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Slowtwitch Forums: The Womens:
Who is doing IMCDA?

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KWTriGrl

Jun 16, 08 11:57

Post #26 of 54 (1115 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [KWTriGrl] [In reply to]	Can't Post

Ok Ladies,

I have all of your #s written down and will bring them with me to CDA.

I have no idea how for you to know it is me cheering you on....Hmm... I will be wearing a volunteer shirt from 6-9 for sure at the finish line. I'm 27 and have short blonde hair. I will probably be wearing an Ironman hat of some sort. I'd love to say I'll be wearing either a solid hot pink or pink floral running skirt at the finish line, but I'm afraid it may be too cold for that by 6pm. Gosh, coming from Houston, I have NO idea what to pack and I have no memory of what anything below 85 feels like!!

Oh - just had a thought. You can see my blog below to see what I look like....not that looking for me is going to be anywhere your #1 priority come race day!!

Good luck to everyone and I hope you are starting to get excited! I'm excited for my trip - if for nothing else, to have some temps below 85.
_________________________________________
Kathleen
http://kcwoodhead.blogspot.com/

jenhs

Jun 16, 08 12:20

Post #27 of 54 (1110 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [KWTriGrl] [In reply to]	Can't Post

The temps are warming up so bring the skirt! Water is in the mid-50's and will sun for the week it will get above that.
----------------
Ultraman Canada Relay 2009!
(I got suckered into the run leg)

Jenhs

siobhan

Jun 16, 08 16:30

Post #28 of 54 (1088 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [KWTriGrl] [In reply to]	Can't Post

Sorry to hijack the forum a bit, but do you all think that IMCDA would be okay as a first ironman? I've heard taht it's beautiful and well run, but I'm wondering if nice and flat florida would be a better option.

Good luck to you ladies! I'm so excited for you.

jenhs

Jun 16, 08 16:39

Post #29 of 54 (1084 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [siobhan] [In reply to]	Can't Post

I hate to break it to you but they are all hard :-)

My first one was Lake Placid and it has the reputation of having the hardest bike course of all. I picked it because I grew up in New Hampshire, I used to go to camp in those mountains and I know it is a beautiful location.

My opinion? Go where you think you'd like to visit. Each course has its pluses and minuses. I'm all about looking at beautful landscape at mile 80 on the bike and my experiences on the courses at Canada, Lake Placid and CdA are that the three of them are beautiful.
----------------
Ultraman Canada Relay 2009!
(I got suckered into the run leg)

Jenhs

lmnilson

Jun 17, 08 7:00

Post #30 of 54 (1047 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [siobhan] [In reply to]	Can't Post

I would agree with jenhs on this - they are all hard! I did IMFL in '06 as my first and I found that riding a flat course was harder then I thought. You are in the aero position for a long time and there is no change to the terrain so no using different muscles etc. The run is also pancake flat so my hips were screaming by the end. That said, I had a great time in FL; it was exciting to be part of an IM and to finish. I was at CDA last year to watch friends and to volunteer, it is absolutely beautiful country and a wonderful venue. The locals are fantastic and really get into the race, along the bike course everyone is sitting at the end of their driveways cheering and screaming for the racers, and they stay out there the whole day so even the BOP'ers get to experience this. I would pick an IM based on what works for you with logistics, travel, time of year etc. It is a great adventure to embark on!

Tightey

Jun 17, 08 8:26

Post #31 of 54 (1036 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [siobhan] [In reply to]	Can't Post

Pick based on where you'd like to race. Florida gets many first timers due to the seemingly unchallenging bike/run course. Although it may be faster overall than the other venues, it's not 'easy'. There is a reason IM course records are not set there every year. It is a skill to be able to produce a given amount of watts for hours and hours on end. It is also a single loop course and spreads out the spectator love.

Of course, if you love the beach then it may be the one for you. ;). The best course is the one where you can talk some friends into training with you! Then you've got a built in support system for those long rides/runs.

siobhan

Jun 17, 08 10:09

Post #32 of 54 (1016 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [Tightey] [In reply to]	Can't Post

Thanks so much ladies! It's nice to have a sounding board. I'm pretty sure I'm going to sign up for CDA. Training that time of year will work out better for me with the kids in school until the last month. Plus a friend will be doing a 1/2 IM in May so we'll be able to train some together. I'm looking forward to a different part of the country too--I live in Charleston, SC so I already have the beach.

Do you all have full wetsuits? Will you be wearing hoods or footies?

Tightey

Jun 17, 08 14:42

Post #33 of 54 (993 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [siobhan] [In reply to]	Can't Post

full sleeves and a squid lid. water temps are jumping up right now so I may bag the lid. got booties with no plan to wear them.

PC

Jun 19, 08 16:56

Post #34 of 54 (932 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [KWTriGrl] [In reply to]	Can't Post

OMG I just realized the race is in a few days. I wish I was going to be there. It's so beautiful there. I'll be at home cheering you all on! It's so exciting to read about everyone's training then "watch" them race. Good Luck!!!

jenhs

Jun 21, 08 21:44

Post #35 of 54 (850 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [PC] [In reply to]	Can't Post

Happy, strong, sexy vibes out to all the girls tomorrow. See you out on the course!!!!
----------------
Ultraman Canada Relay 2009!
(I got suckered into the run leg)

Jenhs

trailbait

Jun 22, 08 8:37

Post #36 of 54 (834 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [jenhs] [In reply to]	Can't Post

Have a great race ladies and please post race reports when you get back!

Erika
http://tribabe.com
http://teamxantusia.blogspot.com/

deee

Jun 22, 08 21:03

Post #37 of 54 (781 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [KWTriGrl] [In reply to]	Can't Post

Can anyone enlighten me as to why someone's information would disappear from the athlete tracker?? This wouldn't be a dnf issue would it?
______________
cuds is retired.

QRgirl

Jun 22, 08 21:21

Post #38 of 54 (776 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [cuds] [In reply to]	Can't Post

Strange. I don't know why that would happen.

Does anyone know jenhs' bib # or last name? Is she in yet?

deee

Jun 22, 08 21:24

Post #39 of 54 (772 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [QRgirl] [In reply to]	Can't Post

Funny... it was actually her I was referring to. Looks like it might have just been a glitch for a few minutes, because her stuff is back up. She's 2095.
______________
cuds is retired.

deee

Jun 22, 08 22:38

Post #40 of 54 (762 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [QRgirl] [In reply to]	Can't Post

I just watched jenh finish. Big smile on her face! :)

CONGRATS JEN!! :D
______________
cuds is retired.

Ariel

Jun 22, 08 23:26

Post #41 of 54 (751 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [cuds] [In reply to]	Can't Post

Woo hoo!!! nice job jenhs!

QRgirl

Jun 23, 08 7:40

Post #42 of 54 (714 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [cuds] [In reply to]	Can't Post

Yea jenhs!!! You are an ironwoman, again!!!!

instigator

Jun 23, 08 7:54

Post #43 of 54 (707 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [QRgirl] [In reply to]	Can't Post

Congrats to all of our finishers -- GregZ, Coyote, tightey, mizzou, jojo, fasterthanTIM, and Jenhs!! Can't wait to hear about your day!

I apologize in advance if I missed anyhow!!

(This post was edited by instigator on Jun 23, 08 8:06)

jenhs

Jun 23, 08 9:59

Post #44 of 54 (687 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [QRgirl] [In reply to]	Can't Post

Thanks girls!

I set a 12 minute PR which I'm really excited about. My marathon was a PR by 21 minutes which is huge. Swim was a disaster and the bike was as expected so overall I feel good. The run is what made up the time for me and the leg I am the most excited about.

I'll be working on a longer race report over the next couple days.
----------------
Ultraman Canada Relay 2009!
(I got suckered into the run leg)

Jenhs

siobhan

Jun 23, 08 12:44

Post #45 of 54 (650 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [jenhs] [In reply to]	Can't Post

Congrats, congrats! I can't wait to hear the details of your race ladies (especially since I just signed up for next year!).

Relax and enjoy your accomplishment.

Tightey

Jun 25, 08 5:47

Post #46 of 54 (470 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [instigator] [In reply to]	Can't Post

this race was my favorite IM so far...just an awesome day weather wise and a venue that was beautiful. My coach happen to walk up just as I finished so I forgot about looking at the catchers to say hi - not a lot of higher brain functioning going on at that point and all my buds were right behind me so i was trying to catch them coming down the finish chute.

i had very good day and am thankful for the great conditions (last IM was IMMOO 06 - freezing rain). Not a perfect day, but a really fun one on a spectacular course!

Congrats to all!

fasterthanTIM

Jun 26, 08 19:02

Post #47 of 54 (365 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [siobhan] [In reply to]	Can't Post

You will love the race. I'll post my report soon. But brief report: Had a great time and wonderful experience and finished in 13:19:42 and this is with my 1:43 swim. Running is usually my event, but I have been injured and haven't much since April 20 and still posted a 4:36 run. I had my doubts of running 26.2 miles, but felt strong through mile 22.

Ran with nice guy Nathan for several miles. Lots of people volunteers lied and kept repeating that we looked great. Passed someone I really want to beat on the run. Just so much excitement. A friend who was suppose to race was handing out water at the aid station leaving T2 since and near the special needs since she had a clavicle fracture two weeks ago.

I was at mile 42 on the bike when the lead car, motorcycles and Tom Evans zoom by. Evans had a huge lead. I was passed by 2 more pro males at mile 46 and 52.

Husband and I may register for IMOO in 2009. I am going to learn how to swim and go into IMOO better trained and hopefully healthy.

I have been so hungry since the race. Just ate a big bowl of ice cream after eating potatoes chips and getting ready for bed.
Lisa Walser-Anderson, ATC,CSCS

jojo

Jul 8, 08 16:45

Post #48 of 54 (223 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [fasterthanTIM] [In reply to]	Can't Post

OK - so I started this thread and finally got around to ending it. Here's my race report and keep in mind that it's from a first-timer who lives in flat, hot, humid MIAMI.

1. I made it - I am an Ironman, with the tattoo to prove it (just got it Saturday). I finished in 16:12:something - not impressive, but enough to get the medal.

2. I had a terrible cold the entire preceding week, and couldn't do any exercise at all, other than a 20 minute water-acclimitization in the Lake, just to see exactly how cold "freezing cold" is. Rest isn't a bad thing, but the cold sucked the life out of me. The running around, getting gear together, registering, dropping off bags, shopping at the expo stuff is exhausting. I got one nap, the day before the race, and I think that helped tons. And I slept well with all the cold medicine, so that was a plus too.

3. SWIM: Thank goodness the water had warmed up a few degrees. I never had my hands go numb. I wore my booties and neoprene cap, and a thermal longsleeved top under my wetsuit (8 oz), and my body started to get cold towards the end of the swim. My goggles were a disaster - fogged up after 15 minutes and I couldn't see crap the rest of the swim. Worse, I couldn't catch my breath. I don't know if it was the altitude, my cold, or the panic attacks I sometimes get, but it took 20 minutes to get moving with any rhythmn. I even undid my wetsuit to get some breath into my lungs! I hung off a couple of kayaks during the first leg, just to catch my breath and convince myself that there's no giving up on the swim unless they kick you out of the water, and then I was OK. I had 2 more kayak stops - one for a goggle adjustment that was a waste of time, and another after the start of lap 2. After that, I just sang to myself in my head, and enjoyed the swim for all it was worth. My time for lap 1 was 52 minutes - way slower than my anticipated 47-48 minutes. Oddly, my total swim time was 1:48 which was a real mystery to me given my panic on the first lap. Then I remembered, I swam so far right on lap 2 (coz I couldn't see, and I drift right anyway, and the current had picked up), that I'm sure I swam an extra 1/2 mile!! Oh well - at least I made it, and I was on my way to the bike.

T1: The wetsuit stripping was fun but I got confused and ran past my bag so I had to double back. I was already cold, so I decided to go with the full change, into a long-sleeved Under Armour shirt that is skin tight (really hard to get on when you're damp), and then my team jersey. I had pre-applied chamois butter to my shorts - good thing! The helpers were a god-send when it came to getting my running bra on! It was quite a spectacle! But off I went, in search of my bike - not exactly difficult when there are very few left in the racks!

BIKE: No easy way to say this - I hated the hills and I sucked at them. My HR was too high starting the bike, which I expected, so I tried really hard to pick a gear I could spin in to get it back down and get some food in. Did I mention I got hungry during the swim?! After the first small hill heading around Lake CdA, my HR came way down on the downhill and I was able to start eating and drinking. We headed back into town, and then up to Lake Hayden for the real hills. I was dreading this - we had driven the course on Wednesday, and I was grateful I had acquired a cassette with an extra gear from my bike shop. The hills started, and I focused on pushing through them and staying steady and calm. Then came the "wall" - a gruelling, steep climb topped by another climb. It was mean and I was gasping for air by the time I got to the top. With only one bridge in Miami, of 100 ft. elevation, we don't have much practice with this kind of thing. And it showed. I only bought my bike in August, and I cannot climb out of the saddle yet, so it was a case of grinding it out as best I could. That hill took a lot out of me, but I persevered. The course is quite technical, so although you do have several hills where the downhill is followed by an uphill and you can use that momentum to get you up at least half of what's coming, there are many hills where the downhill ends with a sharp 90-degree turn requiring heavy braking and loss of all momentum, only to find a hill right after the turn. That's no fun. And it happened over and over and over again. So, I spent a lot of time talking myself into just getting through the first lap and not committing to the next one! When the hills finally subside, there's a stretch back into town where the wind is head-on. Most people hated this - I don't mind it at all. I can do wind! So I took advantage and hammered it to get some better pace in. That gave me some confidence, and I committed to lap 2. At special needs (mile 64), I took a lengthy break to eat well knowing that the hills were coming and I can't eat while I'm trying so hard to breathe! I also hit the porta-potty, and reapplied chamois butter. Feeling much better, I headed back out for round 2. When I got to the "wall", I realized that if I stayed on the bike, the chances of finishing would diminish, and I still had a marathon to do. So, I swallowed my pride, unclipped, got off, and walked up. It was liberating, and a smart move for me. I did this on one other hill, and the rest I battled. By the end of the hills I was literally praying for no more, and I thought I was an atheist! When they finally ended, I had the wind to deal with, and couldn't have been happier. But then I checked my watch. I mistakenly thought that the bike course closes at 5 pm and I was getting really close. That started an internal battle of "well, at least if you don't make it, you don't have to do the marathon" versus "but you want the chance to get the medal, and you're never doing that training again, so get moving..." The medal won. So, I hammered it again, passing all kinds of riders in the last 15 miles, and made it in with a few minutes to spare, with a bike time of 8:01.

T2: NO ONE in the history of Ironman has ever been so happy to make it out onto the run course. I was so thrilled to give away my bike and find my bag and get into that tent, I was grinning from ear to ear. Again, the helpers were magnificent. They peeled my clothes off, except for the sports bra, and got my gear out for my run. I was STILL cold, so chose another long-sleeved shirt, and my hat - something I NEVER wear in Miami (visors only for me because my head gets too hot). A quick stop for sunscreen - no idea why, given it was 5 pm and I was totally covered up, but I just wanted to chat with someone after radio silence for 8 hours on the bike! And off I went.

RUN: Well, not really a run. More of a power walk with sporadic running only on downhill sections. Just getting onto the run course I knew I could finish. But checking my watch, I had 7 hours to do it in and needed to really move. So, I spent the next 22 miles calculating and recalculating to make sure I built up a cushion in case something, anything went wrong. And it didn't. I ate properly, making sure not to overdo it, but to get enough calories for the duration. I drank enough and mixed it up so I didn't get that sugar stomach. And I had fan support - my friends and family of my teammates were cheering me on. That was fantastic. The course was pretty. The aid stations were awesome. And I was just so happy to be out there getting closer and closer to my goal.

The FINISH: What can I say? It was tremendous. I had seen all of my teammates out on the course, most of them ahead of me, and we all hugged and cheered each other on as we passed on our way to the finish. My best friend told me she would be at mile 23 for final primping - and she was! She took my extra long-sleeved shirt so I could wear my team shirt across the finish line. She took my fuel belt and my sunglasses (it was so dark!), and she gave me a wetwipe to clean up! I was determined to have a good photo finish! During the couple of blocks heading to the main street and the finish, those around me all congratulated each other, and gradually we all took off for the finish. When I rounded that corner, and saw the lights and the crowd and heard the cheering it was exhilarating. My teammates were all waiting with big signs and high-fived me as I ran by. The noise got louder and I was floating to the tape. I was overjoyed as I crossed the line. I'll never forget that moment, as long as I live. My catcher was amazing - so kind to walk me thru the process and get me to the exit. And waiting there was another teammate and I couldn't have asked for more. He hugged me and right then I knew what a great team I have. Yet another teammate came over, and together they walked me thru the resting area and got me a drink etc., and my coach came over to congratulate me. It was awesome. I sat under the stars, wrapped in blankets, drinking coke, and soaking it all in.

So, that's it. I came home on Tuesday after the race, went straight back to work, and was in trial all last week! And now, I hardly know what to do with myself! I've done a couple of spinning classes, some yoga, and run on the TM, and I swam on July 4th. Having promised my parents I won't do another IM, I guess I'm going to figure out which Half IMs to do next. Any suggestions?

Tightey

Jul 8, 08 17:39

Post #49 of 54 (214 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [fasterthanTIM] [In reply to]	Can't Post

you must have been right with my first time IM friend, she crossed in 13:19 as well.

My report:

Awesome day. Not a PR overall time but a PR run, negative split bike ride and and near PR swim in the new groovy wetsuit. 12:53. Favorite IM so far. I'll be back to this one someday.

Thanks to all the volunteers, especially the one I hit with a banana peel in the forehead. Sorry dude.

siobhan

Jul 8, 08 17:56

Post #50 of 54 (210 views)

Re: Who is doing IMCDA? [jojo] [In reply to]	Can't Post

LOVE your race report! So inspiring. IMCDA will be my first next year and I'm so nervous about those hills. I too live in hot, humid flatlands--charleston, sc.

Big huge congrats to all you finshers!

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