Busso Half Ironman 2012

We are in.. Place has been secured... Little happy dance has been done and I am now ready to roll.

This little black duck will be updating confessions quite regularly has we move towards this event.

OMG sooooo excited.

Thanks Aaron for getting my spot, I love that I can rely on you.

R xx

Its D Day tomorrow!

Registration for Busso half Ironman is tomorrow.. I have all my bases covered.. I am in a meeting at the time registrations open, so Aaron is logging on and getting me into the race. He has my details, credit card and strict instructions to contact Coach Crealy if he has any hassles.. Coach Crealy is happy to be on standby.. Big amounts of fingers crossed please everyone! I will update tomorrow on the happy dance that will occur when I get the text message advising securing of my position.

xxx Get me in Aaron xxxxx

I'm coming back soon.. I promise!

Back to training next - so therefore back to confessions next week.

Can't wait for the endorphins!

Spring has sprung... its time to move!

There is a definate sense of spring in the air. The sun is coming up earlier, days are starting to be warmer and longer, birds are chirping their little heads off. I love this time of the year, makes me smile when I can get into the sun and smile. I love opening up my house and letting the outside in!

Being outside on Stella as the sun is rising is such a special time of the day! Everything is quiet and fresh! A moment in the day that is just for me! I can breathe, not worry about anything and just ride. I was out riding with Gail this morning feeling just as happy as I have ever been. I am looking forward to keeping the riding regular again.

It is only a few weeks until the registrations are open for next years half ironman. I am registering and then training my arse off. Over the next few weeks while we move training is taking a bit of a back seat, but I am noticing I am coping better with the stresses on the days I ride so maybe more riding is the key. Once we have moved, I will be sitting down to arrange a schedule that will fit for me and then its on!

Me + Stella = Perfect Pair!   xoxoxox

Its been some time since my last confession...

Stella and I got out for a ride this morning. Such a glorious time... The sun is coming up earlier and reminding me that summer is just around the corner.. My favourite time of the year.   We are moving house in 4weeks so as you can imagine my life has been turned upside down, with preparations.. I will become a regular on the training track and blogger then.. In the meantime it will be when I can on both counts.

Having said that I had the best time out with Gail this morning.

Not sure how that happened.

I had planned to go to the gym this morning for a run session on the treadmill. Run Coach Doug is away on holidays and I am starting to get jumpy legs, I feel safe at the gym, still way too dark for me to be out running on my own... I know I am a wuss.

I got the gear out last night, set my alarm for 5.15am, had a lovely dinner (made by Master Chef Aaron) and an early night (lights out by 9.30pm) some how when the alarm went off at 5.15am I have managed to turn it off and roll over and go back to sleep. Not sure how or why! Is definately a mystery! My brain must be on holidays too.

A run this afternoon should sort out the brain!

Feeling rather clever!

With Aaron home at the moment and the girls on school holidays I took advantage of the situation on the weekend and arranged to go for a ride with some of my riding buddies I haven't seen for a while.

Friday evening was spent being spoilt by my family, celebrating my birthday early (Aaron had taken the kids shopping and they were soo excited about the presents they brought for me, they couldn't wait till the big day. Aaron will be away working so it was decided that Friday night was the substitute.) We had a yummy dinner made by the masterchef in our house Aaron, cake and presents. I am one very spoilt lady. I got cookbooks, candles, baskets and some very bright flash lights for Stella. So after putting them on and riding up and down our street at 9pm at night I was ready to hit the road early on Saturday morning.

How fantastic is it to be able to see where you are going, and knowing that cars can't miss you. I rugged myself up, sandwich bags on my toes, earwarmers, and the new jacket I snagged for $20.. I was sooo toasty that I actually got hot during the ride.. We only had 4 people in the group on saturday morning and decided that we couldn't call ourselves a peloton with only 4 people, sounds way better being the breakaway group. We headed out to Buffalo Beach, one of my favourite rides, We head out of town along the estuary to a rest stop at the beach and then back to town via the estuary. The sun was out and shining, ducks, kangaroos.. I really felt like letting out a Babe like LA LA LA! I was having the time of my life, out pedalling with my mates. About 15 mins from home I get a back tyre puncture. Thankfully Aaron was home and came to my rescue like the white knight he is.

On Sunday I decide that I need to fix the puncture myself, so I can learn how to do it and Stella really needs a bath. Imagine if you will.. garage door up with the sun shining in. Stella upside down with both tyres off. Me sitting on a little stool, with a bucket of warm soapy water cleaning muck of  Stella, cleaning and polishing all of Stella's shining bits. I changed the tube myself, cleaned and lubed up Stellas chain and managed to get the back tyre back into position, all on my own... WWWOOOOOOHHHHHOOOOO!

Stella looked stunning, all shining and indeed looked as if she were smiling. This morning I head out at 5.40am with Gail for a ride testing out the new lights and the rain starts coming down about 15kms into the ride.. When I hung Stella up at the end of the ride she is back to looking dirty and grotty again.. but you know what I still think I can see her smile... at least we had been out for a ride.!

and then it rained..

Aaron left for site this morning at 3.00am.. I tried in vain to go back to sleep! So I laid in bed listening to the rain on my roof. praying for lightening, lightening = no running with Doug and is the only time he will excuse me from the task at hand.. alas no lightening.. I head into town, with my running gear on and a little rain jacket on.. After doing my little laps of the carpet as warm up as usual, Doug the slave driver won't let me keep the jacket on but kindly agrees to wear it in case the rain really comes down hard and I need it to stop from getting cold. He is now toastey warm on the bike whilst I was not cold but with the rain not hard but contant I soon was wet..

We managed to 11kms and I am not proud to say I used ALL the hot water trying to get warm and am sitting in front of the heater trying to achieve warmth..

God I am such a Nanna, noone is feeling the cold this year like me!!!

The inner Nanna lives!

If only you could have all seen me on Saturday morning. The girls are on school holidays so no netball, Aaron was also home to watch all the kids and I was determined to go for a ride on Saturday morning. I ate a good dinner, went to bed early (got woken by teenage children, who I can guarantee will never be noisy after I have gone to bed again). I was up early, had some breaky, pumped up Stella's tyres and lubed up the chain.. she wasn't talking to me but I could see a little smile on her dial.. Then off to get dressed..

One pair of warm fluffy socks, one pair of sandwich bags on the fluffy socks then another thin pair of socks (right feet should be toasty) One tri suit, one three quarter length cycling knicks, one long sleeve winter jersey and one short sleeve club jersey. two earwarmers, full finger gloves with a pair of short gloves over the top.. I look like a nanna but I am warm.

The 70km ride was definately harder than I remember... I am just going to have to stop being such a princess and get back on the bike.. a few spin bike classes for this little black duck me thinks to find her cycling legs!

would anyone notice if I wore my slippers to work..?

My eyes are tired (too much tour de france).. My legs are sore ( a weights session at the gym on Saturday and a 10km run this morning) My feet are cold. I sit at a desk all day... when I get up the high heels are not fun.. sexy yes.. Is it wrong to be day dreaming about my sheep skin nanna slippers, a nanny blanket and a cup of hot chocolate?

We have had a very busy week.. I have managed to get a really good deal at the gym for the girls (doing classes designed for teenagers) and me doing classes and the weights sessions at the gym. Hopefully by exercising at the gym I can stay warm and still get in a good workout... I am planning to do quite a few of the RPM(indoor cycling) sessions to keep my cycling legs up too speed..

No netball this weekend so I am planning to go for a ride on Saturday morning with the crew.. Don't tell Stella, she hasn't been talking to me because it has been soooo long since we last rode.. I am going to surprise her...I may have to give her a bath and lube before we go! Fair warning I will be channeling every Nanna I know and doing everything possible to stay warm....

mmmmmmmmmmmm.... hooooottttttt chocolatttteeeeee....mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm xoxoxoxoxx

Cross Country... a family affair..xoxox

I have achieved something this weekend I never dreamed I could.. I got Aaron and Harrison to cross country. Go my boys!

It was a beautiful flat course this week.. one of the only ones on the calender.. so I decided to go for the 10kms. Courts and Gem decided to have a go at the 5km, Aaron, Harrison and Diddi decided to conquer the 2.5km walk. Sun was shining after a week of rain and the weather rather mild.. I even felt hot during the run. For me the first 5kms was the toughest.. I just couldn't find the groove.. but on the third lap something just fell into place and the groove was found... by the fourth lap I felt like I could run all day. I finished with a rather large smile on my face with my family smiling back at me... xoxoxo

Courts found the morning tough as she really hasn't done any training since breaking her arm... now that she is castless she is determined to get back into the swing of things. Courts managed the 2.5km before the picnic called her name.

Aaron, Harrison & Diddi enjoyed a stroll through the bush solving the worlds problems, cheering me and giving a drink when I went past. Harrison hearing the call of the picnic very loudly... He proudly sampled everyone's offerings 'because I did the walk youknow... so I can have the picnic..'..!

Gem was the star of the day.. Gem usual gives in to the pain of running.. Gives in to the excuses.. Hears the call of the picnic long before everyone else.. but something changed for her yesterday... She completed the 5km all by herself... Proudly annoucing that she beat Courtney.. rarely happens for the poor love.. I tried to catch her on her last lap... but she just keep going just out of reach.. I am so proud of her. She is very determined when she puts her mind to it!!!! I wonder where she gets that from...hehehehe xoxoxoxox

A new week!

Well in case anyone was wondering.... its still bloody cold. I am seriously considering moving north for the winter. In the mean time, the heaters at work, in the car and at home are getting a serious workout.

Yesterday saw serious decisions to be made.. Cycling with Gail and a bunch of cool ladies for 2.5hours or Cross Country for a 5km billy goat track run. I decided to leave the final decision to the morning to see what the weather was like.. I awoke to a lovely looking day, however the very strong winds put me right off the idea of the bike and Cross Country won the battle.. Stella is NOT amused.

The girls were both at sleep overs so I got myself all rugged up (am constantly cold) and headed up the Collie hill (where it is aleast 10 degrees colder).. The run was actually at a really lovely spot.. On top of the hill overlooking Bunbury. Sheep running in the paddock with us, sun shining (all be it not warmly) and birds singing.. I didn't really feel like running but as usual once I got going I started to enjoy myself despite the billy goat track hills.

Running with Doug at 5.30am this morning. I have started getting to our runs about 10 mins early to do a warm jog with my jumper on which warms me up and then when Doug arrives off comes the jumper and we get into the run. We have now added an extra 1km to our session and thus complete an 11km run every Monday morning. I noticed this morning that we did the run in 1hour. I am extremely happy with this as when we started working together I was really pushing to compete 9km in an hour and 10 mintues. Hopefully working with Doug I can get faster and faster.

Swim squad tonight.. all I am going to say is it is not natural getting into water when the weather is cold.. Who's bright idea was swimming during winter anyway... Yes, yes I know that it was mine! Next time I get a bright idea someone slap me!

Interval training tomorrow morning at 6am for the first time and I am feeling very nervous but I am told this will really help me get faster.

I have alot to achieve this week with Aaron coming home and we are heading to Northam for the weekend. I am planning a good long run while we are away, I loving running in Northam. People look at me like I am a crazy woman and I suppose they are right..

Oh where Oh where has the summer sun gone!

right oh... we have had the winter cold for all of 5 minutes and I am over it already. I am planning to lay on the floor having a little tantie to see if that warms me up!

If anyone has tips for staying warm I would gladly hear them.. so over cold feet! Suppose I had better go for a run then... that usually works!

New Inspiration to keep Running

I visited with an old friend over the long weekend.. Kelly is a happy-go-lucky person, very much a Type A personality. She doesn't do anything slowly. She puts 150% into what ever she does. I spent a fabulous hour and a half chatting to her about training, running and life in general.

Thank you Kel, it is so nice to know that someone else does the crazy early mornings and stresses about getting in her time too. Looking forward to a cross country run with you!

Put it in your Diary now!

It has been announced that next year the Busso Half Ironman will be held on Saturday 5th May 2012.. I will be competing in this event as an individual, pending being able to secure a position. So pencil this date in your diary.. Load cheersquadders needed.  xoxoxoxox

Swim Squad

'800mtr Warm up Ladies & Gents... off we go!"
100mtr Catch up
100mtr Board tap (ie watch Rachelle drown not very gracefully!)
100mtr Kick
100mtr Swim
100mtr Shoulder Roll
100mtr Marching arms
100mtr Backstroke
100mtr Breaststroke
100mtr Free Swim - Cool down zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!!!!!!!

Wish List

Garmin Forerunner 610 - A mere $500
Ayp Lights (for Stella) - A mere $250.00
Black Tri Shoes (again for Stella) - $150
Personal Trainer to work my core - $50 per hour
New Clothes once I drop 15kgs - $$$$$$$$$$
Lovely Holiday with Aaron with a sexy black bikini $$$$$$$$$$$

One powerball !!!!!!

Rain, Rain go away!

Last night we had the biggest ever storm front go through our sleepy little town. I did consider phoning Doug and being a total wuss and staying in bed this morning. In the end the nagging chick in my head won and I decided to see what the weather would be like this morning. When I woke up it wasn't cold at all, definately means rain in the air. I drove into town, no rain, yay! When I got to runners club I was a little concerned that Doug would get blown off his bike 'cause the wind was very strong. Out comes Doug on his mountain bike, ready to solider on.. Good on ya Doug.

Off we went for our 10km run, with me in my new shoes... sooo should have brought them before the race 'cause they feel awesome... I had on a long sleeve undershirt and this groovy new running shirt I had to buy when I got my shoes.. about 5kms into the run I had to hide behind a bush and whip off the undershirt because it was just to damn hot. I love running with doug, not only does he push me to run faster but he talks the whole way which makes 10km so easy. So easy in fact that next week we are adding another 1km just to push it a little harder.

We are also doing Interval training on a thursday morning, this will be around the track and is designed to make me a faster running with stronger lungs. These sessions will really be a test, sprinting sets and jogging sets mixed in together.

I am fit and strong, I can do this all day long... Especially with my new shoes on... WWOOOOOOHHHOOO!!!!! xoxoxox

A very big week expected!

So this is the training schedule for this week.

Monday
10km Run with Coach Doug 5.30am - Done
Swim Squad PM - Done

Tuesday
30km Group ride with Gail 5.40am - Done

Wednesday
Rest Day - AKA Clean the house before Aaron comes home day!

Thursday
10km run at Runners Club 6pm (along with talking to 5 people I don't know to get me out of my comfort zone)

Friday
30km Group Hills ride with Gail 5.40am

Saturday
70-80km Group Natural Temptations ride (Fast Group Av 30-32km/p hour)

Sunday
5km Cross Country Run

I need to add to this schedule 2 netball training sessions for the girls, 1 netball game for Gemma, working almost fulltime, 7 dinners, ironing, general housework, washing and anything anyone will no doubt throw at me at the last minute. Please don't phone me this week anytime after 8.30pm... I can guarantee I will be asleep.  zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz  xoxoxoxoxoxoxox

Is it too cold for running?

When my bed is lovely and toasty? I think it might be too cold!
When I get goosebumps while getting dressed for my run? I think it might be too cold!
When I meet Doug and its dark, windy and very cold? I think it might be too cold!
When I start running and have my little hands covered with my sleeves! I think it might be too cold!

When we have been running for about 20 minutes and I have too take off my ear warmers and am wishing I could take of a couple of the three layers I'm wearing! I think its not too cold!

When we get back to the oval after nipping out for a quick 10km, off come the shoes cause I have a big blister that has started to bleed... apparently I am a real runner now (a new pair of shoes this week me thinks) and we do a lap of the oval to cool down.. Now there is frost on the ground and I think I may have frost bite on my toes... It is definately too cold for running!

Cross Country and a quick 10km on a Monday

Cross Country was yesterday and I really enjoyed it.. The girls were at a sleep over so I didn't even have to worry about taking morning tea. Lovely rolling hills farm and I went for a slow 5km, given that Sunday is supposed to be my rest day anyway for the moment.

This morning I was back to the early morning 10km run with Run Coach Doug.. Today we decided to spice things up a bit and run along the beach instead of the inlet.. One good thing was alot more street lights so we could actually see where we were going. It did feel good to get back to my routine. I am feeling a little weary now but think I should pick up during the day, once the coffee kicks in...

My big goal for the moment is to drop another 15kgs... so that is my main focus with my close second being not to lose my base fitness over the winter.. But I have to say it sure is hard to get out of the snuggly warm bed...

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz  xoxoxoxoxox

And I just keep cycling...

Right... Coach Crealy, thanks very much for having a quiet whisper in Doug's ear about me staying in the fast group now and not letting me fall back into my comfort zone.. He went and made me do the hills with the fast group this morning... OMFG... I love the feeling of totaly exhaustion of a big ride..

Cross country tomorrow for an easy 5km...Running with Coach Doug on Monday morning for a quick 10km..and still need to find a swim squad and I don't even have a clue how to do that.

xoxoxoxox

Must get moving again..

Wow I didn't realise it would be so hard to get moving again after this event..I can't tell if it is the brain or body that is willing or not.

I have booked a ride with some girlfriends tomorrow morning just to get my lazy butt out of the bed. Then I have the usual Saturday ride (which Coach Crealy says now that I have ridden with the fast group once I have to keep doing... aaarrrrrrggggggghhhhh).

I furthermore promise to put the running shoes on again next Monday.

Busselton Half Ironman 2011 - Done!

Less than a week to go...

I can't believe that we are at this point. This time last year this was a pipe dream and now I am as ready as I can be for a half marathon. Just in the last three months I have broken so many mental barriers I am now a little unsure of the person who looks back at me in the mirror.. She can do way more than even she thought she could. I am looking forward to getting to know her.

I have one more 10km run to do tomorrow and a short bike ride on Tuesday, Wednesday will be making sure all the shopping is done so I can feed everyone and on Thursday the crowds will start to arrive. I apologise to my neighbours now.

All of you coming from a long way away, hurry up and get here all ready.   xoxoxoxox

All the seasons in one ride...

Wow, I did not know that the weather could change so much in a couple of hours.  Up at 5.45am for a quick breaky and get dressed for my 70+km ride. I stick my nose outside and decide that is definately going to be cold as their is not a cloud in the sky and I can feel the bite already. I decide on the shorts but add a jacket to the ensemble along with ear warmers.. I as am riding into town I am wishing for fingers on my gloves because they are sooo cold. Feeling very pleased with myself for putting on the jacket.

As I am riding along Ocean Rd I can see the mist floating in towards the shore and notice that the tempreture is getting much warmer, so much so that I am already rethinking the jacket. In the twenty minutes that it takes me to get into town it has gone from clear and crisp to warm and foggy. While I am waiting or the other riders I decide to lose the jacket and squish it into the back pocket of my cycling jersey, slightly bulky but eehh at least I will have it in case the weather turns..

Off we go on our ride, quite a few people really given the weather and the long weekend. Can you believe it but the fog gets thicker and we can hardly see where we are going. Water is dripping off everyones helmets, and we are feeling all rather soggy, even though it is not raining. By the time we are heading back into town for coffee, the fog has lifted and the sun has decided to come out in a big way and it is getting rather warm. At this point the group sets in for a sprint, some of the guys are teaching me the tactics... ever so much fun... and I come second today... wow flying along doing 49km per hour.. gotta love the wind behind you.

While we are having coffee, we are all sweltering and wishing we had the sunscreen on.. Anyone would think we were in Melbourne..

xoxoxoxoxox

Aaron has gone for an 18km run with me today...

So ok he wasn't actually running but he did cycle next to me the whole way, talking so that I didn't have to think about the pain. Love you much..

I have to look more at fuelling the body whilst running cause I ran out of uuummmphh at the end in a big way but still really happy with the run..

Ready for a snooze now....zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Its way too early for the freak out nightmares to have started....

Right... Keith is not going to get lost at the start of the race.. He is a grown man, having successfully raised two young men, holds down a steady job and has a loving wife.. He will be where he needs to be when he needs to be there... Rachelle you do not need to run around like a mad woman trying to find him. Its ok, just breathe and go back to sleep.

Sarah is not, I repeat NOT, going to forget her bike (Maggie). Sarah and Maggie have successfully completely not 1 but 2 Ironman races. Sarah too holds down a steady job, has almost completed a University degree she also has a Scotty.... Rachelle, you do not  need to run around like a mad woman trying to measure Sarah up for a new bike.. Its ok, just breathe and go back to sleep.

Rachelle, you are a bright girl. You have managed against all odds to not only keep yourself alive this long, but the kids and Aaron too. You are not going to forget your running shoes. Neither are you going to put your shirt on backwards, or not know what to do with your hat. You are an intelligent woman, you will know where to run on the day,thats what the race briefing and Sarah are for. Now for the love of whatever higher power is out there, just breathe and go sleep.

Three runs for the week... :o)

I have had a busy week running..

Saturday        -    21km run
Sunday          -    Rest day
Monday        -   10km run with Doug my run coach
Tuesday        -    Cycle with the girls
Wednesday   -   Rest day
Thursday      -    1hr run on the treadmill
Friday          -   30min run on the treadmill

Tomorrow I am heading out on Stella for a 70km bike ride, rest day on Sunday and then the week starts all over again. Think I have my half ironman outfit all sorted too.. wooohooo! Not only will I be able to run a half marathon but I will look pretty good doing it too...

Who knew treadmills could be fun....

Certainly not me... I have always hated gyms because you never seem to get anywhere.. so it was with trepedation that I hired a treadmill to help get me to the finish line of the Busso half ironman in a few short weeks.. While I am still running on the road, I just wasn't getting in all the runs I should because of the usual time constraints we all struggle with. Training, partners, kids, work, sleep. Not neccessarily in that order.

But having just completed my first hour run on the treadmill I am happy to report that I quite enjoyed it. Now it is not at all like being outside in the eliments and actually getting somewhere.. I did have the news on (no sound) the telly, all the windows and doors open in the living area where tready is living, and the ipod cranked as loud as it would go on some cool tunes.. Quite surprised myself with just how quickly an hour went.

Having to keep my brain occupied whislt running I have started to consider what to wear for this run. Any suggestions????

Big big week..

With only 5 short weeks until race day... things have definately hit high gear in our house. I have been training up a storm. Saturday was the 21km trial run... Sunday rest day... and boy oh boy did we rest... Monday was 10km run with my running coach Doug. Thoroughly enjoying my runs with Doug, it is so nice to be out running with someone who is there to do nothing more than encourage me. It does make the run easier, such a shame he won't be able to be there on race day.

This morning was a ride with Gail and the girls. Bloody freezing! I had forgotten how cold it could be early in the morning. I am going to have to dig out the earwarmers... hehehehe.

My treadmill has also been delivered this week and I am going to be doing a 2 hour session on it in the morning. It is getting way too dark for this little scardey cat to go running by herself in the mornings now. I have a plan to run on the treadmill until the sun is up and then finish the run out on the road. Testing the theory out tomorrow morning.

Running, running and more running.

21km trial run done!

Well well well. I don't know just how to explain this but this morning I got up with a plan to run for 3hrs at a very slow pace just to see how far I could go. Thinking I would be able to use it as a guide for the Busso run in a few weeks.

Well the run started really well. I did the first 10kms easily, no walks or anything. WOW. Just a great run. So many people out and about and I was just running. I can't describe the feeling I get when I am running in the early morning. You notice stuff, like how fresh and clean everything smells. Birds, rabbits eating the grass, cyclists and other runners.  At the 10km mark I had a gel to help with energy and I am well under the time I was expecting so I turn around and head for home. At the 15km mark I notice I still haven't hit the 2hr mark. Totally hyped. The last 5km is a killer. Everything was hurting, feet, knees, legs, brain. I have a couple of walks in this section. In the last 2km I decide that I am capable of finishing the run strong its just all about using my mind.

At this point all I can see is the finish line of the half. I just put one foot in front of the other and keep going. So cutting this long story short... this morning I have run 21km in 2hr 40mins.. Now whilst for most this is snails pace.. I am totally excited because I couldn't run 5kms a year ago and now I can say I have run 21km. With just 5 short weeks till the big day, I can say absolutely I am ready.

Just get running..xoxoxoxox

I'm too tired to confess anything.

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

5.5weeks and then I can sleep!

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Running, Running, Running and Running some more...

Hiya all,

This half ironman seems very close now.. only 6 weeks away.. I am extremely focused and can't wait for race day to be here.

Went out running with my run coach Doug this morning.. about 10kms.. and thoroughly enjoyed it. Doug talks none stop and it really does help because I listen to him talking and not to my own brain telling me that everything hurts. This is my short run for the week now.... eheheheheheheheheheh it is so funny to me that I say that.... hehahahahahahahh! Wednesday is long and slow doing around 16-18kms, not so worried about the kms on Wednesdays just to be moving for 2 hours. Then on fridays I have dropped a bike run to slide in another longer run around 12kms.

My new knee brace is taking some getting used to but I have to say the support it gives me while running is amazing and will hopefully help pull me through race day. So still doing only 3 runs per week so as not to overload the legs... and trying to fill in the other days with cycling.

I can't wait till everyone is here... very much looking forward to the finishing chute family and friends cheering.. wooooohoooooo!

Getting the issues sorted now before its too late!

Well its been a while since my last confession.. Not that I have been sitting on my laurels.. definately not! I have been running and riding consistently. I did a 16km run on Saturday and felt really good afterwards.. Seems sereal to me to be able to say that.  I am feeling really confident about Busso now... Everyones ticket is booked and I can't wait to see everyone.. The house is going to be bursting at the seams!.

Now I have had some knee issues since doing the hills runs and some beach work.. So this week I have been back to the Physio, for rub downs, stretching and acupuncture (sure thats not how to spell it).. Off to get a knee brace to stop my petela (spelling????) from tracking out and back to the podiatrist next week.. I am again doing physio exercises to stregthen my inside leg muscles 3 x times per day and taking a bucket of vitimins.. No panic I am still all good for Busso, just would rather get these things sorted now than to let things get out of hand and not be able to run on the day!

Ironman NZ

Coach Crealy and lots of my new triathlon friends are competing in Ironman NZ today! Coach Crealy's swim time of 1.06 amazing... she is currently on the third and last lap of the bike... Go Coach Crealy GO!

Love ya Sa! xoxoxoxox

Hills training till I cried....

With only 9 weeks till the half... blind panic is setting in big time.. I have got myself the services of a running coach.. I will be doing hills training with him once a week to build up fitness and lung power until the half.. Last night we ran a km hills track... Who knew our town had some big killer hills.... not me... I did surprise myself tho by finishing the session.. Got to the top of the biggest hill and burst into sobbing uncontrollable tears.. But did manage to get the stress out of my brain for an hour.. So I feel empowered... I can run hills.. and the crazy thing... I am going again monday morning willingly. Clearly have some screws loose!

xxxxxxooooooooxxxxxxxxxx

and the Bling is in..

As promised... here are the photos of Stella's new bling.. and all the goodies I got from my beautiful Mummy. I love that you are so supportive of my dreams.. I love ya Ma!

 Stella with Tri-Bars on the rack Aaron put up for me to save her from the car doors.

 Tri-Bars... WoooHoooo!

 All the other goodies that were purchased with my lovely gift voucher from the bestest ever mummy...xxxxx

Speedo after getting home today.. I did 100km in one ride.. Can't quite believe it just yet.. but I did it! Now for some food and a sleep.. sxxxxxxxzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Stella is out getting some Bling!

I miss having her in the house... can't wait to pick her up... will take some pics this afternoon.. ooohhh so pretty!xxxx

who knew you could get blisters there!

So the thing I have learnt this week is you need to look after blisters.. I have listened to everyone's advice, both professional and old wives tales... and I am doing it ALL.. Walking in the salt water at the beach, fixamol tape, blister pads, fancy schmancy socks that take the sweat away from my feet and in general trying to be nice to my feet.

I have had a very big week training wise.. with both running and biking long distances.. bike no probs.. very kind to feet.. Running, used to be no prob when 6km was the long distance.. however now that I am at 15kms.. Blisters on my arches, blisters on nearly every toe (looking into fancy schmancy toe socks this week) blister on my butt is now healing thanks to Aaron having to tape up my butt.. hehehe! So Romantic! and today I have noticed a very sore blister from my bra smack bang in the middle of my chest, just looking and feeling gross... Must find out who makes fixamol and get me some shares cause man I am using loads of the stuff.

Ran 15kms with Mum on Monday morning very early, birds were not even up yet. Poor Mum, I don't think she woke up until we had been out for about 20mins...hehehehe!  Mum being the support crew on Courts bike.. measuring the distance, passing water and fuel where needed.. Yapping away so I didn't feel the pain.. I am feeling really positive about my running because I thought running into town was way past my ability... but it turns out it is not..

Tuesday was my usual tuesday girls ride... and it was so nice... no wind being the bonus.. Loved just being out with some lovely ladies, riding with no worries.

Wednesday - I got up early and went for a 10km run with my new fancy schmancy toe socks..(very sexy), my camelsomthing fuel belt that holds a fullsize water bottle and pockets for gels, keys and the kitchen sink. If it can happen on a run I am going to be ready for it.

Today is rest day.. boy oh boy do my blisters need the rest. Not sure I can wear my boots to work today... Tomorrow is Friday morning hills ride, Saturday is 70km Natural Temp ride, Sunday is 100km bike ride with some people training for Ironman NZ, I fear its going to hurt. Monday will be little nanny nap day.

Speaking of Nanny... I seriously have the worlds greatest Mum... I couldn't do half of what I do without her. Stella is booked in the bikeshop on Saturday Afternoon to have some new stuff added thanks to my amazing mum... I will take some photos and post them so you can all see. Love ya Ma... more than you think! xxxx

and I thought my blisters were big last week!

Left foot Blisters

Right foot blister

These are my impressive blisters that I discovered after my 15km run this morning. Yes you read correctly... Rachelle the original couch potato has been for a 15km run.. completed in 1hr 58mins... now whilst for the elite sports people that are reading my blog I know this is very slow... however for me, girl who was 30kgs heavier and did no exercise... I am very very happy with this effort.. I also have a very cranky blister on my butt... however felt no one needs to see that.

WOOOOOHHHHHOOOOO! Does this make me a runner now?

and Madam Lash wins to fight another day!

Today was my fun ride day... I meet a group of fun people in town for a group ride.. On windy days we tend to head to the hills to get some protection from the wind... Good thing I like the hills now apparently. One of the gents that rides with us calls me Madam Lash... because I won't let him slack off even if he complains about being nearly 70... Like that is some sort of excuse... Today he was really struggling with the wind.. and he kept falling off the back of the bunch.. I certainly earned the title today.. Yelling at him to catch me.. hehehehe.. but it did help him stay with the group and use us for protection. Defineately a hard ride today... and I feel like I earned my coffee and cake.

I have finished the day with 72km on the speedo av speed of 25km per hour.. and I can say I am totally stuffed. Is it totally uncool to want nothing more that a cup of tea and a little rest on the couch.?

Hills are my friends... apparently!

Friday morning cycle group with Gail and the gang... is hills day.. When I first joined up with this group I found myself hating the ride before I started because I knew it was all hills.. and thus not enjoying the ride at all. I had to have a talk with myself.. It went something like this....  "
ME - "Self...You need to stop being so negative!
Self - "I hear you but the hills and headwinds hurt!"
ME - "They are good for you, you are going to do them anyway... so we need to just do it...cause then its done and we can move onto other things!"
Self - "Righto... lets get out there and ride them there hills....xxxx"

I have learnt two things... 1. Self is very agreeable!   2. I can do anything I put my mind too.
The hills are getting easier every time I do them.. I used to have a rest day before hitting them and this week, I did a 10km run yesterday and backed it up with a 30km hills ride (ave speed 30lm p/hr) today.. and tomorrow is my 70km Saturday Group ride which is just the best fun.

Little tired now so am resting until tomorrow... possibly taking on some more vitimins today..

The hills are your friends! Apparently! xoxoxoxoxox

Oh the Blisters...

Right so my 10km run before work last week was not a fluke.. I have again run 10km before work today. However it did take me 1.5hours and I am putting that down to the fact that I ran around our neighbour this morning and it is not lovely and flat like the inlet. Some rather large hills.. and for the record we don't like them.

I still enjoyed the time. I think I may even be in danger of starting to enjoy running.. Heaven help me. I do have some serious blisters on my feet from my shoes... Not sure why... I haven't ever got them before.. perhaps it was the socks.. I have a good size blister on my butt from my running shorts.. thats never happened before either.. So I hurt when I walk from the blisters on my feet.. I hurt when I sit down from the blister on my butt... I can only see one way out of this mess... I clearly have to lie down for a little nap..

I was running...

I have discovered that many things can be classed as strength training.. Gardening all day in 97% humitiy 38 degrees definately strength training.  Moving heavy furniture all by oneself definately strength training. Cleaning windows (inside & out) with a new fancy schmancy window cloth, cleaning the flyscreens and trying to match the clean screens with the clean windows... definately strength training... Tuckshop lady arms should soon be a thing of the past if I keep this up.

I had a fight with Coach Crealy in my head this morning.. She wanted me to get up and go for a run... I wanted to roll over and go back to sleep... Coach Crealy won !... I got up and went for a short, quick 6km run.. Managed a PB too and did it in 40mins... God I hate it when she is right.. Once you do it.. its done and in the bank!   Once apon a time 6km would have been a long walk... now its a short run... Makes me smile.

Home in time in time to wake up the girls, get ready and then we sat outside together and had a lesuirely breaky chatting excitedly about the first day back at school. Courts very excited to see all her friends again.. Gem so not ready to be a grown up year 7..

14 weeks until Busson Half Ironman.. yyyeeeeeccccccckkkkk!

Australia Day Fun Run... in the early morning sun.

Oh how I love that all my little ducks have come back over the hill. The girls are back from holidays with their Dad. Gem looking like she has not slept the entire time she was away and last night slept a solid 14 hours... One tired little duck that is for sure. Courts if it is possible has grown again and is now very definately taller than me... eeeeckkkk. I discussed the Fun Run with the girls, Gem bless her NOT keen... doesn't particularly enjoy running.. Courts yep count her in (even though has done next to nothing for the last 8 weeks).. So an early morning for me and Courts.. Banana on toast for breaky and down to the Inlet for a 7.30am start.

The sun shining, friendly faces smiling everywhere. Close to 800 people I would guess, line up for the start. A nice slow pace up the hills, the serious runners had taken off at a ridiculous pace and the rest of us seem to potter along which suited Courts and I.. Picture if you will... Me yapping , Courts huffing and puffing and the odd grunt. I had the run of the week I think... no pressure, just running with my kid in the early morning sun. Watching the birdlife on the inlet, canoes, and yakking my kids ear off.. Doesn't get any better than that.

Love ya loads Courts... still think I beat you though..We have to wait for the results to be printed in the newspaper after our sprint to the finish giggling... I had so much fun with you!

Rain Rain go away..

Rain, Rain go away ... I wanted to go for a long ride today!

I'm one of 'those' people!

This morning I had a goal of running 10km before work. I have never been one of 'those' people before. 10km seems like an exceptionally large number for me.. After hitting the snooze button twice and hearing Coach Crealy talking very loudly in my head about consistancy I got myself up and dressed, shoving a museli bar into my mouth as I head to the car.

I had planned a run at the inlet (same place we did the Women's Fun Run). The inlet is a 5km loop so I didn't need to worry about measuring my distance... I could just run. The sun was shining on the water, birdlife swimming.. rowers getting out on the water, loads of people walking, riding and running ... just like me.. I had forgotten my watch so decided to just run... enjoy the time to myself. I thought about Sarah and her friends in Brissy who are having trouble finding places to run.. I couldn't believe just how beautiful it was. I completed my two laps... yes that is 10kms in 1hr and 4mins... going by the car clock.. WWWWOOOOOOOHHHHHOOOOOOO! Now I am one of 'those' people.

With my house being very empty and quiet over the last two weeks... I have had plenty of time to train and think. Much time has been spent cleaning out cupboards, moving furniture... can you believe it the children actually have carpet in their bedrooms.. Aaron comes home tomorrow and I feel for him because I have moved everything around that he will be lucky if he can find anything. heheheheehe!

Training has been going full steam ahead... twice daily with Amanda (shall be known furthermore as Superwoman) Just to give you an idea here is a summary of the last week;
Monday:         Rest Day
Tuesday AM: 30km bike ride with Gail @ 30km per hour. Love this group ride
Tuesday PM: 5km Run with Amanda along the beach front.
Wed AM:       36km bike ride with Amanda @ 30km per hour
Wed PM:        1km Swim Squad - with some girls from Womens Tri (some lovely muscles swimming in the next lane....)
Thursday:       3km run with Runners Club.
Friday:            30km Hills Ride with Gail and Tuesday Girls ... If I say so myself I smashed the hills..
Saturday:        70km Natural Tempations Group ride @ 25km per hour... Went pretty easy on this ride... stayed at the back of the pack and took things easy and thoroughly enjoyed the morning.
Sunday:           Short Course Tri 250/10/2  - The Tri was called off due to an accident during the bike leg.. I had done 7.6kms and then we all went for a run together to finish off the day.
Monday:          Rest Day
Tuesday AM:  30km bike ride with Gail @ 30kms per hour... Love, love, love
Tuesday PM:   9km Run with Amanda along the beach front.

Really watching what I am eating at the moment to make sure I am getting the most out of my training.. so much to learn. I have also thought alot about the long course Tri I did a few weeks ago...I feel like my confidence has been shaken some what from that experience so I am now working with some great people here to try and get that back.