Sunday, July 24, 2011

Back To Work

47 days...(you too, Julia!)

Training is good! I have been recovering so quickly from racing, and I think that is a result of my increased fitness this year as well as a good plan. It was back to work quickly...100+ mile ride Sat and a ride/run with some tempo work on Sunday.

Saturday it was all about riding with the big boys. I didn't know if I would be able to push a harder ride after Racine, but with 1800 calories, S-caps, water, and great teammates, I made it happen. On a definite suicide mission, I convinced myself that it was a good idea to join my teammate Forrest on his last 100 miler labeled as a "steady tempo ride" before the Leadville 100. I was beyond intimidated when I joined the group and saw that I would be riding with Boomer, Brent, Andrew, Hart, and Bill + 3 other guys. In over my head? Yes. (and truthfully, I am just plain scared of Boomer and Brent. When I picture them, I think of pain. I purposefully avoid rides when I know they are coming. That is the truth.)

Was is awesome? Yes. 104 miles of hanging on with the boys. It wasn't easy, but it was the most fun I have had all year long. I worked hard and loved it. All of the guys kept checking on me to make sure I was okay and hanging on. Even Boomer turned around periodically to make sure I was still there. (I swear I even saw them smile a time or two). I think Boomer and Brent might have beating hearts after all. :)

Today another ride and run. Nothing special- just fighting the heat. No HR...no looking at pace. Just doing what the plan says and pushing through heat, fatigue, and any other obstacle that comes my way.

This is not really related to the post, but I wanted to share this old poster with everyone. Who couldn't use a little more motivation? Maybe you remember it? I was at a pediatric physical therapy conference this past Friday, and a presenter that has worked with numerous Paralympians had a great session on involving kids of all abilities in sports. She used this poster in her presentation. I left inspired in both my work as well as my athletic journey.

"I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times I've been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed."~ Michael Jordan

4 comments:

Alili said...

That MJ quote is one of my favorites. Kudos to you for riding (and hanging on) with the big boys! Sounds like an epic training day that will serve you well.

Hope life is settling down for you. :)

GoBigGreen said...

DAng it girl. I am dying here, SO SORE from yesterday and dreading that this weekend i have to hit it hard again! So send me your "potion", oh wait i am like 10 years older than you:) I have no idea how old you are actually:)
I am totally against those little calender reminders that everyone has..."YES!" i know its coming dont remind me every day:)
Glad you are doing great!

Jennifer Harrison said...

Being a Bulls fan, that quote of MJ's is one of my favs. GREAT job hanging on w/ the boys this weekend, Damie, of course you did just super!!!!

Anne-Marie said...

Great job keeping up with the guys! Super impressive, esp. on such a loooong ride! That's gotta be a nice confidence booster going into your IM! :)