Oh – I wish I had taken today off…it would have been fun to ride with you tomorrow. I rode about 20 today – went through Dover. It was beautiful today. Hope everyone had a good day!
Going to put in an order for wetsuit hanger… 7 dollars each (includes shipping) Anyone else want me to order one for them too? Will put in my order tomorrow (Sat) or if you want to order seperately:
I like the Tifoli multi-lenses. This way you can change the lenses if it is darker / rainy. So get rose colored (yes to see the world through rose colored glasses and dark lenses.
Guys, there is a virus on FitBricks that Doug is working to fix, but in the meantime if you get an email telling you to install a virus program don’t do it. See below.
“You should e-mail the folks that use fitbricks that if they get an error, or are asked to re-direct to a virus checking site, they should say NO. Or CANCEL.
This does not seem to be a “harmful” virus. It just sends you to a fake virus checking site that wants you to install their program to clean it. Not a good choice.”
OK forgot the name of the tri shorts Diane mentioned this morning with light/little padding. Diane could you resend. I remembered that you said Landry’s tri shorts were also good.
I really like my one-piece. It’s Zoot brand. I also recently bought a pair of 2xu tri shorts that I have worn 2x on 25+ mile bikes that have been very comfortable.
I would like to do it. I would have to ride my bike down to the event and then do the 50 because I’ll be in Ironman training. Or, I guess I can ride home after the event. But, it sounds like fun. Just be aware that it is the same weekend as Buzzards Bay, for those of you planning on doing that race. We would DEFINITELY have to design those FitBricks bike shirts if we do this as a team.
Mary, I just brought Rachel to PR Running for sneakers and they just got in some tri shorts. I just bought the Craft ones- they are great! I didn’t like the Sugoi, but the Craft ones fit me well. I’ll let you know how the padding is after my swim/bike tomorrow.
We will meet at the club for tonight’s run. If it doesn’t thunder and lightening, we’ll be outside.
So, I guess I need to know who would be interested in a FitBricks bike shirt. Also, might we want to do tri shorts while we are at it? Approx. costs would be $79 for the shirts and I’m guessing about the same for the shorts. I know there are minimums of 10-15 (depending on place we get it) for each.
I just bought swim caps for all of the FitBricks summer team. I like the idea of having 5 different colors so we can easily detect the various groups. Also, at swimoutlet.com I just found a bathing suit for $17.99! I bought two, mine are pretty beat up from the pool. I’ll let you know how they fit, but they are a great price.
I’d be interested in team shirt/shorts…it will just depend on how my funding is going when we order them. I bought the Landry’s tri shorts in April and have worn them for some rides and I love them. I haven’t swam in them yet though. They were on sale when I bought them, which was nice – not sure if they still are.
I tried on a few pairs of tri shorts today. Landry’s were the best but at $100 I decided to hold off for a bit. Went with a pair of Shebeest because I couldn’t find my size in the Craft.
I would like to do a swim/bike in Webster on Tues. night. (I’m doing the June 20th tri there and need the practice on that course). Rebekah & Mert could you meet there?
Rebekah and Mert – I could meet you at Chauncy at 5:00 on Tuesday as well. Mert – has your cell number changed from last year? I have your # stored in my phone. Rebekah – I’ll send you my number through Facebook, that way if any of us have any delays or need to cancel we can contact each other. See you both then.
Anyone else want to join us for a swim bike at Chauncy on Tuesday at 5:00 p.m.?
I am interested in team shirts and shorts. Not sure about Rich yet . I’d also prefer tri shorts to bike shorts.
I’m also interested in the Hub on Wheels ride in Boston, again Rich is still unsure.
Annmarie I can’t meet you this week in Webster but maybe another time. Good luck on the 20th!
I have an orthopedic appointment tomorrow in Southbridge in the afternoon, so it’s best if I meet Annmarie in Webster for a bike/swim. I apologize for the inconvenience, but I am available to meet most Tuesday’s afternoons for a swim at Chauncy around 4:30ish.
Let me know if anyone is running, biking or swimming near or around Lake Chauncy this week – looking for a partner in crime. I live right by the lake so up for any of the three. This is my first tri – so more at the beginner level. I work MTW so have time in the evenings on those days or during the day Thurs or Friday. THANKS!
Rebekah – I just sent you a text. I could do Hopkinton at 5:15. Basically – you go Route 9 to Route 85 (South – I think). The entrance is maybe a mile or two from the interestion – it will be on your left. Then drive all the way down – you will see one sign for the canoes (rentals) – don’t go to that beach area – just keep going till you can’t go any further. We can probably do the 5 mile ride right in the parking lot – it’s pretty big.
Kathleen – if you want to join Rebekah and I at Hopkinton – let us know. I haven’t swam in a while, so I’ll be plugging along and if we bike in the parking lot, we can keep an eye on each other. We are all really good at keeping an eye on each other and I won’t leave unless I know everyone I met up with is back and safe.
Rebekah – I did not do the Title 9. But yes – that is Hopkinton. But I don’t know where the swim is for Title 9. Last year, some of us would meet for swims and they told me there were two beaches and had told me to keep going till you couldn’t go anymore and that is the beach we swim at…so that is the only place I know. But we will find each other!
Hi Gretchen – Thanks for the offer to swim and ride with you guys tonight – I cannot make it by 5:00 tonight – but maybe later in the week or next week. I too am getting back into the swim and new to my bike – so getting up and running! THANKS!
Didn’t know if anyone was interested in this, I have to work but I think it would be a cool presentation to listen to.
World class triathlete to speak at Clinton High School June 9
Tricia Downing, a paraplegic athlete who is the second female wheelchair racer and the first female paraplegic to complete an Iron distance triathlon will be telling her story at the Clinton High School auditorium on June 9 from 7:00-8:00p.m. The Iron triathlon includes a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, and a 26.2-mile run. Trish is a member of the physically challenged National Triathlon Team and a pioneer in women’s wheelchair triathlon. She was a competitive cyclist from 1997-2000, but her career was cut short when she was hit head-on by a car while on a training ride on September 17, 2000, in Golden, Colo. She was one of four athletes featured in the Disney film Superior Beings, which aired on ESPN. She was also featured on Life Moments, a women’s news and features show, which aired nationally.
“We encourage everyone who can to come here this inspirational speaker,” says Theresa Kane from the Polus Center for Social and Economic Development, Inc., a Massachusetts-based organization that supports people with disabilities that is co-sponsoring this event along with the Clinton Rotary Club. The event is part of a fundraising campaign to raise money for wheelchairs. Suggested donations of $5 for students and $10 for adults will be collected at the door but Kane emphasizes that she wants to help Trish spread her message so students, civic groups and individuals are encouraged to attend and they can donate whatever they can or
simply enjoy the presentation for free. Tickets are available at the door. For more information about this event or others in the “Rock and Roll for Wheelchairs” campaign, go to http://www.poluscenter.org.
Jenny Delorey, Finance/Office Manager
Wachusett Chamber of Commerce
Diane – for core…are we aiming to do sets of the plank exercise (e.g., middle, side, side X ???). And I think you said start at 30 seconds and increase hold time from there, right?
Hi Michelle, so glad you are asking which means you are going to do them
Front for 30 sec/ side 30 sec/ other side 30 sec start there. Add 15 sec per front/side/side. Until 1 min. Once that is easier add another front for 1 min. So you would do front 1 min/ side 1 min/ side 1 min/ front 1 min. Have fun! It is sooooooooooo important.
Sorry to confuse people, Chauncy is open after Thursday. The sign posted said “no swimming through 6/10″. Winter group, we are meeting at the lake on Friday morning.
Hi Everyone – I’m looking forward to our swim on Saturday morning. I was wondering if anyone would like to go have breakfast at NY Deli (on route 9) afterwards. (or somewhere else if people have a different preference).
I posted your run videos on a great site that Bill Steele told me about. So, if you haven’t signed on to Upmygame.com yet (you should have received an email) you might want to.
You’ll see your video, then frames that I pointed out some alignment, toeing, or stature issues. Or, in all cases you will see a vertical line from your head to your toe. The idea is your head, shoulder, hip and foot should be in one line. If yours is not, you know that you need to work on that alignment.
A lot of people have their foot in front of their hip when it lands. This is called heel striking and will eventually bother your hip, knee and/or foot. Plus, it slows you down.
Another common thing I noticed is that many of you are too upright as you are propelling forward. You’ll see this indicated with a diagonal line. Again back of heel, hip and shoulder should be in a line. If you see an angle on yours that means you are bending at the waist.
We will discuss all of these form issues on our next run session. But thought you’d enjoy seeing everyone’s videos. Look at each other’s to see if you can pick up breaks in form or good form. The “Bill’s” have great form you can check out their videos. Sarah has fantastic foot placement. Leslie has good form too.
I asked Bill if he could take Leslie’s or Bill’s video and add commentary (he is a member of the site and has more privileges than I do). This will help explain the above posting. Leslie, thanks for being the Ginnie pig!
The Lake swim was great – but I need so much help with SIGHTING! Rachel was an awesome help in keeping me somewhat on track! Anyone have any tips so that I don’t zig-zag my way next time?
Also Kate, as we discussed, you are not looking/breathing left at all. So, your sighting won’t be as good. Practicing rolling to the left more and sighting more often will help too. But check out Bill’s videos.
Anyone interested in running The Sharon Timlin Memorial 5K Race to Cure ALS. It is next Saturday, June 19th at 9:00 am at Hopkinton High School. I thought it might be fun and would love company. If interested let me know, I think we have to register before the race, not sure if they have race day registration. Let me know.
Barbara, I am planning on running the Timlin 5K and I believe you have to register in advance. Also, Lisa and I went to sign up for the Westboro tri and we weren’t sure if we sign up as the open/elite or age group – I’m thinking age group and we lie about our ages. Anybody have thoughts on this?
Yay Lisa. Look for Angela, Ray and Kim while you and Steve are out there. I guess I missed you guys at registration today. Rachel and I worked the 15-40 table from 2-5pm. The woman we relieved said “Steve C” came by LOL
@Barbara – the race starts at 8:30. For details, check out http://www.sharontimlinrace.org. It looks like a fun race. @Steve C – re your age group – going up a bracket or two – or going down? =)
Ok, I tried to run today keeping my heartrate in zone 2 (during runs my heartrate is normally in high zone 3/low zone 4). Wow, it seemed people could have walked faster than I was running! On the upside, after 40 minutes I felt like I could have kept going and going and normally I’m exhausted. Jogging that slowly also let me think about form, which is good. But my question – am I really getting something out of running this slowly? It didn’t feel like a real workout since it wasn’t that hard and I didn’t feel tired afterwards. How often should we be doing runs in zone 2 vs. runs in zone 4? And, should any runs be in zone 3?
Michelle – thanks for asking that question…because I was wondering the exact same thing! Can’t wait to hear the response.
Rebekah – I can swim Tuesday at 5:00 p.m. Do you want to meet at Chauncy (or Hopkinton – my preference – but I can do either)? I also have a swim on my schedule for Saturday, but I think I will do that on Friday if anyone is available.
Great question Michelle. As I referenced on Saturday, your Zone 2 runs are for your long run of the week. The purpose of them is for you to build endurance. Your comment of “I felt like I could have gone forever” means you did it perfectly. This is how you build your long run distance. You should not feel spent after every run. On your plan you’ll see “Run 4 miles middle two fast” The middle two should be done in zone 4. The run after the bike should be done in Zone 2 to start building to Zone 4 to finish fast (if you can). Does this help?
Uniform update: Design meeting today Melissa is going to help me get everyone’s orders. I started a spreadsheet of who wants what for shirts and tri shorts. You should probably check out the website for other things you might want . This is the jacket I have a sample for. Disregard my comment about the bottom being a little tight, the jacket sample is an XS women’s so of course it is a little tight! Probably runs true to size then. It is a cool jacket http://champ-sys.com/custom-windguard-wind-jacket.html. Also, we’ll have to build in shipping and design costs but spread across 15-20 uniforms it shouldn’t be too much more than what is on the site. That’s it for now, will send the design when it is done…
For those of you doing Patriot Sprint or Half this weekend, check out the seminar by Tri-Hard (see below)
_________________________________________
Come to our seminars at the Patriot Half and Minuteman Sprint this Friday! Get valuable tips on race-day tactics!
I know Mary, I couldn’t find them either. I’ll ask. Going by the samples I received I took a shot at what I think you guys would find comfortable. But we can discuss.
Let me know if anyone is interested in a late run (6:30ish) around Lake Chauncy or early tomorrow morning. I am going to try and stay in zone 2 – it is about three miles. Thanks Kathleen
Hi Diane,
Every time I do my 7 mile bike, I seem to Avg. zone 3 with my H.R. The terrain seems to dictate this (I feel I need to get speed up for the next hill). Is zone 3 really that bad???!!! Thanks Rich
Hi Rich, it isn’t “good” or “bad”, it is that we are trying to build your base up to 15-20 miles so that the 12-15 in your races won’t wear you out. In order to do that you should aspire to Zone 2. On the bike, the more you ride the faster this will happen. For example, when you need to do a quick errand in town, ride your bike and bring a back pack. Even if it is 3 miles, just hope on and go. You will be amazed how doing this several times/week where you aren’t considering it training will help your endurance.
Here is the list for bike changing. If you go to a bike store and tell them you need a starter kit they’ll be able to help you too. But I’ll show you on Sunday my “kit”. Great question!
(2) inner tubes for your tires in case you get a flat. You need to look at your tire size. I can show you where this is on Sunday.
A method to inflate your tire on the road. I like CO2 cartridges. Some people bring mini pumps
Tire changing levers
A little bag for under your seat to keep all of your stuff in
An ID of some form to put in your bag. I throw a business card and put my home number on it.
Always bring your cell phone for emergencies
I put the following extras too:
$5 bill
sani-wipes for after you get a tire
little baggie to put your old tube, etc…in
Food Workout Question:
For those early birds that workout in the early am, what and when do you eat?
I have a bowl of cereal before my morning workout, one GU or Cliff Brick for each 45 minutes during workout, then full breakfast afterworkout. I haven’t tried working out on an empty stomach for fear of fatigue.
Steve D – I have been eating a banana an hour before, water with Gatorade during, and a full breakfast (within an hour) after for the 45-60 minute workout throughout the winter. I’m sure more is needed for longer workouts and higher intensity. Barbara and Diane can comment more.
Hi Everyone, good luck with all the races this weekend, can’t wait to hear all the great results!
Steve D, I think if you ask the group what they eat, you’ll get a bunch of different answers! It is very individual. I’m glad you haven’t gone without eating, that is not recommended. Generally you want to consume a source of carbohydrate before a workout i.e. cereal, oatmeal, bread, grains, fruits, vegetables. These are you energy foods. How soon before your workout is also very individual, I know some people that can eat right before getting on the bike and others who need to allow some time. Generally the closer you are to working out the simplier you want the food choice i.e. 1/2 hr before a pce of fruit or granola bar maybe best, an hour before maybe cereal with fruit. After workouts you want to eat something containing carbohydrate again but also protein. The carbohydrate helps restore our energy, so we can come back and do it again tomorrow and the protein helps the muscles recover, heal and build. Ideally you would like to get your recovery food in within an 1/2 hr, but as soon as you can is good, just don’t skip it. Protein sources are chicken, fish, lean meats but also eggs, peanut butter, cheese, nuts and seeds. This is a good time to be asking about fueling your exercise. You want to practice what you’ll be eating before race day, so try different foods and timing, what seems to work best for you? Then you can repeat it for race day, you want to be eating things your body is use to on race day, not something new. I hope you find this information helpful.
Hey all! Can’t remember who is doing what this weekend – but best of luck to all! I’m off to my brother’s wedding, so I’ll miss you all on Sunday. See you the following week!!
Fitbricks Clothing: I asked Champion what the inseam was for the short and long tri shorts. Here is the answer: Our short version is approximately 6” and long is 9”, depending on the size you order.
Kim, what junk – I think you lost it doing the Winter program! Good luck in your ride this weekend.
Also are we suppose to be getting our sizes to Melissa or are we waiting for the design to be done?
Gretchen – I could swim with you and would prefer Hopkinton or Chauncy around 7am? Mind you, I haven’t swam since last summer, but I’m sure I won’t embarrass myself or you!
I have been swimming at the other beach since there are ropes to follow (an no boats to worry about). Last year and this we have done a few “laps” following the ropes. It’s nice because you can actually, swim a few feet in from the ropes and be able to touch down, so it gives you a sense of confidence (at least me anyways, while I build up my endurance). Just continue to follow the main road down until you can’t go any further and you will hit the main beach.
Great – we will see you then. I have your cell number and Tracey’s…so we are all “connected”! It’s going to be a hot day tomorrow, so it will be fantastic to start the day with a swim!
Gretchen – my bad – I cannot do tomorrow morning – will need to swim in a pool later in the day – but let me know if you are biking or running or Saturday.
Where’s a great place to buy clipless bike shoes? I see that prices can start at $100 and run on up. I’m using a soft clipless shoe now but am thinking of a harder shoe (and I really don’t want to spend $300!). Thanks!
Kate,
Mert and I have the same tri shoes and I love them. They (the Versis) were only $85 at Louis Garneau website, but you do have to know your size. Bike Nashbar usually has awesome sales and I picked up a pair of shoes for $40, but once again you need to know your size when ordering.
I somehow got nominated to start the FitBricks team for the Boston Hub On Wheels ride on Sept. 26th. Proud to report that I have done the duty and we have a team created….
Anyone interested in participating in a fun event – can ride 10, 30 or 50 miles throughout the city of Boston. Ride takes place on September 26th 2010. Looks to be a fun day – I haven’t done this one but have done similar ride in NY and must say they are very fun!
We hope to have a great FitBricks team showing with our new Jerseys! Hope everyone can participate.
The fundraising on registration is optional. I did not enter a fundraising goal for us as a team so there is no pressure. Please use the link below for registration…. And don’t forget to register under the ‘FitBricks’ team!
Kim I guess it makes sense you’d set this up since you seem to be the cycling queen! All of these long rides, Mert too! Quick question when you sign up do you need to know the distance you’ll be riding or can you determine that later. Rich is thinking about it but not sure the mileage he’ll be doing then. Thanks! And good luck tomorrow!
I’m in for the Hub on Wheels. Just registered. Thanks Kim for setting up the team.
Next Friday would love to get together and celebrate the end of the winter session, the beginning of the summer session, Mary successfully completing her comps…not sure where or what time. I was thinking of a bar in Worcester, I think it’s call the Citizen. It’s a cheese and wine bar. Heard it’s great. Will get more info if people are interested.
Don’t jinks’ me on the comps. I need to take them first. :0 Thinking of everyone stepping up to the starting line today and feeling that rush of adrenaline.
I’m chaperoning a Girl Scout camping trip next weekend, and so can’t make it next Friday night either. Have fun, everyone, and good luck Mary on your comp’s! I’m sure you’ll do great!
I hope everyone had a great weekend of races and that practice went well this morning. Sorry I missed you all this morning.
Is anyone available for a swim Monday, Tuesday and/or Friday? I could meet during the day or in the evening – Hopkinton, Chauncy or even Walden.
Also – for anyone doing the Sherox in July – I want to head down this week and ride the course – so if anyone wants to join me, let me know. Actually, anyone that wants to join me is fine – it’s hilly in the first few miles, then just some rolling hills. About a 12 mile course.
Gretchen, sorry you weren’t feeling good today. We missed you at training. Hope you are feeling better! I’m not sure about my work schedule this week but once I know if I’m available any of those times I’ll let you know. Would love to swim or bike with you this week. I’ll keep you posted.
Hey Steve, glad you have a good ride today. You’ll be putting the miles on that bike before you know it. Road ID is the id bracelet people were talking about today. http://www.roadid.com/Common/default.aspx
Diane – Stan and I would like to see you bunny hop your bike, or was it pick up a bottle cap? Maybe it was the ankle grab. Anyway it was entertaining reading over supper.
If you are planning on buying the road id today, they have a Father’s Day special for 15% off using the code pcdad589. If you decide to order anytime until July 4th, you can use the code ThanksJessica764654 for $1 off.
I did much better this year. However, my timing chip did not work again! I’m tossing it. I clocked myself at 1:35 (not sure how many seconds). I swam the entire swim without stopping at all. That was my greatest accomplishment.
Annmarie, awesome job! That is a fantastic time. Awesome on the swim, I know that is a big accomplishment!!! You rock girl! Did you hi-five everyone getting out of the water?
July 18th the Charles River Wheelman are hosting a 47 -100 mile ride(s). It’s called Climb To The Clouds. The cost is $15 for non-members. I plan on riding. Anyone else interested? They are limiting it to 700 riders this year. Go to http://www.crw.org
Firstly, congrats on your race, that is fantastic! All of your hard work (and getting up early) this winter really paid off.
Secondly, I’ve done the Climb to the Clouds. It’s a great event. It is the same day as the Falmouth triathlon, so I can’t do it this year, but keep posting any of those rides you’ll be doing, I’d like to do some this year too.
Annemarie,
1-Great job on your triathlon and your swimming – you go girl
2- Friday sounds good, I’m in
3- Since I can’t run for the next five weeks, I can join you for the Climb to the Clouds with you.
It is so cool when races have this ZumTri feature. They have it for both the sprint and half for Patriot. Check it out. Melissa, you can do it against that woman you were battling with! http://www.zumtri.com/race_files/SunPatriot2010/ZumTri.html#
If anyone is interested in a bike ride on Sunday morning (9am) let me know. Stan and I are happy to host you in Thompson, CT. The area is beautiful and hilly. Plenty of cows, horses, and corn to help pass the time.
It’s about 45 minutes from WTSC or 15 minutes past Webster Lake. If there is enough interest we could do two groups, one faster and longer (15+ mph, 30+ miles) and one slower and shorter (12-14 mph, 20 + miles).
Hiya-
Steve and I would like fitbricks clothing….I was traveling (as usual) so i did not get to see the samples or hear what we need to do.
Can anyone let me know? Really fun ride yesterday
Hey everyone,
I’ll be sending out an email to the team with all the details on ordering our FitBricks uniforms. So, check your inboxes later. And, BTW they’re going to be very cool !
We are meeting Friday – June 25th – at Citizens (think that’s the right name) in Worcester. I believe it’s on Exchange St. See you all there at 6:00pm.
Checked the website for my race. I have a time! Not sure why it was so delayed. My offcial time is 1:37:07. I was only 2 min. off. Not bad. So maybe I don’t need to throw my chip out.
Sorry got your call late (I was having dinner with Bob!). Didn’t want to call so late. Yes, I registered for the CRW ride. It’s on June 18th – Climb to the Clouds. Were you able to get to the credit card info? If you have trouble I can try and register for you. Leave a message on my cell phone and a good time to call you back. I will try to call you from work (sometimes it gets too busy and I’m not able to).
Hi Mary and Stan,
Yes I can ride this Sunday morning. Had a great ride last week and looking forward to doing it again. Just say where and I’ll be there!
Anyone interested in a long bike (20 miles) early tomorrow morning (5:30) or early evening (6:30ish)? Dave and I both need to squeeze them in tomorrow — and unfortunately, with kids, we can’t do it together!
Kathleen and Bill – you both did excellent this morning! I was really blown away when we got done and you both said this was your first open water swim. And – you’ve already completed the distance for the Westboro Tri.
Jess – thank you so much for loaning Kathleen your wetsuit – she was so confident and comfortable during the swim – she did amazing (and she is going to buy one!).
I look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow morning at practice.
Gretchen – thanks so much for your help today – it was invaluable and gave us the confidence we needed. I survived my first open swim, now I just need to work on getting away from the ropes and swimming continuously!! And Jess you saved me – it was like night and day with a wet suit. See you all tomorrow.
Gretchen,
Would like to do some open water training as all my swims have been pool so far. Let me know when your next swim is and I’ll try to be there! If you are going to swim again next Friday am – I’ll be there for sure.
Steve (and everyone),
Dave and I both have swims scheduled for Wednesday, so chances are one of us will be at Chauncy early AM, and one of us will be there early evening. We’d love swim buddies!
Last summer I always drank water during practice and races, and found out the night before my last race that when Diane said “gatorade or some other drink”, she really wanted us to drink something other than water! I know that different drinks affect people differently, but does anyone have a suggestion for a sports drink that is a step in a direction not too far from the water I’m used to? I clearly want to experiment before race day. Thanks!
Steve, Marile and Dave,
I have a swim next Wednesday on my schedule as well and could do that evening (early afternoon into evening actually). I have an interview Wed morning so I can’t swim that morning.
Depending on the weather, I’m also going to swim on Monday (June 28th) – I can swim in the morning – any time after 7:00 would work for me.
Michelle – I use Ultima which PR running and other places have. I can’t tolerate gatoraide or poweraide (stomach distress). However, Ulima does not have “energy” in the form of carbs like gatoraide or some of the other drinks. So, I rely on Gu or Shot blocks for that. Before the race I will drink the Ultima and have a Lara Bar (for the energy/carbs). It worked really well for me the last few races I’ve used it. PR running carries various flavors (my fav is kiwi strawberry) and they conveniently have single serve packs so you can try the flavors first.
I can swim next Wednesday also. Later is better. My wetsuit should arrive Wednesday morning . Hopefully this will be easier than swimming in trishorts.
Michelle – I have used Cytomax for years with good success. Less muscle cramping and muscle soreness. 2 scoops of powder to a bottle of water and shake. It has electrolytes, carbs, and no sucrose. I use it in my water bottles and have found it much better than the ‘aide’ drinks on the market. I know this is personal preference and everyone has their opinion for what works for them.
Marile – I can swim at 6am on Wed/Chauncy, but I am on the beginning track and stick to the ropes – I’ll catch up with your tomorrow and we can chat if you are more advanced. Kathleen
Hi Diane. No, I have not changed my mind. Still joining if it is ok. This week has been insane with end of school and beginning of multiple summer camps for the kids. I’ll email u separately. Just wanted to wish everyone a great workout today! I can’t get away this am but will train later on today on my own. Miss the group
Mert,
I rode a small portion of Climb to the Clouds (a very hilly part), it took my 2 hrs to ride 20miles. It’s a tough ride but we can do it We just need to take our time.
Is anyone who is doing the Patriot 10K July 4th considering picking up their number on Friday? If so, let me know. I may ask you to grab mine and bring it Saturday.
FAQ for Patriots encourages runners to pick up numbers early and said it was ok to pick them up for friends. They are afraid they can’t hand out 10K numbers in 2 hours.
Mary I can head down Friday afternoon and pick up your number(s), is Stan running too? Anyone else want to take a ride Friday afternoon or need me to pick up their number? I’m going to try to leave right when I get out of work at 2:30 to hopefully avoid the Cape Cod traffic. Let me know who needs their numbers picked up.
Barb – I would love it if you could pick up the numbers for Georgie and I as well on Friday. If not – I can certainly try to go down on Saturday. My last name – Pippin, Geogie is registered under ‘Georgiana Goodman’.
Thanks – Kim
Okay, so far I’m picking up Mary, Stan, Diane, Cary, Leslie, Kim and Georgie’s race packets. Anyone else? I’ll let you know if I have any trouble but they suggest it so I should be fine. I’ll bring them all to Saturday’s workout
Hi Lian – there is a parking lot right across from the Lake on the Lyman Street side of the lake. You can park and then just walk across the road. The gates to the beach are locked in the morning, but if you walk on small dirt path to the right of the fence- it will lead you to the lake.
Barbara, you are awesome! That will be a huge help! Can you get Heather’s too? She is riding with us in the morning and it will be easier if we all have our numbers before hand because time will be tight.
Diane,
Georgie will be driving the xterra to the run so we can take one person/bike back after the run. Just need to find someone to take the other two bikes/people back.
Mary, that is so nice of you. But, I wouldn’t want you to have to drive all the way back to my house, that makes no sense for you. So, Cary will come and between Georgie and Cary we will have enough space. All set! Looking forward to it.
Marile and and Lian – I am no unable to make the swim on Wednesday morning at 6:00 am. My husband had to travel today and tomorrow so my workouts will be in the evenings when I have a babysitter.
I’ll be doing the Patriot 10K on Sunday, also. But not biking to the race with you IronFolk… So, I’ll have my car for storage and can take 2 bikes + 2 I-Folks back to Diane’s.
In case anyone is interested at some point…yesterday I went to Rosemary Pool in Needham. It’s a really nice outdoor pool. I used the time to practice technique (drills) and also do some speed work (ha, ha). But it’s really nice and I think the non-resident rate is $10. Just let me know if you want to join me sometime and we can set something up. It’s open until 7:45 p.m.
See everyone (whose going) tonight at Chauncy at 6:30 p.m.
I will be doing Patriot 10K also, and will be driving. I’m happy to store bikes and “stuff” and give anyone a ride back to Diane’s too. I could take at least 1 and probably 2 with some creative bike loading.
Hi Everyone,
Just checking these are the names I have to pick up 10K packets for: Mary & Stan Piorun, Diane & Cary Stokes, Kim Pippin, Georgie Goodman, Melissa Tracey, Annmarie Godin, Leslie Steele, Jessica Greenblatt, Heather Axworthy. Did I miss anyone? If I can’t get them I’ll let Diane know (my phone doesn’t have email capabilities) and she can spread the word. Karen are you picking up your packet beforehand? Would you like me to add you to the group? I’m out of work at 2:30 pm and heading down, hoping to beat the Cape traffic, let me know if you need me to pick up your packet also.
Barbara
Hi Everyone,
I hope everyone has a wonderful 4th of July weekend, a great open water swim tomorrow and great races for anyone running this weekend. Joe and I are heading up to Vermont to spend the weekend with my sister, my niece and my Mom. My sister is having a huge party/bonfire/cookout on her farm tomorrow evening and it’s going to be a blast. My sister doesn’t do anything “small”.
I’ll be posting some times next week for swims and other workouts so hopefully I’ll see some of you next week.
Just wanted to say “Good Luck” to everyone running the Patriot on Sunday! Gretchen, have a great weekend, sounds like your sister has a great party planned!
Melissa, I’d love to bike the course but I have plans with the family after practice tomorrow. Are you available any mornings next week? I have to do a swim/bike brick on Tuesday morning, would be happy to bike the course with you then after my swim. We may need to do a 6am start so I can get home and get Lydia to camp on time, but it’s an option if you want to do it. Just let me know tomorrow. Thanks!
Shelly – hope you have a nice weekend too – I’ll miss you this year – last year we had such a blast!
Also, I might be able to do the swim/bike with you on Tuesday morning at 6:00 a.m. I’ll let you know by Monday mid-day. Just let me know if the plans change.
Numbers, t-shirts, maps with coupons and bags all picked up from Patriot Place – whew! They needed more signage, didn’t know where they were located, hope the course has better signs. I’ll bring them tomorrow and hand them all out.
Oh, Karen and Marie I didn’t hear from you so I didn’t pick up your numbers. Karen I know you’re traveling and Marie I didn’t see your name on the list, not sure if you are registering on Sunday. Everyone else I think I got it!
Nice swim practice today everyone!! The “little” things that we practice are so helpful… the swim starts, sighting, swimming around the buoys, racing out of the water. It is these “little” things that are going to make your experience race day so much better. Nothing will be new or surprising! Great job!
For those running the 10k, a group of us will be meeting around 8:15 in front of Victoria’s Secret. Parking can be found either in the lot or P2/P10 across the bridge.
Jessica, the biking contingent will do our best to be there by 8:15, but we might need an alternate place to meet if that is too far away from the start line. We’ll need to store our bikes and change into run stuff. Mert and I have our phones and BBs.
Dave and I are planning to ride/run the Marlborough race course next Saturday morning at 8AM (since there’s no practice next week). It’s a 5 mile (hilly) bike loop that we’ll do 2 or 3 times, and a two loop run that we can do once or twice. If anyone wants to join, email me (marile@metalcreative.com) and we can coordinate.
YOU ARE SO AWESOME!!!
I am so proud to be part of the Fitbricks team even tho I could not run
Way to go!
Rock on…or maybe Run on…is more appropriate!!!!
Congratulations to all for 10k run. It sure was hot. About mile 4 I was dying. After the race I went to a BBQ for about 3 hours, then went home and took a 3 hour nap. The heat was a killer! What fun running in the tunnel and out to mid-filed at Gillette.
For those of you who want to volunteer at the SheRox race on July 25th, please send Wendy and email as to where you want to work at billf@firm-racing.com
For those of you swimming and biking at Chauncy at 6am and I said I would meet you – have to bail – got a bad head cold over the weekend. What does a triathlete in training do when they are sick -
I bet Diane would say core and more core! Have a good one
Someone just asked if I was doing the triathlon for a cause. I thought yes!! 15-40 connection. Diane I thought you mentioned raising money on Sat and may have had a flyer?? Is there a webpage for our group? Let me know the best way to collect donations – thanks!
Hi All,
Wow what a hot weekend…week? For anyone interested I’m planning on riding the Webster tri course on Saturday morning if you’d like to join me. Judy,and possibly Kim M, Mert and Kim H. will be joining me. I’m also possibly planning on riding the Westboro tri course on Sunday for anyone who would like to ride that course.
Mass State Tri is recruiting volunteers for the race on July 18th. If anyone is interested in volunteering, let me know and I can give you info of one of the organizers.
Hi All – just got an email from Diane who asked me to post that she really would rather folks NOT bike or run today in this weather. Air quaility is bad, and it really isn’t a good idea. So, swimming it is!!
Hi Rebekah,
I would be more comfortable swimming the ropes today. I thought I would need to swim in the pool, because I couldn’t meet the early-morning group at the lake, so I didn’t bring my wetsuit, and I am also suffering from a head-cold.
We can still make it a long swim – just closer to shore.
Thanks-See you at 5:30 on the beach!
Re: the 15-40 fundraising, when someone wants to fundraise for you, they would put “Michelle Wilen” in the comment section. That will then be “credited” to you/FitBricks. The flier (which I’ll have at the next session too) is a contest they are running exclusively for us. For every $100 you guys raise, you get one ticket. The winner, picked in Sept, will get a $500 Amex gift card. The donation section of their website is http://15-40.org/make-a-gift.html
Bill M – great, I was just going to watch the weather. Will repost as we get closer. I was thinking of going early say 8:00 ish but can do later as well.
Mert – I was thinking of going early 7:30-8:00 ish. Kim H and I were also going to do the run or part of it depending on heat. I think we will have varying abilities, so we can also go out in two groups. Again, I’ll repost as we get closer to the weekend, we’ll have to watch the weather.
I need to do a 20 mile bike this weekend, was thinking of doing the Westborough course, plus a 1/2 course loop, probably early on Saturday. Anyone interested in going with me? I’m not a terribly fast biker, plus if it’s hot I’ll be taking it easy. Would love some company!
Also, Diane, is it OK if we run/bike early in the morning? (like 6-6:30am) Some of us are meeting to run tomorrow morning at the club. The swim/bike brick didn’t seem too bad at all this morning; of course, biking while wet does help one keep cooled off! Just wondering your thoughts on how to get workouts in while it’s so hot. Thanks!
Shelly, it should be OK, but use your best judgment and make sure you have plenty of fluids. Also, don’t push it too hard. Don’t worry about performance during heat like this. You can lose up to 10% of your performance from the heat alone.
Rebekah I am not going to make it – I’m stuck on a work issue and it’s already 5pm. It’s going to take me 20 minutes at least, and then I won’t get there for another 20. I am SO bummed, I was looking forward to it!
Shelly, that is a great question. This is where the 10% deficit comes in. At your normal pace, your heart rate could be 10% higher than normal and therefore, you should slow your pace.
Marie, we are thinking 7:30 am on Saturday in Webster and around 8:00 am on Sunday is Westboro. I’ll post later in the week, I want to watch the weather but those are the tenative times. On Saturday, Kim H and I were planning on running part of the course as well. This is her first SheRox so she’d like to see the whole course Anyone is welcome on either day.
Ok ….need some encouragement from those runners out there! training for my first and probably last FULL marathon and wondering why I signed myself up for that craziness!
Training for a marathon is difficult in of itself, and you are trying to do two things at once. But you can do it. Are you following the modified plan we discussed last week? Don’t throw in extra stuff or you will find it difficult to do the critical workouts. Your run mileage shouldn’t be horrifically high yet, your marathon is several months away. Additionally, watch the HR on the long runs. You must be in zone 2 or you will implode as the mileage increases and be sure to take those walk breaks. YOU CAN DO IT!!!
Lian and I swam today- the water was so warm! Everything was fine until I reached out with a stroke touched what felt like someone’s hair floating in the water—YIKES- really startled me !
Weeds or seaweeds or whatever they are called are getting kinda dense near the shore on the other side.
Lisa and Rebekah, I hear you! Just got to keep swimming. Better to feel it and get used to it now than in a race. Also, you don’t seem to notice it in a race because there are so many people in front of our waves, they must push it away. This is one bonus of NOT being an elite and being in Wave 1
Gretchen & I are meeting at Chauncy on Friday morning at 7am to swim to the trees and back if anyone wants to join us. We will post tomorrow as well to make sure they haven’t closed it due to the hot weather / high bacteria counts.
Hi Lenore, I’m going to try to make a 6 am swim at Lake Chauncy but I can’t do the bike as well – have to get to work for 8 am. Not sure if others are swimming and biking.
Hi Lenore and Barbara,
I will also be swimming to the dock on Friday 6am with at least Mary – I won’t be riding after but there are others that planning to.
Hi Everyone, just wanted to tell the Fitbricks team from Sunday 4th that the pictures of everyone are awesome… we all look HOT! Literally! Nice job again everyone. (pictures from Capstone Photography)
Michelle
if you’re still interested, Mert and I will be swimming at Hopkinton Fri eve around 5. The area with the parking lot and the bathhouse. Any one else?
Nice swim this morning everyone! Hope you enjoyed the bike ride too! How far is the swim from the beach to the “dock”? When we swim straight…Jess, Mary?
Hey Everyone, for those wanting to bike Webster tomorrow morning we are still on. Planning on being there for 7:30 am, may run after and then have breakfast. Looking forward to seeing you all. Barbara
Hi Everyone,
Rich and I are still planning on riding the Westboro bike course tomorrow morning at 8:00 am. If it is raining – we probably won’t go, if just a few drizzles we are still in. I’ll post around 7:00 am if we aren’t going because the weather looks bad. Hope to see many of you tomorrow.
Nice bike rides (bike rides/runs) everyone this weekend! Coach will be proud And it was a lot of fun to ride with such great groups!
Congratulations to our Nantucket contingent – Diane, Jim, Melissa and Christine. Nice job can’t wait to hear the stories – hopefully all good ones
Nantucket race report from Diane’s perspective…Jim, Melissa and Christine feel free to add your 2 cents (Dot and Cary you can too from your volunteer perspective).
Friday we spent all day and night swimming, walking around and eating. SO MUCH FUN! Note to triathletes: this is not recommended if you are concerned about your race performance the following day ?
Planning for this race was interesting because it didn’t start until noon. This makes it very difficult to plan a nutrition strategy. But, Diane started the day getting up as normal at 5:30 eating her normal breakfast. The plan was for Diane, Jim and Christine to ride their bikes 1.5 miles to registration when it opened at 8:30, register, set up transition, then go back to Christine’s to eat a large breakfast that would hold everyone over through the race. We would then only have to stay hydrated and cool until the race started.
We rode to registration with our backpacks. During registration, it started to rain. We were a little nervous, but the rain cleared and we had a nice steamy hot day to look forward to. After we registered, we set up our transition areas. We then rode back to Christine’s. Diane and Jim cooked pancakes and eggs for Jim (Diane already ate and couldn’t eat that much more and Christine ate her normal breakfast of yogurt and granola (Diane was concerned about the amount of protein and lack of carbs, so Christine added a pancake to her “normal breakfast”)).
It was already getting hot, so we had to be sure to stay hydrated. At 10:30 we rode our bikes back to the race venue. When we got there, we were very happy to have registered early because the line was quite long. As I went to put my bike back at my transition spot, someone had moved all of my stuff out of the way and put their stuff where mine was. Hmmmm… luckily the woman was standing there and I could nicely explain to her that her stuff needed to go on the other side of the rack. She was a newbie and said she had no idea that she shouldn’t have moved my stuff out of her way ?.
I reset up my transition area and decided to look at the swim start and walk through the transitions from swim to bike and bike to run. Looking at the swim, the debate was to wear a wetsuit or not? The swim is ONLY ¼ mile and the run ON THE SAND from the ocean up to the tennis courts was about a ¼ mile over shells, in very hot weather and wouldn’t feel so good in a wetsuit. But, since the swim looked longer than ¼ mile I decided to wear it and take it off down by the ocean before the run.
I started the swim fine and it felt fine, but going across the ocean parallel to shore was pretty wavy so I was glad when I reached the buoy to head back into shore. Then the real fun began. My goggles were fogged, I couldn’t see anything, no one was around me and I knew I was off course. So, I had to stop and clear my goggles. I then quickly realized I was heading toward the start line when the guy in the kayak suggested to me that I start heading to the right LOL. Into shore I headed. The tide was going out, so your hand hit the ground pretty far away from the shore (the start line was actually 1/8 or a mile into the ocean) so the transition run actually started in the water. To give you a hint to the water conditions, Olympic swimmer Jenny Thompson’s swim was 11 min for the supposed ¼ mile swim!
I stripped off my wetsuit at the shore and ran to my transition spot. (Note to self, when doing an ocean swim that involves sand running, you should practice running on the sand….tendons and feet don’t like running in sand without practice. Also, arthritic feet don’t like running across a parking lot in barefoot…)
Onto my favorite event.. the bike. The bike was great. We had a head wind going out, but coming back we cruised. It was a nice mix of flat and rolling hills. I was playing cat and mouse with two woman in my age group on the way out, but at the turnaround I got a burst of energy and rode away and didn’t see them again until the run (UGH!). I got off of the bike and ran to my transition spot. Shoes and helmet off. I did think about putting socks on but tried for a few seconds and it was too hot so they were just sticking to my foot. Ditched those and tried to slide my foot into my sneakers and it was so hot my orthotics kept bunching up by my toes. Three times the charm and they finally laid right. Sneakers on, grab hat and race belt and off I go all in less than 1 min!
The run….well, let’s just say I was in 4th or 5th place coming off of the bike and ended in 8th. It was VERY hot. That’s all I’m going to say about that. I finished 8/60 so I was happy with that.
Bottom line is that it was a ton of fun and I loved having no pressure to perform and knowing that we had a big day after the race that I could have fun at and not be exhausted from the race.
Finally, the swim leg was longer than the 1/4 mile as advertised on our website. The tides and the sand bar added to the complexity of staging an exact 1/4 mile swim leg. We apologize for the longer length and we will try to make improvements with this next year.
Rebekah, I ws thinking about Chauncy, swimming to the trees or the dock.
However…it might rain! I will check the radar again about 5, but I don’t want to risk getting stuck in a thunderstorm.
The pub crawl was the best part of the trip, oh… and spending time on Nantucket with friends, PRICELESS! If anyone can help Diane out she’s not familar with the poem, “there once was a man from Nantucket” hahahahah
Hey veterans out there – I need to do a 10-15 mile bike ride today, but with the rain, I’m not sure what to do… Thoughts??? I could use my trainer, but that seems so lame… Thanks!
Barbara, you are correct, there were a few funny things too. No, I am not familiar with that song, but started singing the first sentence and Jim almost got hit by a car by falling off of the curb he was laughing so hard. Of course, he didn’t tell me what the rest of the song is……………..
His wetsuit story is FUNNY though. We walked up to the swim start and it really was very hot. By the time we got there we were sweating. When the time came to pull up the wetsuit, his arms were all wet from sweat and the sleeves were sticking to his arms. He pulled and pulled and pulled a huge hole right along the shoulder seam. It was so big that we decided making his “sleeved”wetsuit “sleeveless” was the best option. So, the EMTs on the beach operated and Jim had a new sleeveless wetsuit! LOL
Diane here is the rest of the song, at least the clean version:
There once was a man from Nantucket
Who kept all his cash in a bucket.
But his daughter, named Nan,
Ran away with a man
And as for the bucket, Nantucket.
The last line is a joke to mean that Nan, (his daughter), took the bucket of money. “And as for the bucket, Nan took it.”
But, there are a lot of limericks made up with the start of…”There once was a man from Nantucket…”
My new sleeveless feels great. The EMT did a really nice job making a farmer john style for me. He was very careful cutting around the arms making it look very nice. FYI, I will never buy another Xterra wetsuit. I’ve had some many issues with the quality of the material. Can anyone recommend another brand?
Why is running sooo Frustrating! I love the bike and swim and feel great doing it but when it comes to the run I feel like I am going to die about 5 mins after I start. If I do my heart rate I have to pretty much walk to keep it in the zone. Any suggestions on how to improve my run?
I have the Blue Seventy Reaction as does Marile and Mary. After 3 years, mine looks in far better shape than the Xterras from last season. Trifuel rates Blue Seventy high, but also is very happy with the QR products.
And Lian, running to me is still frustrating. As with a lot of people, I have 2 modes…speed and distance. I can go for 5-10 miles in a super slow mode that feels as if I am faster walking or <3 in a fast mode. It does get better and seems to level out as my first year I could only do 1 mile in fast mode. Hill repeats and speed workouts helped a lot!
I’ll be swimming today at 4pm at Bare Hill Pond in Harvard – lots of weeds but no algae. Mert is joining me, anybody else? Meeting at the General Store in Harvard center.
Jim – I think you should stay with the “punk”ragged sleeve look – you could be the first Ironman rock star… I have an Orca wetsuit – very high quality materials & construction.
Also, I think you should tell Diane the REAL words to the “Man From ..” limmerick – she’ll be amazed how creative little boy “body part” humor can be!!!!
O also. The lifeguards will be on at the pond in Harvard until 5pm so we’ll be swimming the ropes. It’s a 100 yard square with 2 rafts in the middle so pretty much whereever you swim there’s something to grab nearby if you need it. And the water is very warm – 80ish, so no wetsuit for me.
Lian – Keep running! Yes Hill Repeats and Speed Drills help, but also those long slow (zone 2) runs. I find running in this heat and humidity really hard – it is much more fun to go swimming! I am a slow runner, and it is tough to get lapped by those that find running a breeze. Keep at it and I am sure you’ll start to see improvement!
RE wetsuits – I agree with the comments for Xterra – but the cost was right! If anyone sees a deal on a better quality wetsuit – please post! Thanks!
The reason we run (or walk if need be) in zone 2 is to build endurance. If you do this for a few months, you will be able to run longer and faster at a lower heart rate. You have to build endurance before you can build speed otherwise you will peter out very quickly. Sorry, it takes time, but it definitely works. Stay with it, you’ll see great progress over the next month or two. Go as a slow as you can in a shuffle mode.
Thanks for the wetsuit comments everyone. LOL Melissa, maybe this could be the new look for the sleeveless wetsuit. I’ll need a couple drinks in me to say the real words to, “The man from Nantucket”. Hope all is well with everyone, stay safe and keep on Tri-ing!
Lian,
I find that the “mind chatter” is way harder to deal with when running, and I have run for years. Some days it is relentless! If you understand it as a tape in your head about how it hurts to run, or how out of breath you are or whatever it is, then thank your mind for sharing, and find something to focus on rather than the chatter. I find that counting my breath helps: count one long breath in and two out, or how many breaths you need to take per stride. This turns the run that seems so hard into more of a “moving meditation” as Thich Nhat Hahn would say. Focusing on my breath and how deep it is going into my lungs seems to help me the most. Focus on ANYTHING other than your brain saying you can’t because this is too hard. Your body is in shape enough to do the runs set out, and it is just your head that doesn’t want to!
Hope this helps!
Wetsuit: I think the XTerra serves as a good first year suit, but agree the quality is poor for long term use. I can feel the difference in my Blue Seventy. I did notice at REI in Framingham last week that they have Zoot and Blue Seventy in stock. You could call to check for sizing.
I think the “Man from” …. limericks are a boy thing. Stan seems to know it. Claims there is also a Man from Vienna…..
FYI – for those planning to swim Chauncy Friday 6am, Vescio has their final Open Water Swim Clinic there at that time. I drove by during their last Clinic and there were lots of people out in the lake. Not much free water off the beach. Maybe by the old might be better?
I am planning to swim Chauncy Sunday 6am if anyone interested in joining.
Steve– good info, thanks. I’m planning on taking Dave on a swim “to the trees” (i.e. across the lake instead of in the ropes. 1/4 mile each way) on Sunday morning. Since he hasn’t done that before, I’ll swim towing a noodle. You’re welcome to join us — but we were thinking a little later — like maybe 7:30 or 8:00?
Just wanted to post, what an awesome workout today! Everyone looked great! I can tell you from experience these practices are priceless! You’ll all see in your own races the people who have paid attention to the small but important details, nutrition, hydration, transition…. and the ones who haven’t! We already are a step ahead of everyone! Great job guys!
And good luck to our Falmouth contingent! Bring home the gold… okay just have fun!
Barbara, you beat me to it!
You guys did great today. That is a tough workout, but it so prepares you for your race. Nice job!
I also wanted to tell you about next week’s workout. If you are racing, please still come to practice. We will have Don conducting the tire changing clinic, so bring your bikes; and we’ll be doing some visualization and going over some logistics for your race. Those of you not racing, if you need tire changing lessons, bring your bike too and you can run afterward. Those of you not racing and who know how to change a tire will be doing a run interval session.
Kate, look at how well (or not) that you hydrated yesterday. I this really hot weather it is hard to stay ahead of our hydration needs. You may have hydrated well today but were low from yesterday. Keep in mind we should be sipping every 10-20 minutes! Not sure everyone did that on the bike today.
Everyone who is racing next week make sure even though we are in a taper for exercise you eat and drink! We want our energy stores packed for our race!
As some of you may know, I recently moved to a home on GlenEcho Lake, in Charlton, Ma. I would like to extended an invitation to come and swim on Wednesday night at 6:00pm. All are welcome.
Marile – Can’t make the 8:00 am swim due to family committment. We need to be done by 7:45am.
So, Ray and I will be doing a Swim/Bike brick tomorrow at Chauncy. We are planning a 6am swim to rope swing and back, followed by biking the course (time permitting). All are welcome here as well.
Marile – sorry I did not make it to Chauncy this morning – woke up to kid with fever. Hope your swim went well – let me know if you are swimming at Chauncy this week in the am or pm and I’ll join you.
The Climb to the Clouds was amazing. It was a perfect day for this ride. I ended up doing only 50 miles. Mert stayed at the Cape, so I wasn’t encouraged to do any more. It was a tough 50 but the vistas were worth it. It would be a great ride for early autum – if anyone is game. Actually, I’d be willing to do it again any time. It’s a slow ride though (I averaged 13.75 mph). At one point I was grinding up a hill at barely 5 mph! With the uphills come some screaming downhills! If you can ride 20-25 miles (with hills) comfortably, you can do this ride.
Kathleen and Rebeka,
I’m for an after work swim at Chauncy. How about Tuesday? I can meet any time 5:30 or later. If anyone would like to bike after the swim I need to do that too.
Karen
Just sent this via email too but didn’t want anyone to miss this message:
_______________________
Hi guys,
This email is for those racing this Sunday at SheRox in Webster. It has come to my attention (thanks Sharon and Andy!) that the expo is NOT in Worcester this year, and actually they changed quite a few things. You MUST register and pick up your bag with your numbers, etc… on SATURDAY in WEBSTER.
Please read it carefully and send me an email with any questions you may have.
Those of you not racing on Sunday. Sorry for the spam, but I didn’t want to miss anyone. I’ll give you some infor too
At our Saturday workout, we will have a few things going on:
1. I will hold a tire-changing clinic first thing. ANYONE that does not know how to change a tire should bring their bike on Saturday and we’ll change a tire and show you how to get your tire on and off of your bike.
2. if you are racing, come to the tire changing clinic and I will also do a visualization with you.
3. if you are not racing on Sunday, you will be doing intervals for running. If you are not racing AND you do not know how to change a tire, attend the tire changing clinic first, then do your run.
Full of advice today before my trip the mind is a movin’….
Many of the lakes are too warm for a wetsuit and many races are not “wetsuit legal” this year. We all know how warm lake chauncy is this year. So, I strongly suggest one of your swims/week you do without your wetsuit. Either in the pool or along the ropes. It will be harder, so please be sure to stay safe and remember never to swim alone.
I am going to try and make it for the swim tonight too – although I have a project launching tomorrow so the day could quickly get away from me. If I’m not there by 5:30 don’t wait….but I hope to be there.
Is anyone swimming on Wednesday? I would like to do a swim across chauncy without my wetsuit to build my confidence for Sunday. Kinda freaking about a 1/2 mile swim with no wetsuit. I’d prefer morning but could do afternoon/evening too.
Gretchen, I can swim Wednesday. I was planning on swimming the ropes without a wetsuit. What time did you have in mind? I usual swim around 6 am , but can also do the afternoon.
Tracey/Rebeka/Kathleen – I’m stuck at work, and will not be able to meet to swim – very sorry. At least there is a goup of 3 swim buddies-safety first. Have fun!
I would love to meet the morning group tomorrow at Chauncy at 6 for a swim. Not sure if I’m confident enough to go across without my wetsuit, though!
I twisted my ankle while running today and have it up with ice on it at the moment. If it’s better in the morning, I will be there- but don’t wait for me. Hopefully I’ll see you then.
Sarah: Sorry to hear about your ankle. FYI – last time I twised my ankle I was actually able to bike and run before I could swim. You will be surprised how much you use the ankle with a flutter kick. Hope it heals quickly.
Marile and Bill – I’m not going to make it Wed morning…I’ve been at a campground for the last two days with a “pine” fire going and my allergies are on tilt. I’m going to give myself some extra sleep in the morning. See you later this week.
Thanks Mary. I’m glad you said that about swimming with the bad ankle… it feels like I better not push it today. I don’t want to get into trouble in the water, and I’m hoping it’s better for Sunday. Sorry I can’t make it this morning Marile and Bill.
Rebekah – I think Title 9 is sold out – I’ve tried registering – but could only get as far as the waiver – which says sold out under the checkbox. However, the race does not say sold out on the home page.
What about Dover Sherborn? I’d be up for a relay team if someone wants to do it with me and it’s still open for registration. I’d prefer to swim since it’s the one discipline I’ve actually done this summer!
Dover Sherborn is on Sept 19, with an 8am start. My question for Diane – Dover has 2 transition areas – do things get crazy with 2? Buzzards Bay was nice – on 9/26 this year – but it was a really cold start last year!
A few co-workers do the Duxbury Beach Tri every year and say it is a lot of fun. It is sold out as a regular participant, but Charity slots at $200 are still available.
I can swim tomorrow (Friday) morning at 6:00 am. Bill and Steve I’ll see you there. This is my last swim before my race on Sunday…
Has anyone heard anything on water temp at Webster…I’m wondering if I’ll be able to wear my wetsuit. I figure I’ve done that race twice before without a wetsuit, if I have to do it again, I know I’m swimming stronger now than I have before.
The Athlete Guide for Sunday states the water temp should be 73-75 degrees and should be wetsuit legal. Actual decision will be announced that a.m. Here is the link: http://www.sheroxtri.com/webster-ma-7325.html
Good luck to all those racing this weekend!
just checking in and catching up again…I’ll miss you at the pot luck Saturday as i’ll be away this weekend, but good luck to everyone racing this weekend! Diane was kind in describing me eating my usual morning breakfast of yogurt and granola…usual on an ordinary day, but never on a hot race day (nantucket tri on the 10th), SOOO….I ended up with cramps half way through the bike and could not run the run (more like walking while holding my side) and by an hour after the race thought I was going to be heading for the hospital. Other than that the whole weekend was a lot of fun. So follow all that Diane says and never do anything on race day that you haven’t done in practice…and i think on a hot day i’d caution against dairy anyway. I’m usually a soy girl. Good luck everyone!
Just signed up for Dover Sherborn Tri – my second one and haven’t even done my first yet. WooHoo! Diane recommended it last week so thought I would give it a try.
The lake is beautiful…so clear. You will be amazed the difference between Chauncy and that lake. Supposed to be a nice race, I haven’t done it but from people that have said that it is well run.
Wow, lots of happenings since I’ve been gone. Just catching up!
Steve, way to go! That’s the way to become one of us addicted folks signing up for the second one before you’ve done the first LOL You’ll love it!
Also, I’ve been approached by a few to continue the summer program through the Sept races again this year. If you are interested in a similar Sat group to do this let me know. We actually can move the day we meet depending on who is doing the group- we can take a vote later . Cost will be only $150. I’m not sure which races I can attend based on my fall schedule, but I’ll see which ones people are doing and evaluate.
I’ll miss those of you that are away this weekend, but we’ll catch up with everyone next weekend. Lots of you are on vacation this weekend.
Congrats to all of the SheRox finishers today. You all looked so great out there. Wear that medal proud today (it actually was quite a nice one ) Sorry I was still “swim-angeling” it when some of you finished, but I got to put the medal on about 1/2 of you! I’m soooooooooooo proud to be your coach.
Rebekkah – I have a swim/bike scheduled for Tuesday…any chance you could switch days? I could be at Hopkinton by 6:15/6:30 (I start my job tomorrow and I think my day ends at 5:30).
Anyone else up for a swim/bike on Tuesday evening?
Congratulations everyone who did the SheRox today – you all rock! And special thank you to our wonderful coach, the great swim angels and the many spectators who came out to watch us compete – you guys also rock! What a great day overall! Congrats everyone!
Sarah, by looking at the results, it looks like that happened to a lot of people. It appears that they were having trouble with the mat in the swim to bike transition (T1 mat). Great job though!
Just wanted to congratulate Melissa and Marie, 5th and 6th respectively in their age group! Awesome!!! And you beat all of us younger folk I believe, you guys truly rock! Great job!
Melissa & Marie Congratulations! You two are amazing.
Barbara your time was too bad either. One of these days I’ll catch you, or at least be in your shadow.
Congratulations to everyone who complete the SheRox race.
I’m riding Sunday. It’s a ride sponsored by the CRW (there is no cost). I plan on doing the 58 mile ride if anyone would like to join me. Go to crw.org and click on rides – next month – August 1st. According to the long range forecast Sunday should be a great day for riding.
Annemarie, are you talking about the South Coast ride? It sounds beautiful. I wish Cary was riding again, I’ll have to run it by him, but I’d love to do this.
Annmarie, you are already in my shadow if not just off my shoulder! Knowing you and Melissa (I forgot Marie was doing the race) were in later waves than me kept me going. I was so worried I’d hear on your left while on the bike and it would be one of you!!! LOL! Everyone did awesome!
You guys are the best! Congrats to ALL OF THE SHEROX RACERS! What a fun day. Having so many of the team participating and supporting – both morally & physically – makes it about so much more than racing.
Love you guys!!!
Annmarie and Diane,
Wish I could join you guys for the ride on Sunday but Rich and I will be enjoying some beach time on the Cape Still training but without the work thing – hopefully!
Enjoy the ride, I’ll try to catch up with you guys on the next one.
Michelle – I’ll be doing the swim/bike at Chauncy tomorrow, but I have to do it at 6am. Don’t know if your schedule is flexible or not but you are welcome to join us. Anyone else welcome too!
Congrats to all SheROX racers! You are all an inspiration to us first timers.
Hey Kate, I’ve never tried Muscle Milk so I can’t comment on taste. Looking at their “light” version I can tell you it still has ~160 calories and 4.5 grams of fat – this is not a low fat product. Now none of this is bad it just depends why you are taking these products? They are convenient and easy to carry with you so for something quick it definitely could work but I like my clients to actually eat food to meet their calorie needs at least most of the time. You get satisfaction from actually eating and chewing more so than you do from drinking your calories. Again, I think the decision to use is very individual depending on why you may need these kind of products. Hope that is helpful.
Just wanted to share my “I don’t believe this is happening” timing chip story from the SheRox race.
When I opened my race packet at the expo on Saturday the first thing I looked for was my timing chip – because, on my way in I noticed a guy sitting by the door with a laptop & a sign that said “CHIP TESTING.” Ok – gotta test it then. I was surprised that the strap that the timing chip was sliding up & down on wasn’t made of velcro like the others I’ve had – but, I really haven’t done many races – so, this strap was made of plastic with the little holes punched in it like the wristband they give you when you check into the hospital to have one of those enjoyable outpatient procedures and then when you try to rip it off afterwards in the car going home it’s fastened so tight that you end up having to chew the damn thing off in frustration. So, race morning I debated whether to put it on before leaving the house (always listen to the coach’s instructions!) but having remembered how impossible they can be to remove (“What if the wetsuit won’t go over it?”) I decided to wait until I had my wetsuit on just in case… BAD decision #1. Get to the race, tr set up, lots of time for everything, then go looking for the team. About 1/2hr before 1st wave goes off – thinking I really don’t want to get into my wetsuit this early – there’s Diane, I’m carrying wetsuit,cap,goggles, timing chip, “Maybe I should put the chip on – but first the wetsuit” Diane holds chip I put on wetsuit then chip. The strap is long enough to wrap around my ankle twice so I just tuck the end under the chip. Another hour then my swim wave goes off. I’m about 50 yards into my swim and I feel the strap starting to flap around my ankle. Had visions of it coming loose and sinking. So, I reach down & it comes off in my hand. Now what do I do with it? First thought,”the bra.” But then I imagine it working its way down inside my trisuit to my belly button & having to lie down & slither across the timing mat to get my time recorded. So, I nix that idea & keep swimming with one hand closed fisted around the chip – not the most efficient way to “catch & pull.” Out of the swim, dash to the timing mat & reach down waving my fist at the mat, listening for the beep while the volunteer nearby looks at me like I’m crazy & I start thinking “Now what am I going to do with it on the bike?” In the sock it goes – hoping it doesn’t slip down underneath to where the cleat attaches & I end up trying to pull up those hills with a chunk of plastic under my toes. It didn’t but I thought about it for 12 miles. Now the run – leave it in the sock. Half mile out I can feel it moving – stop, reach down stuff it back in and look up just in time to nearly have a head-on with a biker – another 1/2 mile & it pops out completely, stop & grab it while 2 runners behind me nearly crash over me – note to self: NEVER STOP. Finally, I waved at the finish mat & happily handed over my chip.
SO, 1.Try ON your chip with strap BEFORE race. 2. Tug on it. 3. Get it wet & kick like crazy. 4. Tug on it again. 5. Pull your wetsuit over it. 6. Tug on it again.
After the race, telling Diane my story she wisely points out,
“You do have a pocket, you know.”
Another funny race story. You know how it goes Melissa, “it’s always SOMETHING”! Great way to improvise and not get flustered and still have a great race!
Melissa
why don’t you buy your own velcro chip strap, then you won’t have to worry about the hospital bracelet . It’s more comfy than those stiff plastic ones too.
I pull my wet suit right over it – no problem
Great race in spite of it!
Melissa,
WOW…that was some quick thinking!
I’m also a fan of my neoprene velcro chip strap…comfy and secure.
One issue I ran into last year using my own chip strap was when I did the Situate Duathlon. They were going to charge me like I had lost the chip if I did not return the 5 cent strap that they provided with the chip. Good thing I still had it burried in my backpack. Lesson-Don’t throuw away anything the race provides to you until post-race.
I might join you guys for a swim. Btw – Karen, Kathleen and I did a great swim/bike brick last night. We’ll need to tell you all the story of how I (and then Karen) almost got taken out by a cable wire being strung across the road by Charter with no warning. It was scary!
melissa,
That last line from Diane made me almost fall off the chair laughing! My hubby always says “I hate those things that happen that I know I am going to laugh about later!” Nice job anyway, and thanks for the inspiration!
Jess, I did that TDD race last year. It was nice – the water was still warm although I remember the air being pretty chilly at race start. The Hoyt’s also did that race and they are always inspiring! I might do it again this year especially since Title IX is sold out…..darn.
I’m secretly looking at another one as well (Kim H also, she had so much fun at SheRox) but Rich won’t commit until after Westboro We were looking at Buzzard Bay on Sept 26th, it was nice, fairly flat course and a short swim – definitely wetsuit needed, it was cold. I’ll let you know what we decide.
Stan and I did Buzzards Bay last year and the air was warm but the water was cold. The swim start is challenging. Very rocky and you have to swim to the start. Only a few made it to the start before the actual start. I was also kicked in the head and had a goose egg for a few days.
Stan says when the leaves fall on the lake it’s time to get out.
Oh that is right Mary, I hope it wasn’t I who gave you the goose egg I do think we collided during the start of the race, sorry! It is true that it is a challenging start, different and the cold water takes your breath away a little bit which can be a little unnerving. I think Sarah did the race too, I probably forgot others!
The water was cold – but who knows about this September – it has been a much hotter summer this year also. I really enjoyed the race – so much that I signed up for it again this year. Beautiful location – loved the bike course – flat – one loop – lovely. I also thought the race was very well managed. Can’t beat the beach and the water was calm & clear – yes, rocky on the way in but not on the way out! Also, it’s so shallow that you can see the bottom. Anyway… I’m in.
Just a reminder the Hub on Wheels is the same day as Buzzards Bay for those of you that are on that FitBricks team. If you haven’t signed up, you still can. It’ll be just a fun ride with a group of us. The other tris are all good choices too.
I am thinking about doing the TDD triathlon too. It looks like a good race and I want to keep up the training. Since I don’t have a wetsuit I don’t think buzzards bay would be a good idea for me?
Not having much luck putting on my new tires. First time the tube blew when I was adding air. Tried a second time and thought all was good. I just heard a bang in the other room. The tube blew and I wasn’t even touching it. I thought it looked a little funny near the stem. That’s where it blew. I am finding the new tire more challenging to put on because it is not really a nice round formed circle. It’s flat from being in the package and seems to have a mind of its own.
Don’t think I’ll be at training on Saturday I have to work. For those doing the ride Sunday go to crw.org for info on the ride. I plan on doing the 58 miles. There is a longer ride – 72 miles. My leg is STILL sore from my fall on Sunday. Ugh! So 72 with hills may be a bit much for me. Yes Mary there are shorter rides a 21 mile and a 39 mile ride.
Rebekah – I am waiting to hear from a few people who said they may interested in the 39 mile Boarder Run at a slower pace (13 mph). Will know later today/Saturday.
Diane – I have a question about our training schedules. I have races spaced about 2 weeks apart; Westboro, Cranberry (relay team) and Title 9. If I taper the week before a race, should I try to get in good workouts the week after a race? Thx!
Kate, about the muscle Muscle Milk. I agree with Barbara on eating rather than drinking. The Muscle Milk is 100% lactose free and tastes pretty good. I drink Muscle Milk after workouts and races to get that first bit of protein and carbs in within the hour then I eat. I recommend if you buy it that you get the powder mix because you get more for your money. You can mix it with lactose free milk. The pre mixed is expensive. I think its $8.99 for a 4 pack at Stop & Shop. You can get a 5 lb. container of powder for about $24.00 or so. Don’t go to GNC very expensive.
Kate, regarding your 2-week apart races. You should go by how you feel after the race. If you are really sore, take Mon off, then do active recovery so maybe swim on Tues, bike on Wed in easy spinning mode (1.e flats for 8-10 miles). By then you should feel all better. Take Thurs off and then do a good run, swim, bike, etc… until you begin your taper the following week on Wed or so. Things to watch out for- soreness after race requires more rest, if the easy workouts seem hard then go easier or stop.
Redemption: bike shop blew a tube. Said tires weren’t fitting the wheel right for some unknown reason. Refunded me the cost of the two tires and upgraded me. Bad news is shop only had one tire in stock and is now out of 650 tubes. Need to wait till next week to be fully upgraded. Hope to pick up a spare 650 tube at Landry’s Sat so I can ride Sunday.
Something to keep in mind for those with woman’s specific frames/wheels; shops don’t always have the parts on hand.
Wow Melissa, quite scary!
Mary sorry about your tire troubles! I wanted to let you know I won’t be able to do the ride on Sunday after all. Seems Rich and I will be leaving for the Cape either Saturday night or Sunday morning. Wish I could do it all but vacation with hubby wins out
I’ll ride the Westborough loop with you Sunday although I’m not sure of the route. Let me know where you’d like to meet and time. Diane has my email/cell if you don’t see it…my name is in my email and @firstam.com.
Everyone else have fun on your respective rides…I’m trying to work my hip back up to longer so the CRW group looks fun to try again!
Just crashed my car into my lawn mower! Off to repair the hanging bumper. Won’t be at training today Have fun and let me know all the fun I missed out on!
Christine,
A few of us are meeting at the Chauncy parking lot tomorrow (Sunday) morning at 8am. The plan is to do the course once and then part of it a second time for about 20 miles in total. Not sure how your hip is, but you can just do the first loop if you’d like.
Anyone else – feel to join us!
Hi Lian,
Sorry to hear about you “accident” this morning. Today’s workout we ran, zone 2, the Westboro run course. Rich also missed today’s workout, so I’m hoping to run the Westboro course with him next Sunday if you’d like to join us feel free. I’ll post again later in the week, we are heading to the Cape this weekend and hope to be back for next Saturday’s training Have a good week.
Melissa, have you checked out the SheRox pictures? There’s a great one of you crossing the finishing line, bending over with your chip to make sure it beeps! And then one which looks like you are giving out a primal scream, maybe of relief, frustration, gratitude! All of the above. Great pictures of everyone on the website.
Mert and I plan to ride the Cranberry course immediately after practice next Saturday if anyone is interested in extending their swim/bike another 26miles.
Thanks for the comments re Muscle Milk – I think I’m scared off that idea for now. Diane and Mert – Cranberry bike ride sounds great! Barbara – I haven’t run the Westboro course and would love to join you and Rick next Sunday. Melissa – love your SheRox photos! As for my run photos, some things should just not be posted! I need to work on spotting those photographers out on the run.
We really couldn’t have asked for a better day. Challenging course (holy hills!!) but the conditions were perfect. Lake dropped to 76 degrees last night, so wetsuits were legal. Karen blew by me on loop one of the run. And Dave rocked his first race — I’m pretty sure he’s hooked! Watching Dick Hoyt push his son up those hills on a bike was unreal.
Congrats Karen, Marile & Dave !
Last year Marlborough was my first Tri & I still have nightmares about those hills – especially since you get to visit them 3 times!!!
You can feel really proud
LOL Mary. Yes, it is $150 for personalized plan for your Sept Race. We will meet on Saturday again 8-9:30 or 10; in various locations including Title IX course and running to parks to do some intensity training. Workouts will be longer with more intensity and less talking by me
OK all of you ladies out there (sorry guys, I didn’t make the rules) I would like to get a group together to do the Dec 8th Spy School in NYC. I think it will teach us some great skills that will have carry-over to our triathlon lives. Who’s in? Check it out: http://www.stilettospyschool.com/newyork.php
I will join you Bill. I was looking for someone to swim this morning but no luck and I didn’t feel comfortable in the lake alone. So I will see you tomorrow.Thanks!
Diane – what is the schedule for this Sat- the schedule says Swim and Bike, but you had also mentioned doing a mini tri – want to make sure I plan my week accordingly.
Kathleen, the schedule is a swim/bike this Sat. I got my weeks mixed up. The uniforms probably won’t be here until Friday, so we’ll have to do a mini tri the Sat before the race to “test” the uniforms.
Steve, I don’t think you are following your plan or being a good listener I believe we discussed Swim/Bikes VS Bike/Runs and I want you to do more bike/runs and make your swims, longer and more purposeful. We are doing a swim/bike on Saturday, so no need to do one Thurs. You should do a full swim (i.e. swim the ropes a couple of times doing drills and warming up, then do a bike/run on Fri or Sun- unless you did one earlier in the week). I’m just sayin’ there is a purpose to the schedule
Diane – I’m sure I’m being a pain the a** here, but my schedule says we are “off” the day before the race. But, now we’ll be doing a mini-tri?? Ok… Hmmm…. I trust you.
Rebekah, I know not ideal, but you HAVE TO try on the uniform before the race to check for “rubbing spots” so, when I say mini, I mean mini-tri…no worries…trust me If I get the uniforms Friday, I’ll do a special practice for the mini tri Friday night. They are scheduled to ship next Tues so it will be close!
Hi Everyone,
Feel a little bit out of the loop since being on vacation but am enjoying our vacation!
Don’t worry Rich and I have been faithful in sticking to our workout schedule as well!
We are looking forward to Saturdays swim/bike training
Congratulations to the Marlboro Triathlon group – way to go! Dave welcome to the party, glad you are hooked
See you all Saturday.
Hi All! Assuming Diane doesn’t tell me no, I’m planning on doing a long bike ride tomorrow morning (around 9AM). Anyone interested in joining?? I’m thinking about doing the Hopkinton course twice, but am open to other ideas.
I was thinking about doing the Dover Triathlon. Are others doing this race? Does anyone know what the course is like? I was going to do the TDD one but turns out I am busy that day.
Steve is doing it too. It is a short swim, a nice 14.8 mile bike course with a few hills and a 3.4 mile run. A little longer than a normal sprint, but a nice race.
Hi Everyone,
Great brick this morning, you guys looked great!
For those interested, Rich, Kate, Lian, Michelle, Annmarie (possibly) and myself are running the Westboro Tri course tomorrow morning. We will meet at the Lake parking lot for 8:30 am. Anyone is welcome to join us, it should be a slow zone 2 run, so nice and easy If you’d like to run the course please feel free to join us tomorrow morning.
Kathryn – I would love that! I was planning on swimming to across to the trees and back. Meet you on the beach at 6? I could probably meet you at 5:45…
Be very careful of boats at this time of day. Make sure someone has a noodle and you both have bright colored bathing caps. Uses your judgment- boats must be able to to see you. In the lake in Westford, we don’t swim without a Kayak because of the boats.
FYI – saw this posted on the Westborough tri website. Not that swim waves really matter too much, but I find the closer I get to a race and the more info I have make it seem that much more real and exciting! Can’t wait
Swim Waves:
There will be five swim waves for the race sent off at 3 minute intervals beginning with the first wave at 8am. The organization of waves is as follows:
Wave 1: Elites, Relay Teams, Athenas and Clydesdales
Wave 2: Women age 40 and older
Wave 3: Men age 40 and older
Wave 4: Men age 39 and under
Wave 5: Women age 39 and under
Thanks Michelle, this is great information. Interesting that they have the oldest women going before the men. Those of you in the over 40 group know that the guys don’t always say “on your left”. Luckily, the race isn’t too full so you will be fine.
Kathryn – I’m leaving work now. It will take me about 1/2 hour to get to Chauncy. I’ll wait a few mins for you, and then start swimming the ropes. You can also call my cell phone to confirm the time if you want. I’ll send it to your gmail.
Jessica, you certainly did not register as novice, did you!?!?! You absolutely are not a novice.
As far as your question goes, you will still be within your age groups. I know they are offering a different colored cap to those that are concerned about the swim (like they did in Falmouth) but that is different. Everyone goes according to age group.
Lian, you will be fine. Your wave will be pretty small. With how well you swim, you’ll be rivaling some of the elites! Then they’ll be out of transition before you can say boo and you’ll be fine!
Is anyone swimming Wednesday or Thursday evening (or evening Friday evening) at Chauncy? I need one last swim before the race. I could be there by about 6:30 p.m. I work until 5:30. Can’t get there in the morning now that I’m back to work.
Lian – I’m in the Athena class too. The good thing, we will have 6 minutes in the water before the men start swimming! Yippee. I don’t want anyone submerging me.
Lian, I’m in the Athena wave, too. It will be nice to at least have a familiar face to start with! Plus, if you’re really nervous, just start at the back of the pack, and then pick up speed once you get in the water and get some clear space around you. You’re a great swimmer, so I’m sure you’ll do great!
Fri after work we most likely will be doing our mini-tri our clothes on if the uniforms get here like they are supposed to. We will meet at lake Chauncey for a dip, quick bike, and mini run so don’t plan anything for Fri night. It would be much better for us to do this Fri night than Sat morning with everything already going on on Saturday.
Thanks for the input Diane…Marie (& any one else that wants to come) let’s plan for Thursday evening. I will try to be there before 6:30, but its all dependent on the traffic. I’ll change quick at work and head right out. See you then.
I ran the run course with my Garmin again last night. Eric is tweaking the end part of the run so I wanted to give you some info on that.
The course will end up being between 2.9 and 3.0 depending on where the finish line is. As you come up the Front Entrance, you go by the first left we had been taking and take the next left that is pavement then a dirt pathway. You go straight down over the hill onto the field and run to the right around the field towards the back part where the bike out is. That’s the only difference to what we have been running.
A couple of more tidbits about mileage and water stops. The first water stop will be at the gate as you head out onto the path. That one most likely will be conjested so you might want to wait until the next one if you drank sufficiently on the bike. The second water stop will be at the “T” in the path where you take a right. This is at approx .77 mile. The last stop will be at the corner of the exit of the path and Chauncey St this is approx mile 1.6.
The 1 mile mark is after the “T” and where the middle grass section stops. The 2 mile mark is at Lake Chauncey parking lot.
Let me know if you have any other questions,
Diane
Another 4-week training geeze! But this time I get to go with D.C here we come! No worries FitBricks team, it is after our training ends. You guys can all come down and visit me. We can have a fun roadtrip bike ride! Will give more details Sat at the BBQ! I hope everyone is tapering!!!!
Diane, Cary is just getting you ready for the big move down there
For those in need of new shoes or new jerseys for the bike, Bike Nashbar is doing their 72/72/72 sale again and have Shimanos and Pearl Izumis for under $40. Good way to pick up a spare pair or shoes for the spin bike.
Diane, I have a quick question. Maybe I missed this because I was away last weekend, but I was wondering when packet pick-up is going to be? I got an e-mail (the same one Jess did, incidentally, which said I’d registered as a novice but I know I didn’t!) and it said packet pick up was on Friday the 14th from 4-7 @ WTSC. Since the 14th is Saturday, I assume that’s the correct day for pick up? Just want to clear up the confusion. Thanks!
Novice! You guys are nuts! You should try to change that. Here is the plan for Saturday. Everyone will meet at my house at 3. We will have a little snack then all head over to the club together at 4 to pick up our packets. Then we will come back to my house for the BBQ. Should good?
Sounds like a plan! I don’t know about that e-mail, I know I was very clear about registering as Athena. Maybe they just sent it out to everyone in general? I’ll check at packet pick-up, just to make sure anyway. Thanks! BTW, are you tracking the uniforms? Wondered if they’re on track to get here on time.
Re: the email from the Westborough folks… If I remember correctly, there was a section that you chose your category (age grouper, athena, elite, etc). Then, there was a separate section where we had to choose from novice, intermediate, or advanced. I chose novice. The email said that they were sending a special note to those who marked “novice’ to give them some tips and checklists. It was fairly general info. So, I wouldn’t worry if you didn’t receive an email – it was my impression that a note was not sent to everyone.
Diane -
For us newbies, please guide us on the pre race process of what we need to do in what order on Sunday Morning. I am sure the experienced triathletes have a routine they go through to maximize efficiency and hopefully reduce stree on Sunday morning. Maybe we could review survival tips on Sunday for us newbs?
I never thought taper would be the hardest week…yes I am behaving…
Steve and other newbies – Diane has lots of great pre race tips – but my 2 favorites are (1) try to get a good night’s sleep tonight and Friday night. It just isn’t going to happen on Saturday night. And (2) really work on staying extra hydrated the next few days. Don’t worry – we are all going to have a GREAT race!
Steve, absolutely I plan to do this on Saturday and then again helping you in transition on Sunday. Additionally, don’t forget to take out the “Race Day” article and the checklist. You will be fine! If you are feeling that way about taper than you are doing it right !
Interesting: Steve is having trouble with”tapering”. I, on the other hand, am loving it. I can finally, comfortably, fit my w/o into my life schedule.
I must be tired
This countdown is killing me. It’s like waiting for water to boil! Can’t wait to see the uniforms tomorrow! Thanks to everyone for the encouragement. What an awesome team! Go Team Fitbricks!
Let’s see, I already washed 1/2 the windows in the house, cleaned the chandelier and all the light globes in the house. My wife thinks this tapering is GREAT!
Anyone else up for a swim this evening at chauncy around 6:30 pm? Marie can’t make it and I really need/want to get my swim in. Diane has my cell # & email and I’ll check this later this afternoon.
Hi Sarah,
Yes there is a group of us meeting tomorrow morning at 6-6:15 at Lake Chauncy. Some of us have to do the earlier time but there maybe two groups going depending on time. Also, I’m just swimming to the rope swing, trying to keep it light and easy
If that time works for you please join us. I’ll try to post early if something comes up and I’m not going to make it.
I am going to try to make the 6 am swim tomorrow too, but don’t wait if I don’t make it… Have to juggle getting one kid to camp, work and getting the dog to the vet all before 8:30!
Ooooohhhh…so tempted. I might be over…I’ll call Joe at 5;30…see what the plan is for the evening…see if he’s willing to watch me swim. Wish I could swim in the am…guess I could go to work smelling like Chauncy Lake…
Anyone swimming in the 6am group tomorrow–Barbara has the uniforms to hand out. I will then have them for the 6:30am group and then again at the club for the 6pm mini-tri.
Rebekah, I know there is a group at 6 am going to the rope swing – nice an easy. Diane, Jim and Melissa are swimming at 6:30 am, I think they are going a little further since Diane and Melissa aren’t racing on Sunday.
Great swim today everyone!!! We are all so ready for race day!!! Remember get a good night sleep tonight, stay well hydrated these next couple of days, stay ahead of your thirst. And of course eat!!! Don’t stuff yourself that is never good but don’t be skipping meals, eat a good variety of foods, carbs are good just make them healthy carbs – fruits, vegetables, whole grain. Eat foods that are familiar to you, remember nothing new on race day! You are all so ready for this! See you tomorrow at the BBQ.
OK: so this goes into the pile of things not to do on race day! I wanted to swim today at 6, and was late leaving my house. It is before 6 still and I am tooling along RT 9 at a nice steady 75 in order to try to catch up witht he 6 AM swim group, and then Mr Police Man clocked me going too fast… Got a speeding ticket, but still made it to swim with the 6 AM group! (Is that commitment or what?!) Not something to do on race day: jacked my heart rate up too high! Probably did not need to swim: got my HR up and was breathing hard (too much swearing as I was waiting for him to saunter up to the car.). I did not scream at him that I was late for a swim workout with the group though: took so much self restraint!
Watch for the police being out EARLY on race day…
Yeah, those cops are everywhere, watch out! Can you imagine them stopping someone for going 25 mph over the speed limit so they could get to swim practice at lake chauncey, what a nerve. I’m not buying any tickets to the ball this year.
Congrats to all who raced today, especially Marie and Stan for thier podium finishes! Way to go you guys did awesome. I have to say this is the most amazing group of people and I’m proud to be a Fitbrick. Looking forward to having many more memories with you guys.
Results are in http://coolrunning.com/results/10/ma/Aug15_Westbo_set1.shtml Look at those times! Congratulations to our first timers… you’re triathletes now! It was so exciting to see all of you finishing so strong with smiles on your faces. Congrats to our podium finishers, Marie & Stan – you rock! Soooooo proud of everyone…. lost my voice shouting for you!
I just looked at all the times…Fitbricks totally rocked the house! Congratulations everyone. Newbies…I hope you are addicted and stick with us crazy people…we loved having all of you on the team. Congratulations as well to Marie & Stan nice job with first & second place. Had such aa blast training and racing withall of you. Now we need to plan a Friday night get together!
Thank you to Diane and the whole Fitbricks team for a great journey over the past 11 weeks. New Friends, New Adventures, and new body aches have all been so rewarding. If you said a year ago I would be a triathlete, I would have said you are crazy. Yes, Gretchen I was hooked after the first group workout.
Congrats to Marie and Stan and to ALL Fitbricks racers and friends. It is so much more fun amongst friends.
Melissa and Dot – you were right – so much more fun without a watch! Never thought the watch was making me go slower, but you were both right. Oh yeah, almost forgot – thanks melissa for fixing my number on my bike. I’m glad myheart rate monitor wasn’t on, because it would have been 200 when I got tagged for illegal number position. Sure, pick on the new guy…
So, while relaxing today I checked out the TDD Tri Sept 18 (only online so far). Dover is sold out and I don’t think Lisa registered yet. So, I don’t want to do Dover alone since we are a TEAM! If anyone is thinking TDD, let me know and I am in!
Jim couldn’t have said it better – so happy to be a Fitbrick!
Great job everyone. Special congrats to Marie and Stan!!! And so happy to have Steve and Lian hooked, Diane’s vortex is still swirling!
Thanks everyone for such a great season. (I think I’m done with the tris for this year). The support from all of you keeps me going – and Diane’s outstanding coaching. Congratulations to Marie & Stan. It was a thrill to see members of our team on the podium. Congratulations to everyone who finished.
Had to take a nap today but I know that I was smiling even tho I was asleep! Really fun to do the race with all of you ….it was also really comforting to have fitbricks coaches as volunteers bc I heard little shouts of encouragement all along the race track…THANKS COACHES!
Congrats to all—I know that at least at my house….Steve’s mindset has changed forever….and my phillie rode my bike back to the car and I could tell that his brain was whirring with the idea that …hmmmm maybe mom will buy ME a bike!!!!!
OK: so what is wrong with me that I am not sore this morning?! Must be the great coaching that got me to do this again, and it must be the endorphins that are making me think it might be a good idea to do another one and soon… Anybody thinking about the Funtastic 2 in Hull? Hmmm… might need to get a wetsuit though!
Yesterday was a blast, and I am really proud to be part of Fitbricks!
Just one more thing: as I biked by the policewoman at Jericho Hill Rd on Northborough Rd yesterday, she called out to the women going by:”Good work ladies! I could not do what you all are doing!” I wonder if that could get me some points with the Westborough police who pulled me over on Friday…
I feel like I just woke up from a dream – did I really just complete a triathlon!! Thanks so much to the entire Fit Bricks team for cheering me during the race – what a great team and leader!! You are all such a great group of funny, crazy athletes! See you soon.
Lisa, I’ve always wanted to do the Hull race…Joe & I spend lots of time at Nantasket. It’s beautiful & very flat……I can bike fast on flats. I’m a little concerned about the water temp & my asthma but I managed through Buzzard’s Bay lasst year & that was just as cold. We could met up & do some training out there. During low tide the water is actually pretty shallow we can probably touch almost all the way out to the turnaround.
I am so proud of all you guys! If you have to be sidelined with an injury I cannot think of a better way to still get the high from the tris then watching all of you grow and progress and be so thrilled to cross the finish line. I am in for the 6:30 swim on Wednesday, it is time to step up my training now that I am starting to run. Diane can I do TDD?
I would swim with you guys on Wednesday night but, Diane is having me swim at the crack of dawn on Wednesday with the ducks and other creatures that lerk in the merky waters of beautiful lake Chauncey. If anyone would like to join us at 6:30AM on Wednesday you are more than welcome to join us!
Hey All!! Going in for thumd surgery today – so I won’t be training with you allfor a while Good luck with the rest of your seasons, & Ill be back as soon as humanly (or thumbly) possible! Thanks for all the support in a very disappointing end to my season. But you were all awesome!!!
To add to Jim’s note on the swim, we plan to swim the triangle, so if that is too long for you please plan to go in the evening. Need to make sure the ducklings stay safe
Karen, I will swim the triangle with you tomorrow. I think after doing the dock a bunch of times, I am ready to up the distance. And hey, look how good Steve D did on Sunday after an accidental triangle practice!
662 comments
Does anyone want to do a 20-25 mile ride tomorrow morning? I’ve been doing about 20 miles at about a 15 mph pace.
I’ll be doing my 25-30 up at the cottage in the morning before I have to get back for Krista’s graduation if anyone wants to come up to Westford.
Oh – I wish I had taken today off…it would have been fun to ride with you tomorrow. I rode about 20 today – went through Dover. It was beautiful today. Hope everyone had a good day!
Is everyone still gonna meet at the gym Tuesday morning for the weights workout?
Here is the link to the Breast Cancer Swim/walk/run/kayak
Form your teams! http://www.mbcc.org/swim
Going to put in an order for wetsuit hanger… 7 dollars each (includes shipping) Anyone else want me to order one for them too? Will put in my order tomorrow (Sat) or if you want to order seperately:
http://www.leisurepro.com/Prod/UKTSWSH.html?Search=op%3ddtSearch%26Term%3dhangers%26SearchFlag%3dall%26AdvSrchSortField%3dRelevance%26DescSort%3d0%26Description%3don%26Hit%3d1
They have fancier ones but these have worked fine for my other wetsuits…
Could you add one for me – I’ll give you $7 next Saturday at practice? Can’t wait to see you and everyone else.
Anyone have suggestions on sunglasses. Thinking of upgrading.
I like the Tifoli multi-lenses. This way you can change the lenses if it is darker / rainy. So get rose colored (yes to see the world through rose colored glasses
and dark lenses.
Guys, there is a virus on FitBricks that Doug is working to fix, but in the meantime if you get an email telling you to install a virus program don’t do it. See below.
“You should e-mail the folks that use fitbricks that if they get an error, or are asked to re-direct to a virus checking site, they should say NO. Or CANCEL.
This does not seem to be a “harmful” virus. It just sends you to a fake virus checking site that wants you to install their program to clean it. Not a good choice.”
Hi Kim,
I you have not placed your order yet, can you add one hanger for me?
Thanks!
Karen
Hey Karen,
I haven’t – been slacking… thought about this morning and was going to place order this afternoon – so no problem.
K
OK forgot the name of the tri shorts Diane mentioned this morning with light/little padding. Diane could you resend. I remembered that you said Landry’s tri shorts were also good.
Senior moment, Mary!? LOL
Capo is the brand- the Landrys shorts are made from this brand.
I do also like my 2XU one piece so their shorts might be good. Karen and Melissa wear these too.
I really like my one-piece. It’s Zoot brand. I also recently bought a pair of 2xu tri shorts that I have worn 2x on 25+ mile bikes that have been very comfortable.
I saw that there is a team option for the “Hub on Wheels” in Boston in late Sept. (10,30, or 50 mile rides). Any interest in a Fitbricks team?
I would like to do it. I would have to ride my bike down to the event and then do the 50 because I’ll be in Ironman training. Or, I guess I can ride home after the event. But, it sounds like fun. Just be aware that it is the same weekend as Buzzards Bay, for those of you planning on doing that race. We would DEFINITELY have to design those FitBricks bike shirts if we do this as a team.
I’m in for the Hub – no flowers please on shirts
Mary, I just brought Rachel to PR Running for sneakers and they just got in some tri shorts. I just bought the Craft ones- they are great! I didn’t like the Sugoi, but the Craft ones fit me well. I’ll let you know how the padding is after my swim/bike tomorrow.
We will meet at the club for tonight’s run. If it doesn’t thunder and lightening, we’ll be outside.
Is this not the cutest t-shirt!?! It is bamboo too which will be WICKED comfy. I just might have to try one http://www.terrybicycles.com/product/detail/1284/current/good-move-tee?kc=em20100603&utm_medium=email&utm_source=cpmaster&utm_campaign=em20100603
I’d love to do the Hub on Wheels.
So, I guess I need to know who would be interested in a FitBricks bike shirt. Also, might we want to do tri shorts while we are at it? Approx. costs would be $79 for the shirts and I’m guessing about the same for the shorts. I know there are minimums of 10-15 (depending on place we get it) for each.
I’d love to have team shorts & shirt.
I’d love to have a team shirt and shorts! Also, I’ve bought clothes from Terry – and absolutely love them. I may have to check out that T-Shirt!
I just bought swim caps for all of the FitBricks summer team. I like the idea of having 5 different colors so we can easily detect the various groups. Also, at swimoutlet.com I just found a bathing suit for $17.99! I bought two, mine are pretty beat up from the pool. I’ll let you know how they fit, but they are a great price.
I’d be interested in team shirt/shorts…it will just depend on how my funding is going when we order them. I bought the Landry’s tri shorts in April and have worn them for some rides and I love them. I haven’t swam in them yet though. They were on sale when I bought them, which was nice – not sure if they still are.
Can’t wait to see everyone tomorrow morning!
Diane – How were the craft tri shorts on the bike ride today?
Didn’t bike in them today. Will bike tomorrow. I’ll let you know.
FYI guys, I just posted Sudbury Sprint photos (FINALLY, I know)
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=181475&id=509651427&saved#!/album.php?aid=181475&id=509651427&ref=mf
Hi, just getting on the fit bricks site. Enjoyed meeting everyone today.
Welcome Rich!!! Great job today.
FitBricks Triathlon team has raised $1450 so far for the 15-40 Connection!! Way to go…
I’m in for the shorts & shirt as well.
Anyone want to meet for a swim/bike early on Tuesday AM at Chauncy? (like maybe 5:45?)
I tried on a few pairs of tri shorts today. Landry’s were the best but at $100 I decided to hold off for a bit. Went with a pair of Shebeest because I couldn’t find my size in the Craft.
Marile – I need to do the afternoon. Anyone up for a swim/bike around 5ish???
Rebekah,
I can meet you around 5pm for a swim/bike on Tuesday.
I would like to do a swim/bike in Webster on Tues. night. (I’m doing the June 20th tri there and need the practice on that course). Rebekah & Mert could you meet there?
Hi Annmarie – Webster might be too far for me on a weeknight… Let me give it some thought tomorrow. Otherwise, Mert – can you do Chauncy?Thanks!
I would also be interested in the Group bike shirt/shorts
I am interested in the team bike shirt/shorts too.
I am interested in team shirts and shorts. Prefer tri shorts to bike shorts. Count Stan in too.
Rebekah and Mert – I could meet you at Chauncy at 5:00 on Tuesday as well. Mert – has your cell number changed from last year? I have your # stored in my phone. Rebekah – I’ll send you my number through Facebook, that way if any of us have any delays or need to cancel we can contact each other. See you both then.
Anyone else want to join us for a swim bike at Chauncy on Tuesday at 5:00 p.m.?
I am interested in team shirts and shorts. Not sure about Rich yet
. I’d also prefer tri shorts to bike shorts.
I’m also interested in the Hub on Wheels ride in Boston, again Rich is still unsure.
Annmarie I can’t meet you this week in Webster but maybe another time. Good luck on the 20th!
Gretchen and Mert: I work until 4:30 at WPI and will head right to Chauncy. My cell is 508-320-2649. Annmarie – sorry I can’t make it to Webster!
Rebekah & Gretchen,
I have an orthopedic appointment tomorrow in Southbridge in the afternoon, so it’s best if I meet Annmarie in Webster for a bike/swim. I apologize for the inconvenience, but I am available to meet most Tuesday’s afternoons for a swim at Chauncy around 4:30ish.
Gretchen – I still have the same cell phone #.
Annmarie,
I can meet you at Webster tomorrow Tuesday just let me know the time.
Gretchen – are we still on?? Anyone else is welcome!
Let me know if anyone is running, biking or swimming near or around Lake Chauncy this week – looking for a partner in crime. I live right by the lake so up for any of the three. This is my first tri – so more at the beginner level. I work MTW so have time in the evenings on those days or during the day Thurs or Friday. THANKS!
Rebekah – Yes – we are still on for Tuesday at 5:00. Do you want to met in the parking lot or on the beach?
Let’s meet on the beach. I should get there by 5 assuming traffic isn’t crazy!
Count me in as well for tri shorts and a shirt.
Mert,
I have a busy schedule at work on Tues. Still plan to meet in Webster around 5ish. Will call in the a.m. to be more specific.
Diane wants everyone to know Lake Chauncy is closed because they are treating it today. You’ll have to find another swim place for tonight.
I’m in for the tri shorts and shirt, too.
OH NO!! Gretchen – thoughts?? If we can’t come up with something I’ll have to swim here at WPI and go for my ride. What do you think??
Thanks Rich. Lake Chauncy is closed through Friday for swimming.
Gretchen – want to meet at Hopkinton? I don’t really know the area, but we could probably figure something out.
Rebekah – I just sent you a text. I could do Hopkinton at 5:15. Basically – you go Route 9 to Route 85 (South – I think). The entrance is maybe a mile or two from the interestion – it will be on your left. Then drive all the way down – you will see one sign for the canoes (rentals) – don’t go to that beach area – just keep going till you can’t go any further. We can probably do the 5 mile ride right in the parking lot – it’s pretty big.
Kathleen – if you want to join Rebekah and I at Hopkinton – let us know. I haven’t swam in a while, so I’ll be plugging along and if we bike in the parking lot, we can keep an eye on each other. We are all really good at keeping an eye on each other and I won’t leave unless I know everyone I met up with is back and safe.
Gretchen – did you do the Title IX? I assume that’s where you’re talking about. I’ll leave WPI at 4:30 and head right there…
Rebekah – I did not do the Title 9. But yes – that is Hopkinton. But I don’t know where the swim is for Title 9. Last year, some of us would meet for swims and they told me there were two beaches and had told me to keep going till you couldn’t go anymore and that is the beach we swim at…so that is the only place I know. But we will find each other!
Sounds good!! I do know what you’re talking about – and yes, there are 2 beaches. See you this afternoon, weather permitting.
Hi Gretchen – Thanks for the offer to swim and ride with you guys tonight – I cannot make it by 5:00 tonight – but maybe later in the week or next week. I too am getting back into the swim and new to my bike – so getting up and running! THANKS!
Didn’t know if anyone was interested in this, I have to work but I think it would be a cool presentation to listen to.
World class triathlete to speak at Clinton High School June 9
Tricia Downing, a paraplegic athlete who is the second female wheelchair racer and the first female paraplegic to complete an Iron distance triathlon will be telling her story at the Clinton High School auditorium on June 9 from 7:00-8:00p.m. The Iron triathlon includes a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, and a 26.2-mile run. Trish is a member of the physically challenged National Triathlon Team and a pioneer in women’s wheelchair triathlon. She was a competitive cyclist from 1997-2000, but her career was cut short when she was hit head-on by a car while on a training ride on September 17, 2000, in Golden, Colo. She was one of four athletes featured in the Disney film Superior Beings, which aired on ESPN. She was also featured on Life Moments, a women’s news and features show, which aired nationally.
“We encourage everyone who can to come here this inspirational speaker,” says Theresa Kane from the Polus Center for Social and Economic Development, Inc., a Massachusetts-based organization that supports people with disabilities that is co-sponsoring this event along with the Clinton Rotary Club. The event is part of a fundraising campaign to raise money for wheelchairs. Suggested donations of $5 for students and $10 for adults will be collected at the door but Kane emphasizes that she wants to help Trish spread her message so students, civic groups and individuals are encouraged to attend and they can donate whatever they can or
simply enjoy the presentation for free. Tickets are available at the door. For more information about this event or others in the “Rock and Roll for Wheelchairs” campaign, go to http://www.poluscenter.org.
Jenny Delorey, Finance/Office Manager
Wachusett Chamber of Commerce
(978) 368-7687 ext. 10
Diane – for core…are we aiming to do sets of the plank exercise (e.g., middle, side, side X ???). And I think you said start at 30 seconds and increase hold time from there, right?
Hi Michelle, so glad you are asking which means you are going to do them
Front for 30 sec/ side 30 sec/ other side 30 sec start there. Add 15 sec per front/side/side. Until 1 min. Once that is easier add another front for 1 min. So you would do front 1 min/ side 1 min/ side 1 min/ front 1 min. Have fun! It is sooooooooooo important.
Sorry to confuse people, Chauncy is open after Thursday. The sign posted said “no swimming through 6/10″. Winter group, we are meeting at the lake on Friday morning.
Hi Everyone – I’m looking forward to our swim on Saturday morning. I was wondering if anyone would like to go have breakfast at NY Deli (on route 9) afterwards. (or somewhere else if people have a different preference).
See everyone in a couple of days!
Hi Everyone,
I posted your run videos on a great site that Bill Steele told me about. So, if you haven’t signed on to Upmygame.com yet (you should have received an email) you might want to.
You’ll see your video, then frames that I pointed out some alignment, toeing, or stature issues. Or, in all cases you will see a vertical line from your head to your toe. The idea is your head, shoulder, hip and foot should be in one line. If yours is not, you know that you need to work on that alignment.
A lot of people have their foot in front of their hip when it lands. This is called heel striking and will eventually bother your hip, knee and/or foot. Plus, it slows you down.
Another common thing I noticed is that many of you are too upright as you are propelling forward. You’ll see this indicated with a diagonal line. Again back of heel, hip and shoulder should be in a line. If you see an angle on yours that means you are bending at the waist.
We will discuss all of these form issues on our next run session. But thought you’d enjoy seeing everyone’s videos. Look at each other’s to see if you can pick up breaks in form or good form. The “Bill’s” have great form you can check out their videos. Sarah has fantastic foot placement. Leslie has good form too.
I asked Bill if he could take Leslie’s or Bill’s video and add commentary (he is a member of the site and has more privileges than I do). This will help explain the above posting. Leslie, thanks for being the Ginnie pig!
The Lake swim was great – but I need so much help with SIGHTING! Rachel was an awesome help in keeping me somewhat on track! Anyone have any tips so that I don’t zig-zag my way next time?
Regarding sighting – I have video clips from various sources embedded on the following webpages of my website – have a look at any of these:
http://www.breakwatersportstraining.com/drill_videos_sighting.html
Also Kate, as we discussed, you are not looking/breathing left at all. So, your sighting won’t be as good. Practicing rolling to the left more and sighting more often will help too. But check out Bill’s videos.
Diane – breathing left is so much easier in the pool – by breathing only on one side – do we tend to pull to that side?
Thank Bill and thanks Diane – the videos are helpful and I will practice the one armed drill!
You just don’t have the range of motion so it alters your arm stroke and thus your direction.
Anyone interested in running The Sharon Timlin Memorial 5K Race to Cure ALS. It is next Saturday, June 19th at 9:00 am at Hopkinton High School. I thought it might be fun and would love company. If interested let me know, I think we have to register before the race, not sure if they have race day registration. Let me know.
Id be interested in team bike shirt and tri shorts
also I am going to run the worcester half with my 15-40 shirt
Barbara, I am planning on running the Timlin 5K and I believe you have to register in advance. Also, Lisa and I went to sign up for the Westboro tri and we weren’t sure if we sign up as the open/elite or age group – I’m thinking age group and we lie about our ages. Anybody have thoughts on this?
FYI – June 15th is the deadline for the Timlin 5K registration
Steve, you should register for all tris as an “age grouper”
Yay Lisa. Look for Angela, Ray and Kim while you and Steve are out there. I guess I missed you guys at registration today. Rachel and I worked the 15-40 table from 2-5pm. The woman we relieved said “Steve C” came by LOL
Anyone doing a long bike tomorrow?? I need to do one, not sure where to go – would love company!
Thanks Steve, I’ll sign up today and look for you next Saturday. Good luck today to everyone running the 1/2 marathon!
Thanks everyone for a warm welcome and a great workout yesterday! Good luck to all running the 1/2 today.
Rebekah – I can do a long bike today – I’ll send you and email and we can connect on times Kathleen
@Barbara – the race starts at 8:30. For details, check out http://www.sharontimlinrace.org. It looks like a fun race. @Steve C – re your age group – going up a bracket or two – or going down? =)
Lenore and I are swimming at Chauncy, Tuesday morning 5:30am. The plan is to go to the mental hospital dock and back.
Feel free to join us!
Hi Kate,
Thanks, I did notice that when I registered. Care to join me?
Hi All,
I need to find swim buddies for Tuesday after work – around 5! Let me know if you can join.
Ok, I tried to run today keeping my heartrate in zone 2 (during runs my heartrate is normally in high zone 3/low zone 4). Wow, it seemed people could have walked faster than I was running! On the upside, after 40 minutes I felt like I could have kept going and going and normally I’m exhausted. Jogging that slowly also let me think about form, which is good. But my question – am I really getting something out of running this slowly? It didn’t feel like a real workout since it wasn’t that hard and I didn’t feel tired afterwards. How often should we be doing runs in zone 2 vs. runs in zone 4? And, should any runs be in zone 3?
Michelle – thanks for asking that question…because I was wondering the exact same thing! Can’t wait to hear the response.
Rebekah – I can swim Tuesday at 5:00 p.m. Do you want to meet at Chauncy (or Hopkinton – my preference – but I can do either)? I also have a swim on my schedule for Saturday, but I think I will do that on Friday if anyone is available.
Great question Michelle. As I referenced on Saturday, your Zone 2 runs are for your long run of the week. The purpose of them is for you to build endurance. Your comment of “I felt like I could have gone forever” means you did it perfectly. This is how you build your long run distance. You should not feel spent after every run. On your plan you’ll see “Run 4 miles middle two fast” The middle two should be done in zone 4. The run after the bike should be done in Zone 2 to start building to Zone 4 to finish fast (if you can). Does this help?
Uniform update: Design meeting today
Melissa is going to help me get everyone’s orders. I started a spreadsheet of who wants what for shirts and tri shorts. You should probably check out the website for other things you might want . This is the jacket I have a sample for. Disregard my comment about the bottom being a little tight, the jacket sample is an XS women’s so of course it is a little tight! Probably runs true to size then. It is a cool jacket http://champ-sys.com/custom-windguard-wind-jacket.html. Also, we’ll have to build in shipping and design costs but spread across 15-20 uniforms it shouldn’t be too much more than what is on the site. That’s it for now, will send the design when it is done…
For those of you doing Patriot Sprint or Half this weekend, check out the seminar by Tri-Hard (see below)
_________________________________________
Come to our seminars at the Patriot Half and Minuteman Sprint this Friday! Get valuable tips on race-day tactics!
COMPLETE DETAILS: http://www.tri-hard.com/SWCCS%20Flyers/2010%20Patriot-and-Minuteman-Seminars%20Flyer.pdf
Uniform web site. Is there a sizing chart on the site someplace? I can’t seem to find it. It’s well hidden.
I know Mary, I couldn’t find them either. I’ll ask. Going by the samples I received I took a shot at what I think you guys would find comfortable. But we can discuss.
Let me know if anyone is interested in a late run (6:30ish) around Lake Chauncy or early tomorrow morning. I am going to try and stay in zone 2 – it is about three miles. Thanks Kathleen
Here is the sizing chart for uniforms
http://champ-sys.com/custom/cycling/size-chart
BTW, in case you are wondering, all summer and winter program athletes are welcome to buy a uniform. Don’t be shy. The more the merrier!
Hi Diane,
Every time I do my 7 mile bike, I seem to Avg. zone 3 with my H.R. The terrain seems to dictate this (I feel I need to get speed up for the next hill). Is zone 3 really that bad???!!! Thanks Rich
Anyone want to swim at Chauncy early tomorrow (Wednesday) AM?
Hi Rich, it isn’t “good” or “bad”, it is that we are trying to build your base up to 15-20 miles so that the 12-15 in your races won’t wear you out. In order to do that you should aspire to Zone 2. On the bike, the more you ride the faster this will happen. For example, when you need to do a quick errand in town, ride your bike and bring a back pack. Even if it is 3 miles, just hope on and go. You will be amazed how doing this several times/week where you aren’t considering it training will help your endurance.
Just wondering what I need to get for bike tire changing essentials. Having never been in a tri I have no idea what to do or need for this.
Hi Lian,
Here is the list for bike changing. If you go to a bike store and tell them you need a starter kit they’ll be able to help you too. But I’ll show you on Sunday my “kit”. Great question!
(2) inner tubes for your tires in case you get a flat. You need to look at your tire size. I can show you where this is on Sunday.
A method to inflate your tire on the road. I like CO2 cartridges. Some people bring mini pumps
Tire changing levers
A little bag for under your seat to keep all of your stuff in
An ID of some form to put in your bag. I throw a business card and put my home number on it.
Always bring your cell phone for emergencies
I put the following extras too:
$5 bill
sani-wipes for after you get a tire
little baggie to put your old tube, etc…in
Just wanted to log a comment so I start getting the email threads…..good luck to the Patriot sprint and half iron participants this weekend!!
Food Workout Question:
For those early birds that workout in the early am, what and when do you eat?
I have a bowl of cereal before my morning workout, one GU or Cliff Brick for each 45 minutes during workout, then full breakfast afterworkout. I haven’t tried working out on an empty stomach for fear of fatigue.
Steve D – I have been eating a banana an hour before, water with Gatorade during, and a full breakfast (within an hour) after for the 45-60 minute workout throughout the winter. I’m sure more is needed for longer workouts and higher intensity. Barbara and Diane can comment more.
To all the Patriot athletes this weekend – GOOD LUCK!!
Thanks Karen!
And good luck to Kim on her 130 mile bike ride and Annmarie at Webster!
Hi Everyone, good luck with all the races this weekend, can’t wait to hear all the great results!
and the protein helps the muscles recover, heal and build. Ideally you would like to get your recovery food in within an 1/2 hr, but as soon as you can is good, just don’t skip it. Protein sources are chicken, fish, lean meats but also eggs, peanut butter, cheese, nuts and seeds. This is a good time to be asking about fueling your exercise. You want to practice what you’ll be eating before race day, so try different foods and timing, what seems to work best for you? Then you can repeat it for race day, you want to be eating things your body is use to on race day, not something new. I hope you find this information helpful.
Steve D, I think if you ask the group what they eat, you’ll get a bunch of different answers! It is very individual. I’m glad you haven’t gone without eating, that is not recommended. Generally you want to consume a source of carbohydrate before a workout i.e. cereal, oatmeal, bread, grains, fruits, vegetables. These are you energy foods. How soon before your workout is also very individual, I know some people that can eat right before getting on the bike and others who need to allow some time. Generally the closer you are to working out the simplier you want the food choice i.e. 1/2 hr before a pce of fruit or granola bar maybe best, an hour before maybe cereal with fruit. After workouts you want to eat something containing carbohydrate again but also protein. The carbohydrate helps restore our energy, so we can come back and do it again tomorrow
Hey all! Can’t remember who is doing what this weekend – but best of luck to all! I’m off to my brother’s wedding, so I’ll miss you all on Sunday. See you the following week!!
Fitbricks Clothing: I asked Champion what the inseam was for the short and long tri shorts. Here is the answer: Our short version is approximately 6” and long is 9”, depending on the size you order.
Definitely going with the longer one then…. don’t want my junk to fall out of my trunk
The Wind-Guard Jacket – is that in men’s sizes or men/womens different sizes?
Kim, what junk – I think you lost it doing the Winter program! Good luck in your ride this weekend.
Also are we suppose to be getting our sizes to Melissa or are we waiting for the design to be done?
Is anyone up for a swim tomorrow (Friday)? I could swim any time and place – (Walden, Hopkinton, Chauncy).
Gretchen – I could swim with you and would prefer Hopkinton or Chauncy around 7am? Mind you, I haven’t swam since last summer, but I’m sure I won’t embarrass myself or you!
Tracey – I prefer Hopkinton, if that works ok for you. I can meet you at 7:00 a.m.!
7am it is Gretchen……I assume we meet near the boat rental place where the tri swims are?
I have been swimming at the other beach since there are ropes to follow (an no boats to worry about). Last year and this we have done a few “laps” following the ropes. It’s nice because you can actually, swim a few feet in from the ropes and be able to touch down, so it gives you a sense of confidence (at least me anyways, while I build up my endurance). Just continue to follow the main road down until you can’t go any further and you will hit the main beach.
OK, I think I know where you mean….is the huge hill to your left if you’re looking at the water?
I have your cell number in case I’m lost. See you in the am!
Yes – the huge hill (dam) is on your left. It’s actually a smaller body of water than where the boats are.
Anybody else want to join Tracey and me at Hopkinton tomorrow morning at 7:00 a.m., just let us know!
Gretchen – I can join you guys at at 7:00 in Hopkinton tomorrow – thanks for the invite – Kathleen
Great – we will see you then. I have your cell number and Tracey’s…so we are all “connected”! It’s going to be a hot day tomorrow, so it will be fantastic to start the day with a swim!
Anyone else want to join us?
Gretchen – my bad – I cannot do tomorrow morning – will need to swim in a pool later in the day – but let me know if you are biking or running or Saturday.
Since I won’t see y’all in the morning, good luck to Kim, Annmarie, and all you Patriot athletes this weekend!!!
Where’s a great place to buy clipless bike shoes? I see that prices can start at $100 and run on up. I’m using a soft clipless shoe now but am thinking of a harder shoe (and I really don’t want to spend $300!). Thanks!
Kate,
Mert and I have the same tri shoes and I love them. They (the Versis) were only $85 at Louis Garneau website, but you do have to know your size. Bike Nashbar usually has awesome sales and I picked up a pair of shoes for $40, but once again you need to know your size when ordering.
Kate,
I agree with Jessica the Versis are great cycling shoes & worth the $$$
Hi Everyone,
I somehow got nominated to start the FitBricks team for the Boston Hub On Wheels ride on Sept. 26th. Proud to report that I have done the duty and we have a team created….
Anyone interested in participating in a fun event – can ride 10, 30 or 50 miles throughout the city of Boston. Ride takes place on September 26th 2010. Looks to be a fun day – I haven’t done this one but have done similar ride in NY and must say they are very fun!
We hope to have a great FitBricks team showing with our new Jerseys! Hope everyone can participate.
The fundraising on registration is optional. I did not enter a fundraising goal for us as a team so there is no pressure. Please use the link below for registration…. And don’t forget to register under the ‘FitBricks’ team!
http://hubonwheels.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=335715&lis=0&kntae335715=622E02EC60154B6CA9F3A9E58B31BDAC
Kim
Team Web Page link…
https://www.kintera.org/faf/search/searchTeamPart.asp?ievent=335715&lis=1&kntae335715=622E02EC60154B6CA9F3A9E58B31BDAC&supId=295464996&team=3784721
Not sure who those people are on the page – if anyone has a picture they want me to post instead…. send my way
Hi Kim,
Thanks for setting up the team. I just registered.
OK…so when you go to the team page for Hub on Wheels you can see that I also purchased my first bike-event jersey
Good job Kim, I just registered as well.
Stan and I are registered too. The team is growing.
Kim I guess it makes sense you’d set this up since you seem to be the cycling queen! All of these long rides, Mert too! Quick question when you sign up do you need to know the distance you’ll be riding or can you determine that later. Rich is thinking about it but not sure the mileage he’ll be doing then. Thanks! And good luck tomorrow!
Barbara,
When I signed up I don’t recall then asking me how many miles in wanted to ride, good question.
No, they did not ask how many miles.
BTW: This is the same day as Buzzard’s Bay Tri.
I’m in for the Hub on Wheels. Just registered. Thanks Kim for setting up the team.
Next Friday would love to get together and celebrate the end of the winter session, the beginning of the summer session, Mary successfully completing her comps…not sure where or what time. I was thinking of a bar in Worcester, I think it’s call the Citizen. It’s a cheese and wine bar. Heard it’s great. Will get more info if people are interested.
I won’t be able to make next Friday but have fun! good luck to everyone doing races this weekend!
Don’t jinks’ me on the comps. I need to take them first. :0 Thinking of everyone stepping up to the starting line today and feeling that rush of adrenaline.
Mary I have no doubt you’ll be successful. Hope we can celebrate that next week.
I’m chaperoning a Girl Scout camping trip next weekend, and so can’t make it next Friday night either. Have fun, everyone, and good luck Mary on your comp’s! I’m sure you’ll do great!
I hope everyone had a great weekend of races and that practice went well this morning. Sorry I missed you all this morning.
Is anyone available for a swim Monday, Tuesday and/or Friday? I could meet during the day or in the evening – Hopkinton, Chauncy or even Walden.
Also – for anyone doing the Sherox in July – I want to head down this week and ride the course – so if anyone wants to join me, let me know. Actually, anyone that wants to join me is fine – it’s hilly in the first few miles, then just some rolling hills. About a 12 mile course.
I’m signed up for Hub on Wheels.
My first bike only event! Looking forward to it.
Thanks Kim for setting up the team.
Gretchen, sorry you weren’t feeling good today. We missed you at training. Hope you are feeling better! I’m not sure about my work schedule this week but once I know if I’m available any of those times I’ll let you know. Would love to swim or bike with you this week. I’ll keep you posted.
Annmarie how’d it go today?
Great Class today and thanks for a fun ride after!
If anyone has info on the ‘riders id’ that Diane showed, can you please post it. I would like to get one and hopefully never need it.
Hey Steve, glad you have a good ride today. You’ll be putting the miles on that bike before you know it. Road ID is the id bracelet people were talking about today. http://www.roadid.com/Common/default.aspx
Diane – Stan and I would like to see you bunny hop your bike, or was it pick up a bottle cap? Maybe it was the ankle grab. Anyway it was entertaining reading over supper.
If you are planning on buying the road id today, they have a Father’s Day special for 15% off using the code pcdad589. If you decide to order anytime until July 4th, you can use the code ThanksJessica764654 for $1 off.
Gretchen and/or anyone else – how about swim at Hopkinton at 7:30 am on Tuesday? Note for everyone: gates at Hopkinton don’t open until 7:30am.
Barbara,
I did much better this year. However, my timing chip did not work again! I’m tossing it. I clocked myself at 1:35 (not sure how many seconds). I swam the entire swim without stopping at all. That was my greatest accomplishment.
Annmarie, awesome job! That is a fantastic time. Awesome on the swim, I know that is a big accomplishment!!! You rock girl! Did you hi-five everyone getting out of the water?
Steve,
I have the Road ID, the elite. It has a buckle and often comes undone. I don’t recommend that style. But, I do recommend the interactive ID.
July 18th the Charles River Wheelman are hosting a 47 -100 mile ride(s). It’s called Climb To The Clouds. The cost is $15 for non-members. I plan on riding. Anyone else interested? They are limiting it to 700 riders this year. Go to http://www.crw.org
Michele – I could do Tuesday at 7:30 a.m. at Hopkinton. I’ll see you then!
Anyone else want to join us?
Annmarie,
Firstly, congrats on your race, that is fantastic! All of your hard work (and getting up early) this winter really paid off.
Secondly, I’ve done the Climb to the Clouds. It’s a great event. It is the same day as the Falmouth triathlon, so I can’t do it this year, but keep posting any of those rides you’ll be doing, I’d like to do some this year too.
Annemarie,
1-Great job on your triathlon and your swimming – you go girl
2- Friday sounds good, I’m in
3- Since I can’t run for the next five weeks, I can join you for the Climb to the Clouds with you.
It is so cool when races have this ZumTri feature. They have it for both the sprint and half for Patriot. Check it out. Melissa, you can do it against that woman you were battling with!
http://www.zumtri.com/race_files/SunPatriot2010/ZumTri.html#
If anyone is interested in a bike ride on Sunday morning (9am) let me know. Stan and I are happy to host you in Thompson, CT. The area is beautiful and hilly. Plenty of cows, horses, and corn to help pass the time.
It’s about 45 minutes from WTSC or 15 minutes past Webster Lake. If there is enough interest we could do two groups, one faster and longer (15+ mph, 30+ miles) and one slower and shorter (12-14 mph, 20 + miles).
Hey Annemarie,
You caught ‘em on those hills, I’m sure!! Well done.
I would love to do something Friday – ready for a celebration!
Hiya-
Steve and I would like fitbricks clothing….I was traveling (as usual) so i did not get to see the samples or hear what we need to do.
Can anyone let me know? Really fun ride yesterday
Hey everyone,
I’ll be sending out an email to the team with all the details on ordering our FitBricks uniforms. So, check your inboxes later. And, BTW they’re going to be very cool !
We are meeting Friday – June 25th – at Citizens (think that’s the right name) in Worcester. I believe it’s on Exchange St. See you all there at 6:00pm.
Checked the website for my race. I have a time! Not sure why it was so delayed. My offcial time is 1:37:07. I was only 2 min. off. Not bad. So maybe I don’t need to throw my chip out.
Hey Annmarie great job, again!!!
Melissa, not sure if you have Rich and I on your list for uniforms but please include us, we like to order some
Mert,
Sorry got your call late (I was having dinner with Bob!). Didn’t want to call so late. Yes, I registered for the CRW ride. It’s on June 18th – Climb to the Clouds. Were you able to get to the credit card info? If you have trouble I can try and register for you. Leave a message on my cell phone and a good time to call you back. I will try to call you from work (sometimes it gets too busy and I’m not able to).
Hiya Mary and Stan,
Unfortunately we can’t come to CT this sunday
already committed to something at church……
can we do it a different weekend?
Hi Mary and Stan,
Yes I can ride this Sunday morning. Had a great ride last week and looking forward to doing it again. Just say where and I’ll be there!
Checked out the ZumTri – Very cool!
Annmarie,
I was able to resgister for the bike ride on the 18th.
Here is the website for The Citizen Wine and Cheese Bar for Friday night 6pm. http://www.thecitizenwinebar.com/
Thanks Mary! The Citizen is at the corner of Exchange Street and Commercial. It is directly across from the DCU center.
Does anyone want to swim on Friday?
Hi Gretchen – I can swim on Friday – any interest for Chauncy?
Sure – I can do Chauncy – want to meet in the morning? Around 7 or 7:30 a.m.?
Anyone else available to join us?
I’d like to join you for the swim on Friday
Anyone interested in a long bike (20 miles) early tomorrow morning (5:30) or early evening (6:30ish)? Dave and I both need to squeeze them in tomorrow — and unfortunately, with kids, we can’t do it together!
Gretchen – I could do 7 or 7:30 at Chauncy – let me know what works best for you – and Bill M – you too. Kathleen
Anyone interested in a 20 mile bike ride tomorrow – either morning or afternoon??
Around 7 is good for me at Chauncy is good for me.
Bill
Unfortunately I have an in-law commitment this weekend so I won’t be there saturday. Can you all keep me updated on what you do? Have fun. Thanks!
Bill & Kathleen – I could do 7:00 a.m. at Chauncy. I’ll see you both then.
Anyone else available for a swim Friday morning at Chauncy at 7:00 a.m.?
Stan and Mary – I would love to join you for the shorter bike loop on Sunday morning!
I mapped the Westborough Loop that we did on Sunday and this morning and the final tally is 12.5 miles.
Kathleen and Bill – you both did excellent this morning! I was really blown away when we got done and you both said this was your first open water swim. And – you’ve already completed the distance for the Westboro Tri.
Jess – thank you so much for loaning Kathleen your wetsuit – she was so confident and comfortable during the swim – she did amazing (and she is going to buy one!).
I look forward to seeing everyone tomorrow morning at practice.
Gretchen – thanks so much for your help today – it was invaluable and gave us the confidence we needed. I survived my first open swim, now I just need to work on getting away from the ropes and swimming continuously!! And Jess you saved me – it was like night and day with a wet suit. See you all tomorrow.
Thanks Gretchen for the ear plugs and the tips. It was a good swim with you and Kathleen.
Gretchen,
Would like to do some open water training as all my swims have been pool so far. Let me know when your next swim is and I’ll try to be there! If you are going to swim again next Friday am – I’ll be there for sure.
Steve (and everyone),
Dave and I both have swims scheduled for Wednesday, so chances are one of us will be at Chauncy early AM, and one of us will be there early evening. We’d love swim buddies!
Last summer I always drank water during practice and races, and found out the night before my last race that when Diane said “gatorade or some other drink”, she really wanted us to drink something other than water! I know that different drinks affect people differently, but does anyone have a suggestion for a sports drink that is a step in a direction not too far from the water I’m used to? I clearly want to experiment before race day. Thanks!
Steve, Marile and Dave,
I have a swim next Wednesday on my schedule as well and could do that evening (early afternoon into evening actually). I have an interview Wed morning so I can’t swim that morning.
Depending on the weather, I’m also going to swim on Monday (June 28th) – I can swim in the morning – any time after 7:00 would work for me.
Michelle – I use Ultima which PR running and other places have. I can’t tolerate gatoraide or poweraide (stomach distress). However, Ulima does not have “energy” in the form of carbs like gatoraide or some of the other drinks. So, I rely on Gu or Shot blocks for that. Before the race I will drink the Ultima and have a Lara Bar (for the energy/carbs). It worked really well for me the last few races I’ve used it. PR running carries various flavors (my fav is kiwi strawberry) and they conveniently have single serve packs so you can try the flavors first.
Marile and Dave – I can swim on Wednesday night. Time??
Michelle – I use Gatorade G2 and mix with water…
I can also swim during the early evening after 4:30.
Michelle-I like Heed and mix with water.
I can swim next Wednesday also. Later is better. My wetsuit should arrive Wednesday morning
. Hopefully this will be easier than swimming in trishorts.
Michelle – I have used Cytomax for years with good success. Less muscle cramping and muscle soreness. 2 scoops of powder to a bottle of water and shake. It has electrolytes, carbs, and no sucrose. I use it in my water bottles and have found it much better than the ‘aide’ drinks on the market. I know this is personal preference and everyone has their opinion for what works for them.
Earliest Dave or I could swim is probably 6:30
Still need a swim buddy for early AM Wednesday (6AM?) if anyone can make it…
Marile – I was going to swim after work, but I can also swim in the morning, let me know if you can’t find anyone and I will join in the morning.
Marile – I can swim at 6am on Wed/Chauncy, but I am on the beginning track and stick to the ropes – I’ll catch up with your tomorrow and we can chat if you are more advanced. Kathleen
Hi Diane. No, I have not changed my mind. Still joining if it is ok. This week has been insane with end of school and beginning of multiple summer camps for the kids. I’ll email u separately. Just wanted to wish everyone a great workout today! I can’t get away this am but will train later on today on my own. Miss the group
Here is some information regarding triathlons in Puerto Rico http://www.rinconpr.com/triathlon/home.htm I’m sure they will have one for 2011
Dave Borden and I are swimming on Wednesday at Chauncy at 6:30 for anyone interested!
Does anybody want to ride the Chauncy Tri course today (Sunday)?
Mert,
We just need to take our time.
I rode a small portion of Climb to the Clouds (a very hilly part), it took my 2 hrs to ride 20miles. It’s a tough ride but we can do it
Hi all – anyone want to swim at 6pm at Chauncy Monday night? Let me know. I will have my kids so I will be swimming the ropes.
Is anyone who is doing the Patriot 10K July 4th considering picking up their number on Friday? If so, let me know. I may ask you to grab mine and bring it Saturday.
Mary, they don’t usually let people pick up other people’s numbers.
FAQ for Patriots encourages runners to pick up numbers early and said it was ok to pick them up for friends. They are afraid they can’t hand out 10K numbers in 2 hours.
Mary I can head down Friday afternoon and pick up your number(s), is Stan running too? Anyone else want to take a ride Friday afternoon or need me to pick up their number? I’m going to try to leave right when I get out of work at 2:30 to hopefully avoid the Cape Cod traffic. Let me know who needs their numbers picked up.
Wed PM Swim buddies,
I can do 630 pm at Chauncy. My first open water swim! Yikes…
Steve – you’ll do great! See you there.
Barbara: could you pick up my number for the july 4th 10k if you are going down on Friday? Thanks!!!
Barb – I would love it if you could pick up the numbers for Georgie and I as well on Friday. If not – I can certainly try to go down on Saturday. My last name – Pippin, Geogie is registered under ‘Georgiana Goodman’.
Thanks – Kim
I would like to join the 6:30 am swim on wednesday morning. I have never been to Lake Chauncy so where do you all meet?
Okay, so far I’m picking up Mary, Stan, Diane, Cary, Leslie, Kim and Georgie’s race packets. Anyone else? I’ll let you know if I have any trouble but they suggest it so I should be fine. I’ll bring them all to Saturday’s workout
Hi Lian – there is a parking lot right across from the Lake on the Lyman Street side of the lake. You can park and then just walk across the road. The gates to the beach are locked in the morning, but if you walk on small dirt path to the right of the fence- it will lead you to the lake.
Thanks Kathleen and I will see you wed morning. This will be my first time in a lake!
Kathleen and Marile are you swimming at 6 or 6:30am on wed? Just want to make sure I am there at the right time.
Lian,
We’re meeting at 6:00 on Wed.
See you there!?!
I will be swimming with the 6:30 pm group at Chauncy on Wednesday evening. See everyone then!
Barbara, you are awesome! That will be a huge help! Can you get Heather’s too? She is riding with us in the morning and it will be easier if we all have our numbers before hand because time will be tight.
Sure I’ll add Heather’s too. Anyone else? I hope they give them all to me
Just tell them you are picking up the FitBricks group. That should help!
Everyone, Don’t forget to wear your 15-40 shirts and your FitBricks headbands
If any of the bikers to Foxboro want to put something in my car for the 10K bring it Saturday and I will get it there for you.
oh Mary, great idea! We were trying to figure out how to do this. Next issue is how we get our bikes back.
Diane,
Georgie will be driving the xterra to the run so we can take one person/bike back after the run. Just need to find someone to take the other two bikes/people back.
I will join you guys on Wednesday at 6:30pm as well.
4th July — I can fit either 3 people, 2 bikes, or 1 bike 1 person. Bikes are inside so they can be safe during the race.
Mary, that is so nice of you. But, I wouldn’t want you to have to drive all the way back to my house, that makes no sense for you. So, Cary will come and between Georgie and Cary we will have enough space. All set! Looking forward to it.
Marile and and Lian – I am no unable to make the swim on Wednesday morning at 6:00 am. My husband had to travel today and tomorrow so my workouts will be in the evenings when I have a babysitter.
I would still like to swim wed morning 6am with you Marile. Anyone else is free to join too!!
I will be at the the lake at 6am also.
To the 6:30PM Chauncy swim group for Wed: if I’m not there at 6:30, don’t wait for me!! Might not make it. Have fun!
I’ll be doing the Patriot 10K on Sunday, also. But not biking to the race with you IronFolk… So, I’ll have my car for storage and can take 2 bikes + 2 I-Folks back to Diane’s.
In case anyone is interested at some point…yesterday I went to Rosemary Pool in Needham. It’s a really nice outdoor pool. I used the time to practice technique (drills) and also do some speed work (ha, ha). But it’s really nice and I think the non-resident rate is $10. Just let me know if you want to join me sometime and we can set something up. It’s open until 7:45 p.m.
See everyone (whose going) tonight at Chauncy at 6:30 p.m.
I will be doing Patriot 10K also, and will be driving. I’m happy to store bikes and “stuff” and give anyone a ride back to Diane’s too. I could take at least 1 and probably 2 with some creative bike loading.
Hi Everyone,
Just checking these are the names I have to pick up 10K packets for: Mary & Stan Piorun, Diane & Cary Stokes, Kim Pippin, Georgie Goodman, Melissa Tracey, Annmarie Godin, Leslie Steele, Jessica Greenblatt, Heather Axworthy. Did I miss anyone? If I can’t get them I’ll let Diane know (my phone doesn’t have email capabilities) and she can spread the word. Karen are you picking up your packet beforehand? Would you like me to add you to the group? I’m out of work at 2:30 pm and heading down, hoping to beat the Cape traffic, let me know if you need me to pick up your packet also.
Barbara
Marie Ward I think just signed up too. She is riding down with us in any event.
Thanks Barbara for doing that!
Good Luck to all doing the Patriot 10K!
Anyone want to bike (slo,slo) the Westborough loop tomorrow after practice? I haven’t riden the actual course yet – not sure I even know the route…
Hi Everyone,
I hope everyone has a wonderful 4th of July weekend, a great open water swim tomorrow and great races for anyone running this weekend. Joe and I are heading up to Vermont to spend the weekend with my sister, my niece and my Mom. My sister is having a huge party/bonfire/cookout on her farm tomorrow evening and it’s going to be a blast. My sister doesn’t do anything “small”.
I’ll be posting some times next week for swims and other workouts so hopefully I’ll see some of you next week.
Just wanted to say “Good Luck” to everyone running the Patriot on Sunday! Gretchen, have a great weekend, sounds like your sister has a great party planned!
Melissa, I’d love to bike the course but I have plans with the family after practice tomorrow. Are you available any mornings next week? I have to do a swim/bike brick on Tuesday morning, would be happy to bike the course with you then after my swim. We may need to do a 6am start so I can get home and get Lydia to camp on time, but it’s an option if you want to do it. Just let me know tomorrow. Thanks!
Shelly – hope you have a nice weekend too – I’ll miss you this year – last year we had such a blast!
Also, I might be able to do the swim/bike with you on Tuesday morning at 6:00 a.m. I’ll let you know by Monday mid-day. Just let me know if the plans change.
Numbers, t-shirts, maps with coupons and bags all picked up from Patriot Place – whew! They needed more signage, didn’t know where they were located, hope the course has better signs. I’ll bring them tomorrow and hand them all out.
Gretchen, have a nice weekend!
Oh, Karen and Marie I didn’t hear from you so I didn’t pick up your numbers. Karen I know you’re traveling and Marie I didn’t see your name on the list, not sure if you are registering on Sunday. Everyone else I think I got it!
Barbara
Thanks for checking but I am just riding over with Diane – no run for me.
Nice swim practice today everyone!! The “little” things that we practice are so helpful… the swim starts, sighting, swimming around the buoys, racing out of the water. It is these “little” things that are going to make your experience race day so much better. Nothing will be new or surprising! Great job!
For those running the 10k, a group of us will be meeting around 8:15 in front of Victoria’s Secret. Parking can be found either in the lot or P2/P10 across the bridge.
Jessica, the biking contingent will do our best to be there by 8:15, but we might need an alternate place to meet if that is too far away from the start line. We’ll need to store our bikes and change into run stuff. Mert and I have our phones and BBs.
Dave and I are planning to ride/run the Marlborough race course next Saturday morning at 8AM (since there’s no practice next week). It’s a 5 mile (hilly) bike loop that we’ll do 2 or 3 times, and a two loop run that we can do once or twice. If anyone wants to join, email me (marile@metalcreative.com) and we can coordinate.
FitBricks wins 2nd place in the team competition at the Harvard Pilgrim 10k! Way to go guys!! It was a hot one.
http://www.coolrunning.com/results/10/ma/Jul4_Harvar_set5.shtml
Way to go Fitbricks team!! Good job everyone! Sorry I didn’t get to see everyone finish, hope everyone had fun. Boy it was hot! Way to go!!!
YOU ARE SO AWESOME!!!
I am so proud to be part of the Fitbricks team even tho I could not run
Way to go!
Rock on…or maybe Run on…is more appropriate!!!!
Yeah TEAM! Soooo proud of you all!!!
Woo Hoo!!!! Go team! So proud of you all, to do so well despite the heat!
Congratulations to all for 10k run. It sure was hot. About mile 4 I was dying. After the race I went to a BBQ for about 3 hours, then went home and took a 3 hour nap. The heat was a killer! What fun running in the tunnel and out to mid-filed at Gillette.
Shelly,
I have a swim/bike tomorrow too. Will meet you at the lake at 6am.
Anyone interested in a swim/bike tomorrow after work around 5? Either at Chauncy or Hopkinton??
For those of you who want to volunteer at the SheRox race on July 25th, please send Wendy and email as to where you want to work at billf@firm-racing.com
For those of you swimming and biking at Chauncy at 6am and I said I would meet you – have to bail – got a bad head cold over the weekend. What does a triathlete in training do when they are sick -
I bet Diane would say core and more core! Have a good one
Diane would only say that if the cold was from the head up and no fever
Someone just asked if I was doing the triathlon for a cause. I thought yes!! 15-40 connection. Diane I thought you mentioned raising money on Sat and may have had a flyer?? Is there a webpage for our group? Let me know the best way to collect donations – thanks!
Hi All,
Wow what a hot weekend…week? For anyone interested I’m planning on riding the Webster tri course on Saturday morning if you’d like to join me. Judy,and possibly Kim M, Mert and Kim H. will be joining me. I’m also possibly planning on riding the Westboro tri course on Sunday for anyone who would like to ride that course.
Will be doing the swim to the trees and half the westborough course tomorrow at 6 – if anyone interested.
Mass State Tri is recruiting volunteers for the race on July 18th. If anyone is interested in volunteering, let me know and I can give you info of one of the organizers.
Kim – 6AM or PM??
Sorry… 6am
Any takers for a swim/bike after work today???
Dave’s planning to be at Chauncy around 6:30. But that’s probably too late for you?
I can join Dave and Rebekah for a swim at 6:30PM tonight.
Rebekah, if you need to swim earlier let me know. I can be there as early as 5:30.
Karen – 5:30 would be great. I think I will try to bike a little after. Are you good with swimming to the trees?
Karen – after some advice from Diane, no biking for me tonight. Just a nice long swim. See you at 5:30!
Hi All – just got an email from Diane who asked me to post that she really would rather folks NOT bike or run today in this weather. Air quaility is bad, and it really isn’t a good idea. So, swimming it is!!
Hi Rebekah,
I would be more comfortable swimming the ropes today. I thought I would need to swim in the pool, because I couldn’t meet the early-morning group at the lake, so I didn’t bring my wetsuit, and I am also suffering from a head-cold.
We can still make it a long swim – just closer to shore.
Thanks-See you at 5:30 on the beach!
Karen – we’ll work something out!
Michelle,
Re: the 15-40 fundraising, when someone wants to fundraise for you, they would put “Michelle Wilen” in the comment section. That will then be “credited” to you/FitBricks. The flier (which I’ll have at the next session too) is a contest they are running exclusively for us. For every $100 you guys raise, you get one ticket. The winner, picked in Sept, will get a $500 Amex gift card. The donation section of their website is http://15-40.org/make-a-gift.html
Hi Barbara
I would like to join you if you ride the Westboro course on Sunday
Barb,
What time are we meeting Saturday for the Webster tri course?
Bill M – great, I was just going to watch the weather. Will repost as we get closer. I was thinking of going early say 8:00 ish but can do later as well.
Mert – I was thinking of going early 7:30-8:00 ish. Kim H and I were also going to do the run or part of it depending on heat. I think we will have varying abilities, so we can also go out in two groups. Again, I’ll repost as we get closer to the weekend, we’ll have to watch the weather.
I might join the 5:30pm swimmers tonight – if I can get my kids to agree to tag along we’ll be there. I am up for ropes or trees.
Barbara, 8 ish is good for me, hopefully the weather will cooperate
Tracey – that would be great!
I need to do a 20 mile bike this weekend, was thinking of doing the Westborough course, plus a 1/2 course loop, probably early on Saturday. Anyone interested in going with me? I’m not a terribly fast biker, plus if it’s hot I’ll be taking it easy. Would love some company!
Also, Diane, is it OK if we run/bike early in the morning? (like 6-6:30am) Some of us are meeting to run tomorrow morning at the club. The swim/bike brick didn’t seem too bad at all this morning; of course, biking while wet does help one keep cooled off!
Just wondering your thoughts on how to get workouts in while it’s so hot. Thanks!
Shelly, it should be OK, but use your best judgment and make sure you have plenty of fluids. Also, don’t push it too hard. Don’t worry about performance during heat like this. You can lose up to 10% of your performance from the heat alone.
Thanks, Diane. Should I continue to be guided by heart rate? I’ve noticed that my heart rate goes up much faster in the heat.
Rebekah I am not going to make it – I’m stuck on a work issue and it’s already 5pm. It’s going to take me 20 minutes at least, and then I won’t get there for another 20. I am SO bummed, I was looking forward to it!
Shelly, that is a great question. This is where the 10% deficit comes in. At your normal pace, your heart rate could be 10% higher than normal and therefore, you should slow your pace.
Is anyone available to swim at Hopkinton on Friday? I can do either 7:30am (not earlier b/c gates aren’t open) or in the early evening.
Barbara
I would be interested in the Webster bike on Sat and the westboro bike on Sunday.
What time?
We’re doing the Marlborough bike course on Saturday AM too…. 5 mile (hilly) loop, 2 or 3 times. May run afterward. Let me know if you want to join.
Marie, we are thinking 7:30 am on Saturday in Webster and around 8:00 am on Sunday is Westboro. I’ll post later in the week, I want to watch the weather but those are the tenative times. On Saturday, Kim H and I were planning on running part of the course as well. This is her first SheRox so she’d like to see the whole course
Anyone is welcome on either day.
Ok ….need some encouragement from those runners out there! training for my first and probably last FULL marathon and wondering why I signed myself up for that craziness!
Angie,
Training for a marathon is difficult in of itself, and you are trying to do two things at once. But you can do it. Are you following the modified plan we discussed last week? Don’t throw in extra stuff or you will find it difficult to do the critical workouts. Your run mileage shouldn’t be horrifically high yet, your marathon is several months away. Additionally, watch the HR on the long runs. You must be in zone 2 or you will implode as the mileage increases and be sure to take those walk breaks. YOU CAN DO IT!!!
Lian and I swam today- the water was so warm! Everything was fine until I reached out with a stroke touched what felt like someone’s hair floating in the water—YIKES- really startled me !
Weeds or seaweeds or whatever they are called are getting kinda dense near the shore on the other side.
Lisa – so true! Happened to me last night!! It was gross when I took my bathing suit off! Annie said “Mommy, why are you so yucky??”!!!
Lisa and Rebekah, I hear you! Just got to keep swimming. Better to feel it and get used to it now than in a race. Also, you don’t seem to notice it in a race because there are so many people in front of our waves, they must push it away. This is one bonus of NOT being an elite and being in Wave 1
Gretchen & I are meeting at Chauncy on Friday morning at 7am to swim to the trees and back if anyone wants to join us. We will post tomorrow as well to make sure they haven’t closed it due to the hot weather / high bacteria counts.
Hi all,
Count me in for the Sunday ride at 8.
Angie – you can do it! Stay mental strong and focused. We are all rooting for you!
Anyone going out for a swim-bike early tomorrow morning (Thurs)? I was thinking maybe there was a bunch going out at 6AM.
Is any one doing a swim/bike Friday morning, tomorrow, at Chauncy. If so, I would like to meet up with you. What time do you meet up?
Hi Lenore, I’m going to try to make a 6 am swim at Lake Chauncy but I can’t do the bike as well – have to get to work for 8 am. Not sure if others are swimming and biking.
Hi Lenore and Barbara,
I will also be swimming to the dock on Friday 6am with at least Mary – I won’t be riding after but there are others that planning to.
Barbara,
I would love to join you in the bike ride on Saturday morning.
Kim Miller may join us as well.
Hi All, I’m going to ride the Westboro bike route after work today if anyone wants to join. I’m not super fast!!
I’m in for a 6AM swim tomorrow. Also going to ride Westborough around 6:30 tonight.
Sounds like a bunch are meeting at Chauncy at 6AM Friday for a swim-bike: I think I can make that one!
Hi Everyone, just wanted to tell the Fitbricks team from Sunday 4th that the pictures of everyone are awesome… we all look HOT! Literally! Nice job again everyone. (pictures from Capstone Photography)
Oh Stan, what happened to you, no pictures?!
Wonderful, I will see you both at Chauncey at 6:00 in the morning.
Michelle
if you’re still interested, Mert and I will be swimming at Hopkinton Fri eve around 5. The area with the parking lot and the bathhouse. Any one else?
Nice swim this morning everyone! Hope you enjoyed the bike ride too! How far is the swim from the beach to the “dock”? When we swim straight…Jess, Mary?
Marie and Mert,
I’m going to try to get to Hopington to meet you guys by 5.
I have not bee there before but will ask for the bathhouse.
Wow…Hopkinton is algae-free!
Hey Everyone, for those wanting to bike Webster tomorrow morning we are still on. Planning on being there for 7:30 am, may run after and then have breakfast. Looking forward to seeing you all. Barbara
Hi Barbara,
I plan to join the Webster group tomorrow.
Great Karen, we’ll see you there.
Hi Everyone,
Rich and I are still planning on riding the Westboro bike course tomorrow morning at 8:00 am. If it is raining – we probably won’t go, if just a few drizzles we are still in. I’ll post around 7:00 am if we aren’t going because the weather looks bad. Hope to see many of you tomorrow.
Barbara,
Where is everyone meeting?
Hey Mert I was planning on meeting at the parking lot at Lake Chauncy, that is the easiest place to meet. Hope to see you tomorrow.
Nice bike rides (bike rides/runs) everyone this weekend! Coach will be proud
And it was a lot of fun to ride with such great groups!
Congratulations to our Nantucket contingent – Diane, Jim, Melissa and Christine. Nice job can’t wait to hear the stories – hopefully all good ones
Nantucket race report from Diane’s perspective…Jim, Melissa and Christine feel free to add your 2 cents (Dot and Cary you can too from your volunteer perspective).
Friday we spent all day and night swimming, walking around and eating. SO MUCH FUN! Note to triathletes: this is not recommended if you are concerned about your race performance the following day ?
Planning for this race was interesting because it didn’t start until noon. This makes it very difficult to plan a nutrition strategy. But, Diane started the day getting up as normal at 5:30 eating her normal breakfast. The plan was for Diane, Jim and Christine to ride their bikes 1.5 miles to registration when it opened at 8:30, register, set up transition, then go back to Christine’s to eat a large breakfast that would hold everyone over through the race. We would then only have to stay hydrated and cool until the race started.
We rode to registration with our backpacks. During registration, it started to rain. We were a little nervous, but the rain cleared and we had a nice steamy hot day to look forward to. After we registered, we set up our transition areas. We then rode back to Christine’s. Diane and Jim cooked pancakes and eggs for Jim (Diane already ate and couldn’t eat that much more and Christine ate her normal breakfast of yogurt and granola (Diane was concerned about the amount of protein and lack of carbs, so Christine added a pancake to her “normal breakfast”)).
It was already getting hot, so we had to be sure to stay hydrated. At 10:30 we rode our bikes back to the race venue. When we got there, we were very happy to have registered early because the line was quite long. As I went to put my bike back at my transition spot, someone had moved all of my stuff out of the way and put their stuff where mine was. Hmmmm… luckily the woman was standing there and I could nicely explain to her that her stuff needed to go on the other side of the rack. She was a newbie and said she had no idea that she shouldn’t have moved my stuff out of her way ?.
I reset up my transition area and decided to look at the swim start and walk through the transitions from swim to bike and bike to run. Looking at the swim, the debate was to wear a wetsuit or not? The swim is ONLY ¼ mile and the run ON THE SAND from the ocean up to the tennis courts was about a ¼ mile over shells, in very hot weather and wouldn’t feel so good in a wetsuit. But, since the swim looked longer than ¼ mile I decided to wear it and take it off down by the ocean before the run.
I started the swim fine and it felt fine, but going across the ocean parallel to shore was pretty wavy so I was glad when I reached the buoy to head back into shore. Then the real fun began. My goggles were fogged, I couldn’t see anything, no one was around me and I knew I was off course. So, I had to stop and clear my goggles. I then quickly realized I was heading toward the start line when the guy in the kayak suggested to me that I start heading to the right LOL. Into shore I headed. The tide was going out, so your hand hit the ground pretty far away from the shore (the start line was actually 1/8 or a mile into the ocean) so the transition run actually started in the water. To give you a hint to the water conditions, Olympic swimmer Jenny Thompson’s swim was 11 min for the supposed ¼ mile swim!
I stripped off my wetsuit at the shore and ran to my transition spot. (Note to self, when doing an ocean swim that involves sand running, you should practice running on the sand….tendons and feet don’t like running in sand without practice. Also, arthritic feet don’t like running across a parking lot in barefoot…)
Onto my favorite event.. the bike. The bike was great. We had a head wind going out, but coming back we cruised. It was a nice mix of flat and rolling hills. I was playing cat and mouse with two woman in my age group on the way out, but at the turnaround I got a burst of energy and rode away and didn’t see them again until the run (UGH!). I got off of the bike and ran to my transition spot. Shoes and helmet off. I did think about putting socks on but tried for a few seconds and it was too hot so they were just sticking to my foot. Ditched those and tried to slide my foot into my sneakers and it was so hot my orthotics kept bunching up by my toes. Three times the charm and they finally laid right. Sneakers on, grab hat and race belt and off I go all in less than 1 min!
The run….well, let’s just say I was in 4th or 5th place coming off of the bike and ended in 8th. It was VERY hot. That’s all I’m going to say about that. I finished 8/60 so I was happy with that.
Bottom line is that it was a ton of fun and I loved having no pressure to perform and knowing that we had a big day after the race that I could have fun at and not be exhausted from the race.
Just posted from the race directors…DUH…
Finally, the swim leg was longer than the 1/4 mile as advertised on our website. The tides and the sand bar added to the complexity of staging an exact 1/4 mile swim leg. We apologize for the longer length and we will try to make improvements with this next year.
Wow…what an adventure! It sounds like you managed to have a lot of fun during a challenging race!
Anyone interested in a swim after work today?? Chauncy or Hopkinton around 6 pm?
http://www.joshbillings.com/page.php?PageID=2293&PageName=Home
This looks like it would be fun and VERY challenging to do as a team…. anyone like canoeing??
Karen – I can swim. What are you thinking of doing? Either location for me!
Rebekah, I ws thinking about Chauncy, swimming to the trees or the dock.
However…it might rain! I will check the radar again about 5, but I don’t want to risk getting stuck in a thunderstorm.
Karen – either works for me. Want to give me a call later? …
Kim, sounds like fun! A lot of us already have races for that weekend though. Maybe next year.
Rebekah, I’m going to delete your phone number, please send private info via email. You never know who is reading this
Diane – that’s fine- I wasn’t sure!!
Karen needs to go earlier than I can be there. Anyone free for 6:30 at Chauncy??
Anyone free to swim/bike on Thursday? I’m free anytime in the afternoon… Thanks!
The pub crawl was the best part of the trip, oh… and spending time on Nantucket with friends, PRICELESS! If anyone can help Diane out she’s not familar with the poem, “there once was a man from Nantucket” hahahahah
Looking forward to another weekend on the cape Tri-ing
Jim, aren’t you going to tell the story of your wetsuit!??!?!
Oh please both of you continue …. We love hearing stories!
Rebekah – I can swim/bike on Thursday. Do you want to meet at Hopkinton at 2:00 p.m.?
Hey veterans out there – I need to do a 10-15 mile bike ride today, but with the rain, I’m not sure what to do… Thoughts??? I could use my trainer, but that seems so lame… Thanks!
Gretchen – yes, perfect! See you there!
Barbara, you are correct, there were a few funny things too. No, I am not familiar with that song, but started singing the first sentence and Jim almost got hit by a car by falling off of the curb he was laughing so hard. Of course, he didn’t tell me what the rest of the song is……………..
His wetsuit story is FUNNY though. We walked up to the swim start and it really was very hot. By the time we got there we were sweating. When the time came to pull up the wetsuit, his arms were all wet from sweat and the sleeves were sticking to his arms. He pulled and pulled and pulled a huge hole right along the shoulder seam. It was so big that we decided making his “sleeved”wetsuit “sleeveless” was the best option. So, the EMTs on the beach operated and Jim had a new sleeveless wetsuit! LOL
Diane here is the rest of the song, at least the clean version:
There once was a man from Nantucket
Who kept all his cash in a bucket.
But his daughter, named Nan,
Ran away with a man
And as for the bucket, Nantucket.
The last line is a joke to mean that Nan, (his daughter), took the bucket of money. “And as for the bucket, Nan took it.”
But, there are a lot of limericks made up with the start of…”There once was a man from Nantucket…”
I’m sure Jim wasn’t laughing so hard because of these lyrics. I think he may have other ones in mind!
Jim how do you like you new “sleeveless” wetsuit!
You guys are too funny!
My new sleeveless feels great. The EMT did a really nice job making a farmer john style for me. He was very careful cutting around the arms making it look very nice. FYI, I will never buy another Xterra wetsuit. I’ve had some many issues with the quality of the material. Can anyone recommend another brand?
I think the Xterras suck as well…. I’m looking to buy a new one next year.
Why is running sooo Frustrating! I love the bike and swim and feel great doing it but when it comes to the run I feel like I am going to die about 5 mins after I start. If I do my heart rate I have to pretty much walk to keep it in the zone. Any suggestions on how to improve my run?
I have the Blue Seventy Reaction as does Marile and Mary. After 3 years, mine looks in far better shape than the Xterras from last season. Trifuel rates Blue Seventy high, but also is very happy with the QR products.
And Lian, running to me is still frustrating. As with a lot of people, I have 2 modes…speed and distance. I can go for 5-10 miles in a super slow mode that feels as if I am faster walking or <3 in a fast mode. It does get better and seems to level out as my first year I could only do 1 mile in fast mode. Hill repeats and speed workouts helped a lot!
I’ll be swimming today at 4pm at Bare Hill Pond in Harvard – lots of weeds but no algae. Mert is joining me, anybody else? Meeting at the General Store in Harvard center.
Jim – I think you should stay with the “punk”ragged sleeve look – you could be the first Ironman rock star… I have an Orca wetsuit – very high quality materials & construction.
Also, I think you should tell Diane the REAL words to the “Man From ..” limmerick – she’ll be amazed how creative little boy “body part” humor can be!!!!
O also. The lifeguards will be on at the pond in Harvard until 5pm so we’ll be swimming the ropes. It’s a 100 yard square with 2 rafts in the middle so pretty much whereever you swim there’s something to grab nearby if you need it. And the water is very warm – 80ish, so no wetsuit for me.
Lian – Keep running! Yes Hill Repeats and Speed Drills help, but also those long slow (zone 2) runs. I find running in this heat and humidity really hard – it is much more fun to go swimming! I am a slow runner, and it is tough to get lapped by those that find running a breeze. Keep at it and I am sure you’ll start to see improvement!
RE wetsuits – I agree with the comments for Xterra – but the cost was right! If anyone sees a deal on a better quality wetsuit – please post! Thanks!
Lian,
The reason we run (or walk if need be) in zone 2 is to build endurance. If you do this for a few months, you will be able to run longer and faster at a lower heart rate. You have to build endurance before you can build speed otherwise you will peter out very quickly. Sorry, it takes time, but it definitely works. Stay with it, you’ll see great progress over the next month or two. Go as a slow as you can in a shuffle mode.
Anybody up for swimming at Chauncy on Friday morning around 6
Bill-either Dave or I will be at Chauncy in the AM. (Depends who wins the coin toss!)
Thanks for the wetsuit comments everyone. LOL Melissa, maybe this could be the new look for the sleeveless wetsuit. I’ll need a couple drinks in me to say the real words to, “The man from Nantucket”. Hope all is well with everyone, stay safe and keep on Tri-ing!
Lian,
I find that the “mind chatter” is way harder to deal with when running, and I have run for years. Some days it is relentless! If you understand it as a tape in your head about how it hurts to run, or how out of breath you are or whatever it is, then thank your mind for sharing, and find something to focus on rather than the chatter. I find that counting my breath helps: count one long breath in and two out, or how many breaths you need to take per stride. This turns the run that seems so hard into more of a “moving meditation” as Thich Nhat Hahn would say. Focusing on my breath and how deep it is going into my lungs seems to help me the most. Focus on ANYTHING other than your brain saying you can’t because this is too hard. Your body is in shape enough to do the runs set out, and it is just your head that doesn’t want to!
Hope this helps!
Wetsuit: I think the XTerra serves as a good first year suit, but agree the quality is poor for long term use. I can feel the difference in my Blue Seventy. I did notice at REI in Framingham last week that they have Zoot and Blue Seventy in stock. You could call to check for sizing.
I think the “Man from” …. limericks are a boy thing. Stan seems to know it. Claims there is also a Man from Vienna…..
Lol….it has to be a boy thing I guess. Thanks for the tip on the Blue seventy and Zoot, I’ll look in to both.
FYI – for those planning to swim Chauncy Friday 6am, Vescio has their final Open Water Swim Clinic there at that time. I drove by during their last Clinic and there were lots of people out in the lake. Not much free water off the beach. Maybe by the old might be better?
I am planning to swim Chauncy Sunday 6am if anyone interested in joining.
Steve– good info, thanks. I’m planning on taking Dave on a swim “to the trees” (i.e. across the lake instead of in the ropes. 1/4 mile each way) on Sunday morning. Since he hasn’t done that before, I’ll swim towing a noodle. You’re welcome to join us — but we were thinking a little later — like maybe 7:30 or 8:00?
OK, so someone sent me the lyrics to the song. Oh My! It is definitely a guy thing! LOL
Diane – yeah, probably not the song you want to be singing!!
Bill M – there is a group swimming tomorrow morning. It sounds like the lake will be busy early in the morning.
See you tomorrow.
I am planning to be at Hopkinton tomorrow around 5 if anyone wants to bike, swim, run
Thanks everyone for the running advice! I will keep chugging away thanks to all your support!
Just wanted to post, what an awesome workout today! Everyone looked great! I can tell you from experience these practices are priceless! You’ll all see in your own races the people who have paid attention to the small but important details, nutrition, hydration, transition…. and the ones who haven’t! We already are a step ahead of everyone! Great job guys!
And good luck to our Falmouth contingent! Bring home the gold… okay just have fun!
Working out this morning in this heat has given me a headache. Barbara, Diane – any advice? Did I not hydrate enough?
Sorry Kate. Drink some Gatorade/ or G2 or something of the sort
Barbara, you beat me to it!
You guys did great today. That is a tough workout, but it so prepares you for your race. Nice job!
I also wanted to tell you about next week’s workout. If you are racing, please still come to practice. We will have Don conducting the tire changing clinic, so bring your bikes; and we’ll be doing some visualization and going over some logistics for your race. Those of you not racing, if you need tire changing lessons, bring your bike too and you can run afterward. Those of you not racing and who know how to change a tire will be doing a run interval session.
Have a great week!
Diane
Marile (or anyone else) are you swimming at Chauncy tomorrow morning? What time? I’d like to join you.
Michelle
Kate, look at how well (or not) that you hydrated yesterday. I this really hot weather it is hard to stay ahead of our hydration needs. You may have hydrated well today but were low from yesterday. Keep in mind we should be sipping every 10-20 minutes! Not sure everyone did that on the bike today.
Everyone who is racing next week make sure even though we are in a taper for exercise you eat and drink! We want our energy stores packed for our race!
As some of you may know, I recently moved to a home on GlenEcho Lake, in Charlton, Ma. I would like to extended an invitation to come and swim on Wednesday night at 6:00pm. All are welcome.
We’ll be at Chauncy at 8:00 AM tomorrow…swimming to the rope swing (with noodle in tow.) Anyone welcome!
Marile – Can’t make the 8:00 am swim due to family committment. We need to be done by 7:45am.
So, Ray and I will be doing a Swim/Bike brick tomorrow at Chauncy. We are planning a 6am swim to rope swing and back, followed by biking the course (time permitting). All are welcome here as well.
Good Luck to everyone racing/riding this weekend. Annmarie & Mert ride safe. And hope the Falmouth Bunch have fun – don’t get into too much trouble
Marile – sorry I did not make it to Chauncy this morning – woke up to kid with fever. Hope your swim went well – let me know if you are swimming at Chauncy this week in the am or pm and I’ll join you.
The Climb to the Clouds was amazing. It was a perfect day for this ride. I ended up doing only 50 miles. Mert stayed at the Cape, so I wasn’t encouraged to do any more. It was a tough 50 but the vistas were worth it. It would be a great ride for early autum – if anyone is game. Actually, I’d be willing to do it again any time. It’s a slow ride though (I averaged 13.75 mph). At one point I was grinding up a hill at barely 5 mph! With the uphills come some screaming downhills! If you can ride 20-25 miles (with hills) comfortably, you can do this ride.
Look forward to hearing from the Falmouth group.
Annmarie, congratulations on your ride! That is awesome. I’m glad the weather work out for you! What happened to Mert?
The Falmouth group how’d everyone do? I’m sure great!
Had a nice swim/bike with Rich and Kim H today on the Webster course. Now on to our taper – yes!
Barbara
I went the Cape for the weekend, I needed more beach time. Annmarie did great, I was thinking about her this morning.
Anyone up for swimming in Chauncy this week out to the rope?
Kathleen – I can go after work this week!
Kathleen and Rebeka,
I’m for an after work swim at Chauncy. How about Tuesday? I can meet any time 5:30 or later. If anyone would like to bike after the swim I need to do that too.
Karen
I can do a swim/bike tomorrow after work. Can be there by 5:30.
Great. I’ll meet you on the beach at 5:30 tomorrow (Tuesday).
OK!
Just sent this via email too but didn’t want anyone to miss this message:
_______________________
Hi guys,
This email is for those racing this Sunday at SheRox in Webster. It has come to my attention (thanks Sharon and Andy!) that the expo is NOT in Worcester this year, and actually they changed quite a few things. You MUST register and pick up your bag with your numbers, etc… on SATURDAY in WEBSTER.
Here is the athlete information guide. Cut and paste this link into your browser.
http://www.sheroxtri.com/media_center/documents/Webster%20Athlete%20Information%20Guide%202010.pdf
Please read it carefully and send me an email with any questions you may have.
Those of you not racing on Sunday. Sorry for the spam, but I didn’t want to miss anyone. I’ll give you some infor too
At our Saturday workout, we will have a few things going on:
1. I will hold a tire-changing clinic first thing. ANYONE that does not know how to change a tire should bring their bike on Saturday and we’ll change a tire and show you how to get your tire on and off of your bike.
2. if you are racing, come to the tire changing clinic and I will also do a visualization with you.
3. if you are not racing on Sunday, you will be doing intervals for running. If you are not racing AND you do not know how to change a tire, attend the tire changing clinic first, then do your run.
Let me know if there are any questions,
Diane
Oh, one more thing. If you want to bring your packet and all of your race stuff to the BBQ, I can help you get everything ready.
Full of advice today before my trip the mind is a movin’….
Many of the lakes are too warm for a wetsuit and many races are not “wetsuit legal” this year. We all know how warm lake chauncy is this year. So, I strongly suggest one of your swims/week you do without your wetsuit. Either in the pool or along the ropes. It will be harder, so please be sure to stay safe and remember never to swim alone.
Anyone swimming at the lake this week in the AM?
Rebekah and Karen – I can join you tonight for a 5:30 swim and I’ll bring my bike and we can talk how many miles you were going to do.
Sounds good!
I am going to try and make it for the swim tonight too – although I have a project launching tomorrow so the day could quickly get away from me. If I’m not there by 5:30 don’t wait….but I hope to be there.
Is anyone swimming on Wednesday? I would like to do a swim across chauncy without my wetsuit to build my confidence for Sunday. Kinda freaking about a 1/2 mile swim with no wetsuit. I’d prefer morning but could do afternoon/evening too.
Gretchen, I can swim Wednesday. I was planning on swimming the ropes without a wetsuit. What time did you have in mind? I usual swim around 6 am , but can also do the afternoon.
Tracey/Rebeka/Kathleen – I’m stuck at work, and will not be able to meet to swim – very sorry. At least there is a goup of 3 swim buddies-safety first. Have fun!
I can swim at 6AM tomorrow (Chauncy)
I can be at chauncy at 6 an too (on wed). See you then.
I would love to meet the morning group tomorrow at Chauncy at 6 for a swim. Not sure if I’m confident enough to go across without my wetsuit, though!
I twisted my ankle while running today and have it up with ice on it at the moment. If it’s better in the morning, I will be there- but don’t wait for me. Hopefully I’ll see you then.
Sarah: Sorry to hear about your ankle. FYI – last time I twised my ankle I was actually able to bike and run before I could swim. You will be surprised how much you use the ankle with a flutter kick. Hope it heals quickly.
Marile and Bill – I’m not going to make it Wed morning…I’ve been at a campground for the last two days with a “pine” fire going and my allergies are on tilt. I’m going to give myself some extra sleep in the morning. See you later this week.
Thanks Mary. I’m glad you said that about swimming with the bad ankle… it feels like I better not push it today. I don’t want to get into trouble in the water, and I’m hoping it’s better for Sunday. Sorry I can’t make it this morning Marile and Bill.
Anyone up for a Chauncy swim Fri 6am?
Steve
I can make on Friday see you there.
Anyone else doing Hopkinton Title IX on 9/12? I need another race after Westboro…
Also – Kathleen – I need to do a quick run on my own today! Sorry!!
no worries Rebekah, I am getting out on my bike today and running tomorrow morning – see you Saturday.
Rebekah – I think Title 9 is sold out – I’ve tried registering – but could only get as far as the waiver – which says sold out under the checkbox. However, the race does not say sold out on the home page.
SHOOT! Kate, I think you’re right. Does anyone have a suggestion for another good race in September?? UGH!!!
What about Dover Sherborn? I’d be up for a relay team if someone wants to do it with me and it’s still open for registration. I’d prefer to swim since it’s the one discipline I’ve actually done this summer!
Dover Sherborn is on Sept 19, with an 8am start. My question for Diane – Dover has 2 transition areas – do things get crazy with 2? Buzzards Bay was nice – on 9/26 this year – but it was a really cold start last year!
A few co-workers do the Duxbury Beach Tri every year and say it is a lot of fun. It is sold out as a regular participant, but Charity slots at $200 are still available.
Also, Kate and Rebekah, Title 9 just let me register so it appears to not be sold out.
Yes- I actually emailed them and it’s open!! I’m registering now!
Ok – I’m signed up for Title 9! Thank Rebekah for emailing the race director and clearing the block! I think it will be a fun race!
Me too! I’m in!
Anyone interested in doing the Lobsterman Tri in Maine on Sept 18th?
http://www.tri-maine.com/Races/Lobsterman.html
There is even an aquabike, for those who are getting tired of running!
I can swim tomorrow (Friday) morning at 6:00 am. Bill and Steve I’ll see you there. This is my last swim before my race on Sunday…
Has anyone heard anything on water temp at Webster…I’m wondering if I’ll be able to wear my wetsuit. I figure I’ve done that race twice before without a wetsuit, if I have to do it again, I know I’m swimming stronger now than I have before.
Gretchen – Great! see you tomorrow!
The Athlete Guide for Sunday states the water temp should be 73-75 degrees and should be wetsuit legal. Actual decision will be announced that a.m. Here is the link:
http://www.sheroxtri.com/webster-ma-7325.html
Good luck to all those racing this weekend!
just checking in and catching up again…I’ll miss you at the pot luck Saturday as i’ll be away this weekend, but good luck to everyone racing this weekend! Diane was kind in describing me eating my usual morning breakfast of yogurt and granola…usual on an ordinary day, but never on a hot race day (nantucket tri on the 10th), SOOO….I ended up with cramps half way through the bike and could not run the run (more like walking while holding my side) and by an hour after the race thought I was going to be heading for the hospital. Other than that the whole weekend was a lot of fun. So follow all that Diane says and never do anything on race day that you haven’t done in practice…and i think on a hot day i’d caution against dairy anyway. I’m usually a soy girl. Good luck everyone!
Just signed up for Dover Sherborn Tri – my second one and haven’t even done my first yet. WooHoo! Diane recommended it last week so thought I would give it a try.
The lake is beautiful…so clear. You will be amazed the difference between Chauncy and that lake. Supposed to be a nice race, I haven’t done it but from people that have said that it is well run.
Hi Everyone-
I’m away this weekend and will not be at Diane’s BBQ so I wanted to wish everyone good luck this weekend!!
Have FUN!
Wow, lots of happenings since I’ve been gone. Just catching up!
Steve, way to go! That’s the way to become one of us addicted folks signing up for the second one before you’ve done the first LOL You’ll love it!
Also, I’ve been approached by a few to continue the summer program through the Sept races again this year. If you are interested in a similar Sat group to do this let me know. We actually can move the day we meet depending on who is doing the group- we can take a vote later . Cost will be only $150. I’m not sure which races I can attend based on my fall schedule, but I’ll see which ones people are doing and evaluate.
I’ll miss those of you that are away this weekend, but we’ll catch up with everyone next weekend. Lots of you are on vacation this weekend.
Congrats to all of the SheRox finishers today. You all looked so great out there. Wear that medal proud today (it actually was quite a nice one
) Sorry I was still “swim-angeling” it when some of you finished, but I got to put the medal on about 1/2 of you! I’m soooooooooooo proud to be your coach.
Congrats SheRox racers! Anyone up for a swim/bike tomorrow at about 6?
Rebekkah – I have a swim/bike scheduled for Tuesday…any chance you could switch days? I could be at Hopkinton by 6:15/6:30 (I start my job tomorrow and I think my day ends at 5:30).
Anyone else up for a swim/bike on Tuesday evening?
Congratulations everyone who did the SheRox today – you all rock! And special thank you to our wonderful coach, the great swim angels and the many spectators who came out to watch us compete – you guys also rock! What a great day overall! Congrats everyone!
Rebekah – do you mean 6 am or pm?
OK, did you guys know that there is actually going to be a Danskin Women’s Tri in Webster on September 26th??
http://www.danskintriathlon.net/new_england.html
I know a lot of us have other commitments that day… just thought it was interesting that Danskin is actually holding a Webster race this year!
I actually just heard that today Marile from one of the swim angels. Interesting….
I saw that online and was confused… Figured they got the date wrong.
Kathleen – 6PM -but I might switch my plan. Will email tomorrow!
SheRox racers- the results are posted at http://score-this.com/2010races/multisport/sheroxwebster2010.html. Great job everybody!!
Diane- they didn’t get my bike time…does that mean I did something wrong?
Sarah, by looking at the results, it looks like that happened to a lot of people. It appears that they were having trouble with the mat in the swim to bike transition (T1 mat). Great job though!
Just wanted to congratulate Melissa and Marie, 5th and 6th respectively in their age group! Awesome!!! And you beat all of us younger folk I believe, you guys truly rock! Great job!
Melissa & Marie Congratulations! You two are amazing.
Barbara your time was too bad either. One of these days I’ll catch you, or at least be in your shadow.
Congratulations to everyone who complete the SheRox race.
I’m riding Sunday. It’s a ride sponsored by the CRW (there is no cost). I plan on doing the 58 mile ride if anyone would like to join me. Go to crw.org and click on rides – next month – August 1st. According to the long range forecast Sunday should be a great day for riding.
Annemarie, are you talking about the South Coast ride? It sounds beautiful. I wish Cary was riding again, I’ll have to run it by him, but I’d love to do this.
Gretchen – I’m going to swim/bike tomorrow, but I’d like to go earlier (like 5:30) if anyone is interested….
Rebekah – I can swim/bike tomorrow at 5:30 at Chauncy.
Annmarie, you are already in my shadow if not just off my shoulder! Knowing you and Melissa (I forgot Marie was doing the race) were in later waves than me kept me going. I was so worried I’d hear on your left while on the bike and it would be one of you!!! LOL! Everyone did awesome!
Rebeka and Kathleen- I can meet you at 5:30 PM for swim/bike at Chauncy tomorrow (Tuesday) too. I’ll meet you on the beach.
-Karen
Melissa and Marie, Great results !! Congratulations!!
Diane,
The name of the ride is Border Run. It starts in Ashland. I’m not sure if I’ve done that ride before or not. Sounds pretty. I like pretty rides
Oh then I’m IN. I can get to Ashland do the ride and be back before anyone even knows I’m gone
Congrats Melissa and Marie and all who finished the race. You guys did amazing!
You guys are the best! Congrats to ALL OF THE SHEROX RACERS! What a fun day. Having so many of the team participating and supporting – both morally & physically – makes it about so much more than racing.
Love you guys!!!
Any of you able to make a swim bike tomorrow around 10am? Chauncy or Hopkinton.
Michelle
Annmarie and Diane,
Still training but without the work thing – hopefully!
Wish I could join you guys for the ride on Sunday but Rich and I will be enjoying some beach time on the Cape
Enjoy the ride, I’ll try to catch up with you guys on the next one.
Michelle – I’ll be doing the swim/bike at Chauncy tomorrow, but I have to do it at 6am. Don’t know if your schedule is flexible or not but you are welcome to join us. Anyone else welcome too!
Congrats to all SheROX racers! You are all an inspiration to us first timers.
AnnMarie
I would like to join you for the Border Ride on Sunday.
Thanks
Has anyone tried Muscle Milk? It is supposedly lactose and gluten free – and there is a light version?
Hey Kate, I’ve never tried Muscle Milk so I can’t comment on taste. Looking at their “light” version I can tell you it still has ~160 calories and 4.5 grams of fat – this is not a low fat product. Now none of this is bad it just depends why you are taking these products? They are convenient and easy to carry with you so for something quick it definitely could work but I like my clients to actually eat food to meet their calorie needs at least most of the time. You get satisfaction from actually eating and chewing more so than you do from drinking your calories. Again, I think the decision to use is very individual depending on why you may need these kind of products. Hope that is helpful.
Just wanted to share my “I don’t believe this is happening” timing chip story from the SheRox race.
When I opened my race packet at the expo on Saturday the first thing I looked for was my timing chip – because, on my way in I noticed a guy sitting by the door with a laptop & a sign that said “CHIP TESTING.” Ok – gotta test it then. I was surprised that the strap that the timing chip was sliding up & down on wasn’t made of velcro like the others I’ve had – but, I really haven’t done many races – so, this strap was made of plastic with the little holes punched in it like the wristband they give you when you check into the hospital to have one of those enjoyable outpatient procedures and then when you try to rip it off afterwards in the car going home it’s fastened so tight that you end up having to chew the damn thing off in frustration. So, race morning I debated whether to put it on before leaving the house (always listen to the coach’s instructions!) but having remembered how impossible they can be to remove (“What if the wetsuit won’t go over it?”) I decided to wait until I had my wetsuit on just in case… BAD decision #1. Get to the race, tr set up, lots of time for everything, then go looking for the team. About 1/2hr before 1st wave goes off – thinking I really don’t want to get into my wetsuit this early – there’s Diane, I’m carrying wetsuit,cap,goggles, timing chip, “Maybe I should put the chip on – but first the wetsuit” Diane holds chip I put on wetsuit then chip. The strap is long enough to wrap around my ankle twice so I just tuck the end under the chip. Another hour then my swim wave goes off. I’m about 50 yards into my swim and I feel the strap starting to flap around my ankle. Had visions of it coming loose and sinking. So, I reach down & it comes off in my hand. Now what do I do with it? First thought,”the bra.” But then I imagine it working its way down inside my trisuit to my belly button & having to lie down & slither across the timing mat to get my time recorded. So, I nix that idea & keep swimming with one hand closed fisted around the chip – not the most efficient way to “catch & pull.” Out of the swim, dash to the timing mat & reach down waving my fist at the mat, listening for the beep while the volunteer nearby looks at me like I’m crazy & I start thinking “Now what am I going to do with it on the bike?” In the sock it goes – hoping it doesn’t slip down underneath to where the cleat attaches & I end up trying to pull up those hills with a chunk of plastic under my toes. It didn’t but I thought about it for 12 miles. Now the run – leave it in the sock. Half mile out I can feel it moving – stop, reach down stuff it back in and look up just in time to nearly have a head-on with a biker – another 1/2 mile & it pops out completely, stop & grab it while 2 runners behind me nearly crash over me – note to self: NEVER STOP. Finally, I waved at the finish mat & happily handed over my chip.
SO, 1.Try ON your chip with strap BEFORE race. 2. Tug on it. 3. Get it wet & kick like crazy. 4. Tug on it again. 5. Pull your wetsuit over it. 6. Tug on it again.
After the race, telling Diane my story she wisely points out,
“You do have a pocket, you know.”
Another funny race story. You know how it goes Melissa, “it’s always SOMETHING”! Great way to improvise and not get flustered and still have a great race!
Melissa
why don’t you buy your own velcro chip strap, then you won’t have to worry about the hospital bracelet . It’s more comfy than those stiff plastic ones too.
I pull my wet suit right over it – no problem
Great race in spite of it!
Melissa,
WOW…that was some quick thinking!
I’m also a fan of my neoprene velcro chip strap…comfy and secure.
One issue I ran into last year using my own chip strap was when I did the Situate Duathlon. They were going to charge me like I had lost the chip if I did not return the 5 cent strap that they provided with the chip. Good thing I still had it burried in my backpack. Lesson-Don’t throuw away anything the race provides to you until post-race.
Anyone swimming on Friday at Chauncy in the AM?
I’d liked to do a swim on Friday in AM, I usually go around 6:00
Bill, I (and I am pretty sure some others) will be there at 6 am to swim either to the rope swing or the docks.
I might join you guys for a swim. Btw – Karen, Kathleen and I did a great swim/bike brick last night. We’ll need to tell you all the story of how I (and then Karen) almost got taken out by a cable wire being strung across the road by Charter with no warning. It was scary!
If anyone has time this Sunday morning, the Marlborough Tri is still in need of volunteers. If you can help, email Lesley.Crowley@yahoo.com.
See you guys at 6 AM on Friday for Chanucy swimming.
Thanks!
Marie,
Good idea – ordered one this morning.
Karen,
Never would have thought of that! Thanks.
See you all 6am Friday for a Swim. Will follow with a bike loop after if anyone interested.
Annmarie,
I will be joining you on Sunday for the bike ride, can’t wait.
Can someone remind me of the details for the bike for Sunday that people are doing? Thanks!
melissa,
That last line from Diane made me almost fall off the chair laughing! My hubby always says “I hate those things that happen that I know I am going to laugh about later!” Nice job anyway, and thanks for the inspiration!
As Title 9 is sold out, does anyone have any interest in the TDD Tri in Douglas on September 18th? This one is co-ed which is nice.
Jess, I did that TDD race last year. It was nice – the water was still warm although I remember the air being pretty chilly at race start. The Hoyt’s also did that race and they are always inspiring! I might do it again this year especially since Title IX is sold out…..darn.
I was thinking of doing TDD also.
I’m secretly looking at another one as well (Kim H also, she had so much fun at SheRox) but Rich won’t commit until after Westboro
We were looking at Buzzard Bay on Sept 26th, it was nice, fairly flat course and a short swim – definitely wetsuit needed, it was cold. I’ll let you know what we decide.
Oh should say – did it last year with Annmarie, Judy, Melissa, Marie, Carey, Andy, Kate, Gretchen, Jim. We had fun!
Stan and I did Buzzards Bay last year and the air was warm but the water was cold. The swim start is challenging. Very rocky and you have to swim to the start. Only a few made it to the start before the actual start. I was also kicked in the head and had a goose egg for a few days.
Stan says when the leaves fall on the lake it’s time to get out.
Oh that is right Mary, I hope it wasn’t I who gave you the goose egg
I do think we collided during the start of the race, sorry! It is true that it is a challenging start, different and the cold water takes your breath away a little bit which can be a little unnerving. I think Sarah did the race too, I probably forgot others!
And Stan may have something there
The water was cold – but who knows about this September – it has been a much hotter summer this year also. I really enjoyed the race – so much that I signed up for it again this year. Beautiful location – loved the bike course – flat – one loop – lovely. I also thought the race was very well managed. Can’t beat the beach and the water was calm & clear – yes, rocky on the way in but not on the way out! Also, it’s so shallow that you can see the bottom. Anyway… I’m in.
Stan does have a point, though
Just a reminder the Hub on Wheels is the same day as Buzzards Bay for those of you that are on that FitBricks team. If you haven’t signed up, you still can. It’ll be just a fun ride with a group of us. The other tris are all good choices too.
I am thinking about doing the TDD triathlon too. It looks like a good race and I want to keep up the training. Since I don’t have a wetsuit I don’t think buzzards bay would be a good idea for me?
Lian, good idea!!
BB is pretty cold, so TDD is probably a better bet.
I”ll join you guys for the Friday 6:00 am swim at Chauncy.
I plan on swimming/biking Friday 6am.
I will bring info. about the bike ride Sunday to training on Sat. morning.
Anyone wanting to swim friday a bit later than the crack of dawn Diane and I are swimming at 8am…..
I’ll meet the 6 am group for a swim tomorrow. Wish it was 8 am
I would like to swim at 8 also.
I’ll be swimming with the 8am group. Planning to do a bike loop afterwards as well.
Sunday Bike — if anyone is interested in biking 30 ish miles on Sunday am let me know. Maybe we can coordinate time and location.
Sunday is the CRW border run in Ashland. They have a 30 ish ride.
Melissa, see you tomorrow at 8am along with anyone else that wants to join in the fun.
Not having much luck putting on my new tires. First time the tube blew when I was adding air. Tried a second time and thought all was good. I just heard a bang in the other room. The tube blew and I wasn’t even touching it. I thought it looked a little funny near the stem. That’s where it blew. I am finding the new tire more challenging to put on because it is not really a nice round formed circle. It’s flat from being in the package and seems to have a mind of its own.
Oh oh, that is not good. Bring them tomorrow and Jim can whip them on for you, right Jim!?!?
Don’t think I’ll be at training on Saturday I have to work. For those doing the ride Sunday go to crw.org for info on the ride. I plan on doing the 58 miles. There is a longer ride – 72 miles. My leg is STILL sore from my fall on Sunday. Ugh! So 72 with hills may be a bit much for me. Yes Mary there are shorter rides a 21 mile and a 39 mile ride.
Hi All – sorry I missed the 6AM swimmers this AM! Hope it was a good one. See you tomorrow.
Mary – did you decide what you’re doing for a bike ride Sunday? I need to do a long one too… In the AM would be great!
Rebekah – I am waiting to hear from a few people who said they may interested in the 39 mile Boarder Run at a slower pace (13 mph). Will know later today/Saturday.
Diane – I have a question about our training schedules. I have races spaced about 2 weeks apart; Westboro, Cranberry (relay team) and Title 9. If I taper the week before a race, should I try to get in good workouts the week after a race? Thx!
Kate, about the muscle Muscle Milk. I agree with Barbara on eating rather than drinking. The Muscle Milk is 100% lactose free and tastes pretty good. I drink Muscle Milk after workouts and races to get that first bit of protein and carbs in within the hour then I eat. I recommend if you buy it that you get the powder mix because you get more for your money. You can mix it with lactose free milk. The pre mixed is expensive. I think its $8.99 for a 4 pack at Stop & Shop. You can get a 5 lb. container of powder for about $24.00 or so. Don’t go to GNC very expensive.
Melissa, very funny chip story, I think that tops anything thats happened to me. Why to go on improvise, adapte and overcome!
Kate, regarding your 2-week apart races. You should go by how you feel after the race. If you are really sore, take Mon off, then do active recovery so maybe swim on Tues, bike on Wed in easy spinning mode (1.e flats for 8-10 miles). By then you should feel all better. Take Thurs off and then do a good run, swim, bike, etc… until you begin your taper the following week on Wed or so. Things to watch out for- soreness after race requires more rest, if the easy workouts seem hard then go easier or stop.
Nice swim this morning everyone! Hope the bike ride wasn’t too chilly!
Redemption: bike shop blew a tube. Said tires weren’t fitting the wheel right for some unknown reason. Refunded me the cost of the two tires and upgraded me. Bad news is shop only had one tire in stock and is now out of 650 tubes. Need to wait till next week to be fully upgraded. Hope to pick up a spare 650 tube at Landry’s Sat so I can ride Sunday.
Something to keep in mind for those with woman’s specific frames/wheels; shops don’t always have the parts on hand.
Came across this Consumer Reports July article on Protein Drinks – Muscle Milk is included in their evaluation. Heavy metals are a bit scary… ;-(
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine-archive/2010/july/food/protein-drinks/whats-in-your-protein-drink/index.htm
I know a bunch of people are doing some long rides Sunday morning, but anyone up for riding the Westborough course?
Wow Melissa, quite scary!
Mary sorry about your tire troubles! I wanted to let you know I won’t be able to do the ride on Sunday after all. Seems Rich and I will be leaving for the Cape either Saturday night or Sunday morning. Wish I could do it all but vacation with hubby wins out
Diane, sorry i’m still here…took a spontaneous leave from the world this week so i won’t be at training tomorrow.
Michelle,
I’ll ride the Westborough loop with you Sunday although I’m not sure of the route. Let me know where you’d like to meet and time. Diane has my email/cell if you don’t see it…my name is in my email and @firstam.com.
Everyone else have fun on your respective rides…I’m trying to work my hip back up to longer so the CRW group looks fun to try again!
Maybe tomorrow everyone can talk about the options for Sunday’s various bike riding opportunities!!
Just crashed my car into my lawn mower! Off to repair the hanging bumper. Won’t be at training today
Have fun and let me know all the fun I missed out on!
Christine,
A few of us are meeting at the Chauncy parking lot tomorrow (Sunday) morning at 8am. The plan is to do the course once and then part of it a second time for about 20 miles in total. Not sure how your hip is, but you can just do the first loop if you’d like.
Anyone else – feel to join us!
Hi Lian,
Have a good week.
Sorry to hear about you “accident” this morning. Today’s workout we ran, zone 2, the Westboro run course. Rich also missed today’s workout, so I’m hoping to run the Westboro course with him next Sunday if you’d like to join us feel free. I’ll post again later in the week, we are heading to the Cape this weekend and hope to be back for next Saturday’s training
Melissa, have you checked out the SheRox pictures? There’s a great one of you crossing the finishing line, bending over with your chip to make sure it beeps! And then one which looks like you are giving out a primal scream, maybe of relief, frustration, gratitude! All of the above. Great pictures of everyone on the website.
Best of luck to all the Marlborough racers tomorrow!
Oh no Lian! We ran the Westboro run course, but no worries you can do that this week. Take care of things at home.
Mert and I plan to ride the Cranberry course immediately after practice next Saturday if anyone is interested in extending their swim/bike another 26miles.
Diane – I want to do the cranberry ride on Sat. Count me in.
Thanks for the comments re Muscle Milk – I think I’m scared off that idea for now. Diane and Mert – Cranberry bike ride sounds great! Barbara – I haven’t run the Westboro course and would love to join you and Rick next Sunday. Melissa – love your SheRox photos! As for my run photos, some things should just not be posted! I need to work on spotting those photographers out on the run.
Diane – Count me in for the Cranberry ride.
Opps – Sorry RICH (typo) I’ll run the Westboro loop next Sunday!
Great weather for the Marlborough race this morning!
Marile, Dave and I all did great and had a lot of fun!
We really couldn’t have asked for a better day. Challenging course (holy hills!!) but the conditions were perfect. Lake dropped to 76 degrees last night, so wetsuits were legal. Karen blew by me on loop one of the run. And Dave rocked his first race — I’m pretty sure he’s hooked! Watching Dick Hoyt push his son up those hills on a bike was unreal.
Great race.
Congrats Karen, Marile & Dave !
Last year Marlborough was my first Tri & I still have nightmares about those hills – especially since you get to visit them 3 times!!!
You can feel really proud
Hey AnnMarie
Didn’t catch up with you yesterday, and wondered how the rest of your ride went.
I must say, I was glad to get back to Ashland.
Congrats to the Marlboro Tri Athletes!
Planning Summer Session II with field trips and “upping the game”
Please let me know if you want to join us for another month of FUN FUN FUN!
Do you say what the cost was previously and number of weeks? (You know I hate to be left out.)
Diane – count me in. Would like to do some training on Dover course with those doing the Dover Tri after we are done with Westboro Tri.
LOL Mary. Yes, it is $150 for personalized plan for your Sept Race. We will meet on Saturday again 8-9:30 or 10; in various locations including Title IX course and running to parks to do some intensity training. Workouts will be longer with more intensity and less talking by me
OK all of you ladies out there (sorry guys, I didn’t make the rules) I would like to get a group together to do the Dec 8th Spy School in NYC. I think it will teach us some great skills that will have carry-over to our triathlon lives. Who’s in? Check it out: http://www.stilettospyschool.com/newyork.php
Sorry, it’s Dec 11th. And depending on how many we have we’ll see if we can get a discount and choose our sessions.
Anyone up for a 6am swim at Chaucy? I am willing to do whatever distance someone feels comfortable doing just as long as I can find a buddy!
I am swimming at Chaucy at 6 am on Wednesday if anyone would like to join me.
I will join you Bill. I was looking for someone to swim this morning but no luck and I didn’t feel comfortable in the lake alone. So I will see you tomorrow.Thanks!
OK Lian I will see you tomorrow
Lian and Bill – I just might join you tomorrow morning – are you sticking to the ropes or heading across?
I could do either one. Glad to have you join.
For the ladies who might be looking for a tri shirt, Title Nine is having a sale on a Zoot one here http://www.titlenine.com/product/421704.do?w=tri+shirt
Also let me know if anyone is swimming and/biking Thursday or Friday mornings Thanks Kathleen
Friday 6am – I am swimming to the dock, then bike loop. Anyone welcome to join!
Diane – what is the schedule for this Sat- the schedule says Swim and Bike, but you had also mentioned doing a mini tri – want to make sure I plan my week accordingly.
Hey! I would love to swim to the dock and bike tomorrow. I don’t have to be at work til 9:45: Yay!!!!!
Kathleen, the schedule is a swim/bike this Sat. I got my weeks mixed up. The uniforms probably won’t be here until Friday, so we’ll have to do a mini tri the Sat before the race to “test” the uniforms.
Steve, I don’t think you are following your plan or being a good listener
I believe we discussed Swim/Bikes VS Bike/Runs and I want you to do more bike/runs and make your swims, longer and more purposeful. We are doing a swim/bike on Saturday, so no need to do one Thurs. You should do a full swim (i.e. swim the ropes a couple of times doing drills and warming up, then do a bike/run on Fri or Sun- unless you did one earlier in the week). I’m just sayin’ there is a purpose to the schedule
Diane – I’m sure I’m being a pain the a** here, but my schedule says we are “off” the day before the race. But, now we’ll be doing a mini-tri?? Ok… Hmmm…. I trust you.
Rebekah, I know not ideal, but you HAVE TO try on the uniform before the race to check for “rubbing spots” so, when I say mini, I mean mini-tri…no worries…trust me
If I get the uniforms Friday, I’ll do a special practice for the mini tri Friday night. They are scheduled to ship next Tues so it will be close!
What if we didn’t get a uniform??
Let me know if you are interested in being part of a relay team for the Hartford Marathon in Oct. Info can be found here: http://www.hartfordmarathon.com/marathonnew/race_information/team_relay/teamrelayinfo.htm
I have never done this before. It looks like it could be fun if there is enough interest. Teams are made up of 2-5 people.
If you want to stay closer to home, there is also a relay marathon within the Town of Hopkinton on Oct 3rd. http://www.hopkintonrelay.com/
Rebekah, then you are all set with your current schedule.
Mary, I am doing the Hartford half. So I’ll be there!
Hi Everyone,

Feel a little bit out of the loop since being on vacation but am enjoying our vacation!
Don’t worry Rich and I have been faithful in sticking to our workout schedule as well!
We are looking forward to Saturdays swim/bike training
Congratulations to the Marlboro Triathlon group – way to go! Dave welcome to the party, glad you are hooked
See you all Saturday.
Hi All! Assuming Diane doesn’t tell me no, I’m planning on doing a long bike ride tomorrow morning (around 9AM). Anyone interested in joining?? I’m thinking about doing the Hopkinton course twice, but am open to other ideas.
FYI – the main beach at Hopkinton is closed b/c of high bacteria counts.
OK, never mind! I need to do a run tomorrow instead per Coach!
Steve D. swam the triangle this morning! You rock!
Pardon my ignorance, but what is the triangle? Is it to the dock, then the rope swing and back to the beach? If so, then Steve is an ANIMAL!!!!!!
You got it Lisa! And yes he is LOL
I was thinking about doing the Dover Triathlon. Are others doing this race? Does anyone know what the course is like? I was going to do the TDD one but turns out I am busy that day.
Hi Lian,
Steve is doing it too. It is a short swim, a nice 14.8 mile bike course with a few hills and a 3.4 mile run. A little longer than a normal sprint, but a nice race.
What time on Saturday are you all planning on running the course? I would like to join you.
Sorry I meant Sunday!
Hi Everyone,
If you’d like to run the course please feel free to join us tomorrow morning.
Great brick this morning, you guys looked great!
For those interested, Rich, Kate, Lian, Michelle, Annmarie (possibly) and myself are running the Westboro Tri course tomorrow morning. We will meet at the Lake parking lot for 8:30 am. Anyone is welcome to join us, it should be a slow zone 2 run, so nice and easy
Anyone up for a swim at Chauncy tonight around 6?
I’ll join you for a swim if it’s still your plan.
Kathryn – I would love that! I was planning on swimming to across to the trees and back. Meet you on the beach at 6? I could probably meet you at 5:45…
Kathryn and Rebekah,
Be very careful of boats at this time of day. Make sure someone has a noodle and you both have bright colored bathing caps. Uses your judgment- boats must be able to to see you. In the lake in Westford, we don’t swim without a Kayak because of the boats.
Thanks Diane! If it’s too crowded we’ll swim the ropes.
FYI – saw this posted on the Westborough tri website. Not that swim waves really matter too much, but I find the closer I get to a race and the more info I have make it seem that much more real and exciting! Can’t wait
Swim Waves:
There will be five swim waves for the race sent off at 3 minute intervals beginning with the first wave at 8am. The organization of waves is as follows:
Wave 1: Elites, Relay Teams, Athenas and Clydesdales
Wave 2: Women age 40 and older
Wave 3: Men age 40 and older
Wave 4: Men age 39 and under
Wave 5: Women age 39 and under
Thanks Michelle, this is great information. Interesting that they have the oldest women going before the men. Those of you in the over 40 group know that the guys don’t always say “on your left”. Luckily, the race isn’t too full so you will be fine.
Hmmm….this should be interesting. I can’t wait to have all of those men swimming over me
Will it matter if we registered as Novice? Does this mean we will be in the age waves?
Kathryn – I’m leaving work now. It will take me about 1/2 hour to get to Chauncy. I’ll wait a few mins for you, and then start swimming the ropes. You can also call my cell phone to confirm the time if you want. I’ll send it to your gmail.
Jessica, you certainly did not register as novice, did you!?!?! You absolutely are not a novice.
As far as your question goes, you will still be within your age groups. I know they are offering a different colored cap to those that are concerned about the swim (like they did in Falmouth) but that is different. Everyone goes according to age group.
I signed up as an Athena. It seems a little crazy to swim with the Elite and the Clysdales all in the same group. This makes me a little nervous.
Lian, you will be fine. Your wave will be pretty small. With how well you swim, you’ll be rivaling some of the elites! Then they’ll be out of transition before you can say boo and you’ll be fine!
Anybody swimming Wednesday at Chauncy?
Where is the best place to get Tifosi glasses? How much should I expect to spend? Thanks.
Hi Bill – I can swim at Chauncy Wed am – what time works for you -I can go early. Thanks Kathleen
Don’t worry Karen I’ll be nice.
Hi Kathleen, I was thinking around 6, will that work for you
Kate, I got my Tifosi glasses at Performance bike http://www.performancebike.com/bikes/TopCategories_10052_10551_-1 they have good prices. Landrys bike has similar prices and you don’t have to wait for them.
Hi Bil – I can meet you at 6am on Wed at Chauncy Kathleen
OK Kathleen I will see you tomorrow
Uniforms have shipped!!!! Due to arrive Thursday night or Friday. Fingers crossed!!
Is anyone swimming Wednesday or Thursday evening (or evening Friday evening) at Chauncy? I need one last swim before the race. I could be there by about 6:30 p.m. I work until 5:30. Can’t get there in the morning now that I’m back to work.
Lian – I’m in the Athena class too. The good thing, we will have 6 minutes in the water before the men start swimming! Yippee. I don’t want anyone submerging me.
Lian, I’m in the Athena wave, too. It will be nice to at least have a familiar face to start with! Plus, if you’re really nervous, just start at the back of the pack, and then pick up speed once you get in the water and get some clear space around you. You’re a great swimmer, so I’m sure you’ll do great!
Gretchen
I can meet you for a swim either Thurs or Fri evening.
Your choice, and the weather’s
Fri after work we most likely will be doing our mini-tri our clothes on if the uniforms get here like they are supposed to. We will meet at lake Chauncey for a dip, quick bike, and mini run so don’t plan anything for Fri night. It would be much better for us to do this Fri night than Sat morning with everything already going on on Saturday.
Thanks for the input Diane…Marie (& any one else that wants to come) let’s plan for Thursday evening. I will try to be there before 6:30, but its all dependent on the traffic. I’ll change quick at work and head right out. See you then.
All set Gretchen. I have a noodle. See you and anyone else who shows up.
Hi everyone,
I ran the run course with my Garmin again last night. Eric is tweaking the end part of the run so I wanted to give you some info on that.
The course will end up being between 2.9 and 3.0 depending on where the finish line is. As you come up the Front Entrance, you go by the first left we had been taking and take the next left that is pavement then a dirt pathway. You go straight down over the hill onto the field and run to the right around the field towards the back part where the bike out is. That’s the only difference to what we have been running.
A couple of more tidbits about mileage and water stops. The first water stop will be at the gate as you head out onto the path. That one most likely will be conjested so you might want to wait until the next one if you drank sufficiently on the bike. The second water stop will be at the “T” in the path where you take a right. This is at approx .77 mile. The last stop will be at the corner of the exit of the path and Chauncey St this is approx mile 1.6.
The 1 mile mark is after the “T” and where the middle grass section stops. The 2 mile mark is at Lake Chauncey parking lot.
Let me know if you have any other questions,
Diane
Thanks Diane! What time do we have to be there Sun AM?
Another 4-week training geeze! But this time I get to go with
D.C here we come! No worries FitBricks team, it is after our training ends. You guys can all come down and visit me. We can have a fun roadtrip bike ride! Will give more details Sat at the BBQ! I hope everyone is tapering!!!!
Diane, Cary is just getting you ready for the big move down there
For those in need of new shoes or new jerseys for the bike, Bike Nashbar is doing their 72/72/72 sale again and have Shimanos and Pearl Izumis for under $40. Good way to pick up a spare pair or shoes for the spin bike.
I would suggest NO LATER THAN 6:15
I know Jess, right!?! Still several years away…
Diane, I have a quick question. Maybe I missed this because I was away last weekend, but I was wondering when packet pick-up is going to be? I got an e-mail (the same one Jess did, incidentally, which said I’d registered as a novice but I know I didn’t!) and it said packet pick up was on Friday the 14th from 4-7 @ WTSC. Since the 14th is Saturday, I assume that’s the correct day for pick up? Just want to clear up the confusion. Thanks!
Novice! You guys are nuts! You should try to change that. Here is the plan for Saturday. Everyone will meet at my house at 3. We will have a little snack then all head over to the club together at 4 to pick up our packets. Then we will come back to my house for the BBQ. Should good?
Now I’m worried I didn’t get an email…!!! Diane – should I check on this?
Sounds like a plan! I don’t know about that e-mail, I know I was very clear about registering as Athena. Maybe they just sent it out to everyone in general? I’ll check at packet pick-up, just to make sure anyway. Thanks! BTW, are you tracking the uniforms? Wondered if they’re on track to get here on time.
Diane-
Sounds like a good plan for Saturday-Thanks!
Diane – what time did you want people who are getting uniforms at Chauncy on Friday night to test them. Thanks Kathleen
Re: the email from the Westborough folks… If I remember correctly, there was a section that you chose your category (age grouper, athena, elite, etc). Then, there was a separate section where we had to choose from novice, intermediate, or advanced. I chose novice. The email said that they were sending a special note to those who marked “novice’ to give them some tips and checklists. It was fairly general info. So, I wouldn’t worry if you didn’t receive an email – it was my impression that a note was not sent to everyone.
Diane -
For us newbies, please guide us on the pre race process of what we need to do in what order on Sunday Morning. I am sure the experienced triathletes have a routine they go through to maximize efficiency and hopefully reduce stree on Sunday morning. Maybe we could review survival tips on Sunday for us newbs?
I never thought taper would be the hardest week…yes I am behaving…
Steve and other newbies – Diane has lots of great pre race tips – but my 2 favorites are (1) try to get a good night’s sleep tonight and Friday night. It just isn’t going to happen on Saturday night. And (2) really work on staying extra hydrated the next few days. Don’t worry – we are all going to have a GREAT race!
Gretchen
Unforseen circumstances make it impossible for me to get to Chauncey for Thurs 6:30 swim as planned.
Sorry, must cancel. See you Fri
Steve, absolutely I plan to do this on Saturday and then again helping you in transition on Sunday. Additionally, don’t forget to take out the “Race Day” article and the checklist. You will be fine! If you are feeling that way about taper than you are doing it right !
Interesting: Steve is having trouble with”tapering”. I, on the other hand, am loving it. I can finally, comfortably, fit my w/o into my life schedule.
I must be tired
LOL and that’s what makes taper week so fun, Marie! Enjoy your time.
This countdown is killing me. It’s like waiting for water to boil! Can’t wait to see the uniforms tomorrow! Thanks to everyone for the encouragement. What an awesome team! Go Team Fitbricks!
I warned you Steve! You will be amazed at how well you do on the race by really resting and doing short spurty things this week.
Let’s see, I already washed 1/2 the windows in the house, cleaned the chandelier and all the light globes in the house. My wife thinks this tapering is GREAT!
That is hilarious! I have stuff you can do around my house too!
Anyone else up for a swim this evening at chauncy around 6:30 pm? Marie can’t make it and I really need/want to get my swim in. Diane has my cell # & email and I’ll check this later this afternoon.
Sorry, I can’t make it tonight Gretchen….
Is anyone swimming early tomorrow morning? around 6:00AM?
Hi Sarah,
Yes there is a group of us meeting tomorrow morning at 6-6:15 at Lake Chauncy. Some of us have to do the earlier time but there maybe two groups going depending on time. Also, I’m just swimming to the rope swing, trying to keep it light and easy
If that time works for you please join us. I’ll try to post early if something comes up and I’m not going to make it.
Hey All – I will try to meet you in AM, but don’t wait for me if I;m not there by 6:15!
I am going to try to make the 6 am swim tomorrow too, but don’t wait if I don’t make it… Have to juggle getting one kid to camp, work and getting the dog to the vet all before 8:30!
Uniforms are here!!!!!!
They look AMAZING!!!!! If you are dying to get yours come on over!
Ooooohhhh…so tempted. I might be over…I’ll call Joe at 5;30…see what the plan is for the evening…see if he’s willing to watch me swim. Wish I could swim in the am…guess I could go to work smelling like Chauncy Lake…
One thing as a reminder ladies you probably want to bring a sports bra to wear underneath the tri top tomorrow.
Barbara,
Thanks, I would love to join you all in the AM! I will be there at 6:00. See you then!
Anyone swimming in the 6am group tomorrow–Barbara has the uniforms to hand out. I will then have them for the 6:30am group and then again at the club for the 6pm mini-tri.
Can someone clarify -are people swimming at 6AM and 6:30AM tomorrow? If so, I will try to join the 6:30 group! Thanks!
Rebekah, I know there is a group at 6 am going to the rope swing – nice an easy. Diane, Jim and Melissa are swimming at 6:30 am, I think they are going a little further since Diane and Melissa aren’t racing on Sunday.
Great swim today everyone!!! We are all so ready for race day!!! Remember get a good night sleep tonight, stay well hydrated these next couple of days, stay ahead of your thirst. And of course eat!!! Don’t stuff yourself that is never good but don’t be skipping meals, eat a good variety of foods, carbs are good just make them healthy carbs – fruits, vegetables, whole grain. Eat foods that are familiar to you, remember nothing new on race day! You are all so ready for this! See you tomorrow at the BBQ.
Thanks Barbara. Don’t forget that we are meeting tonight at the club for our min-tri and uniform pick up at 6:00pm
OK: so this goes into the pile of things not to do on race day! I wanted to swim today at 6, and was late leaving my house. It is before 6 still and I am tooling along RT 9 at a nice steady 75 in order to try to catch up witht he 6 AM swim group, and then Mr Police Man clocked me going too fast… Got a speeding ticket, but still made it to swim with the 6 AM group! (Is that commitment or what?!) Not something to do on race day: jacked my heart rate up too high! Probably did not need to swim: got my HR up and was breathing hard (too much swearing as I was waiting for him to saunter up to the car.). I did not scream at him that I was late for a swim workout with the group though: took so much self restraint!
Watch for the police being out EARLY on race day…
Oh Lisa, so sorry, but it had me laughing! I think you should have told him that!
Yeah, those cops are everywhere, watch out! Can you imagine them stopping someone for going 25 mph over the speed limit so they could get to swim practice at lake chauncey, what a nerve. I’m not buying any tickets to the ball this year.
Congrats to all who raced today, especially Marie and Stan for thier podium finishes! Way to go you guys did awesome. I have to say this is the most amazing group of people and I’m proud to be a Fitbrick. Looking forward to having many more memories with you guys.
Results are in http://coolrunning.com/results/10/ma/Aug15_Westbo_set1.shtml Look at those times! Congratulations to our first timers… you’re triathletes now! It was so exciting to see all of you finishing so strong with smiles on your faces. Congrats to our podium finishers, Marie & Stan – you rock! Soooooo proud of everyone…. lost my voice shouting for you!
I just looked at all the times…Fitbricks totally rocked the house! Congratulations everyone. Newbies…I hope you are addicted and stick with us crazy people…we loved having all of you on the team. Congratulations as well to Marie & Stan nice job with first & second place. Had such aa blast training and racing withall of you. Now we need to plan a Friday night get together!
Thank you to Diane and the whole Fitbricks team for a great journey over the past 11 weeks. New Friends, New Adventures, and new body aches have all been so rewarding. If you said a year ago I would be a triathlete, I would have said you are crazy. Yes, Gretchen I was hooked after the first group workout.
Congrats to Marie and Stan and to ALL Fitbricks racers and friends. It is so much more fun amongst friends.
Melissa and Dot – you were right – so much more fun without a watch! Never thought the watch was making me go slower, but you were both right. Oh yeah, almost forgot – thanks melissa for fixing my number on my bike. I’m glad myheart rate monitor wasn’t on, because it would have been 200 when I got tagged for illegal number position. Sure, pick on the new guy…
So, while relaxing today I checked out the TDD Tri Sept 18 (only online so far). Dover is sold out and I don’t think Lisa registered yet. So, I don’t want to do Dover alone since we are a TEAM! If anyone is thinking TDD, let me know and I am in!
I am in for TDD! I am also now addicted. I am so proud to be a member of Fitbricks. You all rock!
Jim couldn’t have said it better – so happy to be a Fitbrick!
Great job everyone. Special congrats to Marie and Stan!!! And so happy to have Steve and Lian hooked, Diane’s vortex is still swirling!
Thanks everyone for such a great season. (I think I’m done with the tris for this year). The support from all of you keeps me going – and Diane’s outstanding coaching. Congratulations to Marie & Stan. It was a thrill to see members of our team on the podium. Congratulations to everyone who finished.
Had to take a nap today but I know that I was smiling even tho I was asleep! Really fun to do the race with all of you ….it was also really comforting to have fitbricks coaches as volunteers bc I heard little shouts of encouragement all along the race track…THANKS COACHES!
Congrats to all—I know that at least at my house….Steve’s mindset has changed forever….and my phillie rode my bike back to the car and I could tell that his brain was whirring with the idea that …hmmmm maybe mom will buy ME a bike!!!!!
Again Diane’s vortex swirls, slowly pulling in more unsuspecting victims, I mean athletes
Congratulations to EVERYONE…athletes and coaches!
FitBricks has set a very high standard for what it means to be a team.
OK: so what is wrong with me that I am not sore this morning?! Must be the great coaching that got me to do this again, and it must be the endorphins that are making me think it might be a good idea to do another one and soon… Anybody thinking about the Funtastic 2 in Hull? Hmmm… might need to get a wetsuit though!
Yesterday was a blast, and I am really proud to be part of Fitbricks!
Just one more thing: as I biked by the policewoman at Jericho Hill Rd on Northborough Rd yesterday, she called out to the women going by:”Good work ladies! I could not do what you all are doing!” I wonder if that could get me some points with the Westborough police who pulled me over on Friday…
WAY too funny Lisa about you thinking about another one LOL.
I feel like I just woke up from a dream – did I really just complete a triathlon!! Thanks so much to the entire Fit Bricks team for cheering me during the race – what a great team and leader!! You are all such a great group of funny, crazy athletes! See you soon.
Can I nominate Melissa for best body marker? I normally scrub the numbers right off of me in the shower, but these are too pretty not to show off.
I totally agree Jess. I was admiring my numbers just this morning thinking how awesome they looked. Great job Melissa!
Lisa, I’ve always wanted to do the Hull race…Joe & I spend lots of time at Nantasket. It’s beautiful & very flat……I can bike fast on flats. I’m a little concerned about the water temp & my asthma but I managed through Buzzard’s Bay lasst year & that was just as cold. We could met up & do some training out there. During low tide the water is actually pretty shallow we can probably touch almost all the way out to the turnaround.
Anyone up for an evening swim later this week? Either chauncy or hopkinton. I could be there by 6:30 pm
Gretchen – I can swim Chauncy Wed 6:30pm if that works for you.Anyone else is welcome too!
Ha! Honorary FitBricks Body Marker just may be my claim to triathlon fame
I am so proud of all you guys! If you have to be sidelined with an injury I cannot think of a better way to still get the high from the tris then watching all of you grow and progress and be so thrilled to cross the finish line. I am in for the 6:30 swim on Wednesday, it is time to step up my training now that I am starting to run. Diane can I do TDD?
Melissa, I think you have more than body marker as your claim to fame for tri’s. I think there were a few podium finishes with your name on them! LOL!
Great – Dot & Steve, I’ll see you both Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. at Chauncy. Anyone else want to join us?
Gretchen, Dot, Steve,
I’d like to meet to swim at Chauncy on Wednesday 6:30 PM too.
See you then.
Karen
Melissa you have many more “podium” fininshes in your future!
I would swim with you guys on Wednesday night but, Diane is having me swim at the crack of dawn on Wednesday with the ducks and other creatures that lerk in the merky waters of beautiful lake Chauncey. If anyone would like to join us at 6:30AM on Wednesday you are more than welcome to join us!
Hey All!! Going in for thumd surgery today – so I won’t be training with you allfor a while
Good luck with the rest of your seasons, & Ill be back as soon as humanly (or thumbly) possible! Thanks for all the support in a very disappointing end to my season. But you were all awesome!!!
Good luck Rebekah!!!!
To add to Jim’s note on the swim, we plan to swim the triangle, so if that is too long for you please plan to go in the evening. Need to make sure the ducklings stay safe
Diane -If this duckling comes with her own noodle do you think she ready for the “triangle”?
Karen, I will swim the triangle with you tomorrow. I think after doing the dock a bunch of times, I am ready to up the distance. And hey, look how good Steve D did on Sunday after an accidental triangle practice!
Jessica-Thanks! I’ll bring both of my noodles
Good luck Rebekah on your surgery. Get well soon and back into training. Karen and Jess are you ducklings in for the morning??
This duckling will see you in the morning.
Great!!
Quack Quack Quack= You’ll see me there at 6:30 noodle in hand.
yeah, the more ducks the better…..
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