My Henderson Nevada Race day was awesome, starting from the cold swim, to the night-time finish.
We entered the 61 degree water a few minutes early to get adjusted to the temperature. It took my breath away, but was well-worth it. I learned later a few people had to be pulled out, probably from the shock and not being able to settle their breathing down.
The swim was over quickly. I was just starting to feel like I wanted to try pushing the tempo because I was loafing it and then there was the dock! But I got my best swim time ever. We climbed out of the water using boat ladders and that was a little weird, trying and hoist myself up. Transition was long and on gravel so I really lost time there. I was like a rookie! It was like I hadn't even transitioned before!
The ride out was hard with lots of elevation gain and a head wind. I got into a groove and just didn't push, trying to find a nice, even pace. I enjoyed the ride until I ran out of water. I have also decided to freeze a bottle of water for the Ironman so that it isn't all warm water out there. Yuck! Coming back was fun! At times I was pushing, trying to get over 40 MPH. (I never did. I maxed at 39 on a few hills.) The glory of hills. I love climbing (although I'm slow, I just like it, and coming down is awesome).
I had developed cramps from lack of water the last few climbs coming back to Lake Las Vegas. So, as you can imagine, the run was rough. I was in a lot of pain. I dealt with it by going slow, walking and drinking water only through every aid station. At 6 miles the pain was miraculously gone and I could run again. I began to feel so good I considered finishing the race and then doing another 5 or 6 miles to see how it would feel. But with the crowds, my family and food, I decided to call it a night.
Our hotel room looked out onto the run course, which was a two-time out and back. My twins sat on the balcony, cheering as I passed. How awesome is that! I enjoyed the scenery, the people, the challenge and the opportunity to train one last time before the St. George Ironman.
Thanks to my training friends that make me run in the foothills. You guys are the best!
