look no further than <a href="http://www.maltaxterra.com/">Xterra Malta</a>. Deidre, Nathan and the rest of the crew will make sure you are welcomed, well looked after and provide a challenging but fast course for racing.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhISm2P4FZ0Sx0wevMquh0yRQGjUnLui-E5aywVvBG7iyHDhMXgB7k3IOKL9s8k-DUYixrDOwpfdmp9qEsXuMUcfhpjrANu5fnnski1G4cJa-R9iukzrQofV88Gr7ZBAdUJiEgRqS5mjHE/s1600/malta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhISm2P4FZ0Sx0wevMquh0yRQGjUnLui-E5aywVvBG7iyHDhMXgB7k3IOKL9s8k-DUYixrDOwpfdmp9qEsXuMUcfhpjrANu5fnnski1G4cJa-R9iukzrQofV88Gr7ZBAdUJiEgRqS5mjHE/s320/malta.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice setting for a race! Swim and run route visible :) </td></tr>
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I have been meaning to try out the <a href="http://www.xterraplanet.com/">Xterra</a> series for the last two seasons but the UK event always clashed with something else so this season I decided to make it happen. This event had been recommended to me by a few friends who really rated it and there are quite a few <a href="https://youtu.be/x4qulCR13a8">cool videos</a> about so it seemed an obvious choice for an early season fitness test.<br />
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I travelled to Malta on the Friday morning, feeling healthy, fit and well rested but did not really know what to expect standard wise at the race. I thought I might be able to make the age group podium and that was a loose goal I had set myself, it was not a target race or a seasons goal but its good to have something to aim for. Friday afternoon I went for a nice swim in sea, it was clear, warm but choppy and I practised Australian exits and diving in to get past the waves. The excitement about the race started to build!<br />
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On Saturday morning I took a trip round the bike course with Mat Stephenson, another UK athlete taking part, there were also a load of athletes out doing the same. One of the things I loved about the event was the relaxed atmosphere before the race, no one seemed to be taking it too seriously and I had a good laugh with Mat on the way round. The course was tamer than I am used to in the Lakes but had plenty of technical interest, one longish climb over varied terrain, from wooded twist single track to rough gulleys and fast flat trail. I left the run recce out to save the legs but Mat assured me it was fairly challenging. My hotel was only 4km from the start in the town of Meiliha, another bonus that makes this race so accessible and easy. I felt really relaxed in the evening but excited to race. I think all the winter racing helped here, getting the pre race rituals dialled in, all those learning experiences help to settle things down. I knew what I had to do, did it and that just left turning up to race in the morning. <a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/">Blair</a> has really helped with this side of things, along with Chris Francis from <a href="http://www.elevensprocket.com/about-us/4579758426">Eleven Sprocket</a>, its certainly an improvement from the faff, unfocused worry of last year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj333J1a4tLF366LT_iLXbmVxEJZpjIe04ZZi7BaC-L3bMW2UKbAo8ac5jqrgl7xIQMkkmseiJphJ7kLX8gvhYvVpl6PxaV1OO25R6mXtvcxJlDSTNivYCeLRiW0moZAifDRuEeJF9mynA/s1600/malta+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj333J1a4tLF366LT_iLXbmVxEJZpjIe04ZZi7BaC-L3bMW2UKbAo8ac5jqrgl7xIQMkkmseiJphJ7kLX8gvhYvVpl6PxaV1OO25R6mXtvcxJlDSTNivYCeLRiW0moZAifDRuEeJF9mynA/s320/malta+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: start;"> Evening stroll Meliha</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA5Hgq7jHHW0nYsOpHZlw-OKfkxN65gFbDC5-u7Cpgbt4GCtSZHG0ilaiFRwlGv1qCktgAA_sflQQH4YKaKlyBIYZAFOy7vT7WPwcSYh9Th06x9cpbX4X6Eb3YqOFGyFpx0zGwG3SGkDc/s1600/popeye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA5Hgq7jHHW0nYsOpHZlw-OKfkxN65gFbDC5-u7Cpgbt4GCtSZHG0ilaiFRwlGv1qCktgAA_sflQQH4YKaKlyBIYZAFOy7vT7WPwcSYh9Th06x9cpbX4X6Eb3YqOFGyFpx0zGwG3SGkDc/s320/popeye.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Popeye's Village!</td></tr>
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It was super nice to wake up on race morning and just take an easy 15min spin down to the race venue to get set up and sorted out. That friendly relaxed vibe was still present and I had left plenty of time to get ready. Auto pilot kicked in again and I knew I had nothing to worry about in transition. The bike was sorted, bolts tightened, everything in place and I had loads of time to get the <a href="http://racezone3.com/product/mens-vanquish-triathlon-wetsuit/">wetsuit</a> on ready to race. Unusually for me the water temp was ideal for a pre race swim warm up, a real novelty and not the sort of thing I would advise at Celtman or Norseman! I was pretty excited to be racing in my new <a href="http://racezone3.com/product/mens-vanquish-triathlon-wetsuit/">Zone 3 Vanquish</a>, redesigned and tweaked for this year, it feels unreal, so flexible and comfortable but super buoyant.<br />
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I knew I would not be super fast out of the water so just relaxed and found a rhythm, it was a 2 loop circuit with an Australian exit and short beach run halfway. I made steady progress though, overtaking and catching groups all the way from the first buoy and defiantly did not feel the swim had taken much out of me. No splits yet but I don't think it was a bad swim for me at all. Transition went smooth and it was time to go to work on the bike.<br />
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The bike starts off with a slight climb on bumpy, fairly technical terrain, you have to be efficient and pick a good line, hover over the saddle or stand up to smooth it out. I spent most of the first lap of the bike passing people, settling in and riding steady to pick things up on the second lap. I always felt I held back a bit but still made steady progress through the field, good signs that the time on the turbo over the winter was ready to be put use this season. Xterra allows drafting on the bike so it was interesting to ride in a group, take turns on the front and just try to hold wheels on climbs etc. It adds an interesting dimension to the race, again its a more social friendly style than the lone TT efforts of long distance races, I enjoyed this. The course was littered with water bottles, its bumpy, if you race bear this in mind! No bike issues for me though, I came into transition in one piece and feeling reasonably fresh considering.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63lqZfxNk160w67AUD-MKQKX2CXDswS8KZfmGIMZDOAw8WxABfQc2qwCxuB_36Y0lvjZlgqB7-iCquFOuTUTaBJP9ez0tqjb3gY5rxLMroTXkT7Zm254G9o0pi_Q6IOwJzgClxsaGKMM/s1600/malta+bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63lqZfxNk160w67AUD-MKQKX2CXDswS8KZfmGIMZDOAw8WxABfQc2qwCxuB_36Y0lvjZlgqB7-iCquFOuTUTaBJP9ez0tqjb3gY5rxLMroTXkT7Zm254G9o0pi_Q6IOwJzgClxsaGKMM/s320/malta+bike.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stem....</td></tr>
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Another smooth transition out onto the run, an 11km that can be broken down into a fast flat start, steep to draggy climb and a fast but technical downhill blast over 2 loops. I aimed to run as close to even splits as possible for the two loops. I hit a pace that felt maintainable but hurt, passing a 3 or 4 athletes on the first lap but one guy just blew past me, he ended up finishing 3rd in our age group and clearly was a superb runner. On lap 2 it started to bite but I still ran every step of the climb apart from a short step you had to climb over, that even split goal driving me on. I nailed the descent, it really started to hurt now and made up one more place before hitting the flat road to the finish. It was so nice to finish the race with no issues and such a smooth day. I could not have gone any faster and feel I paced it well. In the end I finished in 2hrs45mins, 3mins of the age group podium in 5th and 35th overall including the Pro field. Not a bad first effort at Xterra and I will certainly be racing more in the future with a bit more focus. I really need to get my swim time down to be competitive at these shorter races but it will come.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5ypdSsSU-8pRxwE47tWehxLXNyImM9ZfMa5rG9kKwhzTS3hnCGg_vsXY7Jrzk0ISv2csSbGhYmTfh6g0A2ZS7_Q5cVLA9VTM06hBqO9gH6Mxull5sf-4NggIoQ2RvBS5Ld_r_Ja-0Bc/s1600/malta+run.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir5ypdSsSU-8pRxwE47tWehxLXNyImM9ZfMa5rG9kKwhzTS3hnCGg_vsXY7Jrzk0ISv2csSbGhYmTfh6g0A2ZS7_Q5cVLA9VTM06hBqO9gH6Mxull5sf-4NggIoQ2RvBS5Ld_r_Ja-0Bc/s320/malta+run.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The flat finsh</td></tr>
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So a final assessment of my performance. Things could not have gone any smoother during the race, it feels good and shows winter work has paid off in this aspect, its even more important for longer races so all good. Without seeing the race splits its difficult to assess the 3 legs but I know I had a strong bike and a decent run, not enough to make the podium but 3mins down and 5mins to second is not a disaster, its important to remember the main goal is a faster race at <a href="http://cxtri.com/">Celtman</a> and a good show at <a href="http://oravaman.sk/">Oravaman</a> so training is geared towards this. I am pretty sure last year I would have been a bit further back, I also know longer races are where I tend to shine, so its a good start to the season and always a good motivator to keep moving forward and bridge the gap. <a href="http://snowdoniaslateman.com/">Slateman</a> at the end of May will be telling.<br />
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<a href="http://www.maltaxterra.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Xterra-2016-Results-For-Web.pdf">Results link here</a><br />
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3 days off after the race and its now back to training, Blair has put a few sessions up on Training Peaks for me this week, no let up on the bike I see! Thanks as always to <a href="http://racezone3.com/">Zone3Wetsuits</a>, <a href="http://www.trecnutrition.co.uk/">TrecNutrition</a>, <a href="https://www.lyon.co.uk/outdoor/">LyonEquipment</a>, <a href="http://www.healthcurrancy.co.uk/">CurranzHealth</a> and <a href="http://www.elevensprocket.com/">ElevenSprocket</a> for the support.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-82836587649561746862016-04-06T14:46:00.000-07:002016-04-06T14:46:08.016-07:00Xterra Malta and updateSo its been a while since the last blog, fortunately training and racing have not been as inconsistent so its time for an update and a race report from the excellent <a href="http://www.maltaxterra.com/">Xterra Malta</a>. The last 2 months racing have certainly had ups and downs but a slow, consistent upwards trend has been set. I've been out of my comfort zone, trying new things and I would be lying if I said doubts do not creep in from time to time and confidence ebbs and flows more than usual. It takes a bit of trust, faith and learning to put the ego away but I am certain its something worth going through. No one ever said the road to your goals and dreams would be easy.<br />
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Winter Racing Highlights and Lowlights<br />
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For the first time ever I have raced all through winter, trying out a couple of Cyclocross races, the amazing <a href="http://www.durtyevents.com/bowhill-duathlon-series.html">Durty Events Bowhill Winter Duathlon</a> series and the <a href="http://www.highterrainevents.co.uk/#!off-road-duathlon-series/c1o3f">High Terrain Events Duathlon</a> series. All part of the plan worked out with <a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/">Blair</a> to turbo charge the engine. Usually I go into winter mileage and suffering mode, riding about in all weathers and running up and down hills. As I've said it brought me results the last few years in longer races but it was time to change. On paper results have been mediocre to bad, there have been plenty of mechanical issues, crashes and a few minor niggles along the way but man have I learnt a lot! I had a few epic crashes at Bowhill, a 3 inch slipped saddle at Kielder and failed to start Whinlater due to a minor niggle. The last two races have been different though, I feel sharper, certainly faster and the race prep is getting dialed into auto pilot. Best thing is I feel strong at the end of races and my recovery is fantastic. Racing conditions have varied from ice, snow, mud and a bit of sunshine and all the races have been short, from 40mins to 2hrs30 so easy to recover from and no effect on training consistently. Best thing is I feel strong at the end of races and my recovery is fantastic. So no long races yet but I am confident it has been worth it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bowhill Duathlon</td></tr>
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Onwards and upwards, fast forward to the last 4 weeks. The days are getting longer, the sun is shining a bit more (especially in Malta ;)) and things are starting to come together. In the last race of the series at Grizedale duathlon, a race finally came together without major incidents or poor form and I felt stronger on the bike than last year and put together a good run off the bike to finish 3rd, less than 3 mins to 2nd but 1st was a long way off. Good signs and a little confidence boost for the trip to Malta 2 weeks after. I certainly don't feel like I have cracked shorter races yet but I know I am making progress, my determination to stop myself making the excuse 'its a bit too short for me' remains undeterred. Looking back its actually been a pretty awesome learning experience over winter!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grizedale in the sun!</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-62443703287425618832016-02-03T11:53:00.003-08:002016-02-03T15:07:29.049-08:00Extracts from the training diaryFebruary already!! Time is flying this winter, it will soon be time for the <a href="http://www.chrisstirling.blogspot.co.uk/2016/01/2016-race-schedule.html">race season</a> to begin, starting with Xterra Malta 1st April and a block of races leading up to Celtman and <a href="http://oravaman.sk/?lang=en">Oravaman</a> in June/July. Its a good time to look back on the training so far, its easy to forget and get panicky about fitness this time of year but looking back I have been making slow but consistent gains. No reason this should not continue!<br />
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Things have been a little different to last year so far, with less long training sessions at low intensity on the roads or in the mountains and more time on the turbo trainer with faster sessions running on the tarmac. Certainly quality over quantity, zero junk miles and a total change from last year. I've been making sacrifices on the things I love to reap the rewards in the Spring when its time to race. Sometimes its hard to stick to the plan and resist a long run in the snow for 15x1min max efforts on the tarmac but I just keep reminding myself of the steps toward my ambitions for the season and dreams long term. The Celtman race splits are pinned to the beam in the garage, next to the little Norseman picture, its much easier to hit and hold those intervals then.<br />
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I thought I would share a few sessions I have been doing over the last few months, kindly or mostly not too kindly set by <a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/">Blair Davies</a> for my enjoyment :)<br />
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Running-<br />
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A staple has been, 15x1min max efforts with 1min30 recovery. The first 5 usually feel ok, too much rest even but it soon starts to bite! Its simple but effective for increasing speed, cadence and maintaining form. I now travel further and hold pace over the efforts way better than when we started and my cadence has increased across all runs.<br />
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<a href="http://www.movescount.com/moves/move90482844#.VrJKbr2qAuY.blogger">wansfelb47's 1:16 h Running Move #SuuntoRun</a>: 21.1.2016 - 1:16 h 12.27 km, Running Move<br />
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Threshold hills, yes, I get to do this one on the fells, sort of...I use a good surface bridal way, about 10% Avg grade that undulates slightly. 3x5min threshold efforts with the jog back to start as recovery (5mins). I have really felt the benefits of increased cadence on these sessions, you can really run hard and fast on this gradient compared to the steep reps or long efforts I used last year.<br />
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<a href="http://www.movescount.com/moves/move86293252#table-year=2016">wansfelb47's 1:04 h Running Move #SuuntoRun</a>: 14.12.2015 - 1:04 h 10.91 km, Running Move<br />
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Turbo, turbo, turbo. Oh yes, Power Meter and Rotor Q Rings too! I have been using a <a href="http://www.velotechservices.co.uk/shop/vcat3.asp?cat=7382004722">Rotor InPower</a> unit, its not skipped a beat, great price, some really interesting features and can be fitted to almost any bike with minimal fuss. If you need any more info give me a shout or better still contact the experts at <a href="http://www.velotechservices.co.uk/">VeloTech Services</a>.<br />
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Lots of tempo work, Z3/4 with alternating cadence and resistance. Bottom line is I have put 22 Watts on my FTP a quite a few BPM on heart rate in about 10 weeks and we are still just getting going. Already ahead of my bests last season too. The turbo and structure works! Using a combo of HR, RPE and Power to guide the efforts.<br />
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So, 2x20min at Tempo, 100RPM aim for each block. Feeling way more comfortable at higher cadences now, in turn I feel that higher cadence transferring to brick sessions when I run off the bike.<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/embed/1001063910" width="465"></iframe>
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3x30min tempo, but never sitting at a comfortable cadence, spin or grind, cadence or muscular endurance, this felt like hell this time round but its all getting easier! Slowly :)<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/embed/988569823" width="465"></iframe><br />
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Ok, I got to ride outside on this one, my old favorite <a href="https://www.facebook.com/chrisstirlingracing/videos/1549457045332402/">the struggle</a> (click link for the video:)), but forgot to get the 28 cassette back on. Ouch! 5x6mins at threshold, should have been fully seated but no chance at up to 20% and a 25!<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" height="500" src="https://connect.garmin.com/activity/embed/997666373" width="465"></iframe><br />
So there we have a brief insight into a few key sessions. Any questions feel free to ask, just use the contact form! Train hard, make a few sacrifices and reap the rewards! :)<br />
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With all this training, we also need recovery and fueling, so huge thanks to <a href="http://www.trecnutrition.co.uk/vitargo-500g.html">TrecNutrition</a>, <a href="https://shop.vitamin-shop.co.uk/">Vitamin Shop</a>, <a href="http://www.healthcurrancy.co.uk/">CurraNZ Health</a> and <a href="http://www.striptsnacks.com/">Stript Snacks</a> for keeping me going and awesome support! Again, any questions just use the contact form.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-19580422181491275162016-01-25T07:36:00.002-08:002016-01-25T07:36:26.984-08:00Nortec Nordic Trail SpikesSo winter is in full swing, at least it was for a few days here in the Lakes but there is still plenty of time and snow left so here's hoping.<br />
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I often get asked about kit for keeping running in the hills when there is snow and ice, I love running through the winter conditions and enjoy keeping things light, so am always on the lookout and trying different kit to make this possible.<br />
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However it is certainly not without obvious risk, winter condition's on the hill in a pair of tights with a bust hip will turn nasty very quickly so the kit needs to be light, sturdy and do the job. In the past I have experimented and used many forms of ice traction devices for the feet, screw in spikes, pull on chains and even full walking crampons with articulation. They have all done the job to various degrees and kept me upright (mostly:)) but I think I may have found my favorite in the Nortec Nordic Spikes.<br />
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Nortec is a small Italian company that specializes in simple ice traction devices for all types of footwear. They make nothing else so are true specialists in this field, always a good start in my eyes. They are also designed in conjunction with some great athletes, including mountain running legend Marco de Gasperi.<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_723370850"><br /></a>
<a href="http://www.nortecsport.com/category/athletes/">http://www.nortecsport.com/category/athletes/</a><br />
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The Nordic is light and compact enough to fit into your pocket just in case and will provide grip on snow, ice and any other slippery surface you might choose to use it on. </div>
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Now many other devices of this type are available and I have tried 3 of them but there are a few things I really like about the Nordic that differ from the others. </div>
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<li>They are super easy to get on, the rubber has just the right amount of flex to be pulled on easily but fit securely to the shoe without crushing the foot and altering the shape of the shoe. This gives a more natural feel to running in them and means they fit light, fell type shoes very well. I have found a few other way to hard to put on, not great if you need them on in a hurry!</li>
<li>The spikes are the perfect size for traction and maintaining stability whilst running over mixed, icy, rocky, grassy ground. I have found other models a little too on the large size again interfering with the natural feeling of running.</li>
<li>The points that the chain attaches to on the rubber are reinforced, its the main weak point of this type of device so its a relief to see this addressed.</li>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nordic on the La Sportiva Bushido</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reinforcement and low profile spikes</td></tr>
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Short and sweet, as you can see, ice, snow or whatever there is no need to stop playing in the mountains! Just be safe and stick within your limits! I will post an update on how the spikes fair over the whole winter season.</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-74413812105428223252016-01-07T04:13:00.000-08:002016-01-09T05:35:44.310-08:002016 Race schedule! So this is how the season is shaping up, mega excited about it as you can imagine, some old favorites in there plus some new challenges to stretch that comfort zone. I always like to do a few totally different things if I can, to tick them off that ever growing list or recce for future attempts.<br />
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March 20th- <a href="http://www.highterrainevents.co.uk/#!grizedale-duathlon/c20ax">Grizedale Duathlon</a>- Local race, you cant go wrong with <a href="http://www.highterrainevents.co.uk/">High Terrain Events</a>, superb organisation and courses<br />
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April 1st- <a href="http://www.maltaxterra.com/">Xterra Malta</a>- Trying something new, should be an excellent level of competition, fast course and an early season triathlon opener<br />
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April 24th- <a href="http://www.highterrainevents.co.uk/#!whinlatter-xtreme/c1rt1">Whinlatter Xtreme Duathlon</a>- There is a bit of climbing squeezed into this one for sure! 1850M with around 2hrs50 winning time<br />
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May 22nd- <a href="http://snowdoniaslateman.com/">Slateman</a>- Becoming a regular on my calendar, fast, competitive and an amazing carnival atmosphere, I do like a nice cold swim, good warm up for the rest of the season<br />
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June 25th- <a href="http://www.cxtri.com/">Celtman</a>- The old favourite, I just cannot get enough of the atmosphere, Torridon and that ridge on Ben Eighe<br />
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July 15- <a href="http://oravaman.sk/oravaman-extreme-tour/?lang=en">Oravaman</a>- Super excited about this one, an adventure in the heart of the mountains of Slovakia, 3300m of climbing and a 1000m mountain trail descent to finish. I knew I had to do this as soon as I watched the <a href="https://vimeo.com/104547850">video</a> and chatted to Peter, the race organizer.<br />
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Aug 13- <a href="http://www.fxtri.no/">Fjord Extreme</a>- Another race I just cannot wait for, Romsdal area of Norway, mountain top finish at 1700m, as per Norseman, only you have to get yourself back down. Raw and basic, just how we like it<br />
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Hopeful-<br />
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Sep- <a href="http://3peakscyclocross.org.uk/">3 Peaks Cyclocross</a><br />
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More races to be confirmed but that is the bulk of it, should be fun ticking those lot off. Here we go!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhepmIs68aEyn3Ir3JJmC8g-1d-SgIzRD40RJ6OWPXOLbw8FCdIv0yH2_ebgR9o_pSVKS4ihDZGxTKiRoQiqfBPk2_HYoRGX1FA-DFnx3mOzw78PlreiJRkp5idhG8tzmsDyPiPIEc8H-Q/s1600/celtman+ridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhepmIs68aEyn3Ir3JJmC8g-1d-SgIzRD40RJ6OWPXOLbw8FCdIv0yH2_ebgR9o_pSVKS4ihDZGxTKiRoQiqfBPk2_HYoRGX1FA-DFnx3mOzw78PlreiJRkp5idhG8tzmsDyPiPIEc8H-Q/s400/celtman+ridge.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite ridge in the world, <a href="http://colinhendersonphoto.com/celtman-extreme-scottish-triathlon/">Colin Henderson Photography</a></td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-51272620008470900682016-01-01T07:18:00.002-08:002016-01-01T07:18:31.181-08:002015 Season of Extreme Triathlon, the movie!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy NewYear everyone, 2015 was an unforgettable year of amazing racing, ups, downs, highs and lows! Steve from <a href="http://www.movieit.co.uk/">MovieIt</a> brought his cameras out training, racing and supporting throughout the season and also found time to put together this amazing video with the footage he collected. Ignore the guy talking, he much prefers running up mountains than talking to the camera but enjoy Steve's superb footage and the scenery. </div>
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Super psyched for 2016 now! Huge thank you to you all for following and supporting my journey, it means a lot. Hope you enjoy the film. </div>
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/bFbsJm6NNOk/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bFbsJm6NNOk?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-45727797786870886522015-12-28T14:16:00.002-08:002015-12-28T14:16:30.346-08:002016 Extreme season, do what you have always done, get what you have always got...Its that time of year again, I have that restless, excited feeling and next seasons plans are coming together. I love it and cannot wait, even for the swimming pool timetable to get back to normal, honest! I remember this point last year, looking forward to <a href="http://cxtri.com/">Celtman</a> and <a href="http://nxtri.com/">Norseman</a>, not entirely sure I would make the start of the Norseman so soon after Celtman and be in any shape to race. Only way to answer that question was to try and it worked out just fine. It led to an amazing year of training, racing and learning, new friendships, experiences and opportunities. The bigger the challenge the richer the experience, that's certainly been true so far, guess there is no reason to stop now!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlXGoTb2O5GLNQhpPXC75OOXdb5j5Kp_M7nmMZkpYunFRE_9usXxgtH9ohumkZLAXpod5koxllfdaUM4DCG2yJUGSNYPBeBryyXt38Be8ougLBc1Tv0uaXzENQ9Ohmg64iX78-4asrAI/s1600/Torridon+bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlXGoTb2O5GLNQhpPXC75OOXdb5j5Kp_M7nmMZkpYunFRE_9usXxgtH9ohumkZLAXpod5koxllfdaUM4DCG2yJUGSNYPBeBryyXt38Be8ougLBc1Tv0uaXzENQ9Ohmg64iX78-4asrAI/s400/Torridon+bike.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">April training camp, Torridon, Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.lakedistrictimages.com/#!/index">LakeDistrict Images</a></td></tr>
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The past few months have seen a big change and rethink in my training, massive thanks to <a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/our-team">BlairDavies Coaching</a> for this, if you are considering coaching for the coming season I cannot recommend him enough. The problem is if you keep doing the same things over and over again, the benefits and gains become less and less. We all know that but it takes a real leap of faith to move away from what we know and feel comfortable with, take a risk or two and allow ourselves to grow, which is what this is all about for me. <div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2KIj0BW8OsloxTbW-Dztf61IMcJFgOBtPpHpCpF4MXklwyU4UqxMpt1k4mwAvzFrypCNrFBfGEs9d5S0W7Ng0BsgvFwUDbzbXC1aytsWCOujxMV8P0FHCJ7gJJv2nN_yG9wgesAtJag/s1600/zone+3+bowhill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2KIj0BW8OsloxTbW-Dztf61IMcJFgOBtPpHpCpF4MXklwyU4UqxMpt1k4mwAvzFrypCNrFBfGEs9d5S0W7Ng0BsgvFwUDbzbXC1aytsWCOujxMV8P0FHCJ7gJJv2nN_yG9wgesAtJag/s320/zone+3+bowhill.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting out of the comfort zone, a duathlon over in 40mins!</td></tr>
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There in lies the amazing thing about a coach, it takes out the guess work and things really do change, if you want them to and are willing to commit. Blair took one look at my training and seasons race results, we talked and answer became clear. I had no top end, a one speed diesel engine that is in desperate need of super charging. Turns out its a great base to build on, all those hours riding/running long and slow up big hills every week had done a good job of this but the kick needed to be in the race at the end or take control was non existent. So the last few months and the early season race plan are all about that, super charging as Blair calls it. Its working but as with all good things it will take time, one thing is training feels fresh again. I love running fast, could not remember the last time I had done 60 sec intervals flat out, with 90secs rest! Yes, more time resting than running during a session, but I can assure you its needed! Increasing cadence has been a big point, economizing as much as possible so the speed gained can be carried through to longer races. Initially I worried about a loss in endurance due to less volume and duration but now I can see this will not be the case. We have simple removed the junk miles (I really understand what this means now!) and increased the quality of training whilst really working on weakness's.</div>
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I guess if you have any doubts on this strategy you could always ask Johann Hasslemark, winner of Celtman 2014 how he prepared for the race and set the course record.</div>
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<a href="http://www.iamintosports.com/blog/2014/10/29/race-report-celtman-2014-johan-hasselmark">Click here</a> for a superb insight from the big man him self, I had seen this but have to admit I was not ready to listen or commit but that's ok, I think I am ready now.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipBNMoorSeS4zubHANnJnmWcBoRM5VUsdlmpej91ZM_-ZMoehNVcH-JQGZffD7nFr7KDe6OhY8C7FhDhuniyGsbtuwWzSZS0UZnnRAZ5o3upCRBUqj0oqx96uRZR6A5I4VbN-zyaPXJyQ/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipBNMoorSeS4zubHANnJnmWcBoRM5VUsdlmpej91ZM_-ZMoehNVcH-JQGZffD7nFr7KDe6OhY8C7FhDhuniyGsbtuwWzSZS0UZnnRAZ5o3upCRBUqj0oqx96uRZR6A5I4VbN-zyaPXJyQ/s320/photo.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Now this change does take a little sacrifice, I love running up big hills quite slowly, training in rough conditions and toughing it out for hours in the elements. This is a useful skill and has to be learnt like anything else but its what I have always done, so maybe I am good at it which makes it the easiest option. So my traditional approach to winter training this year will be very different, flipped on its head with the help and guidance of <a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/our-team">Blair</a> and the inspiration from the big man from Sweden. I am currently trying my best to take an "I know nothing" (dodgy Spanish accent of course) approach and leave my comforts behind. This of course does not mean I cant occasionally head into the mountains for battle, recent trips to the high country or blasts out on the MTB have been all that much sweeter as a result, like a pilgrimage in a way :) Best thing is I seem to be traveling up the hills faster, a recent PB on my favorite local hill, despite very little hill running shows me this, maybe that coach does know what hes doing after all! Why no take a chance this season, change it up a bit, open the mind, it might make all the difference?</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdY0Cmyst2Pv1fm6pKN3EFbU5Pvhyphenhyphen6LzMjdva0rj4TRWIF8y3JKXz7rAaHztFtKEGPSheHr3mhKTKNVMOF7cHPTQn68wqoGgnqVAxnHyLV4BixhoOenkVeVEDR62-r9CeUBaTXcMH6VwU/s1600/the+high+country.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdY0Cmyst2Pv1fm6pKN3EFbU5Pvhyphenhyphen6LzMjdva0rj4TRWIF8y3JKXz7rAaHztFtKEGPSheHr3mhKTKNVMOF7cHPTQn68wqoGgnqVAxnHyLV4BixhoOenkVeVEDR62-r9CeUBaTXcMH6VwU/s320/the+high+country.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the High Country, Dec 2015, <a href="http://www.lakedistrictimages.com/#!/index">LakeDistrict Images</a></td></tr>
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If you are considering coaching, be sure to check out Blair, drop him a line or check out his website, he has a superb <a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/triathlon-training">2 week free trial</a> option and offers a true 1/1, bespoke program looking at all aspects of training, recovery, nutrition and racing. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-43261552121537803142015-10-02T04:26:00.000-07:002015-10-05T02:21:53.954-07:00Loch Gu Loch, swimming, running and a tale to tell!<br /><div class="MsoNormal">
I first came across the slightly mad cap sport of SwimRun
after spotting some pictures of the famous <a href="http://www.otilloswimrun.se/">OtillO</a> race in Sweden in an article somewhere,
about the world’s most extreme races. Something grabbed my attention, people
emerging from the sea clad in shorty wetsuits with paddles and pull buoys,
running across some pretty rough looking terrain onto the next swim with a team
point to point format and a great background story. I knew I had to give it a
go.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Fast forward to late 2014 and I hear rumours of a new event
in Scotland, with the same team behind it that brought us the Celtman. <a href="http://lochguloch.com/">Loch Gu Loch</a>, 8km of
swimming, 47km of running in a point to point race based around Loch Ness in
the Highlands of Scotland. A good friend
Stuart Macleod has also been out to OtillO this year, he’s done an event or two
and from his reports I knew this SwimRun thing had to be done. Stuart agreed to
race with me and show me the ropes, to be honest I could not think of anyone I would
rather do the event with so it was amazing when he agreed. It was a long wait
but Sep 26<sup>th</sup> came round soon enough.</div>
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I had a lot of fun along the way to the event trying
different kit, techniques and getting lots of strange looks running around Ambleside
or the Coniston fells in a <a href="http://www.racezone3.com/evolution-swim-run-wetsuit.html">wetsuit</a>. <a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/">Blair</a> also set some interesting and
challenging SwimRun specific swim sets for me, involving very little legs and lots
of paddles. Part of the appeal is the sport is so new there really are not hard
and fast rules about kit and training, it’s still developing but very quickly.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimoIyhosR4-XV7UtSfEIEKLF0VFDBNFVSLRDTif8rRJYMS9q5LeEbG8zF0GsH5qPtLkijZ7gQ_FBnjJ9R-IKMhUiqBGCzY2hUsjE-LUGB5sfMg6ulUPaMtAAT6WTWNwZymNxNV23bEnAc/s1600/10553309_1626529487625157_1651378651990538212_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimoIyhosR4-XV7UtSfEIEKLF0VFDBNFVSLRDTif8rRJYMS9q5LeEbG8zF0GsH5qPtLkijZ7gQ_FBnjJ9R-IKMhUiqBGCzY2hUsjE-LUGB5sfMg6ulUPaMtAAT6WTWNwZymNxNV23bEnAc/s320/10553309_1626529487625157_1651378651990538212_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Team training wise, in true Half Arsed Cowboy fashion, me
and Stuart had a quick chat on the phone a week before and then met on the lawn
outside the Highland Club the night before the race, fully clad in race kit and
went for a run. We figured the swim bit could wait for the morning, there would
be 8km of it after all. I knew then we were in for an adventure and no matter
what happened we would have a great day together, we both wanted to race hard but
it was about the experience rather than the outcome, a good place to be as a
team.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihcWynTp6QrD-zBdE1kWtiSD2cE7wBsjZxV_TRWyBWSKfiEFNwT4hTwC5CipTUNdFTu5F9_ZCnrhNE6ckEG9nk1-KB-OKwVDazg_4GOQAyv7EhmadYcHcljGECy0yUfkHjk0hBp4bdnRA/s1600/12033088_1642773222667450_5971512257253859682_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihcWynTp6QrD-zBdE1kWtiSD2cE7wBsjZxV_TRWyBWSKfiEFNwT4hTwC5CipTUNdFTu5F9_ZCnrhNE6ckEG9nk1-KB-OKwVDazg_4GOQAyv7EhmadYcHcljGECy0yUfkHjk0hBp4bdnRA/s320/12033088_1642773222667450_5971512257253859682_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The race starts with a ferry ride to Urquart Castle on the
shores of Loch Ness, a fitting start for the race. Stuart is a little disappointed
we are not heading out on a stinky open topped fishing trawler, the ferry is a
little comfortable for his liking and is even serving coffee. Pre-race banter
is great and catching up with friends from various events and meeting others
passes the time. Tales of 10 degree water fills the ferry, a piper greets us
ashore as we head down to the water’s edge for the race start. I am one of the
first to test the water, its cold but that’s what we signed up for. A 3, 2, 1
count down and the race is off!<o:p></o:p></div>
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I am a big fan of learning on the job, it’s hard to simulate
the added pressure of racing in training so I am glad to get this one out the way
at the start of the race! In SwimRun it is usual practice to use a tether for
the swims, so you don’t lose your partner. Stuart got us a great start, going
out hard but as we settle down the cord get wrapped around my wrist, due to the
paddle on my hand I can’t remove it! I tug on the cord, we stop and I managed
to get freed up. Pleased to say it’s the only time it happened, experiential
learning usually does the trick. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We come out of the water and find out we are only 3mins back
on the race leaders, a bit of a surprise as I think we expected more. The first
run is 9km with a very gradual climb through a forest track, game plan is to
run hard on all the long sections to make up for time lost on the swims. We soon
find the front of the race, Ewan and Stuart, Bonnie and Graeme, the banter
begins. The German team of Andre and Burkhard soon join us, everyone looks
smooth and strong and it’s clear this is where the race is at. It stays close
for the next 4hrs, all 4 teams are pushing hard, its great racing. Slowly but
certainly hard won, me and Stuart open up a small gap, which grows on 16km run
section. We know the stronger swimming teams are coming back at us on the swims
so we have to suffer on the long runs to gain time, but all the teams could run
too! We never felt safe and had to keep the pressure on.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The journey this race takes covers a vast variety of terrain
and landscape, forest, trail, tarmac and all the Loch’s have their own character,
rocky shores, bogginess and island crossings. It adds an extra dimension to
share this this a team mate, me and Stuart are focussed, hurting but enjoying
every minute of it. The marshals at swim exits/entry points and aid stations
are doing an amazing job too. We also keep coming across a<a href="https://swimrunuk.wordpress.com/"> loud guy</a> flying
round in a white van blaring what I think is Michael Jackson music who gives us
occasional but welcome abuse ;). </div>
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At Loch Tarf, the 2<sup>nd</sup> to last swim and only 7km
from the finish line, after around 6hrs30 racing its good news to find out we
have the gap we wanted, it’s still tight but should be enough if we keep the
pressure on. The Loch Tarf swim is awesome, short swims visiting and crossing
the various islands, rough ground and the feeling that the finish is near. It
finishes with a 30-40m of bog snorkelling trip and I can’t help but smile when
the legs cramp trying to get out. Now only have a 6km run and 1km swim left.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is where the tale becomes interesting, tired but still
pushing hard we miss a direction sign, heading the wrong way now. It’s a while
before we realise the mistake, no course marking for a while and we get that
sinking feeling that we have blown it. It’s ok though, we can just get the map
out, sort it and get back on track. Stuart’s reaction as he gets our map out of
my pack is telling, it’s wet, soaked and unreadable. We have no idea which way
to head but can see the Loch below, just maybe we can get back on track if we
head for it. The trod we are following soon turns into a steep, rocky hillside,
no sign of any paths, but we are pretty much at the Loch’s edge. Running soon
turns to walking, then clambering and we are starting to cool down rapidly. We
pop out on the rocky shoreline and can see the finish, but it’s at least 3km
away. The shoreline is so rocky and craggy that we try swimming, it’s quicker
to move but too cold as we have lost all our heat. Soon a boat turns up and we
are back on the opposite shoreline in a couple of mins, freezing cold but happy
to not be clambering any more and trying to swim. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Not the end we would have wanted but the amazing thing is,
it really does not matter. The best bit about this experience was racing with
my team mate, sharing the highs and lows, suffering, smiling and working so
well together in this amazing environment. So no matter what happens, you can’t
take the best stuff away, we gave our all, missed a sign and that’s racing. We weren't
in it for a t-shirt or medal so all’s good and we have a story to tell that’s way
more interesting than the usual race report! <o:p></o:p></div>
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So near yet so far but smiling all the way to the end, as it
should be. The Cowboys will ride again, just like in the films. <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Thanks to the Bonnie, Graham, Andre, Burkhard, Ewan and
Stuart for the racing and smiles and congratulations to everyone who finished
and attempted this tough race. Of course without the many marshals who gave up
there time it could not happen and you guys made the adventure possible. I am
sure this race will become a future must do extreme race in the future.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If anyone fancies a SwimRun <a href="https://www.facebook.com/swimrunscotland/photos/a.610977535674739.1073741828.610675102371649/724616004310891/?type=3&theater">adventure</a>, there are some great
events cropping up around the country so <a href="http://www.brecaswimrun.com/">seek</a> and you shall <a href="https://swimrunuk.wordpress.com/">find</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Just a quick note I think important to add. The course
marking was overall excellent and the event superbly professionally organised,
me and Stuart were never in any danger and were very quickly located due to the
GPS tracking provided by the race organisers. <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-69917091377231477552015-08-26T07:14:00.002-07:002015-08-26T07:14:43.819-07:00Zone 3 Lava kit review I have been meaning to add a few gear reviews to the blog, people often ask about the stuff I use and its true that most of the races really put it to the test. First up then!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqRVQj94wQja3deqehJYe1j9guLvuDHzDYYCVCxiQ_Aizrk_LVjom4BR1RxnO5As9Sgi1JRrOwFhO__AmrPwkMNnZIsxflPjG07beBClVp3VbgFptX9iuCJTVMXNj2ArD2LgmtUqIY7qo/s1600/whinlatter%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqRVQj94wQja3deqehJYe1j9guLvuDHzDYYCVCxiQ_Aizrk_LVjom4BR1RxnO5As9Sgi1JRrOwFhO__AmrPwkMNnZIsxflPjG07beBClVp3VbgFptX9iuCJTVMXNj2ArD2LgmtUqIY7qo/s320/whinlatter%2521.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It did come back white again, honest! Whinlater Duathlon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://www.racezone3.com/zone3-long-distance-lava-trisuit.html">Zone 3 Lava kit</a>-<br />
<br />
I have been racing and training in this kit for the past 2 seasons and have to say I can only sing its praises. The main focus of my racing season tends to be long distance, off road, extreme style triathlons and can be racing for up to 12hrs and beyond so I think its fair to say that the kit has been well and truly put to the test, not to mention the hours on the turbo and race simulation sessions.<br />
<br />
If I found it was not working, or it let me down I simply would not be using it, but it does work, superbly. I have used it for Celtman, Norseman, Slateman and various off road duathlons<br />
involving mountain biking, mud and very tough conditions, plus training sessions.<br />
<br />
Its available in a suit or short and top combo, I love both and have been using the top for swimrun training the past few weeks in conjunction with the new <a href="http://www.racezone3.com/products/mens-wetsuits/evolution-swim-run-wetsuit.html">Evolution</a> wetsuit.<br />
Personally I prefer to race in the suit, but find the shorts great for the turbo and brick sessions.<br />
<br />
So what is it I like so much about this kit and would I change anything about it if I could?<br />
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Fit-<br />
<br />
No doubt about it the fit of the suit it great. What I look for is kit that I forget I am wearing, I dont need to mess about adjusting it and fiddling whilst racing. I just want to put it on and race. To achieve this you need athlete led attention to detail in design, great materials and quality construction.<br />
<br />
It fits snuggly but is not restrictive in any way with no lose material. I have never suffered from any chafing during a race despite 12hrs of hard racing wearing the suit from start to finish. Nice features are the wider shoulder straps, they spread the load nice to prevent digging in and also provide extra sun protection. The legs also seem to have room for my ample long distance/mountain runners thighs without feeling tight or restrictive. The front zip is great for ventilating and has a nice material backing strip so it does not dig in or chafe.<br />
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Materials-<br />
<br />
The suit uses a few different materials which shows the attention to detail. A super soft but hard wearing fabric is used on the legs, it feels like a very light compression fabric and gives a little support without feeling restrictive. My original pair of shorts from over 2 years ago are still going strong and not showing signs of wear in the seat/inside of leg area that gets the most abuse, I have worn through other brands in less than 6 months before. This brings us nicely to the chamois, arguably the most important component of a long distance suit, if that aint comfy you are in for a tough day! Well I have found it is great, a quality CyTech product, good for 202km and 6hrs in the saddle and I dont notice it whilst out on the run after.<br />
<br />
The upper part of the suit is made from a lighter fabric that dries super fast and also provides a little support but is much thinner than that used on the legs. Again its easy to forget you have the suit on. The choice of white helps prevent overheating but it also gives great protection from the sun, believe it or not it was very sunny on the run at this years Norseman and I had no issues with sunburn or temperature regulation.<br />
<br />
Features and Construction-<br />
<br />
Its easy to take the last two categories for granted once the suit is on, but when you are racing, in my opinion its the features and design that make or break a great product.<br />
<br />
Every pocket needs to be placed perfectly and be the right size/shape to make it usable in every kind of condition. It sounds simple but its an area that many suits fail to deliver on. No matter how tired or covered in mud I have been racing off road duathlons or triathlons, I have never struggled to get to nutrition or find a pocket to stash empty wrappers.<br />
<br />
The rear pockets are slightly angled for ease of access and plenty big enough, you can actually fit a waterproof race cape/gillet easily into one of the pockets, perfect for changeable conditions. I have also never lost anything from them, testament to the fit, fabrics and the overall design. The two leg pockets work fantastically for storing wrappers, less chance of ending up littering trying to fiddle them in round the back, or worse still storing them inside the legs covering you in sticky gel leftovers.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiJgUSqmBeGNKHurHN9_iSH2bXVqqbRWet92sCntLyc_ToG55HOD-funJIp-Hn05D9VaVmhSy-5v-Kio57Vf9EKnRuGfmy_0equeA8zFvAe178UntnonOfYdRbg4ILQ2XUMEJhOSyM0Z4/s1600/Norseman7-1821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiJgUSqmBeGNKHurHN9_iSH2bXVqqbRWet92sCntLyc_ToG55HOD-funJIp-Hn05D9VaVmhSy-5v-Kio57Vf9EKnRuGfmy_0equeA8zFvAe178UntnonOfYdRbg4ILQ2XUMEJhOSyM0Z4/s400/Norseman7-1821.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Ultimate Long Distance Test, Norseman 2015</td></tr>
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<br />
Simple things but they mean the suit just works. Flat-lock seams throughout keeps the suit comfortable, fitted and fast.<br />
<br />
To sum it up, from an athletes perspective that has really put the product through its paces, it has all the hallmarks of the rest of the athlete driven Zone3 range and it just works!<br />
It has never let me down and so far seems to be indestructible. I believe a ladies version is on its way for 2016, not too many women's specific long distance suits out there so its about time.<br />
<br />
One thing I would not change a thing about the suit, but would love to see a short sleeved type suit in the future.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-58897291434820514322015-08-18T06:43:00.000-07:002015-08-18T06:48:54.293-07:00Update, SwimRun training, Loch Gu LochWell its been an interesting few weeks since Norway, still have that buzz from the awesome day at Norseman but also felt a little lost and needed a bit more time off than usual to get the legs and mind ready for more training. To be honest I expected it, carrying training and keeping motivated from Celtman to Norseman in 5 weeks was always going to be a challenge and this was part of the appeal.<br />
<br />
I took 6 days off completely, dosed up on <a href="http://www.healthcurrancy.co.uk/">CurraNZ</a> and enjoyed the feeling of satisfaction that comes after a big event, not wanting to rush onto the next thing and just let things naturally take course. It took around 2 weeks in total and I can now say I feel ready to train again, although with a slightly more relaxed approach. Luckily the next race of the season is something completely new to me and coincided with the arrival of the new <a href="http://www.racezone3.com/evolution-swim-run-wetsuit.html">Zone3 Evolution SwimRun</a> wetsuit!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOcbJOOJHtlIhtQMHaP6mJdqpu_8zCdrL-jjOTEmx-Jx1K6lOkVljUTNegXNXaY5Us_KSRzcmK5O14_beRyB9USkbRkuRixw6slAYXiL2vLryHBa4US7gBs1unHly6OlvZmRAEalLnYg/s1600/levens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOcbJOOJHtlIhtQMHaP6mJdqpu_8zCdrL-jjOTEmx-Jx1K6lOkVljUTNegXNXaY5Us_KSRzcmK5O14_beRyB9USkbRkuRixw6slAYXiL2vLryHBa4US7gBs1unHly6OlvZmRAEalLnYg/s320/levens.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SwimRun heaven, Levens Water, Coniston fells</td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
So I now have a new way to enjoy the hills, trails and mountain tarns of the LakeDistrict, things just get better and better. So if you see a guy running about in the Ambleside/Coniston area, in a shortie wet suit, its probably me!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6-QqddWE7AzbsEZ11GY69K-K-jA3ZDsUjSQypV9izjd2poy2BIQVDljxG_rvMjEIbw2if9l0GJX3JLLulj9ugr1d-JHcCSNQV2N3SigDGlvkV4MgBCpCroQ-he4sLzL6Pr2kAi2Ep_vg/s1600/swimrun4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6-QqddWE7AzbsEZ11GY69K-K-jA3ZDsUjSQypV9izjd2poy2BIQVDljxG_rvMjEIbw2if9l0GJX3JLLulj9ugr1d-JHcCSNQV2N3SigDGlvkV4MgBCpCroQ-he4sLzL6Pr2kAi2Ep_vg/s320/swimrun4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goats Water below the shadowy Dow crag, its cold!</td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
Yesterday I gave the suit its first proper test with roughly 15km running and 2km swimming in a journey starting on the shores of Coniston Lake, taking in Levens Water, Swirl Howe and Goats Water. A good first outing but plenty of potential up this way with a bit more creativity!<br />
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="405" scrolling="no" src="https://www.strava.com/activities/371294024/embed/1d03caf95f8c57dba50cc8c122adb3d659c20e55" width="590"></iframe>
<br />
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<br />
Its fun trying stuff out and part of the appeal of this new sport/adventure. You have to be fully self sufficient and need to balance this with being able to move as freely as possible in the hills. It reminds me a bit of alpine climbing in a way, you need just enough to keep safe and allow you to complete the route but not so much as to encumber and slow progress.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evolution Swim Run Suit!! Awesome.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocTkBX79-DbUMAVLO9WsQ1yx89yCcTzZLIocDa-jjcSX-SMTFR3lxnI-jBtkdcv62kF6_HYPqrDLe7Qlrs-2DJkjCgH81WXeZVRAhpRcPnnVuUv2huNSseLreYSwAkArR3ev-w2JI0oI/s1600/swimrun2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocTkBX79-DbUMAVLO9WsQ1yx89yCcTzZLIocDa-jjcSX-SMTFR3lxnI-jBtkdcv62kF6_HYPqrDLe7Qlrs-2DJkjCgH81WXeZVRAhpRcPnnVuUv2huNSseLreYSwAkArR3ev-w2JI0oI/s320/swimrun2.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
Luckily the new suit is designed specially for the sport in conjunction with a previous winner of the OtillO race, so a fantastic job has been done. The super flexible legs are very easy to run in, bit like a pair of compression shorts and can be turned up to regulate temperature and give more freedom of movement. Its is fantastic to swim in, super flexible around the shoulders has good buoyancy without being bulky and restrictive. The 'Rocket Pocket' round the back is a great place to quickly store goggles and swim hat for the longer run sections and the suit also has 2 smaller pockets in the front, ideal for gels etc. It comes with some 8mm calf guards, these make swimming with shoes on easy enough with having to use a pull buoy, so one less thing to faff with and give the added bonus of shin protection when you are exiting the water and slip, which you will! Saved me a few cuts and bruises for sure! I also found shoes can be stuffed in the small of the back for longer swims, for instance the 2km start of <a href="http://lochguloch.com/">Loch Gu Loch.</a><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEn02oa2Fficro0rNkoe-rXA04cErDITp7Sc3Rgj82HjwtzqKElXQ_apIUbwK78SQ0_OL4nbf-OusrdnPgbr8VbiJDDqPGm_O4nP2L0tlmqJ6rVa3pqYop9dIBEMn0dMJt6MNv7anLJE8/s1600/swimrun3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEn02oa2Fficro0rNkoe-rXA04cErDITp7Sc3Rgj82HjwtzqKElXQ_apIUbwK78SQ0_OL4nbf-OusrdnPgbr8VbiJDDqPGm_O4nP2L0tlmqJ6rVa3pqYop9dIBEMn0dMJt6MNv7anLJE8/s320/swimrun3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SwimRun test kit :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Other stuff I have tried are my <a href="http://www.lasportiva.com/en/mountain-running/mountain-running-footwear-man/search-for-distance/short-distance/short-distance-details/categories/295/products/anakonda-1/?tt_products%5BbackPID%5D=2490&cHash=773e67f3ec122761fc80aa4d6dad9c37#.VdM0I_lVhBc">La Sportiva Anakonda</a> fell shoes, mega grip, fast draining and more than enough protection for the roughest of terrain. Injinji toe socks seems to work really well, no probs with toes wet and rubbing. Also tried using an <a href="http://www.ultimatedirection.com/p-628-ak-race-vest-20.aspx?cid=hp_sigseries-AK_flipper3">UD Anton Krupicka</a> race vest under the suit, replace the bottles with a small 250-500ml soft flask and it works fine as its so small and light you hardly notice its there swimming and I like the idea of having quick access to gels etc without having to dig around in the suit. Whatever its great fun trying stuff and sure I will whittle it down and keep things as simple as possible!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Also planning for next season is well underway with the help of <a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/">Blair Davies</a>, also know as Supercoach, we did some swim analysis, via skype which was invaluable and are planning to super charge the diesel engine for next season, as it seems to take me about 4hrs to get warmed up at the moment :)<br />
<br />
Another cool development, great to be working with <a href="http://www.striptsnacks.com/">StriptSnacks</a> as a member of <a href="http://www.striptsnacks.com/blogs/team-stript">TeamStript</a>. Amazing all natural, additive free protein snacks, its hard to find products like this so great to be part of the team.<br />
<br />
If anyone has any hints tips etc for swim run please contact me and same if anyone has any questions about stuff I am trying. Be great to hear from you.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-88783447810848899212015-08-07T04:28:00.001-07:002015-08-07T04:28:31.340-07:00Norseman 2015 Race ReportWell its nearly a week since the race and I am still getting my head round what an amazing experience<a href="http://www.nxtri.com/"> Norseman </a>Extreme gave, it did not disappoint in any way and the worst thing is I know the race will never be the same again. I had quite a few first's heading out to Norway, no first hand knowledge of the course and not a clue how the race would go after the <a href="http://www.cxtri.com/">Celtman</a> 5 weeks before. To put it simply it felt like a real adventure, a journey with an uncertain outcome and the environment, scenery and high level of competition only added to the sense of this.<br />
<br />
I had no idea really how I would perform but I did set two goals before leaving for Norway, I wanted to enjoy the race and I wanted my amazing support crew to enjoy the day too. Whatever happened this was the priority, something that seems so obvious but can so often be lost in the heat of competition, months of training and drive for good results on paper or PB's. This is the race that got me inspired to take up triathlon in 2012, just making it to the start line was an achievement, if you told me or in fact probably anyone who knew me 15 years ago I would be here, it would be a 'No Chance!'. My support crew of Steve and Jo had been at Celtman and many other races this season and last, also there for all the training so a good day is the least I owed them. It was a time to enjoy the experience.<br />
<br />
<img height="320" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtp1/v/t1.0-9/11223795_10155908568555188_7005201083948732959_n.jpg?oh=0573f9b912ed6077f88613784dfec9c2&oe=56835136" width="240" /><img height="320" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/11817085_10155908567830188_6980165109208897552_n.jpg?oh=e5f8d072d3dd30b631ba4af10e91fe5d&oe=56428420" width="240" /><br />
<br />
Pre-race<br />
<br />
I have to admit I was pretty nervous and hyped up for a while, being selected as an elite I felt I had a pressure to perform, something new to me. I felt like I had to go out and earn my place, maybe I did, but this was not the way to approach this race, not for a first visit anyway. Of course there was the fact its Norseman! The worlds hardest Ironman, with probably the worlds hardest competitors and in one of the worlds harshest environments etc etc. Who wouldn't feel intimidated, perhaps its healthy to be? One piece of advice from a very good friend and 3 time Norseman, Stuart McLeod settled me. 'Chris, its just a bunch of people getting together to do something fun, race hard but enjoy the moment'. A great bit of advice for anyone heading out to Norseman.<br />
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Packing a bike for flying was a first and a bit of an epic. After 1hr30mins and a lot of worrying it was finally in the box, ready to go on a plane, to be lost, at least that's what I thought till we arrived in Norway and I got it back. Hopefully it was not in broken bits inside, another worry. All good though!<br />
<br />
We drove the bike course backwards to get to Eidfjord, I would recommend this to anyone racing if you get the chance. By the time we reached the Hardangervidda plateau, ready to drop down to Eidfjord the bike course had my full respect and I mean that. It needs it, seriously, the climbs are long, its either up or down and most of the bike course is above 600m height.<br />
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Tricamp at Eidfjord was a great experience, good facilities and I thought easy enough to relax and focus on the task at hand. Bike built and not broken, it was time to test out the water in the fjord. An unusually snowy winter meant lots of melt water still flowing down from the mountains and very cold water, just 10-10.5 degrees. It felt warmer further so one less thing to worry about. I used a <a href="http://www.racezone3.com/">Zone3</a> neoprene vest, booties and cap along with a <a href="http://www.racezone3.com/men-s-victory-d-wetsuit.html">VictoryD</a> wetsuit. I find with this combo I stay warm enough, even in water down to 8.5 degrees. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thorxtri?fref=ts">Thor 'The Hammer' Hesselberg </a>arrived on Friday and I caught up with <a href="http://www.graemestewart.com/">Graeme Stewart</a> too, it was good to see some friendly faces.<br />
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Eidfjord is beautiful and full of very friendly locals, we experienced the same everywhere we went in Norway, its an amazing country.<br />
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<img height="213" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtf1/v/t1.0-9/11828714_419954264863066_5435633767793795474_n.jpg?oh=32f055fad1844dd1d561ff0b6ebee96d&oe=564C41EC" width="320" /><br />
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The Ferry ride and Swim!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0BKeNryN8cs96LV0H2_xaD93MvhZFLzp2dBp3YBhkMZwTNTSr-sAbdY8bro5e0vjL2Q477LrjwTUoAiIxX8BFQn-lFD_GH_P1aeuRaQ-uRbQbivdArygUt_rDxjpJcR5Rhz_kFdajI_E/s1600/Norseman7-1220012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0BKeNryN8cs96LV0H2_xaD93MvhZFLzp2dBp3YBhkMZwTNTSr-sAbdY8bro5e0vjL2Q477LrjwTUoAiIxX8BFQn-lFD_GH_P1aeuRaQ-uRbQbivdArygUt_rDxjpJcR5Rhz_kFdajI_E/s320/Norseman7-1220012.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
Alarm call at 2am, coffee, bread, jam and it was time to head down to set up T1 and finally board the ferry. The swim has been shortened, a little disappointed but I do not blame them, safety comes first and I would not ever want anyone to be hurt or worse. I sat with Graeme and Thor on the journey, its was nice to pass the time chatting. The atmosphere on the ferry is something else, heading down onto deck, hoses spraying water and everyone warming up etc. Its gets you psyched, I loved it and when it came time to jump there was no hesitation. One worry was loosing the goggles, but a hand over them protected during the jump and all was fine. The cold water certainly woke me up.<br />
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The swim start was a little hectic, I got kicked in the eye and could not see great but decided to just carry on and put up with it. During the swim I could see the mountains rising from the Fjord, the swimmers around me and the smiling started. This was it, Norseman, I was actually doing it! I settled down and took it pretty steady, knowing it was a long day ahead. When I got out Jo met me and ran to T1, pretty sure I said that it was amazing, time for the bike.<br />
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<img height="213" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/t31.0-8/11823092_1688804811352613_9150880969175225606_o.jpg" width="320" /><br />
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The Bike<br />
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It kicks off with a monster climb, up onto the plateau, never steep but very long. I knew it would be easy to blow the race here, so I settled down and watched my HR, riding conservatively. Up top was unreal, a snow covered plateau it reminded me of the North West Highlands, the small lakes were still frozen over and I started to feel the cold, Arm warmers, gillet and gloves were added to my <a href="http://www.fusionsportsuk.co.uk/triathlon/competition/fusion-speed-top">Fusion Speed Top</a> and they stayed on for the whole time. The wind was kind, although cold it did not feel too windy. Again I could just not stop smiling, beautiful scenery and well surfaced open roads made for exhilarating descending. I made sure to eat plenty and always keep something in reserve, waiting for the final climb up to Imingfjell, that comes at around 140km, the steepest of the day. I steadily made my way up through the field, passing others who had passed me early on. I felt strong all day, on every climb, until the last! It was tough, as the picture shows. People were out on the course supporting the whole way, the race obviously means a lot to them too, it was pretty amazing. My support crew did a great job, feeding me, keeping me updated on position and looked to be enjoying themselves too. The final climb opens out onto another plateau and drags before a 40km descent to T2 and the only rough road on the course. I had a moment here, hitting a bump at very high speed and landing in the middle of two, whilst down on the bars. I gripped tight and prayed, may have even closed my eyes. I took it a little steadier after this into transition!<br />
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The help from the guys over at<a href="http://www.elevensprocket.com/"> ElevenSprocket</a>, Rich, Chris and Matt with my bike set up were invaluable, none of the issues from Celtman, the fit was great.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgufhRDmMt4kqR3YhCF_KOgyOHxx5i-Bpruu1MuSOeGdxh_yCHUms6dK4gvn2FX96Uq6D93PX0jW9Emh1mrzhnfmiQX_U-1-_COR22tWjqVLWdsdLGKKjBp1GfcS76_v9_SRwE4O92QUZA/s1600/Norseman7-1220599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgufhRDmMt4kqR3YhCF_KOgyOHxx5i-Bpruu1MuSOeGdxh_yCHUms6dK4gvn2FX96Uq6D93PX0jW9Emh1mrzhnfmiQX_U-1-_COR22tWjqVLWdsdLGKKjBp1GfcS76_v9_SRwE4O92QUZA/s400/Norseman7-1220599.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hardangavidda</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="213" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/11223552_1623102477967858_3940198786572943747_n.jpg?oh=b1bbf606164e044400bdae882c0b3c62&oe=5653E21C" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You guessed it, Imingfjell!</td></tr>
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The Run<br />
<br />
My legs felt pretty good coming into T2 and my support crew had everything ready so a quick transition had me out onto the run. You can break it down into 3 parts, 25km on the road, no it ain't quite flat, more rolling, 12km Zombie hill then the final 5km off road section to Gaustatoppen at 1800m. I have never ran 25km of tarmac in a triathlon so was not sure how it would go and pacing would be a little difficult. I set off at what felt steady and felt good for at least the first 15km. I made up 4 places before hitting Zombie hill, so I guess my bike pacing was good. I switched to drinking coke, water and a few shotblocks, easy on the stomach and it kept me going. After a while it started to bite though, my pace slowed and it became a mental battle to keep going. I was actually looking forward to the change in angle at the hill, strangely! My support crew leap frogged me every 2-3km and I looked forward to seeing them each time. By the time I reached Zombie hill, I was unsure how much I would be able to run. My support crew left to go to the mountain checkpoint, leaving me with supplies and knowing you now had aid stations. Steve told me to keep it in the granny gear and just keep tapping it out. I did just that passing another competitor walking on the way up. Somewhere just before the first aid station after around 7km of uphill I really blew, everything hurt and I started to walk more. It was a relief when Steve ran back down the road and met me, so nice to have some company for the last 5km of road before the final push. Again support lined the course, the turnout was fantastic and we now also had our own personal Norwegian support crew, locals who had given Steve a lift back down the road to meet me. We passed a crowd of at least 25 people, wearing yellow Team Bob cycling tops who started cheering and singing as we passed, like I said its a surreal experience, especially as your physical state declines. We eventuality reached the mountain checkpoint, I had decided I wanted to finish on the top with Steve and Jo, who had been amazing all day, so we all began to make our way up the hill together. Graeme Stewart had told me its the type of race if that you think you have a mile and look over your shoulder and some one is there. It is, one of the competitors (<a href="http://www.ikherotri.com/gutta-2/kristian-nilsson/">Christian Nillson</a>) I passed heading up Zombie hill and another suddenly appeared on my shoulder below the summit. I lost these 2 places in the last 200m of the race, my legs buckled underneath me when I tried to push harder. its the first time that has ever happened in a race. Norseman had taken me to my limit, physically and mentally in that final 5km on the mountain. A perfect end.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="213" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/11831696_1623102427967863_7061346696424886784_n.jpg?oh=0b1170fb322aab92e82b1575d96ea916&oe=564C0C53" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gaustatoppen</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="213" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xta1/v/t1.0-9/11825972_1623102397967866_3229798399954305524_n.jpg?oh=0884d6b06d82275dc43458fecacf39b2&oe=564C4E19" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the run with Tom Remman, former winner, cruising to his 10th NXTRI</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvzyGHD2OvNhix5ZWgnOY95dF00kLQXie1LxnuD2pAIgU76JLUfLzjr9ZwoF4MXXeocl8Gq627xlGDiCBIKJsMcW2mdcDU3eS_bGYTpi2UNSEIybUqv7vSUOdJkDbRz320StklyvfFOFM/s1600/Norseman7-1827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvzyGHD2OvNhix5ZWgnOY95dF00kLQXie1LxnuD2pAIgU76JLUfLzjr9ZwoF4MXXeocl8Gq627xlGDiCBIKJsMcW2mdcDU3eS_bGYTpi2UNSEIybUqv7vSUOdJkDbRz320StklyvfFOFM/s320/Norseman7-1827.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nearly there!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I finished in 11hrs28 and in 21st position, I really feel this was the best performance I could have had on the day and most importantly my two main goals were met, we all enjoyed it!<br />
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After<br />
<br />
We stayed at the Youth Hostel, which was fantastic with an amazing view of Gaustatoppen until Monday, which gave time to reflect and enjoy the t-shirt ceremony etc. I enjoyed this but it was definitely all about the experience for me. The race slowly stripped me back until the very end and reminded me why I do this, it makes you feel alive. I think for this to happen you need a special place with a special atmosphere and Norway and its people provide that, ten fold with plenty to spare. This race is on everyone's bucket list, but how many put there names in the hat, maybe its time you did, you will not be disappointed?? I am pretty sure Steve and Jo enjoyed it to so I guess it was a job well done.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="240" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtf1/v/t1.0-9/11825782_1622107928067313_7300316227087835352_n.jpg?oh=8ebab240b063e1088d8cc6e9ae32229b&oe=56408B3C" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goodbye for now Norway :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Thank you to the volunteers and crew who make the race happen, the people of Norway from Moss Airport to Eidfjord and back who were all so friendly and amazing all the way and my fellow competitors who I enjoyed the experience with.<br />
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I know I wont ever get a first Norseman again, so I am currently enjoying a week off from training and letting it all sink in a process. Also really happy to complete both Celtman and Norseman in the same season, only 5 weeks apart, it shows my training worked. One thing I took is the bike strength of the athletes at the front and my motivation to get stronger and train harder is now bigger than ever.<br />
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Still plenty left this year though so stay tuned! <br />
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Amazing images are courtesy of <a href="http://www.lakedistrictimages.com/#!/index/G0000Pvlx5oWZKMA">Lake District Images</a>, thank you!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-62436785192885173122015-08-05T06:02:00.001-07:002015-08-05T07:15:15.305-07:00Norseman 2015 in photosWhat an unbelievable experience, Norseman did not disappoint, Norway was amazing and I hope to get the chance to go back again for another go but will not be expecting such a perfect day. There can be only 1 first Norseman and I will never forget mine, it was very special. My support crew were amazing, thanks Jo and Steve and so were the people of Norway, support lined the course the whole way, spread over 180km.<br />
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Full race report on the way, just processing the amazing day, but in the meantime I will leave you with a few photos from an amazing day. You can check out the full gallery at <a href="http://www.lakedistrictimages.com/#!/index/G0000Pvlx5oWZKMA">www.lakedistrictimages.com</a>, <a href="http://www.movieit.co.uk/">MovieIt's</a> sister company looking after the stills side of things.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY8iTSArepmjhKLGb7pcanUJnq4i4VpCI2iXXz-dcGfXKAEMOsuJdcGOQhfG3XXh4ypAfwMNG0qZ-bDjj50CLGrejBiLvJyjqBm188KVTPI82cMpa3-cdNiofGbOGiRhCW-IOD2ham28g/s1600/Norseman7-1220321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY8iTSArepmjhKLGb7pcanUJnq4i4VpCI2iXXz-dcGfXKAEMOsuJdcGOQhfG3XXh4ypAfwMNG0qZ-bDjj50CLGrejBiLvJyjqBm188KVTPI82cMpa3-cdNiofGbOGiRhCW-IOD2ham28g/s400/Norseman7-1220321.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early start and a good way to wake up!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgxHUTiRBfbAqXAENqNv57Tx7Nm_zmWe96rGwEvM3LYrt-E7yhtDGrQotW9J3CPjC2oPGawDn5Z7U-EEU7YoQ7LnOoPj1I8lhlRBwtk9rhjXmBYQDhjDahlJQ7fJHpNWEacy2UvN5OfxQ/s1600/Norseman7-1220012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgxHUTiRBfbAqXAENqNv57Tx7Nm_zmWe96rGwEvM3LYrt-E7yhtDGrQotW9J3CPjC2oPGawDn5Z7U-EEU7YoQ7LnOoPj1I8lhlRBwtk9rhjXmBYQDhjDahlJQ7fJHpNWEacy2UvN5OfxQ/s400/Norseman7-1220012.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">T1, ready for action</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpNLpFzb85OBghZZ1VbKPLT3kTq_dMnoaMYjejOIRGNDguQFZ0nRHn8JD8goDbWJovHvofEYI07nEpJZgSziVb9jbc7SH9ZukaEdzHBntPPZS3Tk6OQqBGUIyop44zru-mk3EihMQzjPs/s1600/Norseman7-1220581.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpNLpFzb85OBghZZ1VbKPLT3kTq_dMnoaMYjejOIRGNDguQFZ0nRHn8JD8goDbWJovHvofEYI07nEpJZgSziVb9jbc7SH9ZukaEdzHBntPPZS3Tk6OQqBGUIyop44zru-mk3EihMQzjPs/s400/Norseman7-1220581.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The final climb, Imingfjell</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiutPXmL6K7r4iTZVwAuH3ini-dcY-nSCNukqIOjE2LtVQJ2iLT26dWvb69FbbkuSYsASq9sMcz-R7hJLHCbmadGyuCfPAsWrIXJ02sn1OQJoLDZyd6DqeEABoqOfjVxmszoSCF-lhihrA/s1600/Norseman7-1220523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiutPXmL6K7r4iTZVwAuH3ini-dcY-nSCNukqIOjE2LtVQJ2iLT26dWvb69FbbkuSYsASq9sMcz-R7hJLHCbmadGyuCfPAsWrIXJ02sn1OQJoLDZyd6DqeEABoqOfjVxmszoSCF-lhihrA/s400/Norseman7-1220523.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It felt pretty tough after 140km and over 2500m of climbing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-USIeqzDIpDRx1H-J5nsaQeuFygZOwzVB3GRquj3H7DeUXKckJvUVFGdF_vPJAjUtSDnURka99dn2L_DASlWX8aQ9OYWGwkJwyM8FrCvJeqwe7Gcq9jPfAVk06JCD1Tseh0GJoYI6cUc/s1600/Norseman7-1743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-USIeqzDIpDRx1H-J5nsaQeuFygZOwzVB3GRquj3H7DeUXKckJvUVFGdF_vPJAjUtSDnURka99dn2L_DASlWX8aQ9OYWGwkJwyM8FrCvJeqwe7Gcq9jPfAVk06JCD1Tseh0GJoYI6cUc/s400/Norseman7-1743.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the road to Gaustatoppen with former winner Tom Remman, cruising to his 10th Norseman!</td></tr>
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<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQW6AE8_k57cWyXnfaCXDoK0tjQg2-XQSZvSb9Bw7v4sZ3wWgbxD_QpAMywJ41TEnQAtgL4YyUXKSmNP6TW0gWDqyQpP8PGadT6_wehh5ZGjZqKcON9R0EFNMULG7Z_x4W7Tk1MdB52I/s1600/Norseman7-1821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQW6AE8_k57cWyXnfaCXDoK0tjQg2-XQSZvSb9Bw7v4sZ3wWgbxD_QpAMywJ41TEnQAtgL4YyUXKSmNP6TW0gWDqyQpP8PGadT6_wehh5ZGjZqKcON9R0EFNMULG7Z_x4W7Tk1MdB52I/s400/Norseman7-1821.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nearly there! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-1119668285495024562015-07-16T08:30:00.000-07:002015-07-16T08:30:07.180-07:00Extracts from the training diary..So its getting near time to head over to Norway for the <a href="http://www.nxtri.com/">NXTRI</a>, Celtman seems like ages ago, even though it was only just over 2 weeks. Time flies when you are having fun, training hard and looking forward to the next race.<br />
<br />
Thought it might be interesting to add as little update on recovery and training after a big race like Celtman. Last year I had a bit of rest and change of focus after, this year has been a little different and I was unsure how it would go. Two plans, the first one to recover and just tick over, this was the plan I thought most likely would be used. Plan 2 was recover quickly and be able to push for 3 weeks before a rest week and race.<br />
<br />
<img height="266" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/t31.0-8/11154863_1579978198946953_5319203516954198381_o.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
After a quick recovery (Pretty sure <a href="http://www.healthcurrancy.co.uk/">CurraNZ </a>had alot to do with this, what would I do without them!), glad to say I made plan number two, there is enough time in 3 weeks to make a difference and some adaptions. I have gone for a big change in the approach I used leading into Celtman to help force some adaptions and keep the body guessing. I have kept a close eye on my recovery from sessions and resting HR, so far so good and pretty sure I still have some gains to make.<br />
<br />
The week following Celtman looked like this-<br />
<br />
Mon- Easy open water swim, 30mins<br />
<br />
Tues- Rest<br />
<br />
Weds- AM, easy run, flat, road, 30mins PM, easy bike, 50mins and pool swim, 45mins, 20x50 max<br />
effort<br />
<br />
Thurs- AM, pool swim, 45mins, steady 300m reps and bike, 45mins, easy PM run, 30mins, easy, flat road<br />
<br />
Fri- Bike, 1hr45, easy pace, high cadence<br />
<br />
Sat- AM, easy run, trail, 1hr PM, open water swim, easy, 30mins<br />
<br />
Around 9hrs, nearly all easy apart from a couple of pool sessions<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="400" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/1382394_1576349585976481_2392821457038209016_n.jpg?oh=a1904bd355b69fccba1fe953d9e305df&oe=561F6BD7" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="300" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 'Pool', ideal place for an easy swim in the VicD</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
An easy week, the idea was to keep the legs turning over but not tax the system, I found by the end of the week the easy runs felt better, but legs still a little dead.<br />
<br />
The next few weeks will be looking something like this-<br />
<br />
Mon- AM, pool swim, 1hr30+ PM, long bike, 2hr30-4hrs<br />
<br />
Tues- Rest<br />
<br />
Wed- AM, run, 1hr, road, flat, steady/easy pace PM, bike, 45mins, steady and pool swim, 1hr<br />
<br />
Thurs- AM, pool swim, 45mins and bike 45mins PM, Turbo, VO2max intervals, 1hr<br />
<br />
Fri- AM, open water swim, easy, PM, run, hard, 15min IM race pace, 15min Tempo, 15min Uphill<br />
<br />
Sat- Bike, 1hr45, tempo/race pace staedy effort, rolling course<br />
<br />
Sunday- AM, pool swim, 1hr+, PM Turbo, threshold, 3-4x10min or similar, 1hr+ and run 1hr30+ with a good chunk at target race pace, flat<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="266" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xft1/t31.0-8/11741308_414294735429019_7819263141221465671_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celtman Vs MTB :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So 15-20hrs total per week, peaking 1 week before the race then plan is to really cut back quickly, retain some efforts to stay sharp and freshen up. Very different to the 3 week taper I used going into Celtman. For more detail on the session check out my <a href="http://www.movescount.com/members/member306566-wansfelb47">Suunto MovesCount</a> page.<br />
<br />
The main changes to training sessions are going back onto the turbo for some more intense efforts (VO2max efforts have become a fave, 5x3min), keeping the sessions shorter to avoid fatigue and heading back onto the road for most of the running as this is how it will be in Norway. The hard run of the week is designed to replicate the Norseman course, with a flat steady effort, as I hope to race, an above pace effort to hit the legs then an uphill run at goal effort level, all over 10% in an attempt to prepare for Zombie Hill. Lucky I like running uphill! So far so good and feeling better already, lets see what we can wring out in the next few weeks without over doing it!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/">Blair</a> has been working me pretty hard in the pool, with a few 5km sets in the bag and more to come, the swimming is improving nicely and I am feeling strong.<br />
<br />
I also paid a visit to the guys over at <a href="http://www.elevensprocket.com/">Eleven Sprocket</a>, glad to say my bike issues at Celtman have been solved thanks to some sound advice from Rich Dean, a top time trialist who really knows his stuff. The result is more comfort, more power and more aerodynamic! Cheers lads, the bike is going like a dream now. Also had a little race, Celtman vs MTB, uphill only, guess who won, the picture gives a clue ;). It was close fought thought and I have agreed to give Matt 'Tea Boy' B a rematch when hes race fit :).<br />
<br />
Next stop Eidfjord and NXTRI!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-87073159554709335742015-07-04T04:41:00.001-07:002015-07-04T04:41:15.841-07:00Celtman 2015What a day, <a href="http://www.cxtri.com/">Celtman</a> 2015 did not disappoint for sure, an amazing weekend spent with good friends in an awesome place and what has to be my hardest days racing ever. I can honestly say I have never learnt so much about myself and racing in one day before, obviously not the result I had hoped for and not my best days racing but looking back now its irrelevant. The reason I am so drawn to preparing for and competing in these events is what you learn along the way, sometimes positive, sometimes negative but its all part of the process. The journey that Celtman offers in its unique, at times brutal but beautiful environment and atmosphere never fails to deliver.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.slowtwitch.com/articles/images/0/126350-largest_2015Celtman1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Steve heading along the ridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
First off huge congratulations to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cxtri/photos/a.188283461262837.43706.164561316968385/851030011654842/?type=1&theater">Dirk Zangen</a>, winner of the race in 11hrs51mins. Celtman once again has the champion it deserves, he is a top man, dedicated, focussed and humble, the finish line photo of him with his daughter says it all. 10th in 2013 with a foot injury, he came back focussed, prepared and had an awesome race, nice one Dirk, another Celtman inspiration. He led from start to finish for a comprehensive victory.<br />
<br />
In 2014 I had a great day, one of those where it just all falls into place, sure it was physically hard, particularly towards the end but it all went fairly smoothly. Full of confidence, which I never had before, I went away and trained harder, addressed weakness's, improved, got stronger and came to race day 2015 feeling stronger than ever. What I learnt though is you can feel and be as strong as you like, but without the right mindset, none of that matters and with a race like Celtman you will be in for a very hard day, mentally and physically, if you allow it to be that way. The problem was I wanted to win and in that drive lost sight of what's most important in these long events, staying in the moment. There is nothing wrong with wanting to win, but it clearly is not the best driving force for good days racing. Its not a situation I have ever been in before, so its all learning, I can be hard on myself at the best of times so I am not intending to be here.<br />
<br />
The other factor is that sometimes its just not your day, the strongest and best prepared athlete on the day usually wins and that's how it should be. By the time I got off the bike, Dirk was 30 mins ahead, on his way to the mountain, after a great swim and record breaking bike split, set into a headwind for the final 40km. Way too far ahead to realistically catch but I never gave up and always had a little hope until we hit the final stretch of tarmac to Torridon.<br />
<br />
As usual it was great to catch up with the Celtman Family, many of whom had great races, some not so but it was the highlight of the weekend to spend time with all these amazing people. Heading to Torridon really does feel like going home, so thanks everyone, I enjoyed every minute spent with you all. No other race has this feeling for me and its the main reason I will probably be back next year. Hopefully everyone else will be too, if not we will have to sort something out!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="300" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/l/t1.0-9/11212774_1608389009439205_435146278112349126_n.jpg?oh=23cfc62c8dd073fe0e5a9b22fd32a063&oe=561143AE" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre Race dip, hosted by Nannys Tea Room, Shieldaig</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I am going to keep the race day shorter than usual, I think I have said it all above :)<br />
<br />
The Bus!<br />
<br />
Celtman starts with a bus journey to the swim start, I love it, we are all in the same boat about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, its an amazing atmosphere and fitting start to the day.<br />
<br />
The Swim-<br />
<br />
A quick dip the day before had settled my mind, the water was not too bad, the kit I had chosen was perfect and I knew I would not be too cold. The sky was moody to say the least but the wind calm. The crossing of the loch feels wild, you really are out in the middle, an awesome experience to say the least. I tried to get in the zone, I had worked hard on my swimming this winter, really hard so felt confident I could start hard and put in a reasonable time. So I did, but too hard for too long and I felt far too tense for the whole way. Working super hard but not moving very fast. Only myself to blame for this. As soon as I got out I knew it had not been great but my amazing support crew helped me out and a quick transition had me out on the bike.<br />
<br />
The Bike-<br />
<br />
I knew I was well down the field and had to have a good ride to get back into the race, my head was not in a great place, it was raining and a bit windy so I got my head down and rode hard from the start trying to make up the time. I am used to doing this in shorter races but its not the best plan for a 202km ride with 2300m of ascent. I was riding on emotion and paid for it later on, compounding things I was seriously uncomfortable on the saddle, this caused real issues for the last 30km, into a headwind, unable to get down on the bars and feeling spent from riding so hard at the start. My support crew got me through this and put up with me, I wanted to quit most of the way but they kept me going and looked after me. It is the hardest day I have ever spent on a bike but I am glad I went through it. I certainly learnt a lot!<br />
<br />
<img height="482" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xta1/v/t1.0-9/11402975_1608536682757771_8592953510717971762_n.jpg?oh=fd00d0503f99dc06d773466036f27e8e&oe=56161D9C" width="640" /><br />
<br />
The Run-<br />
<br />
The happiest I have ever been to get off a bike, another quick transition, I still had a glimmer of hope and was looking forward to the run on Bein Eighe whatever. I left transition close to 2nd and 3rd place and passed them by the top of the first hill. I ran hard through the Coulin Pass, but saved a bit knowing my strongest section was still to come. I thought after the ride my legs would be shot but it did not turn out that way. Meeting Steve at T2a and ready for the hill, I was glad of the company and enjoyed the mountain, we chased hard but really had no one to chase, Dirk was so far ahead! The descent was so different to last year, my legs were tired but I felt relaxed and enjoyed it. When we hit the road I knew the chase was up, it was lovely to have Jo run with me down the road to the finish line.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="640" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/11214371_1608536662757773_7628408580328718185_n.jpg?oh=faff44bea205047f78bbf96dc68a534d&oe=562D3DF9" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="480" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Final Climb</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
So that was Celtman 2015, in hindsight the most rewarding race I have ever done, I will learn and adapt more than ever from it, so I am glad it was the way it was. I will go back, but I will make sure I keep focus on the things that matter this time, old and new friends, Shieldaig, Torridon, our friends the Jelly fish and that awesome ridge line on the mountain. :)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="424" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpt1/v/t35.0-12/11701310_10153713530974523_567556079_o.jpg?oh=02da7982627f322cba7dd7f25a4bf088&oe=559A1671" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why I love this race so much! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="480" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10612781_10153540201507652_4267713383628370879_n.jpg?oh=5d804192b2a6821f9dc2530316230509&oe=562E5986" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mens Podium, Me, Dirk, Odd Arne and Heiko</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Next stop is a little race in Norway that first inspired me to take up triathlon...Norseman here we come!<br />
<br />
Without my amazing support crew I could not have done it, thanks Steve and Jo for being awesome. Also everyone along the way who has shown support and helped out, you all know who you are, its all appreciated, hopefully I can repay the favour sometime.<br />
<br />
I am planning to write a short XTRI kit blog soon, but thanks to <a href="http://www.racezone3.com/">Zone3</a>, <a href="http://www.elevensprocket.com/">Eleven Sprocket</a>,<a href="http://www.lasportiva.com/it/mountain-running/"> LaSportiva</a>, <a href="http://www.healthcurrancy.co.uk/">CurraNZ</a> and <a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/">Blair Davies Coaching</a> for your support this season. Also <a href="http://colinhendersonphoto.com/">Colin Henderson</a> and Ross Millar for the amazing photos and support.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="321" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/t31.0-8/11402746_852260091531834_4898806419965468982_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All winners</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-69451866321493117722015-06-24T02:30:00.003-07:002015-06-24T02:30:49.236-07:00Race Week! So that's it, the hard work has been done and its now time to put it all to the test and enjoy the best bit, race day! I have said this in the past, its a great time to take a look back at the journey to the start line, in many ways its worth a million times more than the actual result on race day, a race is just a performance on one day but it has taken 9 months of training, racing, good, bad and hard work to get there. Its amazing what you can accomplish along the way with an end goal and motivation. This particular journey started for me in 2012 at <a href="http://www.cxtri.com/">Celtman</a>, my first triathlon and its still going on. The actual build up to this race has been 1 year, I knew I would come back straight after finishing. Maintaining focus and motivation for a year can be tough but its such an amazing race that this has never really been an issue, training in the hills, mountains and lakes is what I love most, racing in them is simply the icing on the cake.<br />
<br />
The other side to all this, is the help/advice/support etc that I have received along the way from family/friends/sponsors. I am constantly amazed by this, so many people willing to help in so many ways, often out of the blue when you least expect it. So I have not got here all on my own and I know that I do not race on my own, when things get hard, its great motivation to think of this. So thanks to everyone for your support, far too many to list, but you know who you are and understand its all appreciated.<br />
<br />
So its Celtman 2015 time, Saturday morning, 5am start, time to put all the training hours to use! Cannot wait!! :)<br />
<br />
Live tracking will be here at some point-<br />
<br />
<a href="http://acufollow.com/map_selector.php?event=13">Celtman Tracking</a><br />
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Here's a few great memories from along the way!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="213" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/1901432_1602539286690844_3796693040136610059_n.jpg?oh=59a96cc4d8ca230b46f7fbf0e9e84184&oe=562B9E97" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coniston Old Man triathlon, 1st place</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="240" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/11393042_1595966480681458_3255140686040742869_n.jpg?oh=e9ae05555784feb3d9360f2a62a6201e&oe=55F1677C" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Duddon Fell race, in the vest of power, Ambleside AC ;)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="240" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xta1/v/t1.0-9/10563119_1579532572324849_5412497785368086267_n.jpg?oh=e43efa49efea60beb40baa28f6bd3727&oe=561D762D" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Torridon training camp, late April!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="240" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/13114_1570589526552487_3868516387118089358_n.jpg?oh=1ab7258671781dd3b1be48c029ce4f6f&oe=5628C383" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team MovieIt, first open water swim of the year</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="240" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/11034290_1558039744474132_6522514134632453495_n.jpg?oh=f39f923a8fefe1ea9abcfae274a04e87&oe=562DD0A4" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back O Skiddaw ont bike</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="320" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10151752_1556205917990848_2692027231084381129_n.jpg?oh=102cf8dcbbf6f91b2172b423e006c4bc&oe=5626DD7A" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Duddon Fell race recce with the lads, Ben, Todd, Neil</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="213" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/t31.0-8/10917207_1531146743830099_4549886348365978555_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Striding Edge in winter</td></tr>
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A quick clip from out on the bike today. Had to wait for the snow plough before today's session on the Struggle. Zone3 Lyon Outdoor Trec Nutrition GB<br />
Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/chrisstirlingracing">Chris Stirling</a> on Monday, February 23, 2015</blockquote>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-54898867449192616112015-06-16T08:05:00.001-07:002015-06-16T08:05:29.803-07:00Coniston Old Man triathlon, the best, most under entered event in the UK??I had heard great things about this very local event from various friends and past competitors. Once described as the toughest 70.3 in the country, until <a href="http://wasdaletri.co.uk/">Wasdale tri</a> came into existence, it had been on my list for a few years. I had heard it was a well organised event with a friendly atmosphere that seems to accompany all <a href="http://www.mytrievents.co.uk/">My Tri Events</a> but always a little low on entries. I knew I would enjoy the course, 33% climbs on the bike and a proper fell run with an awesome descent from the Old Man of Coniston.<br />
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Almost perfect timing for a last stretch of the legs before the <a href="http://cxtri.com/">Celtman</a> in 10 days time. It was a tentative decision as its a little closer than I would have liked, but my recovery has been great so far this year (<a href="http://healthcurrancy.co.uk/sport_and_recovery">Berry Power</a>;)), I feel fit and decided if I did not feel good I had no worries about pulling out or easing off. Its all training after all. :)<br />
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There is no doubting the course suited me, so I had some expectations going into the race but did not want to bury myself for a result and risk injury or a slow recovery. I wanted to feel in control and smooth for the whole race, so I had to manage those expectations and accept the outcome. This was all going to plan, until the final 2km of the run, but it all turned out very well in the end.<br />
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The Swim-<br />
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Kind of less said the better for this really, cant work out if it was slightly long or I was very slow but its just one swim in one race. If it was long I swam well, if not, I was well off my normal tempo training pace. Anyway, chimp aside (<a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/">Thanks Blair</a>!:)), I missed the start as I was making my way back from warming up to find some faster feet, lesson learnt. With no one to draft at least it was a nice clear swim round, I came out of the water in 6th place, but already 6mins down on the leader, Sam Steele from Newcastle University Tri.<br />
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The Bike-<br />
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I love this bike course! A steep, hilly start with my 2 favorite Lake District passes ;) (Wrynose and Hardknott), followed by the awesome Birker Fell interspersed with some flat to rolling sections at the back end. Oh and one more hill, Kirby Moor. 1500m of climbing in about 70km, is it possible to save the legs for the run with 33% gradients thrown in? Sort of, but those hills never feel any easier, I find a HR monitor really useful for this, early on its easy to push on a bit to much with the adrenaline. Each hill passed in control and below my pre determined HR. I planned to ride around the 2hr.40 mark and came into transition just under. Very happy with this and knowing I was clear in second place, I asked Jo how far in front the leader was. 12mins now! Sam had put in a super bike split for that course, a really good effort. I knew I had my strongest discipline to come, a proper fell run, so I thought I might catch him, but it was quite a lot to make up.<br />
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<img height="213" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xft1/t31.0-8/11416379_403432153181944_1090259961473285870_o.jpg" width="320" /><br />
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="405" scrolling="no" src="https://www.strava.com/activities/325365095/embed/af72023c7460c73958711c33e25cd2bec8d19df3" width="590"></iframe><br />
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The Run-<br />
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Awesome does not do justice for this run! Basically following the <a href="http://www.conistonfellrunners.co.uk/our-races/9-the-coniston-fell-race.html">Coniston horseshoe</a>, over Wetherlam, Swirl How, Brim Fell and lastly the Coniston Old Man, before a rocky, technical slate descent, another 1000m of climbing. Starting the run I knew my legs felt good, a nice flat run out for about 2km before climbing onto the ridge leading to Wetherlam. This is steep in places, but I was happy to run most of it and felt good doing so. I kind of forgot about chasing anyone and just enjoyed moving smoothly over the technical terrain, enjoying being in the hills despite the clag and mist. The course was superbly marked so no getting lost to worry about. I felt sure footed on the greasy rocky sections and soon reached the summit of the Old Man. No idea how far I was behind, did not even bother asking, too busy enjoying the excellent running. The descent was fantastic, I felt smooth and relaxed, not pushing and knowing that I was in 2nd and could relax to the finish, saving the legs for the next race. Then I spotted Sam, about 3km from the finish, not moving great, I knew I was going to catch him, it had to be quick, decisive and ideally on the last bit of technical trail before the road. I did not want be racing someone clearly as fast as him on the final flat section! I put in an effort, opened a gap and that is how it stayed. He did not break though, I had to keep on the gas till the final 400m into the finish line.<br />
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<a href="http://www.movescount.com/moves/move65816573">Movescount Link for the run</a><br />
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<img height="213" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t31.0-8/11539088_1601844390093667_8886527816434367975_o.jpg" width="320" /><img height="213" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtp1/v/t1.0-9/11143282_1602539306690842_2762260420253238140_n.jpg?oh=2507f75128bc4699456edc05aff2c5b1&oe=562FB159" width="320" /><br />
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It was a nice confidence boost to pick up the win and a great little battle with Sam at the end. I learn more every time I race and the relaxed feeling having let go of a few expectations before I started meant I enjoyed every bit of the race. Certainly something to bear in mind for the future.<br />
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Thing is, I cant see why this great little event does not get more entries. I have seen this written in the past, now I understand. It adds adventure to your standard triathlon, with a very well organised and friendly feel. Hopefully it will get the attention it deserves next year, Its part of an amazing weekend of swim events and triathlons put on by My Tri, perfect for a family weekend, running commentary, stuff for kids to do, food on site and even camping. Long may this race continue. You could even do the double, Standard Triathlon the day before then the Old Man....There's an idea :)<br />
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<img height="213" src="https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/1901432_1602539286690844_3796693040136610059_n.jpg?oh=59a96cc4d8ca230b46f7fbf0e9e84184&oe=562B9E97" width="320" /><br />
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Next up its the first of the big ones. Cannot wait :)<br />
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Massive thanks to the team at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MyTriEvents?fref=ts">My Tri</a>, <a href="https://www.truemountain.com/">TrueMountain</a> and all the amazing marshals that made the event possible, 10/10 from me, great job, see you next year!<br />
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Photos are courtesy of <a href="http://www.movieit.co.uk/">MovieIt </a>and <a href="https://www.truemountain.com/">TrueMountain</a>, thanks guys!<br />
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As always thanks for the support from <a href="http://www.racezone3.com/">Zone3</a>, <a href="http://www.healthcurrancy.co.uk/">CurraNZ</a>, <a href="http://www.elevensprocket.com/">Eleven Sprocket</a>, <a href="http://www.climbers-shop.com/10894431/products/la-sportiva-anakonda-trail-running-shoes.aspx">La Sportiva</a>, <a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/">Blair Davies Coaching</a>, <a href="http://www.trecnutrition.co.uk/">TrecNutrition</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/designed2run">Designed2Run</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-27459798295093153612015-05-19T00:58:00.000-07:002015-05-19T01:17:08.926-07:00Slateman Triathlon 2015So there it is, first triathlon of 2015 completed, its always a relief to get the first one out of the way, I find pre race nerves are always a little heightened, but soon as the start gun goes all that disappears and race auto pilot takes control.<br />
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What better place to kick things off than Llanberis, Snowdonia and the amazing <a href="http://snowdoniaslateman.com/">Slateman</a> triathlon. It really has a big race atmosphere, friendly feel, great competition and an awesome course. Over 1200 people took part in the race on Sunday, long may this continue.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to roll!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=8422550375069072218" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>The race is short and fast by my usual standards so pre race goals were short and sweet. A better swim, hold back a little on the bike and finish with a strong run. Last year I was 178th out of the water and finished 27th, I had to really hammer the bike for that, hence all the work on swimming through winter.<br />
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Last year I was actually scared at the start of the swim, this year I felt loads more relaxed and confident. I was a bit disappointed the swim was shortened, but again not enough to worry me. I decided not to change my plan for the swim, go out hard, not too hard, then settle down. With the shortening, flat out from the start would have been more appropriate strategy but the plan will go with me to <a href="http://cxtri.com/">Celtman</a> and <a href="http://www.nxtri.com/news/the_2015_elite_selection">Norseman</a>, good to get it ingrained. I made a mistake positioning at the start, way to far right, but at the front. I tend to pull slightly right and the distance was greater, mental note, think about this and assess as soon as you get in the water, it was a little too late before I noticed.<br />
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I hit the first buoy wide, nice not to be involved in the madness in tight, turned and settled down. I felt stronger as I went on and swam at a pace I would be comfortable at for a long time. Only one lung full of water on the way round, the water was fresh but I did not feel cold. I got out and realized I had actually enjoyed that swim and felt fresh. From 178th last year to 71st this year, think we can take that as a success <a href="http://www.blairdaviescoaching.com/">Blair Davies</a> ;).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/18614_1590489241229182_204883094268133737_n.jpg?oh=2a0a4a95c5e6eaa134bd23353ad0e187&oe=5607377E&__gda__=1439907347_ec52542a092b890420d205556be45a56" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/18614_1590489241229182_204883094268133737_n.jpg?oh=2a0a4a95c5e6eaa134bd23353ad0e187&oe=5607377E&__gda__=1439907347_ec52542a092b890420d205556be45a56" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy with the swim! :) Thanks for the pic Warren :)</td></tr>
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Heading out onto the bike there was still work to do, but certainly less than last year. The bike course is amazing! Undulating, lumpy, with a couple of significant climbs but open roads, it feels fast. I felt strong as we hit the first climb, Pen Y Pas, defiantly more in the tank to play with than last year and the descent from here to Capel Curig is unreal. Perfect road surface and open, you can really hammer it. As we turned onto the next climb over to Ogwen, we hit the wind. I settled down and stayed on the bars, last year I was still hammering here but this years effort level felt easier. Another fast descent had me smiling, the locals were out in force again with cowbells and people stopped cars to cheer us on. Another reason I love this race. :)<br />
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It was good to come into transition feeling fresher than usual, I had held back a little and could not wait to get out onto the run. Its another cracker, the runable zig zags of the quarryman's climb eventually lead to a technical single track descent through the woods, with a slight sting in the tail. The course had changed slightly from last year and was longer. I found my running legs quickly caught a few places before the climb. I did not feel great here, but was gaining on a few and running with 2 others. I knew my cards could be played on the downhills and technical running to come. Running with 4 others as we hit the first bit of single track, I hit the descent really hard, dropping 3 straight away and eventually the 4th, but it took a really big effort, not much left in the tank. The 4th guy would eventually pass me on a steep downhill on the road, I managed to maintain contact and we passed 2 more on the final sting in the tail hill. Could have done with a bit more speed in my legs for a better run, but my game plan worked as well as I could have hoped for.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chasing and being chased to the end!</td></tr>
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I finished in 2.32 (2.41 last year) and 17th place overall. A successful day, more race rust shaken off and some good improvements on last year. I feel confident things are looking very good for the seasons main goals :).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain running legend Ian Holmes does triathlon too!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=8422550375069072218" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=8422550375069072218" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
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Massive thanks to the organizers and the amazing support from locals out on the course, this is an amazing event, highly recommended, it should be on every ones bucket list of triathlons! Probably see you next year :). Great to catch up with friends who also had great races, well done everyone!<br />
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Also thanks to <a href="http://www.racezone3.com/">Zone3</a> wetsuits, my <a href="http://www.racezone3.com/men-s-victory-d-wetsuit.html">VictoryD</a> wetsuit was amazing in its first race, pretty sure I did not feel the chill in the lake thanks to this and its unreal to swim in. If your looking for a new set of hoops, check out <a href="http://www.elevensprocket.com/">Eleven Sprocket</a>, awesomeness in a carbon clincher, hand built with pride in Yorkshire, the 58mm wheel set was perfect in the blustery conditions. My LaSportiva <a href="http://www.lasportiva.com/en/mountain-running/mountain-running-footwear-man/mens/mountain-running-details/categories/344/products/helios-sr/?tt_products%5BbackPID%5D=2482&cHash=9941f206057e06d97cefa1d7d258907e#.VVrxcvlVhBc">HeliosSR </a>shoes worked great without a sock, perfect for off road triathlon. As usual <a href="http://www.trecnutrition.co.uk/">TrecNutrition</a> and <a href="http://www.healthcurrancy.co.uk/">Curranz</a> looked after nutrition and recovery.<br />
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Next triathlon stop, <a href="http://www.mytrievents.co.uk/triathlon/coniston-standard-distance-triathlon/">Coniston Standard</a> distance! Maybe see you there!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-57919229048883965962015-05-13T06:29:00.002-07:002015-05-13T06:29:53.734-07:00Summer In Torridon, be prepared fellow Celt-People! :)A short clip from <a href="http://www.movieit.co.uk/">MovieIt</a> taken on the recent training camp in <a href="http://www.cxtri.com/">Celtman</a> country, the moral of the story is be prepared! Top of the Coulin Pass and a mini blizzard, in summer, I love this race :)<br />
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Was this only 2 weeks ago running through the Coulin Pass...? enjoyed having the sun on my back this morning Zone3 Lyon Outdoor Curranz Blair Davies Coaching<br />
Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/chrisstirlingracing">Chris Stirling</a> on Wednesday, May 13, 2015</blockquote>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08649949504363820771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8422550375069072218.post-52371351219139875282015-05-06T04:30:00.002-07:002015-05-06T04:30:55.804-07:00Celtman Training camp, Torridon<br />
As I write this blog, we are just under 8 weeks out from the Celtman, the first main race of the season. The way I structure my training means I am currently deep into the build phase of my program. Race specific challenging workouts are the key during this phase, the previous months of training have all been keyed to get to this point ready for some serious work. I believe it is the next 3/4 weeks training, will ultimately make the difference on race day. It means a little more rest between sessions/blocks but we need this to get stronger. Luckily race specific for me means more time in the mountains, hills and lakes. Time for a trip to Torridon to test the fitness on the Celtman course, cant get more specific than that! :)<br />
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The forecast for the 4 day trip was not great but after the amazing weather of the last 2 weeks I decided it would be a good test and toughen me up a bit. During the 4 days we had everything from sunshine, snow, wind and rain. Very different to last year, it was back to full winter in the hills but at no point did the weather or conditions interfere with the quality of training. The weather gods played ball but still threw a few tests our way to keep us on our toes.<br />
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I find its important to have a plan and some goals for trips like this, so I had key sections and some splits from last year that I planned race pace efforts on. For running, the climb out of t2, the main climb from T2a and most importantly the final descent to the road from the Loch under the triple buttress. I lost time here last year, its the only part of the race I felt I under performed so it has been a key focus in training so far. More running hard downhill, which I avoided last year. On the bike the plan was to ride 95% of the course and make a few efforts along the way. Swimming in Loch Shieldaig was also on the cards, just to get used to the temperature and remind myself that its not that bad ;).<br />
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We based ourselves at the amazing SMC Ling hut, the perfect base, everything you need and sitting under Ben Eighe looking up at the trig point, no shortage of inspiration. :)<br />
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<img height="300" src="https://scontent-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtp1/v/t1.0-9/11073082_1579532432324863_5288468095713755527_n.jpg?oh=25c9b2939e6d8a606ac58e540f9aea0b&oe=55D3C863" width="400" /><br />
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Day 1- Bike- 191km- 2400M ascent<br />
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We started in Glen Torridon, a few miles from the finish line, road the whole course to Achnasheen, then headed back over to Torridon via Kinlochewe. Steve dusted off his bike and joined me for the whole trip, having barely ridden this bike for ages this is some feat of endurance, from the couch to 195km is a pretty big ask! The day was perfect for it. The big learning point and a reminder for me was its a long way from Garve to Achnasheen (espcially if you are low on calories!) and even further to T2. I hit an effort from Braemore Junction to the end of Loch Glascarnoch and down to into Garve. Its really fast here, but would be really easy to burn too much and suffer on the drag from Garve to T2. It needs a bit of attention to pacing for sure. A lack of attention to nutrition lead too a tough climb back over and down to Kinlochewe. Another lesson learnt/reminded.<br />
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Day 2- Swim- 1.3km and Run 19km, Ben Eighe mountain section<br />
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First swim, tide was a bit low and the windy conditions made for a choppy sea, not ideal for quality training but it could be like this on race day so good to get in and get it done. Its also good to see the hard work in the pool has payed off (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BlairDaviesCoaching">Thanks Blair!</a>). Temp was about 8.5 degrees, think its gonna be a cool one this year! Tried out the <a href="http://www.racezone3.com/neoprene-warmth-vest.html">Zone3 Neoprene Warmer Vest</a> with my <a href="http://www.racezone3.com/products/mens-wetsuits/men-s-victory-d-wetsuit.html">VictoryD</a> suit, no problem with the cold, core nice and warm,<br />
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The run was interesting with full winter conditions on the tops and large patches of neve guarding the exit to the ridge below the trig point. No problem, we found an alternative way round the back, all part of the fun. Still got the important split, 3mins up on last year to just below the ridge, felt comfortable too. The ridge had plenty of snow which made for difficult running and the traverse into the col at the top of the gully was guarded by more neve. The next key section was the downhill from the Lochan overflow below triple buttress. Rough but very runable if your comfortable on fell type terrain. This is where I struggled last year, on what should be my specialty. 4 mins quicker and again more comfortable. Another successful day.<br />
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<img height="240" src="https://scontent-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xta1/v/t1.0-9/10563119_1579532572324849_5412497785368086267_n.jpg?oh=efd8f16303bd9ab9fa6ae5300efd1381&oe=55CE5C2D" width="320" /> <img height="320" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xtf1/v/t1.0-9/11146490_1579532505658189_6572877857809421225_n.jpg?oh=3e4621cecaff3532af18fe46db7aedbc&oe=55E1A0A7&__gda__=1440881423_9987026b6532741e40bc2ff36b6bc725" width="240" /><br />
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Day 3- Brick- Torridon to T2 bike- 43km- Coulin Pass run- 15km- Swim- 900m<br />
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The aim of today's session was to ride the bike hard enough to have a bit of it in the legs when starting the run, the key section being the climb from T2 to the top of the Coulin pass. Same split time, but lower average HR and peak HR. Good signs. We were met with a blizzard at the top, like I said conditions were different to last years sunshine but its all very good training.<br />
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The weather miraculously cleared in the afternoon, so finished the day off with another choppy, low tide, fresh swim. Sure this is great for recovery. So was the refueling Pizza and chips from <a href="http://www.tighaneilean.co.uk/shieldaig.html">Shieldaig Bar</a>, awesome does not do it justice! Perfect end to the day.<br />
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<img height="300" src="https://scontent-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xft1/v/t1.0-9/11148510_1579532488991524_4970081595879363033_n.jpg?oh=d98a3ca11aa1c08d139b7bce140efe17&oe=55C0A303" width="400" /><br />
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Day 4- Run- 15km, Final road finish and back.<br />
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Legs well and truly toasted by now, bit like they will be at the end of the race so the perfect chance to run the final road section. The sessions goal was keep a steady pace for the first half, then lift the effort level a bit on the way back. I could certainly feel the last 3 days in my legs but kept the cadence up, time for a bit of visualization of the finish of Celtman, on tired legs.<br />
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So another 4 tough days in the bank, The total hours for this six day block added up to 27hrs, a big week for sure. I also managed a good weeks training last week, so recovery has been great. Another solid week to go before an easy week leading into the first triathlon of the season, The Slateman in North Wales. Cannot wait! :)<br />
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Massive thanks to Steve from <a href="http://www.movieit.co.uk/">MovieIt</a> and his Peter for the photos, film, company and laughs along the way. :)<br />
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