tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58500165022330666612024-02-22T11:09:48.351-05:00Becoming An IronmanKurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.comBlogger704125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-32723222349062430772017-07-16T22:22:00.001-04:002017-07-16T22:22:36.414-04:00RACE REPORT: 2017 HMF Litchfield Hills Olympic Tri<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVDtaUl-CvbHsaL9B50BkRXIjhnbGTZiE1B0tXhldf86udMDs3CKpykFUXaMU5fhxTusT3fLC-HnNguwB0IDHSjgVPolrZ86Kt4kgItxAfcMMSfdr8yl6Yy7fqeglN-LF7KpVQYiiG48w/s1600/Litchfield+Hills+Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="80" data-original-width="300" height="106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVDtaUl-CvbHsaL9B50BkRXIjhnbGTZiE1B0tXhldf86udMDs3CKpykFUXaMU5fhxTusT3fLC-HnNguwB0IDHSjgVPolrZ86Kt4kgItxAfcMMSfdr8yl6Yy7fqeglN-LF7KpVQYiiG48w/s400/Litchfield+Hills+Logo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Hartford Marathon Foundation</span></div>
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<a href="http://hartfordmarathon.com/litchfield-hills-olympic-triathlon-duathlon/"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Litchfield Hills Olympic Triathlon</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">July 16th, 2017</span></i></div>
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This was my 7th running of this race in 8 years. Sorry 2011, I was busy.<br />
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My first was in 2010, seven days after my very first Olympic triathlon; apparently I was hooked. I can't tell you that it was a wonderful experience (I've performed much better since then!), but I love the challenge, camaraderie, and community. For many reasons, this race always feels like a trip back home.<br />
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Ok - An insight. I consumed 90 mg of caffeine during the race (Aside from race day, I have not consumed caffeine in my normal diet since 2003), so while I would normally be sleeping right now, I decided to expel the energy with words instead. You're welcome!<br />
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Honestly, I don't know how anyone lives on caffeine. I would never get any sleep. <br />
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Onto the race! <br />
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<u><b>PRE-RACE</b></u><br />
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I was up at 3:45am. (*cue non-morning people shock*) That's still early for me, but it's race day - it's part of the package. I put on my breathe right & tatoos, had breakfast (3 eggs, 2 toast, 2 bananas, and water), put on sun tan lotion, packed up the car and headed out.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">FUN EVENT #1</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Headlights</span></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
I got into my car, punched in the address on my GPS, and away I go. I stopped the car 5 seconds later. Why are my headlights not on? Are they dimmed? I know they're not the brightest things in the world. (*Turns high beams on*) Okay, those work. (*Turns high beams off*) Where are my headlights?? (*Gets out of the car to make sure he's not crazy*) Yup, both of my headlights decided to sleep in today. I drove the whole way to the race (40 min) saying "sorry" to the 10 people I passed on the road for blinding them. Gotta' get that fixed this week! </blockquote>
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I got to the race without driving someone off the road or getting pulled over and set up my triathlon team's tent (HEAT). The race staff were busy getting everything set up and some friends were already on site for volunteering. One is very much NOT a morning person. Kudos Dennis!<br />
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Tent was up! I grabbed my gear from the car, picked up the packet, got into transition, set my stuff up, and was ready to go!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">USAT TIP</span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
You are no longer allowed to set your transition up outside of the bike racks. I arrive early to this race because you get to set your bike up anywhere you'd like on the rack that lists your race number. I choose the end, so that I can set my gear up on the end. Nope! USAT is not having it. This year, USAT edited that wording to state that all transitions must be within the bike rack. Good to know!</blockquote>
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I headed down to the swim start (0.25 mile away from transition) with 20 minutes until race start. I never manage to get down there by the time I plan to. At least I'm consistent! I downed a GU with caffeine, wipe the goggles with a <a href="https://www.sbrsportsinc.com/collections/foggies">Foggies</a>, and into the water I go.<br />
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<u><b>SWIM</b></u><br />
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We stood in the water for 4 minutes while Wave #1 headed off. I swam a few strokes out to the side and back. I stopped just short of the group, go to stand, and subsequently sink right under the water. I realized the bottom of the lake drops off rather suddenly right there. That made a couple people laugh. Great way to start race day!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">You can't take life too seriously!<br />No, seriously... You can't.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">It will spit that $^#* right back at you. </span></div>
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<b>Swimmers take your mark - GO! </b>We were off. As always, my swimmer ego takes over a bit and I head out hard to get away from the fray. A few guys to my left (I started right - a tactic I'm employing to keep myself from veering left off course), take off with me. They start to pull ahead, so I make my way over slowly like the socially awkward kid looking to blend into the "cool" crowd and wouldn't you know, two of the three guys fall off. What is something I said??<br />
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I stuck with the lead swimmer for another 100 yards or so. We were wide left of the buoys, but it was a draft, so I was fine taking a longer route. Then I noticed that we were drifting FURTHER away from the buoys. Nope! I won't let he blind lead the blind. I pulled back right and swam on my own the rest of the swim. Loner!!<br />
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After the first buoy, I pulled back out of the anaerobic push and found a rhythm that did quite well for the rest of the swim. As I made my way through Wave #1, it was surprisingly helpful for me mentally to do so. All I did was focus on making it to the left or right of the next person so I didn't swim over them or scare them and it made the buoys go by quicker (in my head). <br />
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The end of the swim was a little flat for me. I tried to push, but my body ramped up the effort with little perceived speed gain, so I stuck to it and finished strong. I grabbed an Olympic swim PR, so I can't complain. Of course, I didn't know that until I saw the results afterwards (no watch on the swim), but it still felt good. <br />
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<u><b>TRANSITION #1</b></u><br />
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Litchfield Hills has a notoriously nasty swim-to-bike transition. The distance from the swim start to transition is roughly 0.3 miles. Yes, it's a hike. On top of that, it's mostly uphill. Oh, and it's packed gravel. What FUN!!! Therefore, most athletes bring an extra pair of shoes to leave at the swim exit. <br />
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I popped up out of the water, put the goggles on my forehead, unhooked the wetsuit, and ripped off the top all while finding my shoes. I leave them towards the end; get me out of the fray. <br />
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I got the wetsuit off, put on my shoes, and ran up the hill. A video of said "run" may have looked more like a hobbling penguin, but to my knowledge no such video exists so I will continue with my fantasy. <br />
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Once in transition (a beautiful grassy area to make up for the packed gravel run), I swapped the shoes, suit, and goggles for a helmet, sunglasses, and bike. And off onto the bike I went. <br />
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<u><b>BIKE</b></u><br />
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The goal for today was to make the run fall apart. Not in the way a delicious apple pie crumbles when correctly put together, but like when a bridge begins to collapse while you're stuck in rush hour traffic. <br />
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The plan was to push the swim and the bike so that by the time I got to the run, my body would be like your old dog Fluffy who would just sit down when he decided today's walk was over. The swim was done, so it was time to crank it on the bike. Once I was strapped in, I found a comfortable rhythm in the 80-85 rpm range and went to work.<br />
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The above is a 100% legal way to make your way through the bike course. It might not lead to a PR or even a finish, but feel free to give it a try. 40k "Run with Bike."<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">FUN EVENT #2</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Bee Attack!!</span></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Not even 1 mile into the ride, I get pelted by two small items. It's happened before; usually bugs of some sort Jay-flying across the street directly into oncoming traffic. They were solid enough that they gave me a momentary sting and then I was good. ...until I wasn't.<br />
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I kept pedaling and the spot I got hit on my left quad kept stinging. Once I was over some rough pavement, I looked down. Maybe it was a thorn or just my imagination. Unless my imagination comes in black and yellow stripes, I was sure this feeling had more substance to it. In that moment, years of being afraid of bees flashed before my eyes as I swatted the bee off of my leg, who was likely having just as much of a fearful experience as I was. I had mild reactions as a kid (nothing life threatening but I swelled a good amount), but I list bee stings as an allergy for that reason. <br />
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I continued on thinking "Well, we're going to find out one way or another if I still have a reaction to bees." Luckily, it didn't go past an unpleasant sting. Phew!! On the side of the road struggling to breathe and covered in hives was not how I planned to spend my Sunday!</blockquote>
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Onward I rode! The first 14 miles of the course are net downhill. There are some rollers, but for the majority of the ride, I cranked out the big gears on flats and downhills attempting to keep the effort level up as I kept riding down. <br />
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More caffeine into the system - 2 gels; one at mile 5 and the second at mile 15. Still riding the high 12 hours later. <br />
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Then I turned onto 202 and the uphills began. Again, I stuck to the 80-85 rpm range and cranked it out as best I could keeping the effort up. Remember, I wanted my run to blow up and I can't do that as easily if I take it easy on the bike. <br />
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One gentleman did pass me around mile 16. I worked to keep him in sight up until the final 5 miles and he was gone. I told myself I would catch him on the run. I did! <br />
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There is one part of the Litchfield Hills Olympic bike course you will hear about; Bruning Road. This is the 2nd to last road of the day with several climbs/inclines including the final <br />
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And then 0.25 mile from the bike finish...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">FUN EVENT #3</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Dropped Chain (Ugh!!)</span></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
After the killer finish to Bruning Rd, we ride down a quick descent with a subsequent ascent before the dismount area. As I approached the incline, I shifted both the front and back derailers and OFF goes the chain. For a brief second, I think 'Maybe I can coast in or get it back on without stopping.' Short lived. The incline brings me to a stop. <br />
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Quickly off, man-handle the chain, reset it, back on, and GO! Maybe 20 seconds lost at most. And a laugh. I told the spectators standing there watching me "This is an omen for sure!"</blockquote>
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Finished up the bike without any further issues (the final 0.25 mile), dismounted, and off to see if I was going to blow up. <br />
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This is my trademark Uber Aero bike dismount. Or maybe I'm just riding a really awkward version of side saddle. The jury is out!<br />
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<u><b>TRANSITION #2 </b></u><br />
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Straight forward as always. Bike racked, helmet/glasses off, socks/shoes on, grab everything else, and run.<br />
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As I entered transition, a friend yelled out "Only a relay and duathlete ahead of you." Even the announcer said "And here is our first triathlete into transition." I did my best to push that out of my head and keep pushing. Placement wasn't going to do me any good. ...but who's gong to complain about being in first??<br />
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I actually have before. My dad has video proof.<br />
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<u><b>RUN</b></u><br />
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This is it! Show time. <br />
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Mile #1 goes "okay." I stopped to pee quickly (10s) and I had the same gravel road from the swim-to-T1 run to deal with. Throw that one out! <br />
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Mile #2 clicked off much faster than I expected (albeit downhill), so I let my body do its thing. It did not continue to impress me. <br />
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Mile #3 was on par with my perceived effort. The heat along with the swim/bike push started to take a toll. But I managed to push on for another 3.2 miles. <br />
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I reeled in one athlete at 1.5 miles. I reeled in a second athlete (relay) at mile 2. But then there's another up ahead. '<i>Did my friend back in transition count them wrong?</i>' '<i>Who else could be out here?</i>' I catch up to the taller gentlemen - the only person to pass me on the
bike today - and we exchange "Nice job"s. He also has a bike escort. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Sweet!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I've now commandeered my very own bike escort.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Or at least I will once he catches back up</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I just passed him.</span></div>
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Despite my run falling apart (aka. running much slower than I would expect and pushing harder spikes the effort level WAY high), I am still able to pull close to the bike as we hit an incline. This becomes a little mental game for me as I tick off the last 2 miles. I will take anything to distract me!<br />
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As I pass mile 4, I try to push harder (make it HURT!) and I do speed up (though my data doesn't show it - lying data! #alternativedata). Again at mile 5, I dig in and push harder. The HR went up 1 bpm; more likely cardiac drift given my oncoming headache and the rising heat.<br />
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As I come up to the finish, I kick it in for the final 0.2 miles and I get to break the tape for the first time ever. Then Bill, who started in Wave #3 four minutes behind me, comes up 3:14 later and beats me by 46 seconds. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">No complaints here!</span></div>
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We both had good days. I hit all of my process and target goals. I took home a pie (which is delicious!!). I had fun racing and hanging out with friends. It was darn good day all around. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Onto Rev3 Poconos Olympic on August 13th!</span></div>
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<u><b>QUESTIONS</b></u><br />
<b>1. What is the best race award you've seen or heard about?</b><br />
<i>I've seen Thule racks, free race entries, very crafty homemade medals (always cool!), but I personally love the pies that you get at Litchfield Hills Olympic. Now that's a prize I can put to good use! </i><br />
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<b>2. What non-day ending "fun events" have happened to you on race day? </b><br />
<i>Flat tires, going off course, dropped chains, throwing up for 16 miles, bee stings, falling off my bike trying to unclip... That's all that I can recall. </i><br />
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<b>3. Does anyone use caffeine only on race day and have the side effect of being wide awake 12 hours later?</b><br />
<i>Please tell me I'm not the only one!</i><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">DREAM. BELIEVE. ACHIEVE. </span>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-32027489564876925482017-07-08T15:48:00.000-04:002017-07-08T15:48:21.875-04:00ADVENTURE REPORT: Pemigewasset (Pemi) Loop<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Pemigewassett Loop</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Lincoln, NH</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: large;">July 2, 2017</span> </span></i></div>
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The Pemigewasset Loop (called "Pemi Loop") is a mixture of various connected trails (it is not a trail itself) in the White Mountains of New Hampshire that encircle the Pemigewasset Wilderness. The trip is tackled by many as a multi-day hike using various huts along the way as shelter or as a day trip for faster hikers (also read: lighter packing, those who do not want to spend a night in the woods, or those naive enough to think they are 'ready'). <br />
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The loop includes 9 of the 48 New Hampshire 48 4000 footer peaks with options to include others on side trails. Each peak and the ridges along them offer picturesque views of the surrounding wilderness (when the weather cooperates). But don't be fooled, the loop was rated as the 2nd hardest day hike by Backpacker Magazine in 2005. At 31.5 miles with approximately 18,000 feet of elevation change (9k up, 9k down), this is not a simple walk in the woods (as I found out the hard way). However, for those seeking adventure, amazing views, and lots of like minded outdoors-oriented friends, I highly recommend it; or just parts of it. <br />
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The views tell 90% of this story, so I am going to let them do just that. I'll interject with words to fill in with funny or background stories, but feel free to browse through the pictures. </div>
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I want to start by saying that I am incredibly thankful that my friend Jenn let me tag along on this adventure. The plan was to trail run/hike the Pemi Loop. We've both done ultras - 50ks, 50 milers. We both love to run and be outdoors. We both love adventure. The Pemi Loop seemed like a great idea. ...until about 15 miles in. </div>
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I (and I do believe we, though I won't speak for Jenn herself) found out the hard way that this is one tough day. But don't let that deter you because I would sign up for another round in a heartbeat (once my legs recover). I could go on for days about the views, the fun of the terrain, the people we got to meet, and the sheer adventure the trail provided (through the good and bad moments). I won't be able to expel all of my emotions into words, so take to heart that I sincerely hope that these pictures are all worth the words I am unable to find. Let the adventure begin!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">The Pemi Loop Adventure</span></div>
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This adventure almost didn't happen thanks to the weather forecast. I returned home from Lake Placid, NY to find Thursday through Monday full of rain. The plan was to find a day over the weekend to head up and make a day trip of the hike; we were flexible on what day. Thankfully as we hit Friday night, Sunday began to clear up. We both packed all the gear we MIGHT need (overpacking for sure) and headed up Saturday afternoon. </div>
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On our way, we hit a storm cloud that was incredible. The car was hydroplaning on the flat highway within minutes of the storm hitting. Hikers on the trail had plenty of stories about being caught in it and how it was the worst storm New Hampshire has had in a long time. </div>
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Once we arrived, we unpacked, got dinner at Enzo's (delicious pizza!), and spent the night going through multiple versions of what to pack. Sure, we've both done ultras, but this adventure was going to be unaided except for one hut halfway through. We planned for the worst and went to bed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr3VjTb69JmMq1B6XFRlDgm9rILcnA_cgW3UsToi9iCtluCc2qpu5YkVDxXOENIL-b2RSOEAmVQKZESyWImUxA3Px5iPVjcyk89wiJxtQGyq49KqvGuxg0WdLmlni5y37PMLghvyCbcRo/s1600/IMG_2570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1196" data-original-width="1600" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr3VjTb69JmMq1B6XFRlDgm9rILcnA_cgW3UsToi9iCtluCc2qpu5YkVDxXOENIL-b2RSOEAmVQKZESyWImUxA3Px5iPVjcyk89wiJxtQGyq49KqvGuxg0WdLmlni5y37PMLghvyCbcRo/s320/IMG_2570.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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A good friend of mine who knew the Pemi Loop really well mentioned that he completed it (hiking) in 15 hours. We used that as a reference and planed on roughly 14 hours total. We were going to run what was flat anyways! Oversight #1.<br />
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As a racer (triathlete), I tend to stick to the rule "Nothing new on race day." Today had multiple exceptions. My shoes had only been tested for one hour. I wore a brand new pair of shorts. I wore a pair of socks I've only ever used during a normal day walking around at work. Thankfully, all of those worked out perfectly!! I should try more new things!! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ASUm7HjGKuMaQXovzuKAdipVEqez0Fcppg7GkaECh605_hhAA-BHcn10WnInqCerUDfogstvDUdHcDaSLLP3m377mtd1lDPMrBaaERVoktxonkmfLu_iX51Jwq6IkGo-QNRfHvCGdwg/s1600/IMG_2571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1196" data-original-width="1600" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ASUm7HjGKuMaQXovzuKAdipVEqez0Fcppg7GkaECh605_hhAA-BHcn10WnInqCerUDfogstvDUdHcDaSLLP3m377mtd1lDPMrBaaERVoktxonkmfLu_iX51Jwq6IkGo-QNRfHvCGdwg/s320/IMG_2571.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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With 14 hours in our heads, we got to the Lincoln Woods parking lot and headed off at 5:20am. We'd be back at 7:20pm if all went well. Sunset was at 8:30p, so we had roughly an hour to play with. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0RaoF2zbydHyh4lALhd0MAn2qydwQvmX7s5WvLkfRxysNpZ9R0qLBis1JJM1-vtt-lJMO1wWUdmJFeu_pyLr23iJadrxyFpm_sydd29-BXydlsWEsdiL3Rr0VIGQVqhxz3ZKIfl4aNDY/s1600/P7020001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0RaoF2zbydHyh4lALhd0MAn2qydwQvmX7s5WvLkfRxysNpZ9R0qLBis1JJM1-vtt-lJMO1wWUdmJFeu_pyLr23iJadrxyFpm_sydd29-BXydlsWEsdiL3Rr0VIGQVqhxz3ZKIfl4aNDY/s320/P7020001.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The map at the Lincoln Woods trail head</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46w5jONsyJt4xMz3A0VE2ER8-H-GCfyA_pCDaKMp-1B2uGm3p9cav9Z6IamC6crgzRfDsRBGF2ligncA-2KNrBrm_i_wkUPNc2a1GVOeyYfI373TwUlVeJQ7hmq10m8UWPxzeajyeDok/s1600/P7020002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46w5jONsyJt4xMz3A0VE2ER8-H-GCfyA_pCDaKMp-1B2uGm3p9cav9Z6IamC6crgzRfDsRBGF2ligncA-2KNrBrm_i_wkUPNc2a1GVOeyYfI373TwUlVeJQ7hmq10m8UWPxzeajyeDok/s320/P7020002.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You Are Here. Be back in 14 hours (we think)!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Essentials? We had 7 if you count a makeshift first aid kit.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9T35Isz3A5Ivrlf7DuIbLfMh5jNII2byUD3_zD8FPhht6fzypZzmHi3pZJbm4zDKUj-JHrB-3A9v629ZRiVgcn1QZAZ7Qj_R9X1mhMAVY-iI8UQfLw7mHGrS93jTfU2opUTUPeUw4pRI/s1600/P7020006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9T35Isz3A5Ivrlf7DuIbLfMh5jNII2byUD3_zD8FPhht6fzypZzmHi3pZJbm4zDKUj-JHrB-3A9v629ZRiVgcn1QZAZ7Qj_R9X1mhMAVY-iI8UQfLw7mHGrS93jTfU2opUTUPeUw4pRI/s320/P7020006.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here we go!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUpEpGuHmSEqSjWFMOL5rVpM7H0C4JdNDWvEolMSkquctyj-UrfzMvgy-tVCeKUhpKBFPw0CFTUNOPWdg3d0cRDX9_10OMHqBjzDIHecI2mI42X0zN3OVtoXLWQEMuVESeWIKMP0oy8E/s1600/P7020008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBUpEpGuHmSEqSjWFMOL5rVpM7H0C4JdNDWvEolMSkquctyj-UrfzMvgy-tVCeKUhpKBFPw0CFTUNOPWdg3d0cRDX9_10OMHqBjzDIHecI2mI42X0zN3OVtoXLWQEMuVESeWIKMP0oy8E/s320/P7020008.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three days of rain made for fast moving water!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGs5h6jeqOBtT35EosfNX_lH2MkzqQAxsnfGyWkuOfBvNAIPibiIs116GzUq12P68US9tu7Eqa_UxbxsmnnxgK4jrq7Jz8WkiDR4N4z2F1vIGKu6RVpYyfJmlmy5Kh-0zXF-MwHxHhjF0/s1600/P7020010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGs5h6jeqOBtT35EosfNX_lH2MkzqQAxsnfGyWkuOfBvNAIPibiIs116GzUq12P68US9tu7Eqa_UxbxsmnnxgK4jrq7Jz8WkiDR4N4z2F1vIGKu6RVpYyfJmlmy5Kh-0zXF-MwHxHhjF0/s320/P7020010.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You start with 1.4 miles on the Lincoln Woods Trail</td></tr>
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The plan was to run as much as we could, walk when we got tired or the terrain became difficult. I'd say we ran roughly 8-9 miles total out of approximately 33 on the day. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzSTkpsbNeALPu-voCaqbA8-9lh5y4EVMfVHGckSfiHYmk_hnsRQwXXYZRZeBCV80yo47zYbE2vwcaXBr5kLRMQDovi7RW59-tgwIQoh-b0fYrs9ZZG072e5EIWTeq4xZUQNJri9Ss_bM/s1600/P7020011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzSTkpsbNeALPu-voCaqbA8-9lh5y4EVMfVHGckSfiHYmk_hnsRQwXXYZRZeBCV80yo47zYbE2vwcaXBr5kLRMQDovi7RW59-tgwIQoh-b0fYrs9ZZG072e5EIWTeq4xZUQNJri9Ss_bM/s320/P7020011.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turn onto the Osseo and head to Mt. Flume</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha1qzlTm0e3FjUrQCXiaFw9-nee6mc6swnT2NFwwFcmA9NsSCskBUaFH8HccuMyEyZylwBN5ILdrqfVj9GOtNIrsUJcT1mRsyugfJQQpobH6oyUz0m-j33NslO09xfBZof7lVn7qLTZMY/s1600/P7020012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha1qzlTm0e3FjUrQCXiaFw9-nee6mc6swnT2NFwwFcmA9NsSCskBUaFH8HccuMyEyZylwBN5ILdrqfVj9GOtNIrsUJcT1mRsyugfJQQpobH6oyUz0m-j33NslO09xfBZof7lVn7qLTZMY/s320/P7020012.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Follow the Yellow blazed trail</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4VMDZeMu-UPWPc9FuEV7NWPwzMOJG4xPBk9YNYVtz958RhEFL3WcrI9Fp6_7bBQye-vsq0vKV62iVbzM3a5Zxwt5oBFIo6VrUuYiNSBDX7m_K66C8wOQ-YR1pLoI97gKPHigW7NgGx38/s1600/P7020013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4VMDZeMu-UPWPc9FuEV7NWPwzMOJG4xPBk9YNYVtz958RhEFL3WcrI9Fp6_7bBQye-vsq0vKV62iVbzM3a5Zxwt5oBFIo6VrUuYiNSBDX7m_K66C8wOQ-YR1pLoI97gKPHigW7NgGx38/s200/P7020013.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CYEwgazdG9inhTe2cS9hJHgEkk5tWa3mW-C0rVFScbBCMR0TFLG2fKsCCZM5fdVZZfGRSrvG-_mCfk-dbTDA89gWVWrW11jS4pqoBj8haNqsARpO7oIIAPu4iTOENFzHmi-ZN4yTGwE/s1600/P7020014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CYEwgazdG9inhTe2cS9hJHgEkk5tWa3mW-C0rVFScbBCMR0TFLG2fKsCCZM5fdVZZfGRSrvG-_mCfk-dbTDA89gWVWrW11jS4pqoBj8haNqsARpO7oIIAPu4iTOENFzHmi-ZN4yTGwE/s200/P7020014.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhihH0N3veWiZOXzRpMlYeOv9iFue8My2pa7vDIMGQjpdBerKhVilt50UHfdNMv9jRFQYEchC6WeWd0QZheg2Y_v0Kyu4D9jCn70C3oROAMZ5j4vit9rT0pegguBO4F7Zysgxur26nm6tY/s1600/P7020015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhihH0N3veWiZOXzRpMlYeOv9iFue8My2pa7vDIMGQjpdBerKhVilt50UHfdNMv9jRFQYEchC6WeWd0QZheg2Y_v0Kyu4D9jCn70C3oROAMZ5j4vit9rT0pegguBO4F7Zysgxur26nm6tY/s200/P7020015.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB209W6MSGi31PpT2JZLdXMjhqFqkydIcpe-wGr2JUHlEuqo1VrjcTYL7QAFcJ4Cx7nt5YOhRGH2cT5Kt24AQ8XQ3LEU5DKZFIDhb7v05f6siYdn7lW2WOlgFMxTSc0CGfN2lxrKmzXj8/s1600/P7020016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB209W6MSGi31PpT2JZLdXMjhqFqkydIcpe-wGr2JUHlEuqo1VrjcTYL7QAFcJ4Cx7nt5YOhRGH2cT5Kt24AQ8XQ3LEU5DKZFIDhb7v05f6siYdn7lW2WOlgFMxTSc0CGfN2lxrKmzXj8/s200/P7020016.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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The beautiful part about trails is that time goes by so quickly! Jenn and I chatted once we hit terrain we couldn't run heading up to Flume and before I knew it, we began to start popping up above treeline.<br />
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And 2 hours had already gone by!!! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNs7nX_cdxk926LQbzaWFtJazp4cLP0zKE2yqLKUKWXMslYz5pXQI9ubFPOdf31m1JCC7KA5gy10OqdyX7-sFIh7De8jm-5Uxhyphenhypheneu-4pf1zYWOwqrLN8RXpVQFWBPeXaYjM4LEFzXCg-k/s1600/P7020017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNs7nX_cdxk926LQbzaWFtJazp4cLP0zKE2yqLKUKWXMslYz5pXQI9ubFPOdf31m1JCC7KA5gy10OqdyX7-sFIh7De8jm-5Uxhyphenhypheneu-4pf1zYWOwqrLN8RXpVQFWBPeXaYjM4LEFzXCg-k/s320/P7020017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are some steep sections to get up to Mt. Flume</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYX5iUX8T5_BOulP2yNbCCYIITTiFog_BTYtWvl2XiefUbpEAES1jFpVEAN7Ae80ODjATWXAweIo6w7fSZ6hQTycI7uO-OeqWUDctFDT2jNCFCBvQX6OF6jyKoYOtaop0pdHvOt1cu3Y/s1600/P7020022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYX5iUX8T5_BOulP2yNbCCYIITTiFog_BTYtWvl2XiefUbpEAES1jFpVEAN7Ae80ODjATWXAweIo6w7fSZ6hQTycI7uO-OeqWUDctFDT2jNCFCBvQX6OF6jyKoYOtaop0pdHvOt1cu3Y/s320/P7020022.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New growth on the trees</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6OMOKFXUumjPAvc7UBbCVslUEgf75-U_VzELY6Ny6d69kyZRY8HMMHyMPCUl2b1XjRLLxUCqGKgjMe8zGYPDoOC3tyODl5JJTrZ2zpIJ70QoNNrnhhmb95Zt-5XGJ92G06RNpq9uVMCI/s1600/P7020023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6OMOKFXUumjPAvc7UBbCVslUEgf75-U_VzELY6Ny6d69kyZRY8HMMHyMPCUl2b1XjRLLxUCqGKgjMe8zGYPDoOC3tyODl5JJTrZ2zpIJ70QoNNrnhhmb95Zt-5XGJ92G06RNpq9uVMCI/s320/P7020023.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A side trail (we didn't take) - continue on Osseo</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz11LHJXLEkDB2cx6i8Fc55_5tymnMZriMzpMDF3cIq7NqeBOHMcS6akIchEBbddvGBXO1Eqd2VfceyXhM9HvqQFu7sU9Cisg8WdOH3e3b6hVVcXaC_fA5ELyEfEqyexDirHwm_xLgO94/s1600/P7020025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="1600" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz11LHJXLEkDB2cx6i8Fc55_5tymnMZriMzpMDF3cIq7NqeBOHMcS6akIchEBbddvGBXO1Eqd2VfceyXhM9HvqQFu7sU9Cisg8WdOH3e3b6hVVcXaC_fA5ELyEfEqyexDirHwm_xLgO94/s640/P7020025.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panoramic view from on top of Mt. Flume (for the moment the mist went away)</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzQQTuTlQDRmTzCh6rKtg20nzDN9ITUHR6TLi0cqngmgJhb_pkr09-sSlYAJNYvH5N54PE3c8xSuutIWmo5p1Zh4Q7Ays2R8VQv1PVn01Mwn-J6jXFHqjLT4d2AeeB0fPfpQgoQoLVsbQ/s1600/P7020026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzQQTuTlQDRmTzCh6rKtg20nzDN9ITUHR6TLi0cqngmgJhb_pkr09-sSlYAJNYvH5N54PE3c8xSuutIWmo5p1Zh4Q7Ays2R8VQv1PVn01Mwn-J6jXFHqjLT4d2AeeB0fPfpQgoQoLVsbQ/s200/P7020026.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYYMeSTZs7ooMRMwA28kpA9ufj9ZYVZUoGe3YNNRUT222boWQCs8akQn-FXqDMrnAKEEHg7DQ9gTx2ygCoJTxHC9dNIXBrHGfnWAIUltWp0l2GJXSKaMF1A6-Zjizv3FmK6VNOL5OW-ts/s1600/P7020027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYYMeSTZs7ooMRMwA28kpA9ufj9ZYVZUoGe3YNNRUT222boWQCs8akQn-FXqDMrnAKEEHg7DQ9gTx2ygCoJTxHC9dNIXBrHGfnWAIUltWp0l2GJXSKaMF1A6-Zjizv3FmK6VNOL5OW-ts/s200/P7020027.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Unfortunately, we had quite a heavy mist/fog atop most of the initial peaks and Franconia Ridge. I kept taking pictures laughing at the "gorgeous view" that was certainly beyond it. <br />
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Every so often, the wind would blow it away for 5-10 seconds and we'd get a glimpse, but then it was gone. <br />
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Mt. Flume (#1) done!<br />
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At the top, we met a group of three hikers doing the loop as a multi-day adventure. This was our first comment of "Oh, wow!" from hikers when we said we were doing the whole loop in one day; a sign of what we'd learn eventually - it's an undertaking.<br />
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We also met a couple who were hiking Mt. Flume and Liberty. They had started at 2 am. Not only did they hike a decent amount of the climb up Mt. Flume in the dark (impressive), but they told us all about the moose that they came across on the trail. Scary!! On top of it, the guy offered us food when he heard we were doing the whole loop. We brought our own and declined the offer. Thankfully we did in fact bring enough food. <br />
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I loved hearing the stories so much that I kept this up with most everyone I came across - asked them what they were doing, where they were coming from, etc. A few were rather quiet (maybe just hungry or rushed), but most were happy to sit and chat about their adventure and ask us about ours. What an incredible day chatting with absolute strangers.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi2eDYfRj-SwjHnziO2E9H08HeEb1b2xV2onKJFIUrPZZbhbPL-5t2ncG_nVDuaH2R4zQ4R7XObVGwBXWGAge-Ngf7fRQWy3tRqFO4oAARrveWYrw1fHvbjQKRDmuxi_9TvQTIP0NKLf8/s1600/P7020030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi2eDYfRj-SwjHnziO2E9H08HeEb1b2xV2onKJFIUrPZZbhbPL-5t2ncG_nVDuaH2R4zQ4R7XObVGwBXWGAge-Ngf7fRQWy3tRqFO4oAARrveWYrw1fHvbjQKRDmuxi_9TvQTIP0NKLf8/s320/P7020030.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very different growth heading to Mt. Liberty</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOb7CBFXTtDgfIWUoK1UpcpK2sbwSKQalPw3GrK1ceMNNpJd98tQ1fYgm_mChq6TEaRxbPorPvJIzs2fcSm7Jrd0uEHVoJDtBgZnD11VM869gpxqoRc6Lcqq4n813FvcW8dDjDIYaI-jI/s1600/P7020031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOb7CBFXTtDgfIWUoK1UpcpK2sbwSKQalPw3GrK1ceMNNpJd98tQ1fYgm_mChq6TEaRxbPorPvJIzs2fcSm7Jrd0uEHVoJDtBgZnD11VM869gpxqoRc6Lcqq4n813FvcW8dDjDIYaI-jI/s320/P7020031.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Geological stamp for measuring height on Mt. Liberty</td></tr>
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Views from on top of Mt. Liberty <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTzBfMozfScjDp_T5HnEWE6wv5MOJXj3l_cyxjqbPhjT-k-shZsyq1VN7f44uB3deO3H987jozkZJ9oTVXUfWhj2S4c_XZX9Mf4LgdiDYeFMqeOjU208VX2x5yccqJGKp8O4tKy7oEHyo/s1600/P7020033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTzBfMozfScjDp_T5HnEWE6wv5MOJXj3l_cyxjqbPhjT-k-shZsyq1VN7f44uB3deO3H987jozkZJ9oTVXUfWhj2S4c_XZX9Mf4LgdiDYeFMqeOjU208VX2x5yccqJGKp8O4tKy7oEHyo/s200/P7020033.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbmydimZoPld-jTSfLTNyf2-CCgP0f2t3QHmxWiMCeaR1sjmFf1KF4nem0bI4AOoOB6UtxCItKGC3_vbIFCZTsRLLdMqRa2EUHXPEcS5sTSYnfWBZxpHSEfnVlKyHoqPuq0Yq1BYxBeCI/s1600/P7020034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbmydimZoPld-jTSfLTNyf2-CCgP0f2t3QHmxWiMCeaR1sjmFf1KF4nem0bI4AOoOB6UtxCItKGC3_vbIFCZTsRLLdMqRa2EUHXPEcS5sTSYnfWBZxpHSEfnVlKyHoqPuq0Yq1BYxBeCI/s200/P7020034.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Mt. Liberty (#2) done!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUwJlKU3-TyxNONdQy9ovrWEsEOWy80Tt28t48I0Y54_OI_Cpq4poUWQ278phIP6ED3Ykiy-Y7CBIDOEWrn_t5Fhe1yQgs-6Fl57X6dnLnTS9FmetY9D1XXlSKA0wudGQ2APRlqW8kClM/s1600/P7020037.MOV" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUwJlKU3-TyxNONdQy9ovrWEsEOWy80Tt28t48I0Y54_OI_Cpq4poUWQ278phIP6ED3Ykiy-Y7CBIDOEWrn_t5Fhe1yQgs-6Fl57X6dnLnTS9FmetY9D1XXlSKA0wudGQ2APRlqW8kClM/s320/P7020037.MOV" width="320" /></a></div>
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Note how quickly the mist comes and goes along with the noise from the wind. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrfpUIpCtSx9iCcDxs-rayEU6OKdpkZo9eNYWjms3drygzE068ITz_P3KBC1KYx9BCKWVqbKNbcurocWydR-n8oCAQzSCdRpvgO9XOXVvdK_vJLK78hfrg6Ukb7PCPVLkaq-n9Hu2SjCk/s1600/P7020038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrfpUIpCtSx9iCcDxs-rayEU6OKdpkZo9eNYWjms3drygzE068ITz_P3KBC1KYx9BCKWVqbKNbcurocWydR-n8oCAQzSCdRpvgO9XOXVvdK_vJLK78hfrg6Ukb7PCPVLkaq-n9Hu2SjCk/s200/P7020038.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaEJ_wk602AoeW4eFPyYEzpIN_A_UbO86YG_aaWjgMWzLOd4BMIpct3XJH1akpbeEZz4t6uC6K7KCVGF-IUjHtqOJLLVnrhmRTquWaZpS_H6ArqekNR3SJYYoIwxh-ImbcuYB9-OksZPQ/s1600/P7020039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaEJ_wk602AoeW4eFPyYEzpIN_A_UbO86YG_aaWjgMWzLOd4BMIpct3XJH1akpbeEZz4t6uC6K7KCVGF-IUjHtqOJLLVnrhmRTquWaZpS_H6ArqekNR3SJYYoIwxh-ImbcuYB9-OksZPQ/s200/P7020039.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Again, another change in surroundings heading from Mt. Liberty to Mt. Little Haystack. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhytlV1DHiXGTWF0CDvKjcWxi5vN0xWCMrJvIcol8Lvl-6nLjNa739fl0V2H1gTG_FvSnZwIJ7g7FQntmf1y0M88wfUGpVfvpkamBGrhZNw_acBIxgjZOuOdJ_y31Msj7-RTy3N5htesFI/s1600/P7020040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhytlV1DHiXGTWF0CDvKjcWxi5vN0xWCMrJvIcol8Lvl-6nLjNa739fl0V2H1gTG_FvSnZwIJ7g7FQntmf1y0M88wfUGpVfvpkamBGrhZNw_acBIxgjZOuOdJ_y31Msj7-RTy3N5htesFI/s200/P7020040.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgObgdNnJYkramcO-fnDIe-vgazSF8pJMCCQ5qLzi1GnVJJJyLm3oZGBuUlSApSqyotd4mUPX58duojbznF2nHciOyc5urt8PqdoE0uJYhbBDuyR7yBXP40EQaTGNMITmkDbChQ-977uus/s1600/P7020041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgObgdNnJYkramcO-fnDIe-vgazSF8pJMCCQ5qLzi1GnVJJJyLm3oZGBuUlSApSqyotd4mUPX58duojbznF2nHciOyc5urt8PqdoE0uJYhbBDuyR7yBXP40EQaTGNMITmkDbChQ-977uus/s200/P7020041.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Changing now to the Franconia Ridge Trail. This is part of the Appalacian Trail (AT) and quite a popular ridge to hike as a single day adventure. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3HxohNpBymHkNJEgVsvOXrf5xzQBVzLsi6mZPuqjDWDGkcV0MTzJytgmoIZzgHMPgLIz-0e94siUSYJdHLV_WSvOKuabI_MX3G02wpQEdX5Lbj7mZ-4uB5VUi2nHo3HrS680rn7ANd-Y/s1600/P7020045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3HxohNpBymHkNJEgVsvOXrf5xzQBVzLsi6mZPuqjDWDGkcV0MTzJytgmoIZzgHMPgLIz-0e94siUSYJdHLV_WSvOKuabI_MX3G02wpQEdX5Lbj7mZ-4uB5VUi2nHo3HrS680rn7ANd-Y/s320/P7020045.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Onto the AT</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj72AYw9UMLAkFW6TXsfBNGqLbQesCWp5BqHizd7MeVySwyrHDUhrnx5aNFiiZQhbtF_ZEBUopcoeXdyRoGKiTO1KuKdgX2qQGWFIuolIqKVw4Scrt9lGePE_cKYvgObGEK70YSkVdKx4Y/s1600/P7020046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj72AYw9UMLAkFW6TXsfBNGqLbQesCWp5BqHizd7MeVySwyrHDUhrnx5aNFiiZQhbtF_ZEBUopcoeXdyRoGKiTO1KuKdgX2qQGWFIuolIqKVw4Scrt9lGePE_cKYvgObGEK70YSkVdKx4Y/s320/P7020046.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shelter!!! ...just in case.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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What a view atop Mt. Little Haystack! Haha<br />
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Mt. Little Haystack (#3) done!<br />
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Then it was quickly off to Lincoln. To be honest, in the mist, we had to ask other people if this was it. Agreement among our peers nearby was Yes, this was Mt. Lincoln. "We'll take it!" <br />
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Mt. Lincoln (#4) done!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRNYttxmh1uX4fDYqaaQAFIY123-NT7Zza5qyJldacaIYcHcT0Ze3MItfDO5c5c47CJSgyN128FER4J1o4OaOUt-v_dHYII49VXc9mFDwbJC8wOJVc4uf9rq5cy3Qvh8AATZRl6LJWYIA/s1600/P7020055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRNYttxmh1uX4fDYqaaQAFIY123-NT7Zza5qyJldacaIYcHcT0Ze3MItfDO5c5c47CJSgyN128FER4J1o4OaOUt-v_dHYII49VXc9mFDwbJC8wOJVc4uf9rq5cy3Qvh8AATZRl6LJWYIA/s320/P7020055.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, the wind!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPEOplESucIyJEDgbVYbxuv2XJWWtxXuV2xtAKoPjZfrexPwZq4864fSfYRdLOwfO7sbwUedM5wuNdEt98ATY8b-zNcYPQrK4ygez81emIb7RNZheY7IQnJIlMP2cFZoZEIZmeZLXc738/s1600/P7020053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPEOplESucIyJEDgbVYbxuv2XJWWtxXuV2xtAKoPjZfrexPwZq4864fSfYRdLOwfO7sbwUedM5wuNdEt98ATY8b-zNcYPQrK4ygez81emIb7RNZheY7IQnJIlMP2cFZoZEIZmeZLXc738/s320/P7020053.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Onto the ridge!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1fY2b91jM74xybTgfpJLEHF5DsIfy4t7ibOpVWb2OqkRHxn_2_VDABq8JzyOSjYNXG1B05OdFcQQdUkHRIHKd-ilRaNhe3ZHy4JymJLphSY-9K0PClzfWgiM8aZsRemwgIFn9ybJT4c/s1600/P7020056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1fY2b91jM74xybTgfpJLEHF5DsIfy4t7ibOpVWb2OqkRHxn_2_VDABq8JzyOSjYNXG1B05OdFcQQdUkHRIHKd-ilRaNhe3ZHy4JymJLphSY-9K0PClzfWgiM8aZsRemwgIFn9ybJT4c/s320/P7020056.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading to Mt. Lafeyette</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmmJqBFTD6LNFggZUJ5CtWPFTNMs27mvP-wmFqgPjpobbBCosn_FH_Bnsg4-xwArvwDCZpLc9FhqXnZUsIFb_3ENpVtgrHjtnkkbZYS4jOwzG5vLWhZEEmhnwjZ2wWjDhTnDm_xdpO9I0/s1600/P7020057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="1600" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmmJqBFTD6LNFggZUJ5CtWPFTNMs27mvP-wmFqgPjpobbBCosn_FH_Bnsg4-xwArvwDCZpLc9FhqXnZUsIFb_3ENpVtgrHjtnkkbZYS4jOwzG5vLWhZEEmhnwjZ2wWjDhTnDm_xdpO9I0/s640/P7020057.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Misty views on the Franconia Ridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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A moment the mist blew away. Pictures!, quick!! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7VuuC3_F7pKXG-CeP3f_HFasUZZPUVa8n9tOijDE-qtZcVI53xB-sccU9lRiOPJirDK7uVg3P4UwnP7PrSCg_sqGXcuYcnM7HzXU_CaN25W9zOxKZskSkBkJRFr4dhi7T-ri3MO7aroc/s1600/P7020077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7VuuC3_F7pKXG-CeP3f_HFasUZZPUVa8n9tOijDE-qtZcVI53xB-sccU9lRiOPJirDK7uVg3P4UwnP7PrSCg_sqGXcuYcnM7HzXU_CaN25W9zOxKZskSkBkJRFr4dhi7T-ri3MO7aroc/s200/P7020077.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOZ2whswsf9rpVypNAZm8ol4F0dV7PIq0v2Rcd2i-v5jQ5KyGVGSMgIQ5nmrlGQSGia9qCsy5BDJpBdHy89wPQdtlGLWJFKbClhIG1YPaMgCwRdJB15T-N2FB4E7oXcZLwCzIm3bjeCFU/s1600/P7020079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOZ2whswsf9rpVypNAZm8ol4F0dV7PIq0v2Rcd2i-v5jQ5KyGVGSMgIQ5nmrlGQSGia9qCsy5BDJpBdHy89wPQdtlGLWJFKbClhIG1YPaMgCwRdJB15T-N2FB4E7oXcZLwCzIm3bjeCFU/s200/P7020079.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJkCZihtBk9uJFm4Z32_1sx2mMfs045iAbsZzo6l99YNsuPQ0fFa3pg1s2UU22bMuwGScN4BEx2GW2ApVtKJgYmhzyGdIEGnaUjxl9Nd6dhOBZ5qg4InOpvuyPWGkcgUyKUfIRUjY0FKo/s1600/P7020081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJkCZihtBk9uJFm4Z32_1sx2mMfs045iAbsZzo6l99YNsuPQ0fFa3pg1s2UU22bMuwGScN4BEx2GW2ApVtKJgYmhzyGdIEGnaUjxl9Nd6dhOBZ5qg4InOpvuyPWGkcgUyKUfIRUjY0FKo/s200/P7020081.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JyhEmCNByCgMSLK1wKgWUVmu7KY4EsZtyK4PkNgnx5wSjTJEM6iWjnw1-pYuvYXpeh9aU6XssJy_sfrJj3TnZzrQl2DeY5Q8JbJBXJALLWk_92WA5ZMwLT8KwwxBnQeiGDXD1QdwOi4/s1600/P7020082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JyhEmCNByCgMSLK1wKgWUVmu7KY4EsZtyK4PkNgnx5wSjTJEM6iWjnw1-pYuvYXpeh9aU6XssJy_sfrJj3TnZzrQl2DeY5Q8JbJBXJALLWk_92WA5ZMwLT8KwwxBnQeiGDXD1QdwOi4/s200/P7020082.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcRjIDH3TUlgsRVEs_YPv8eZGGXAzSxttEEiSstuxaHaHIjp1aPAeqNAoBYszDnegtjI8CbvwYhrlnpI58FvhrSA4L4fhlH7BH_KDLtOGISxuDO5ImC5tD2o2pYsEo1UXapKYeGOnf_vE/s1600/P7020085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcRjIDH3TUlgsRVEs_YPv8eZGGXAzSxttEEiSstuxaHaHIjp1aPAeqNAoBYszDnegtjI8CbvwYhrlnpI58FvhrSA4L4fhlH7BH_KDLtOGISxuDO5ImC5tD2o2pYsEo1UXapKYeGOnf_vE/s320/P7020085.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See! We did run (some).</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit6iAfCbsACULz6efdMAaT_vYGHOYsZ9voa_puSGVfVjmLImJvHNCVRIyU7J0lcQmrQrG134esPlXZcbdlNdc-6rG5Z5ms07fN88VoBBpof2HCPVOD5M2TavrgV-eRfSwvqPf8xZCZHfo/s1600/P7020086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit6iAfCbsACULz6efdMAaT_vYGHOYsZ9voa_puSGVfVjmLImJvHNCVRIyU7J0lcQmrQrG134esPlXZcbdlNdc-6rG5Z5ms07fN88VoBBpof2HCPVOD5M2TavrgV-eRfSwvqPf8xZCZHfo/s200/P7020086.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8urhlA_Xf_KOUo8BjP4AEFIh7EU6OUDWYhT92PcJnsrsmH0z94aI0b7Z_kL-PYMCSY_7_6_mrKiiqiXHm1UExUa740T0h8sq0Algzmy01BxAqc_wNU8kpYTfQvizutgCbChOfS4Jp1CI/s1600/P7020087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8urhlA_Xf_KOUo8BjP4AEFIh7EU6OUDWYhT92PcJnsrsmH0z94aI0b7Z_kL-PYMCSY_7_6_mrKiiqiXHm1UExUa740T0h8sq0Algzmy01BxAqc_wNU8kpYTfQvizutgCbChOfS4Jp1CI/s200/P7020087.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitviW91nmiaji8mmBUYXDEFrEbjDJij2FvUVQ-kjbDk-_mBXhvhfeCDVBXTAeluVvdXJbesxGVKxY8oiQboiHsny1JY5zEz0gjLKKQyDhUmuL2BT3-UF518dHn07RLlIKNR7zIUzHHeno/s1600/P7020088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="351" data-original-width="1600" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitviW91nmiaji8mmBUYXDEFrEbjDJij2FvUVQ-kjbDk-_mBXhvhfeCDVBXTAeluVvdXJbesxGVKxY8oiQboiHsny1JY5zEz0gjLKKQyDhUmuL2BT3-UF518dHn07RLlIKNR7zIUzHHeno/s640/P7020088.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Partially misty views on the Franconia Ridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBwDk8tUUVSir5q6PNUf7osr0pAZNHkiZgU-7QL8e7dUd3bIa1wiJNJYHu_Fh5Hhh_Df7GbSqGT8RcGbURwQF6sc9cTK28FKwXt-mICiGHAd-fqSwgFHCG2XLdAfx9qiWVgVqezL-wl-4/s1600/P7020090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBwDk8tUUVSir5q6PNUf7osr0pAZNHkiZgU-7QL8e7dUd3bIa1wiJNJYHu_Fh5Hhh_Df7GbSqGT8RcGbURwQF6sc9cTK28FKwXt-mICiGHAd-fqSwgFHCG2XLdAfx9qiWVgVqezL-wl-4/s320/P7020090.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Geological stamp on Mt. Lafayette</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWzbS1WJkIuuOZzPDRrtJ3iA2cyCDTt-UAIzAxpP-ihkXUKtXd6j1Vxc26VAoWXVjuUIBnvk62551Vhbdgea5F63vVMmBNAxJSlgyEHydZSEJswSZIPnVsH-qOrI1QTUa3iaKsBtgZnms/s1600/P7020092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWzbS1WJkIuuOZzPDRrtJ3iA2cyCDTt-UAIzAxpP-ihkXUKtXd6j1Vxc26VAoWXVjuUIBnvk62551Vhbdgea5F63vVMmBNAxJSlgyEHydZSEJswSZIPnVsH-qOrI1QTUa3iaKsBtgZnms/s200/P7020092.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjwCVoix10d5ghCA7g-koepGPPYHQY9C-4m-E8G4h3JDyEEqikXAYpaTosvxXtBhzvg0qKSE6ZfyL9WDEcaPMBzi9wceiWN2aiNghf9ODQR9pkC5yOqSVkp2mFMaagdlh7E6E_BF3l0DI/s1600/P7020094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjwCVoix10d5ghCA7g-koepGPPYHQY9C-4m-E8G4h3JDyEEqikXAYpaTosvxXtBhzvg0qKSE6ZfyL9WDEcaPMBzi9wceiWN2aiNghf9ODQR9pkC5yOqSVkp2mFMaagdlh7E6E_BF3l0DI/s200/P7020094.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Mt. Lafayette (#5) done!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2YmpyoQpDnkKuD_44ooI_EbLCMqnEqmQ6ynhAjThQE1yzpcB6VQ4naKpP9j__3mCL16czPEHvHiG4jtfnqUFtLNnC_gXbpdmwLIzLfQcV5FFJr55fp6I_r_km1MNQhtm0luw-qRtmIzo/s1600/P7020093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2YmpyoQpDnkKuD_44ooI_EbLCMqnEqmQ6ynhAjThQE1yzpcB6VQ4naKpP9j__3mCL16czPEHvHiG4jtfnqUFtLNnC_gXbpdmwLIzLfQcV5FFJr55fp6I_r_km1MNQhtm0luw-qRtmIzo/s320/P7020093.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Off to Mt. Garfield</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirUBssKKjR7AlYjWcXABDKNYOZBX35nXeVEvOdRUO_Ht81JGCaFu7OLpvgudcU2UFXAoRxQxY0ysyEAeNt2LdZsybcH9y8RjL2Wy7JkyY_XwU-RZ1HTwtD5SWEUqauL4JJS7BIvd8obuQ/s1600/P7020096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirUBssKKjR7AlYjWcXABDKNYOZBX35nXeVEvOdRUO_Ht81JGCaFu7OLpvgudcU2UFXAoRxQxY0ysyEAeNt2LdZsybcH9y8RjL2Wy7JkyY_XwU-RZ1HTwtD5SWEUqauL4JJS7BIvd8obuQ/s320/P7020096.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of rock cairns on the trail as markers.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWnqOJAj3C7mGLsFnu3ZxURZGZIRaKw0U65GZDJ6x25hQtKOMq7E_qswhFsFZ8OMKPpNWI4DVJC3beOe_oVFcjJe_RzkONyZKH0TJkXivWhfgKd4riJ2NrpG4_ZczSxKCEDuYl9R4irA/s1600/P7020101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVWnqOJAj3C7mGLsFnu3ZxURZGZIRaKw0U65GZDJ6x25hQtKOMq7E_qswhFsFZ8OMKPpNWI4DVJC3beOe_oVFcjJe_RzkONyZKH0TJkXivWhfgKd4riJ2NrpG4_ZczSxKCEDuYl9R4irA/s320/P7020101.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nope! Not runnig down a rock cliff.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3r9fsuH9cwfPOUYDQ1S79qvxVW1nrSKSK-SvDo3MDeadaUfGM_i5pts5IyDJ0i-LUboiLSRQLjbc5DA9GT7cY99cRoj2EmrYPkW-37aCY47p9BQfJ7_m7zFiH4bLQEB1F23ncNaehKyo/s1600/P7020102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3r9fsuH9cwfPOUYDQ1S79qvxVW1nrSKSK-SvDo3MDeadaUfGM_i5pts5IyDJ0i-LUboiLSRQLjbc5DA9GT7cY99cRoj2EmrYPkW-37aCY47p9BQfJ7_m7zFiH4bLQEB1F23ncNaehKyo/s320/P7020102.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Misty!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4TEk_2-qCJ5EMqXpNgBpNJK4JtdZoLA9I2J9bubJuLaqCNrLoRl6rzwJ4ljiJt4bnDWihyEVIS1z7iFxe3x6zlOS72zu2VPbhZqVFoSOYZ5-bSVJlgoT4WAfmLE3Nrh35qTyI8mzcIQ4/s1600/P7020103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4TEk_2-qCJ5EMqXpNgBpNJK4JtdZoLA9I2J9bubJuLaqCNrLoRl6rzwJ4ljiJt4bnDWihyEVIS1z7iFxe3x6zlOS72zu2VPbhZqVFoSOYZ5-bSVJlgoT4WAfmLE3Nrh35qTyI8mzcIQ4/s320/P7020103.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not misty!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Can you tell which way the wind normally blows? <br />
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Three days of rain gave us a lot of puddles to maneuver around. Which at times just became ways to cool our feet off. <br />
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Mt. Garfield!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGGjdZDIZm8kGVTFQB8iyhuLiJzCYv56XsGRD9kU8A_ctiFcAkcsboMxIEkxuoZdG-4aawe2HVjHI8AzYULo8oB981OIMSJzFZHgAv0XdNHKXXBWx1tSo5uQK4GPjXfZzZbta6728hqTg/s1600/P7020118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGGjdZDIZm8kGVTFQB8iyhuLiJzCYv56XsGRD9kU8A_ctiFcAkcsboMxIEkxuoZdG-4aawe2HVjHI8AzYULo8oB981OIMSJzFZHgAv0XdNHKXXBWx1tSo5uQK4GPjXfZzZbta6728hqTg/s320/P7020118.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail stalkers!</td></tr>
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Back on (I think it was) Mt. Lincoln, we met a group of three hikers (above). From left to right, it's Brian, Rick, and Ashley. As with all of our encounters, we expected to see them, chat, and be on with our day. They had other plans. Every time we stopped to take photos at the top of a peak, they'd come walking up behind us. These guys were making great time!! We also began trading services - we took their picture and we took theirs. Then "See you at the next peak!" It got to be pretty funny!<br />
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Mt. Garfield (#6) done!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV8G43uiUuVqxxwIirIoF5Kx4B5hyphenhyphen8xYNbjuZqwpPtJ4t7JIxxrNCO3su2GYnbINz5kLIS-quBkPsMEFCkkyhDmKRGAd0_E7UtjGXCaAYG191EUnfvYwHpiPjzB7EkRXSXSybLvwgwzJ4/s1600/P7020124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="362" data-original-width="1600" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV8G43uiUuVqxxwIirIoF5Kx4B5hyphenhyphen8xYNbjuZqwpPtJ4t7JIxxrNCO3su2GYnbINz5kLIS-quBkPsMEFCkkyhDmKRGAd0_E7UtjGXCaAYG191EUnfvYwHpiPjzB7EkRXSXSybLvwgwzJ4/s640/P7020124.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from Mt. Garfield</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Onto the Galehead Hut (halfway point)</td></tr>
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One of the multi-day hikers told us about being caught in the storm the night before and because his group HAD to get to the next hut, they were forced to climb these rocks as it felt like a river was roaring over them. Their packs were soaked, clothes were wet, rocks were slippery, and it was getting dark. What a story and we began really admiring those who were out in the storm no matter what terrain they were on at the time.<br />
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But then we got to said rocks and OMG!! It was a bit tricky climbing down them with water running over them (trying not to slip as they were really steep). But if there was a river running over them, we may have turned back. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzFGJDjpI9CQ_pDszgRpvrL2rFDzRdN8AgsNfTLQgyuvhhuk2HWoxGFejxZ3Qf_Wl3bn6Op6lDB77IfYsXTvGkyv6YClhAvkMbwVvIQmpE1-THdW2KEykulcvIimLgpzqdSdAzc1fphY/s1600/P7020129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzFGJDjpI9CQ_pDszgRpvrL2rFDzRdN8AgsNfTLQgyuvhhuk2HWoxGFejxZ3Qf_Wl3bn6Op6lDB77IfYsXTvGkyv6YClhAvkMbwVvIQmpE1-THdW2KEykulcvIimLgpzqdSdAzc1fphY/s320/P7020129.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2.2 miles to go. That's... 2-2.5 hours?! We got this!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The mist had finally disappeared for good.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snack time #2.</td></tr>
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For the first half of the hike, I got through 2 pb&j sandwiches and 1 clif bar with nut butter. It was great, but I did notice that we weren't chatting as much in this push from Mount Garfield to the Galehead Hut. It was a climb, so I figured we were just saving our energy. I learned differently once we got there. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTwNQxqJrFt8OBHyuGR_lEIRk7Fs2SDjdQF8LG3DnmclxVTuvvA9JbOMBZM5j17oOFy_bxY3EXqe8HAkVMvYNf5pln9vCbGogECpzE-VLVcrmBlCEn_vp2TOOlOv91uyiKCynwUjv8x4Q/s1600/P7020132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTwNQxqJrFt8OBHyuGR_lEIRk7Fs2SDjdQF8LG3DnmclxVTuvvA9JbOMBZM5j17oOFy_bxY3EXqe8HAkVMvYNf5pln9vCbGogECpzE-VLVcrmBlCEn_vp2TOOlOv91uyiKCynwUjv8x4Q/s320/P7020132.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glorious!!</td></tr>
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The first 1.4 miles of this loop on the Lincoln Woods Trail was pretty quick. The 1.4 miles from Garfield to this sign was LOOOOONG! We were so happy to see this sign. Only 30 minutes or so now. <br />
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Then I ran out of water. haha What timing! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvkDtrSXkpM6bNI0FtPvkOTxA3sKLDYaTYxC4_EA6yAAUaK9M8ltCwi4Ia97zACAur7sw8mbPpvVndXDHMsHZMcGIbZminAaJkr-fuUT5-5AgM1U3quSclt__uaMb4Q_uk62sOK6wRNjY/s1600/P7020134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvkDtrSXkpM6bNI0FtPvkOTxA3sKLDYaTYxC4_EA6yAAUaK9M8ltCwi4Ia97zACAur7sw8mbPpvVndXDHMsHZMcGIbZminAaJkr-fuUT5-5AgM1U3quSclt__uaMb4Q_uk62sOK6wRNjY/s320/P7020134.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We made it! </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDDyUr-oCd14htGsMTy-fF7_C6SLjBrf7aiReesIkFmFwNuL3NE2iYl2e7zotBZScKoPiLOFReILRH2NonAjGrypX0ciD8pveLWX5pAgnLwa9_rqDQ_g9DrxtlNOz88u47mO9K9dBuqs/s1600/P7020135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoDDyUr-oCd14htGsMTy-fF7_C6SLjBrf7aiReesIkFmFwNuL3NE2iYl2e7zotBZScKoPiLOFReILRH2NonAjGrypX0ciD8pveLWX5pAgnLwa9_rqDQ_g9DrxtlNOz88u47mO9K9dBuqs/s200/P7020135.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhgtDNDz6UwhV-B4EiIKBRPqV8s1KOWy434-iv39nyhA2ny6MX1G1rPyppx3Njxc-5sXbbDCaH8Dq7uxccp6q37OV9pFxkMBGxcfXzIPQYkh0oAXQ05lTnOwDEFUJYU-WPVqQx0q6uUk/s1600/P7020136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRhgtDNDz6UwhV-B4EiIKBRPqV8s1KOWy434-iv39nyhA2ny6MX1G1rPyppx3Njxc-5sXbbDCaH8Dq7uxccp6q37OV9pFxkMBGxcfXzIPQYkh0oAXQ05lTnOwDEFUJYU-WPVqQx0q6uUk/s200/P7020136.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
The Galehead Hut was incredible!! Bathrooms, potable water to refill, baked goods, and if you had reserved a bed, a place to rest for the night.<br />
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Jenn and I hit the bathrooms, had some baked goods, and refilled our hydration packs while we rested for a bit. <br />
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And without doubt, along came our hiking stalkers. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT8lUpoe2J0bUzp5p0oDIf8_0R8dZCRLV5mSu561fVrDGEWWpbRr9a444-4-77JcxvB8YZyMVPmBlAUiDdLLt9o6NJNhpB3LJMtg4frQR6WTippBwj9A8u1JA5MGdA3yRSsXEke39JHbw/s1600/P7020139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT8lUpoe2J0bUzp5p0oDIf8_0R8dZCRLV5mSu561fVrDGEWWpbRr9a444-4-77JcxvB8YZyMVPmBlAUiDdLLt9o6NJNhpB3LJMtg4frQR6WTippBwj9A8u1JA5MGdA3yRSsXEke39JHbw/s320/P7020139.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our one side trail for an additional mountain.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the Galehead Mtn Overlook</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Galehead Hut from Galehead Mtn overlook</td></tr>
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Mt. Garfield (#7) done!<br />
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If you climb Galhead Mountain, know that the overlook is much better than the peak. We got to the peak and it's surrounded by trees. There are no views, but it still counts. Seven mountains climbed so far. <br />
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On our way up, however, Jenn pointed something out to me. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"Kurt, you're on a sugar high."</span></div>
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Two blondies from the Galehead Hut, a solid refill of water, and I was back to being chatty Kathy. If she hadn't pointed it out, I wouldn't have realized it. I must have had low sugar coming up from Mt. Garfield. I made a plan to try and drain my pack (2L) before making our way back past the hut as well - I'd like to rehydrate before finishing the day. I may very well run out of water again by the end.<br />
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I got about 1L in me on the Galehead Mtn side trip. Then we refilled water again, I had a number of extra cups, I ate one more blondie (wow were those delicious!), and we hit the bathroom before heading off for the 2nd half of the trip. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Off to Mt. South Twin</td></tr>
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Jenn warned me before starting; this was roughly 1200 feet of elevation gain in the 0.8 miles to South Twin. And it was certainly UP! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Really cool wood!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWTGtiWZIumaUTtv18JV2EvyEf8gfYZFigUyBFI9PlRDFPmBcsdh1LmebeW-N1_8qzaKKsceM9ccZDHdPGRcDKz9H4UiutHuw-ithYcLpJ0oEQj9MUT8otWGeeOAH4UstegJFrzbIY48/s1600/P7020155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWTGtiWZIumaUTtv18JV2EvyEf8gfYZFigUyBFI9PlRDFPmBcsdh1LmebeW-N1_8qzaKKsceM9ccZDHdPGRcDKz9H4UiutHuw-ithYcLpJ0oEQj9MUT8otWGeeOAH4UstegJFrzbIY48/s320/P7020155.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back at... Mt. Lafayette?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp_06yCFmPkSp_MgVEDNHGzcyYnj74tyJnYmdOx1uKeVd8VLxauWAie8Lye6zhIuRgb6D-4pka9aJJY-OXdPdgd9-c2ebCudg_-OWcIB7e2LhaDM8oCrXw5xqKbOM5Kz-T3novlRiFNU4/s1600/P7020157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp_06yCFmPkSp_MgVEDNHGzcyYnj74tyJnYmdOx1uKeVd8VLxauWAie8Lye6zhIuRgb6D-4pka9aJJY-OXdPdgd9-c2ebCudg_-OWcIB7e2LhaDM8oCrXw5xqKbOM5Kz-T3novlRiFNU4/s320/P7020157.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Climbing up, up, and up!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKp_ADi705CB9OUAMB3x82mWNxWN3LRfkcDQuo_tRPB3MsVgbOIyhjxs4CAV_mhaJc6xp-WQh5QX_H9DXZ47FV_izb07okS_hS-JhyphenhyphenWXuA_QV6OHb4aCjU9VUNF6-v2IxRBmaBIvY50GM/s1600/P7020158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKp_ADi705CB9OUAMB3x82mWNxWN3LRfkcDQuo_tRPB3MsVgbOIyhjxs4CAV_mhaJc6xp-WQh5QX_H9DXZ47FV_izb07okS_hS-JhyphenhyphenWXuA_QV6OHb4aCjU9VUNF6-v2IxRBmaBIvY50GM/s200/P7020158.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz3RZbFzp-dWILUxHp9U6_-cHG3S_qhZ4SaRQ_VYKdnzB8rrkJhbOoU3L_ttxjF41NxMIeftAUfc3ASCaKT5zu6_N3h3yJCx_Aw7vq1SmgiSSgHLr_OMGuwGNHKK9Ir5zrjo3RlYxu2Xc/s1600/P7020159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz3RZbFzp-dWILUxHp9U6_-cHG3S_qhZ4SaRQ_VYKdnzB8rrkJhbOoU3L_ttxjF41NxMIeftAUfc3ASCaKT5zu6_N3h3yJCx_Aw7vq1SmgiSSgHLr_OMGuwGNHKK9Ir5zrjo3RlYxu2Xc/s200/P7020159.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiA0V0Nc2E9zzxPDwI3lH-Me9Xg-b4K617Zg-nCbQqe8WIV_s246Fo6Q2TEfb58cS2aLWgdAm5reYPq_567gkEhXf_KM3uKfYKZNJpcS3NQYFn9_j_qL45OG8R5LS_FRT1da2kVgPusrY/s1600/P7020161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiA0V0Nc2E9zzxPDwI3lH-Me9Xg-b4K617Zg-nCbQqe8WIV_s246Fo6Q2TEfb58cS2aLWgdAm5reYPq_567gkEhXf_KM3uKfYKZNJpcS3NQYFn9_j_qL45OG8R5LS_FRT1da2kVgPusrY/s320/P7020161.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Pwf4Deej2gRiqfQIwsFtjo_XGoNSLhaDetjTMd6UwGRxjdQuTHqmqAiV7Cxf7acZ5yBjrAw7XhRAH7Xqyj1jOK8JywmxY3it_aT1ti32RO-O3kk6ZtSWQKMlyDjQ-KKvpoUhHryBI68/s1600/P7020162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Pwf4Deej2gRiqfQIwsFtjo_XGoNSLhaDetjTMd6UwGRxjdQuTHqmqAiV7Cxf7acZ5yBjrAw7XhRAH7Xqyj1jOK8JywmxY3it_aT1ti32RO-O3kk6ZtSWQKMlyDjQ-KKvpoUhHryBI68/s320/P7020162.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The option for North Twin. No thanks!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXRS7IUnut0cckWKYVsKkF3i0KKS89uTQc40_u5qLy4eQs1qngL6DRcsCvjFg8NfSRqLu3xZQjVvD5GD7W9gJEs2k85X7sgirxhXPDcs3io-CZJoPsWA0RXQXRiJgCowmyBteeS-rJqgo/s1600/P7020163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXRS7IUnut0cckWKYVsKkF3i0KKS89uTQc40_u5qLy4eQs1qngL6DRcsCvjFg8NfSRqLu3xZQjVvD5GD7W9gJEs2k85X7sgirxhXPDcs3io-CZJoPsWA0RXQXRiJgCowmyBteeS-rJqgo/s200/P7020163.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrG6CI1D4RXjg6r6Q__XU-_j3KzxDoudQL_udwTgLH6H-q6CMrLeEyO8C2JRmb3EFD0q9jLUs1owMdmVy7pqZ7bhGzTQHcUbG2J4qkeIZX22ph3p8chPBk8AKZT8oek1P0-_-1T5FcHo/s1600/P7020164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrG6CI1D4RXjg6r6Q__XU-_j3KzxDoudQL_udwTgLH6H-q6CMrLeEyO8C2JRmb3EFD0q9jLUs1owMdmVy7pqZ7bhGzTQHcUbG2J4qkeIZX22ph3p8chPBk8AKZT8oek1P0-_-1T5FcHo/s200/P7020164.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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South Twin Mtn (#8) done!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqCvx6wuHhtVdCT3XmA9KjL74cnrwVL25dxQsxIjldJ09tejtPtfu-jwDn9ZG_m50dV7BtUAZ4teitMsWtgZ2PwDWjoyKSTlQvbvv4QTMW5zqPE06fbfFNW36fnNXxKwyEZ004yngMFv8/s1600/P7020165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqCvx6wuHhtVdCT3XmA9KjL74cnrwVL25dxQsxIjldJ09tejtPtfu-jwDn9ZG_m50dV7BtUAZ4teitMsWtgZ2PwDWjoyKSTlQvbvv4QTMW5zqPE06fbfFNW36fnNXxKwyEZ004yngMFv8/s320/P7020165.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Off to Mt. Guyot</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1WNIM5nFE1uUqHurdBI8XNUsLBtdYU67oo9AKg7wjf1lwAAz3kXN-fCvdsf1Zw44AMtTt3CzMewQE9SZPzqWNLJ96G6u0eLg93zXjgdoM6q4gPBl6QG6j67EVF8cloS8xBIXd1eX0kA/s1600/P7020166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1WNIM5nFE1uUqHurdBI8XNUsLBtdYU67oo9AKg7wjf1lwAAz3kXN-fCvdsf1Zw44AMtTt3CzMewQE9SZPzqWNLJ96G6u0eLg93zXjgdoM6q4gPBl6QG6j67EVF8cloS8xBIXd1eX0kA/s320/P7020166.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous trail!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJtYw4anrkNyKfju0kbr1NAIbrRWXLRr8CpLpgJeky2WVueoKlA1qPJxL_fEb28Wec0xFWKNXw2KE_yuBH7ISGe7X3QjhZN0TE7QSOER1k_mB5j3Lb_sBSsNpHN69txaRJ75etSyFkW0/s1600/P7020167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJtYw4anrkNyKfju0kbr1NAIbrRWXLRr8CpLpgJeky2WVueoKlA1qPJxL_fEb28Wec0xFWKNXw2KE_yuBH7ISGe7X3QjhZN0TE7QSOER1k_mB5j3Lb_sBSsNpHN69txaRJ75etSyFkW0/s200/P7020167.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Ag-E40fAMc8LfKUG5rFbwa62IvRGXL15nm_38HpvKupB-Rq7_8vxmnSNdjkOs7S-ieBBAeIxGGWjweUxKPN2QJs3Lh5UhXPMmqJujGSvL-lgWUmduaFayh85IB_jRk2lU_BQ71bGOHg/s1600/P7020168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Ag-E40fAMc8LfKUG5rFbwa62IvRGXL15nm_38HpvKupB-Rq7_8vxmnSNdjkOs7S-ieBBAeIxGGWjweUxKPN2QJs3Lh5UhXPMmqJujGSvL-lgWUmduaFayh85IB_jRk2lU_BQ71bGOHg/s200/P7020168.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWHTag_rwuL92AsJxOB0la8gxCmtePVdWH4njTniUWKp5CGaYFbf24GNuE5msglYk9nsHRHH5AJ-yaQ_jaR1-Cv6uA7ORdmwNePiKZ27g160K-hYuAvTKlJVX1vWT28dkd-uGHDChyphenhyphen92c/s1600/P7020170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="380" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWHTag_rwuL92AsJxOB0la8gxCmtePVdWH4njTniUWKp5CGaYFbf24GNuE5msglYk9nsHRHH5AJ-yaQ_jaR1-Cv6uA7ORdmwNePiKZ27g160K-hYuAvTKlJVX1vWT28dkd-uGHDChyphenhyphen92c/s640/P7020170.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Too many good views to stop taking panoramics!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4PfHSWUKOBYXEcLFENJ47AXLqBYdH_BHCk3loK8lfcQrbni5EmnOO_AGHmNP1Ye7RpJYiDnr1HZqzZ1X9p5v-WECHEjJkezd6jfICARj88IcorJUZio_m9ssgQYQcDBMEmleGpJQWvWg/s1600/P7020171.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4PfHSWUKOBYXEcLFENJ47AXLqBYdH_BHCk3loK8lfcQrbni5EmnOO_AGHmNP1Ye7RpJYiDnr1HZqzZ1X9p5v-WECHEjJkezd6jfICARj88IcorJUZio_m9ssgQYQcDBMEmleGpJQWvWg/s200/P7020171.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCLSYeTPvsF5IqInFwsdp-Gll29eZ8XRCAeDs2fKTKa75YbJPkVD460N0tXaJIWfN7A-ONrA7S7Ihjqkwt5lL2Pd-YxOqEfGJ6uXfAN9fYCZKqHLvVc9sSLyxtjxuH0ewa-peLw4Er_J4/s1600/Jenn+-+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCLSYeTPvsF5IqInFwsdp-Gll29eZ8XRCAeDs2fKTKa75YbJPkVD460N0tXaJIWfN7A-ONrA7S7Ihjqkwt5lL2Pd-YxOqEfGJ6uXfAN9fYCZKqHLvVc9sSLyxtjxuH0ewa-peLw4Er_J4/s200/Jenn+-+10.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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Snack break!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmBd2KErnVwtdDlNviM5m4UsUauDzqg5tGU80Tz2F3aBelJE_CTeQqg-I5dBkN9qRScs-UwL_U2f1jlvI5CDpr6itLqjObVcButALCoPHnlhC51RbhV1sqUsxbNX5vwMzamZTBm8Mu4A8/s1600/P7020172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmBd2KErnVwtdDlNviM5m4UsUauDzqg5tGU80Tz2F3aBelJE_CTeQqg-I5dBkN9qRScs-UwL_U2f1jlvI5CDpr6itLqjObVcButALCoPHnlhC51RbhV1sqUsxbNX5vwMzamZTBm8Mu4A8/s320/P7020172.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marks from mud slides on the mountain.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhprWRLmRCnIIydF4PBwn5XMlKCR78GqC_CzIdJgoWGJgHBAxng8KL0iQ6kXd3p6YLPA1hMvMMmc7kIytvI85juu4QTGWwH1jqKEiJK-PikkcugRBuN5THTcA-JzO8u2BXTZnxuc5mHcaI/s1600/P7020173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhprWRLmRCnIIydF4PBwn5XMlKCR78GqC_CzIdJgoWGJgHBAxng8KL0iQ6kXd3p6YLPA1hMvMMmc7kIytvI85juu4QTGWwH1jqKEiJK-PikkcugRBuN5THTcA-JzO8u2BXTZnxuc5mHcaI/s320/P7020173.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where we're headed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVXLRu8vCryRyYbgk8hf6-B1HLCS0nDzxuxbvZHGFRToO2WSvFy-BpmoVTWPk7emWrumNDg5CYfCWBWj7-oq81htloTpRc6FHst5BYlX7gLYf03qGbgV8dU4MqbWRVBdzDD_RhcXRYi4Q/s1600/P7020175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVXLRu8vCryRyYbgk8hf6-B1HLCS0nDzxuxbvZHGFRToO2WSvFy-BpmoVTWPk7emWrumNDg5CYfCWBWj7-oq81htloTpRc6FHst5BYlX7gLYf03qGbgV8dU4MqbWRVBdzDD_RhcXRYi4Q/s320/P7020175.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marble atop Mt. Guyot</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIEsHgxVb9EewawZozdd58ijwKt5veUk23pAuYmG4yz3lmzoIRMQYXW3eAasi-PRnngQqU1TNscbNI_15TnsRHqLP-zvT8APqYlq0c0ZeoPrYItI2YblV6cDjzfPwnBX4zy-ON02p-3AE/s1600/P7020176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIEsHgxVb9EewawZozdd58ijwKt5veUk23pAuYmG4yz3lmzoIRMQYXW3eAasi-PRnngQqU1TNscbNI_15TnsRHqLP-zvT8APqYlq0c0ZeoPrYItI2YblV6cDjzfPwnBX4zy-ON02p-3AE/s200/P7020176.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimVZIfDGJC2fp4rCViSXJawPJxOb4ESttf7nS3-MR5xWnx3pjdkkLPOBREc-4CUP3IEZApiCsCQuIHcGQDqS5eyL7ugwFN27Kv3eJCBsETZfUiAxLoHP4xAeH6-N_3E-p7VGr6GRvJREo/s1600/P7020177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimVZIfDGJC2fp4rCViSXJawPJxOb4ESttf7nS3-MR5xWnx3pjdkkLPOBREc-4CUP3IEZApiCsCQuIHcGQDqS5eyL7ugwFN27Kv3eJCBsETZfUiAxLoHP4xAeH6-N_3E-p7VGr6GRvJREo/s200/P7020177.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Mt. Guyot (#9) done!<br />
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Mt Guyot technically does not count as one of the NH 48 4000 footers due to something about how the elevation change from either side trail is not great enough. Either way, it's still over 4k feet tall. I count it! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5hKFAz2SD0jVC31dvIoDW51G9K_g6AEWrrE6VucAzCOQJtbLqnRG9iQUGm5cR0hU3RAv3W4cq9FIwJLqr0PNk-R-xoLtmhQrsARZDOQzWR_agtE1JlfQZ2TyUu4oXcxjm7YF6yO-1LQ/s1600/P7020178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5hKFAz2SD0jVC31dvIoDW51G9K_g6AEWrrE6VucAzCOQJtbLqnRG9iQUGm5cR0hU3RAv3W4cq9FIwJLqr0PNk-R-xoLtmhQrsARZDOQzWR_agtE1JlfQZ2TyUu4oXcxjm7YF6yO-1LQ/s320/P7020178.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Off to Mt. Bond</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2dItCavQ5rCkB0DuvxRfBtBvHgIdvqAV_qCnXLoA5SHzClxM2Uf4YkHCmVS7pf_Dv8Dys5P_ImxCpuK9b2Bh1rB57-ytYVhtEZsC4N02PQIiVt7tXE1lWgNRmMwwNhTpkuSqmvqFc5k/s1600/P7020179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2dItCavQ5rCkB0DuvxRfBtBvHgIdvqAV_qCnXLoA5SHzClxM2Uf4YkHCmVS7pf_Dv8Dys5P_ImxCpuK9b2Bh1rB57-ytYVhtEZsC4N02PQIiVt7tXE1lWgNRmMwwNhTpkuSqmvqFc5k/s320/P7020179.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Pemi Loop actually only barely touches the Pemigewassett Wilderness, but you do get to see it on the western side. They even mark it for you. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp0EZINwe-ZGieiqc9wEwX9D9c9MZDZGPKNkWkONR-lP3BBu9PnduvK_c2HxdMuDFDbGQJeiZAANY1vjbTFlyXu0mnFOd-q1hFPXu6vNk_0JhYEtlF7reXVY7fmlAnqp-6EYiYT5M6LzI/s1600/P7020183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp0EZINwe-ZGieiqc9wEwX9D9c9MZDZGPKNkWkONR-lP3BBu9PnduvK_c2HxdMuDFDbGQJeiZAANY1vjbTFlyXu0mnFOd-q1hFPXu6vNk_0JhYEtlF7reXVY7fmlAnqp-6EYiYT5M6LzI/s320/P7020183.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An option to hike to West Bond. Not today!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4bqSe49vVIcHcykIrHfH-WktgnFAytPWYMrVTSVnEOeYiWvcbcKeZBSXK6yOFVSLHabBGQaRHpevHzwwYhKxpXd9aeBOl4GORfGb7S-vv96noF0OkDJXKHfkN8LzrM66Vtqo8Ih4MNEc/s1600/P7020184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4bqSe49vVIcHcykIrHfH-WktgnFAytPWYMrVTSVnEOeYiWvcbcKeZBSXK6yOFVSLHabBGQaRHpevHzwwYhKxpXd9aeBOl4GORfGb7S-vv96noF0OkDJXKHfkN8LzrM66Vtqo8Ih4MNEc/s200/P7020184.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKiTx9_0FCdCGtIO_Wc63k8UD8j6ZTW-jI0S73vN2Mt9M7YYeAPTbTQ1VmGyOfqb9VJg6k7ZYZ4qUl4SL5VzeVWOJ5wBirZmCQgimQ0xb-2_L9umT4A5kNsqDPXQuv7L3WLxEDcjbfOBA/s1600/P7020185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKiTx9_0FCdCGtIO_Wc63k8UD8j6ZTW-jI0S73vN2Mt9M7YYeAPTbTQ1VmGyOfqb9VJg6k7ZYZ4qUl4SL5VzeVWOJ5wBirZmCQgimQ0xb-2_L9umT4A5kNsqDPXQuv7L3WLxEDcjbfOBA/s200/P7020185.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVarY1e3azsY-mxNnD_1Wg5MGo3fkOAp3Tt1IvPl6TNSPr3UrtakzOpCWgS5vxS3KftcC6dYvT3InFYWA4Vx7tqi1ziRMLRO_2p1IddtioNupT_fFB6quJ3Y2081Z28UaBoGgZyDUXOU/s1600/P7020186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVarY1e3azsY-mxNnD_1Wg5MGo3fkOAp3Tt1IvPl6TNSPr3UrtakzOpCWgS5vxS3KftcC6dYvT3InFYWA4Vx7tqi1ziRMLRO_2p1IddtioNupT_fFB6quJ3Y2081Z28UaBoGgZyDUXOU/s200/P7020186.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje5WXpFjs-IejEA9nlJ8XFX_0EP3OZDjvQj34qO6y_dEQh34ZVa5ryKDxCJjxQ1oxbnG2PY_UHI_p1CJxZs0uheGfYAdWpwgeFT-o-3gxa6uXaerl2Upm0qyL0t-30MAlgoZ-EVVGQaJw/s1600/P7020188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje5WXpFjs-IejEA9nlJ8XFX_0EP3OZDjvQj34qO6y_dEQh34ZVa5ryKDxCJjxQ1oxbnG2PY_UHI_p1CJxZs0uheGfYAdWpwgeFT-o-3gxa6uXaerl2Upm0qyL0t-30MAlgoZ-EVVGQaJw/s200/P7020188.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Mt. Bond (#10) done! Only one left to go. And you get to see it the entire time from Mt. Bond to Mt. Bondliff.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtQuwXysxfbA92kyYQv6jgU4odABz0-IjGB3SFO3Xm0UmbFsPqLlA2cbv6iOD5MKMWp90K5HDkqwUDa9FWcrhe7Xkv-fZKG4ahcY9FajKU27x9xt48BlLMQqfhfpgwQavbPNWVn1fuVEk/s1600/P7020189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtQuwXysxfbA92kyYQv6jgU4odABz0-IjGB3SFO3Xm0UmbFsPqLlA2cbv6iOD5MKMWp90K5HDkqwUDa9FWcrhe7Xkv-fZKG4ahcY9FajKU27x9xt48BlLMQqfhfpgwQavbPNWVn1fuVEk/s200/P7020189.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWviuh3NUxzj-5GQ70p_YHDQlYcE_fyVeSUr-KTNkzH1SEpcUTgQQCSQ4RZO-wFE3l6XFsGA2XmUC3VulIMTsGyxOVKeRcIWxNuTglKQ_nwvlV_mWAB68Z_yG4PTEoAZesybOa_ktfoIc/s1600/P7020190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWviuh3NUxzj-5GQ70p_YHDQlYcE_fyVeSUr-KTNkzH1SEpcUTgQQCSQ4RZO-wFE3l6XFsGA2XmUC3VulIMTsGyxOVKeRcIWxNuTglKQ_nwvlV_mWAB68Z_yG4PTEoAZesybOa_ktfoIc/s200/P7020190.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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The above view of Mt. Bondcliff from Mt. Bond allows you to gauge how far (aka. slow) you are traveling.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSwCN_hSznzFbZ_ywb6ojNEA8So5cMtTMDRFRDvpdEGIhur1Opy1piwVRlrwV6ndWQ_erhER1_wyzApLaK9_G1NM7vkxs03h22jMEFKmm07inbdHhHdzSjj1JnUhlEK0CZQg_X1yT7vI/s1600/P7020191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSwCN_hSznzFbZ_ywb6ojNEA8So5cMtTMDRFRDvpdEGIhur1Opy1piwVRlrwV6ndWQ_erhER1_wyzApLaK9_G1NM7vkxs03h22jMEFKmm07inbdHhHdzSjj1JnUhlEK0CZQg_X1yT7vI/s200/P7020191.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtATimtXp2_vKRTVLUPtyM8TehIHRNB-Jw9DdCYUAvIcnRnn1cF4FnBhhK_X9VXTqYHJ52qxDVweMLHSeev6RIDiwftxJj4hT8YnPvaOH2Wc3Mdymwes95i_eei_XH_VjE-8s5Dnuxrek/s1600/P7020192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtATimtXp2_vKRTVLUPtyM8TehIHRNB-Jw9DdCYUAvIcnRnn1cF4FnBhhK_X9VXTqYHJ52qxDVweMLHSeev6RIDiwftxJj4hT8YnPvaOH2Wc3Mdymwes95i_eei_XH_VjE-8s5Dnuxrek/s200/P7020192.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivI0QkiidWKavQVs0jJ44MxpSsHAbS8HV_IGDFypAmnsQAHCqSS2TUZackHXp-7_H4CYXyQXbFNuYnHdF-URzxvLPdsDMUUSPaWJ3cfUbrTVhcLwQsjlF_TZzMjroDpQzCdBVYOrMJoi8/s1600/P7020194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="318" data-original-width="1600" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivI0QkiidWKavQVs0jJ44MxpSsHAbS8HV_IGDFypAmnsQAHCqSS2TUZackHXp-7_H4CYXyQXbFNuYnHdF-URzxvLPdsDMUUSPaWJ3cfUbrTVhcLwQsjlF_TZzMjroDpQzCdBVYOrMJoi8/s640/P7020194.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDyN3S7V3BNkDYi0yCdbmAch29rSK6KmACUuhCm_ni1E0qBxF3S7HfPsI8Cu1HInupsP-MP7SFk0Qixg2NlFM1h6iSUV9MpLgYmRwcLcgiUFJ7UMMuBS3dnaZoJSpNZ0BASssaRqa0B58/s1600/P7020196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDyN3S7V3BNkDYi0yCdbmAch29rSK6KmACUuhCm_ni1E0qBxF3S7HfPsI8Cu1HInupsP-MP7SFk0Qixg2NlFM1h6iSUV9MpLgYmRwcLcgiUFJ7UMMuBS3dnaZoJSpNZ0BASssaRqa0B58/s320/P7020196.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caught ya!!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFBB2dOFicX6nj3cOZuolVvDojL87N3yvEXA-skyIc8kPJ02dNXZ4Q5lxOekECp33nH8zVmAuXPva58mSyKkA7QK0T9uxZPukRG3aG_OBiy4aKwZ2RrDBpOsCGpsmL4JpEXayAlJgTJeE/s1600/P7020197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFBB2dOFicX6nj3cOZuolVvDojL87N3yvEXA-skyIc8kPJ02dNXZ4Q5lxOekECp33nH8zVmAuXPva58mSyKkA7QK0T9uxZPukRG3aG_OBiy4aKwZ2RrDBpOsCGpsmL4JpEXayAlJgTJeE/s320/P7020197.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I only have ten fingers, so restart!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5vNV1oxypQyZZ3E7edtzuswXDwLagKTT_NVR9E1sjhr-Nlbo_RKMrgYCtfEUcbIbWh-gnEmkgAMOfg54e4jF_V4lctW9Q_iIyPjbr8TZyxFNh6xCmTUoFMpMW7UT_EmOps_TPx3jVHN4/s1600/P7020198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5vNV1oxypQyZZ3E7edtzuswXDwLagKTT_NVR9E1sjhr-Nlbo_RKMrgYCtfEUcbIbWh-gnEmkgAMOfg54e4jF_V4lctW9Q_iIyPjbr8TZyxFNh6xCmTUoFMpMW7UT_EmOps_TPx3jVHN4/s320/P7020198.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, wait! I got something. Nope, I can't balance.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2n9mTdt9MEW_6r8Vc0RbLX59UArbHkOPEOnRy7_VnHOwNOnD9VPdh90pRbZ3MOE2rGti2F5y6xjWNe4pGw3N9GizpVroKTwNrYBqHPUsdtAi_8wPV3P5OeJhjKqIGD-OUStTdp3TcOc/s1600/P7020199.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2n9mTdt9MEW_6r8Vc0RbLX59UArbHkOPEOnRy7_VnHOwNOnD9VPdh90pRbZ3MOE2rGti2F5y6xjWNe4pGw3N9GizpVroKTwNrYBqHPUsdtAi_8wPV3P5OeJhjKqIGD-OUStTdp3TcOc/s320/P7020199.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Got it! Ten fingers and one toe.</td></tr>
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Mt. Bondcliff (#11) done! Mt. Bondliff was it. Now it was time to head back down to the car. Only... 12 miles to go? I think. haha <br />
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At the top of Mt. Bondcliff, a couple turned to us and asked "Are you Jenn and Kurt?" (*Queue that weird feeling that you're being watched*)<br />
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Our hiking stalkers who had not added Galehead Mtn to their trek were out ahead of us. They had told this couple that we were coming behind. It was hilarious! They told us we were only 5 minutes behind them. However, as with most of what people had told us throughout the day ("Just around the corner," "Oh, about half a mile more," "You're getting close," etc), we took it with a rather large grain of salt. The "Just around the corner" comment from a hiker when we were looking for Mt. Garfield turned out to be a 30-45 minute hike. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">The trails truly do mess</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">with your sense of time or distance!</span></div>
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As we've been hiking throughout the day, meeting people, chatting about our respective adventures, we kept being told "Oh, so you're going to hike into the night" to which we respond "Uuhhhh, no. We should be good." Remember, we left ourselves a one hour buffer!<br />
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By the Galehead Hut, we both knew that our goal time (14 hours) was a bit out of reach. Yes, we added an extra mile for Galehead Mtn, but even with that discounted, we were not keeping up to pace. We didn't talk about it much until after Mt. Bondcliff. <br />
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We had 10-12 miles to go. About 5-7 of those were downhill. Then we'd hit the Lincoln Woods Trail and have 5 miles of flat trail. Our goal was to hit the flats before sunset. We didn't particularly want to get caught on rocky terrain in the dark. <br />
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We began jogging any terrain we could as we quietly (yes, likely another low blood sugar span) made our way down Bondcliff. <br />
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Cooling off in the cold river water! <br />
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I'd say halfway down the trail, we ran into our hiking stalkers again. They were so happy to hear that the couple on top of Mt. Bondcliff had called us out like they told them to. Haha Adventures in the woods with strangers!! The best kind of adventures.<br />
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We wished each other good luck and headed off. We both were racing daylight. They had targeted 20 hours or less for their day (having started at 4am) and we had naively targeted 14 hours (at that point likely already over 14 hours). <br />
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On we ran/hiked.<br />
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The trail became a very slow decline with a lot of mud. As many points, I began not caring to skirt the water or mud and walked right through it. We had to walk through three (or was it four) river bends. They were nice and cold on the feet and woke us up a bit. <br />
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And then we made it!!<br />
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The Lincoln Woods Trail! <br />
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We were not home yet, but we knew that we had only flat mileage left and we had beaten the setting sun. We took a quick break to grab a snack, pull out our headlamps, and were on our way.<br />
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Jenn would later tell me that around this time (as we finished the Bondcliff Trail and as we started the Lincoln Woods Trail), that I had been slurring my words. I can't imagine what may have gone through her head. haha I didn't notice a thing, but I did know that my energy was fading. I ate a pack of Clif energy chews before we started running and my mood picked back up enough to get me through. <br />
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We headed off at what felt like a brisk pace. We were roughly 4 minutes over either of our natural easy paces. The mountains had certainly done us in. <br />
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Roughly halfway back, we came up on a bridge. Jenn yelled out as it momentarily fooled her. She thought for half a second that it was the bridge back to the parking lot. We still had 2.6 miles to go.<br />
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I could have laid there and listened to the water rush by all night long! I was beat! <br />
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Onward we ran into the night.<br />
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As we made our way, we ran into a few last hikers of the day.<br />
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The first guy was rather unhappy to hear how many miles we had left. He had a large pack on and had been hiking 22 miles already. We tried to cheer him up, but didn't linger long. We wanted to get home too!<br />
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Then we ran into Andy. We had met poor Andy on our climb up to Mt. Garfield. Two of Andy's friends had convinced him (rather easily I believe) to come for "a hike" with them. They did warn him of the elevation, but Andy was a good sport and headed out. Compared to his two friends, Andy was having a rough day (as we were!) while his friends looked to be out for a stroll. Andy was doing AWESOME!<br />
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We ran into Andy's friends at the Osseo Trail turnoff. They were waiting for him to come through. I seriously hope that they bought Andy a beer, dinner, AND a solid breakfast the next day (if not a future knee replacement).<br />
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The last group we came upon were three gentlemen with large packs. They were quite happy to hear there was only half a mile left. We didn't catch names as we were all eager to push on, but we enjoyed each other's excitement in being so close to finishing the adventure. <br />
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And it was done!!<br />
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<br />
We made it back to the bridge at 9:30pm, a total trip of 16:10. My GPS had died after 14:41 total time, but Jenn's watch clocked 30.3 miles. All the maps tell us the loop should be 31.5 miles plus the extra 1.0 mile up to Galehead Mtn. At the time though, neither of us even thought to care.<br />
<br />
My legs had agreed to run the final 5 miles and my body surprisingly felt good. As soon as we got to the bridge and I mentally knew I was done for the day, my body sent me a message....<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"We're going to shut down now."</span></div>
<br />
Hahaha. The 0.25 mile walk to the car may have been the toughest part of the trail, but it was worth every moment. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<br />
If you ever get the chance, itch, or call to head out to the White Mountains in New Hampshire, I strongly encourage you to visit the Pemi Loop. If you'd like something smaller, check out the side trails that go up to the Franconia Ridge. As long as you avoid a foggy day, the views are incredible!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Plan out your post-adventure food beforehand!</span></div>
<br />
For anyone who does tackle the Pemi Loop, I encourage you to plan your post-adventure meal beforehand. As two people from urban environments, we are used to a number of places being open quite late! We did not think about it being a small town, on a Sunday, going on 10pm when we left the parking lot. Thankfully, one place did offer to make us a takeout pizza. Glorious!! We then rested and downed two breakfasts the next morning before hobbling home. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<br />
<u><b>Questions</b></u><br />
<b>1. What is your next adventure?</b><br />
<i>Right now, I am back to triathlon season, though I may see about the Presidential Traverse later this year.</i><br />
<br />
<b>2. Have you ever done a long single day hike or maybe a multi-day hike?</b><br />
<i>This was my first long hike. I've done 3-4 hour trips before, but nothing even close to this. I'd do it again without question though. What an incredible experience!!</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">DREAM. BELIEVE. ACHIEVE. </span><br />
Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-73508806568608293462017-07-05T10:20:00.000-04:002017-07-05T10:20:53.844-04:00RACE REPORT: 2017 Rev3 Quassy Olympic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZJWu14pBjjzioMeYd1MUEbu-4hwWbCFsnfP5RrcCNBkmvvoFUgd-RJHoOMLh3GfvEHs7Ts1eCg4BVw5qgmcqYARkhvDGk6DGvymfaznLev58FsOkkV24AvOUFKpT8hYt73ooGxYduKP0/s1600/Rev3+Quassy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="400" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZJWu14pBjjzioMeYd1MUEbu-4hwWbCFsnfP5RrcCNBkmvvoFUgd-RJHoOMLh3GfvEHs7Ts1eCg4BVw5qgmcqYARkhvDGk6DGvymfaznLev58FsOkkV24AvOUFKpT8hYt73ooGxYduKP0/s320/Rev3+Quassy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Rev3 Quassy Olympic</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">June 3rd, 2017 </span></i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have raced the Rev3 Quassy 4 times (2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015). Last year, I opted to race IM 70.3 Eagleman instead and to be honest, it felt WEIRD! It was a good change, but man did it feel odd to be on course the weekend of the race and not be checking my tire pressure, setting up transition, thinking about the water temperature, and such. This year, I was back!! And I branched out to try the Olympic this time. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Funny thing...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We Rev3 Quassy is called the <span style="color: red;"><b>Beast of the Northeast</b></span> and most consider that the doing of the Half race on Sunday. It has 3800 ft of elevation change on the bike and 850 ft on the run. Having raced it four times and trained on it more times than I can recall, it truly is a beast any way you cut it. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
However, the Olympic is just as formidable! Just look at the elevation change per mile comparison.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rev3 Quassy Half Bike = 68 ft </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rev3 Quassy Oly Bike = 68 ft<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rev3 Quassy Half Run = 65 ft</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Rev3 Quassy Oly Run = 59 ft</div>
<br />
Sure, you can argue that you don't have the same total elevation by the end of the day, but the pain is of the same caliber all day long!<br />
<br />
But enough of that. Let's get to racing!<br />
<br />
<u><b>PRE-RACE</b></u><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As you might tell from my previous reports, I am 70.3-focused. However, I am focusing this year on some more intensity with three Olympics before heading back to the 70.3 in September. So I approached this with as much focus as I would an A-race. I shaved the legs on Wednesday, got a new haircut on Thursday, had my typical carbo-load breakfast on Friday, and tapered much like I would normally. Everything in place!</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The only addition to this was a Thursday night sprint tri. I would have raced the previous week, but that race was cancelled. In order to get the cobwebs shaken out, Lake T it was! </div>
<br />
<u><b>RACE MORNING</b></u><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Air Temp = 50-60F/10-15.6C (7-9:30a)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Water Temp = 64F/17.8C </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Mostly Cloudy</i></div>
<br />
I live approximately 40 minutes from the race site. Transition opened at 5:15a and based on previous experience, the front row parking is full about 20-30 minutes before that time. Therefore, I was up at 3:20am and parked at the race by 4:40a. Am I type A?, yes!<br />
<br />
My morning breakfast was the usual; 3 over easy eggs, 2 pieces of toast, a banana, and a full jar of applesauce. I would swap my typical 1 hour pre-race Powerbar for a double scoop of UCan protein (chocolate) with half the water, and had a caffeinated GU gel 20 minutes before the swim start. For an Olympic, I start caffeine right away while at 70.3, I wait until mile 35 on the bike.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Mistakes are getting easier to overlook.</span></div>
<br />
As I began setting up transition, I pulled out my bottles, shoes, kit, socks, gear, etc. I started to pull out my race nutrition when I realized that I had the UCan hydrate which goes into my aero bottle, but I had left the aero bottle on my desk at home. Uh-oh!! At a longer race, yes, that would have bothered me as I know I am not the best at maintaining my hydration throughout a race. However, given the air temps and shorter format of the race, I let it slide. That's one thing I'll never forget again! haha<br />
<br />
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<br />
<u><b>SWIM</b></u><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><i>GPS</i></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>None. I don't wear it.</i><u><i> </i></u></div>
<br />
<i>The swim is a clockwise triangle format. It was angled differently this year to avoid the glare of the sun on the second slide of the triangle. Whether good or bad, the sun spent most of the race hiding, so there was no chance of being blinded.</i><br />
<br />
I lined up in the front line of roughly 15-20 men for the first wave of the day. This meant the swim would be smooth, but the rest of the race would likely be quiet. As the air horn went off, I ran out into the water until I could no longer lift my legs above water. I dove in and began swimming. I noticed multiple people to my left and right doing dolphin dives. For a split second, I thought "Should I do that too? I don't want to lose ground." That was quickly answered by the observation that those dolphin diving were not gaining in placement. I kept swimming. <br />
<br />
The pack quickly divided. There were a group that broke away early on. I believe post-race that it was 3-4 swimmers. As they separated from the main group, I noticed that no one was left on either side. As is my norm, I found myself in calm, open water. As much as I would prefer to have a draft and do better with one, I am quite used to swimming alone.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Holy Veering!!</span></b></div>
<br />
I know I veer left as I swim. I do my best to compensate for that by shooting right of my target. But on that morning, my body was determined to head off into the open lake! I can't even blame other swimmers!! These are times that I wish I wore my GPS in the swim - so that I could see how far off course I swam. I did begin to dig into me mentally, but I decided to ask myself as a coach what to do. I just kept correcting and realized it was something I would have to work on. I couldn't completely fix the issue right then, so why worry?<br />
<br />
I've been working lately on productive mental talk<br />
and today that helped!<br />
<br />
As I came to the end of the swim, of course my body had one last laugh at me by mixing up the arrangement of the final two buoys and swinging extra wide. But I made it to the swim exit, popped up, and continued on all the same.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>SWIM = 21:58</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Not bad for veering wide for most of the course.</i></div>
<br />
My dad informed me afterwards that this is one way he can always pick me out of a swimming crowd. I have a specific rhythm in my stroke and I always veer left. Thanks Dad!! <br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
<u><b>TRANSITION 1</b></u><br />
<br />
If there is one thing to note about the elevation change in the Quassy course, it is that it's spread out quite evenly. Unlike some courses that have sections of all the elevation gain and others that are quite flat, Quassy has hills all day long; even coming out of the swim!<br />
<br />
Out of the water, you head uphill to the parking lot where transition is set up. They do offer an aid station just before the transition entrance which is nice.<br />
<br />
I found my bike, got out of the wetsuit, put on my bike shoes, a pair of light winter gloves, sunglasses, helmet, and was off!!<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
<u><b>BIKE</b></u><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><u>GPS</u></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Screen 1 = Cadence, Mileage, & HR</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Screen 2 = Average Lap HR (never looked at it)</i></div>
<br />
Normally, I never put my shoes on in transition, but the bike course begins with... Wait for it... an uphill! I made the decision to not attempt getting into my shoes while on a hill. In hind sight, I think I'd go back to leaving the shoes on the bike.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Live and learn!!</span></b></div>
<br />
However, I did make another first time change that worked out well. I have raced Quassy Half before with 50 degree air temps at the start. In my recollection, it was FREEZING for the first 10 miles or so. I survived and did fine, but it wasn't a pleasant start to the day. Being that today was even shorter, I knew I wouldn't have as much time to warm up. Therefore, I opted for the light winter gloves (they cover the full fingers). It took me extra time in transition, but the bike was much more comfortable.<br />
<br />
<i>Ok... Now the course!</i><br />
<br />
<i>The bike course is a single-loop, lollipop format with the first and last roughly 5-6 miles being the same. As mentioned, the elevation gain is comparable to the Half race based on per mile. Much of the course is even the same as the Half. We simply use a different initial/final 4 miles of road and cut out one large chunk of the Half. Altogether, the elevation is quite spread out. A forewarning is that it can be tough to find a time/place to take in nutrition as you are busy going up hill, tucking in to fly down hill, or making a turn. I fell into that pit 3 of the 4 previous times I raced here.</i><br />
<br />
As I predicted at the start line, the bike course was really quiet. I saw roughly four other riders the entire 24.8 miles. This makes the race a much bigger mental struggle than being in a pack. While I don't do my best in these conditions, I believe I've learned to cope adequately.<br />
<br />
My silent goal was to hold the HR somewhere between my sprint and 70.3 race ranges. In a sprint, I am up at 170+ bpm. In a 70.3, I am around 158-162 bpm. I held a fairly constant 160-165 bpm for the majority of the race and felt strong about that. I never felt my body begin to fatigue and was able to put out surges when I needed to. I do think I could hold the HR higher, but I was happy with the outcome as is. <br />
<br />
Nutrition was different today! As I mentioned earlier, I did not have my front hydration, so I had to remind myself to reach down and grab a frame bottle. I had guessed that over 5-6 drinks, I took in 10-12 ounces while in reality, it was more like 4 ounces. I did get in one caffeinated gel around mile 15 and it went in much faster than I expected. I was happy with that - no GI push backs!<br />
<br />
As I came up to the final 6 miles, I began to push. I wanted the last quarter of the bike to be pushed harder than the previous three-quarters. It was made a bit easier by the fact that it's net uphill in those final miles. Mission accomplished.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>BIKE = 1:12:48</b> </div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<u><b>TRANSITION 2</b></u><br />
<br />
I spent half of the bike debating what to do in transition. Normally, I go without a shirt if I'm allowed to - which I am at Rev3. But it was colder than the typical race, so maybe I would stay in my sleeved jersey. I raced in it on Thursday as a test and it's not bad. It isn't as cool as a bare chest, but it is workable. I did leave the bra in transition as well. That could be a happy medium. In the end, it was above my typical 50-degree cut off, so I went without the shirt.<br />
<br />
I rolled into transition, racked the bike, took off the helmet and glasses, sat down, put on my shoes, grabbed my gear and ran. While moving, I put on my hat and race belt and switched the watch to run mode.<br />
<br />
<u><b>RUN</b></u><br />
<br />
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><u>GPS</u></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Screen 1 = Heart Rate</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Screen 2 = Pace (I forgot I had put this on there)</i></div>
<br />
What's that in my shoe??<br />
<br />
I'm used to feeling like there's something in my shoe. Just a crease in the sock or rock in the bottom of the shoe. I kept running a quarter mile until I realized what it was. On Thursday, the clip to my Lock Laces fell off. I couldn't put it back on at the race, so I left it in the shoe figuring I'd remember to put it back on the laces Saturday morning. Nope! I had even forgotten where I put it until just then.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Funny thing...</b></span></div>
<br />
I stopped, took off my shoe, got the clip out, put my shoe back on, and continued to run the entire race with that clip in my left hand. I'd just put it back on when I got home. But somewhere between the finish line and chatting with friends just outside the finisher's chute, I lost it. Haha!! <br />
<br />
My goal was to stay comfortable for 2 miles, survive the nasty hill at mile 3, then push mile 5 and 6 hard. The pace does not reveal this, but my HR does. I was steady (actually slowly increasing) from the start through mile 4. Then I spiked up a bit and held it up through the finish. Again, a process goal complete!!<br />
<br />
As I left Quassy, I was about 0.05 miles from "Mais," the athlete in front of me. He held his distance all the way through mile 3.<br />
<br />
As we ran down covered roads, I debated on whether to stop and pee. I had been wanting to pee since the swim. I opted not to only because I knew that there were porta johns easily accessible at each aid station. I'd stick to my rabbit until I absolutely had to leave him.<br />
<br />
At mile 3, there was a quick downhill before the nasty hill. Apparently Mais is not a downhill runner and I quickly passed him. As we came to the hill, I put my head down and repeated "Just survive" to myself. No need to overcook the legs here. I wanted to do that in mile 5 and 6. Plus, the last time I was on this hill was 2015 and I had to walk it - I was toast then. I wasn't going to be now.<br />
<br />
Another athlete passed me towards the top. I held with him through 3.5 miles and then he drifted away a bit. As we hit mile 4, the road begins to decline and I began to push. With that, I held onto this new athlete (he was in a red, white, and blue kit and in my age group!). I held onto him through the end but was never able to close. We both did however, close in on two other athletes in the final mile. The final 1.5 miles is uphill; the same hill we ran down to start the run. It's a tough section only because it's the very end and if you've paced it well, you're already pushing hard at that point. I came within 25 yards of one athlete, but as he told me post-race, he could hear my feet and that was motivation enough to put in an extra push. We were 4 seconds apart. I was not unhappy with that finish though. It was a solid process run!!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>RUN = 39:58</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>FINISH = 2:17:37 </b></div>
<br />
<br />
<u><b>POST-RACE</b></u><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>The afternoon of hot flashes.</b></span></div>
<br />
After I finished, I talked with a few friends and then went to put clothes on as I began to cool off. About 30 minutes later, I was warm and began shedding layers. I spent about 1.5 hours spectating and then got cold again - back on with the clothes and jacket. A little later, off they come. I would realize the next morning that I likely had a cold, but wow was that a weird afternoon!!<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
I spent most of the afternoon under the bridge at mile 5.6 of the run taunting people as they came up the final hill. Then I packed my transition gear, got some food, and volunteered at packet pick up.<br />
<br />
All around, it was a GREAT day!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
-------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<br />
<u><b>QUESTIONS</b></u><br />
<b>1. Have you raced a Rev3 event before? </b><br />
<i>Yes, Quassy and Cedar Point. I'll race Poconos and IM 70.3 Maine (still a Rev3 Race) this year.</i><br />
<br />
<b>2. Do you race with process goals, metric goals, or both?</b><br />
<i>I much prefer process goals, but supplement with metric goals at times as long as my perception is matching them. </i><br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">DREAM. BELIEVE. ACHIEVE. </span></b>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-90930077300338501592017-05-19T18:03:00.001-04:002017-05-19T18:03:37.937-04:00Rev3 Quassy Half Rev Bike Course [2017]<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Ot5MnfUemR_S8AtMKqXMdy-6xFfmCeJu9Mgidc2qkTsTj-N6IWv1uDY_6lEZkKs8STTbVaGdHIXnhZsYNq3MRqWIapxGsRD3O0Y9FIGEkci77WqSS9ddNLPnOuVBZzQ8LSKOTeqM1zQ/s1600/Rev3+Quassy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Ot5MnfUemR_S8AtMKqXMdy-6xFfmCeJu9Mgidc2qkTsTj-N6IWv1uDY_6lEZkKs8STTbVaGdHIXnhZsYNq3MRqWIapxGsRD3O0Y9FIGEkci77WqSS9ddNLPnOuVBZzQ8LSKOTeqM1zQ/s400/Rev3+Quassy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Rev3 Quassy</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">2017</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Half Rev Bike Course</span></div>
<br />
<br />
Here it is!! The bike course for the 2017 Rev3 Quassy Half Rev in visual format! If you are looking for the Olympic Course, HERE it is. They share a good amount of road, but for obvious reasons the Half has a bit more distance to cover.<br />
<br />
I have raced the half four times and since it is in my backyard (30 min away), I have ridden the course too many times to count. It's a GREAT ride that never let's you get bored. There is ALWAYS something to do; climb that hill, zoom down the backside, turn, turn, beautiful view, climb again, etc.<br />
<br />
For those unfamiliar with the course, it centers around Quassy Amusement Park in Middlebury, CT.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>30 min from Hartford, CT</li>
<li><2 from="" hours="" li="" nyc="">
</2></li>
<li>2 hours from Boston, MA</li>
</ul>
It's
the perfect venue for any triathlete! If you want an Olympic race, we
have it! If you want a half, we have it! Don't like to run?, we have
an aquabike! Do you like to race with your buddies?, we have relays!
If you want a place where your little ones can have fun while you race,
we have an amusement park! Do your little ones want to race too?!
We've got a kids race! <br />
<br />
First off, the <a href="http://rev3tri.com/quassy/course-maps/">Rev3 Quassy Half Rev Bike Course map</a>.<br />
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<br />
<br />
Briefly, the course starts with an 8 mile stretch that you will back track along at the very end, then goes in a misshapen lollipop with one 6 mile O&B (3 miles each way). In total, there is 3810 feet of elevation change which is spread out throughout the entire course.<br />
<br />
Many athletes race the Half Rev at Rev3 Quassy as a tune up for IRONMAN Lake Placid. Why? Because it is at a perfect time in training (7 weeks before IMLP) and there is more elevation gain at Quassy than there is in one loop of Lake Placid. Many will say that if you can handle Quassy, you're ready for IMLP. I've done both. I quite hardily agree!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><u><b>A Note on Equipment</b></u></span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Whether you are from a flat or hilly area, I strongly recommend an 11-28
cassette for this course no matter what size chain rings you have or
whether you're riding a triathlon or road bike. The 28 (or larger if
you'd like) will come in handy with some long climbs and punchy hills.
The 11 will come in handy for those who like to build up their speed on
the downhills. This course has it all!! <br />
<br />
If you do not consider yourself strong with climbing at a low cadence, I
may suggest looking into a compact (or mid-compact) chain ring if you
don't have one already. While my race bike has a standard 53-39,
today's ride was on a mid-compact (52-34) with an 11-28 cassette and
left me with a desire for one more gear! <br />
<br />
Plan to put out some power if you decide to race on a smaller range cassette!</blockquote>
<br />
<br />
Below is a key for those riding the course. I've split it up into the
sections that you ride out and back on as well as the loop that you
make.<br />
<ul>
<li>Head out of Quassy Amusement Park</li>
<li>Right onto Sherman Hill Rd</li>
<li>Right onto Tuttle Rd</li>
<li>Left onto White Deer Rock Rd </li>
<li>Immediate Right onto Cat Swamp Rd</li>
<li>Right onto Middle Road Turnpike</li>
<li>Left onto Quassapaug Rd </li>
<li>Right onto Main St. N</li>
</ul>
** Begin Loop **<br />
<ul>
<li>Left onto Platt Rd</li>
<li>Left onto Guernseytown Rd</li>
<li>Right onto Judd Farm Rd</li>
<li>Left onto Litchfield Rd</li>
<li>Right onto Thomaston Rd</li>
<li>Continue on Branch Rd </li>
<li>Left onto Route 109</li>
<li>Left onto S Main St (Route 254)</li>
<li>Left onto Center St</li>
<li>Left onto Northfield Rd</li>
<li>Left onto East St</li>
<li>Left onto Chestnut Hill Rd</li>
<li>Right onto Camp Dutton Rd</li>
<li>Left onto S Plains Rd. </li>
<li>Right onto County Rd</li>
<li>Right onto Alain White Rd</li>
<li>U-Turn 3 miles ahead (just past bridge)</li>
<li>Left onto East St (Route 109)</li>
<li>Right onto Benton Rd</li>
<li>Right onto Benton Rd (yes, the road does a 90-degree turn at a stop sign)</li>
<li>Bear Right onto Hard Hill Rd. N</li>
<li>Continue on Nonnewaug Rd</li>
<li>Left onto Bethlehem Rd</li>
<li>Straight onto Quassapaug Rd</li>
</ul>
** Done with loop ** <br />
<ul>
<li>Right onto Middle Road Turnpike</li>
<li>Left onto Cat Swamp Rd</li>
<li>Left onto White Deer Rock Rd</li>
<li>Immediate Right onto Tuttle Rd</li>
<li>Left onto Sherman Hill Rd</li>
<li>Left into Quassy Amusement Park </li>
</ul>
Now for some visuals and things to be aware of (steep hills, fast descents, quick turns, and road conditions).<br />
<br />
You will start your day with transition. As of this ride, it is May 6th
and Rev3 hasn't arrived quite yet, but imagine a large blue transition
area blocking out the right side of this picture. You will come FROM
that area out along the wooden fence. The mount line will be roughly
where the back end of the silver SUV is, about 50 feet from Bike Out.
There is lots of room, so please run on past the line and keep the line
itself clear for those coming behind you.<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
You'll make a gradual 90 degree turn...<br />
<br />
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<br />
...and head out the Quassy Amusement Park driveway. Spectators will be
fenced off on the right, so this is the ideal spot to clip in, slip on
the shoes, and adjust the helmet/glasses. <br />
<br />
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<br />
You will take a right out of Quassy Amusement Park and head downhill down Sherman Hill Rd. You will have plenty of time to adjust and get comfortable in the first couple of miles. <br />
<br />
About 1.5 miles later, you come up on your first turn, a right onto Tuttle Rd. <br />
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<br />
The first half of Tuttle Rd is a slow up grade. Then you star to ride downhill.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">TIP No.1</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Be cautious at the end of Tuttle Road </span></b></div>
<br />
At the end of Tuttle Rd, you have a very quick S-turn. As you approach the end of Tuttle Rd, you will see a left bend road sign.<br />
<br />
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<br />
This opens up into a very fast downhill ending in a quick S-turn.<br />
<br />
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Take a quick left onto White Deer Rock Rd and then you immediately see the right onto Cat Swamp Rd. Make the quick turn and continue on.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9U4Px6kfcZ4nLqDeR-jqCCNDPs7PLI3U_9GiTZUS1J0f1GlPv9XlXxo8733AkI0AUTD3o4rEwPm8jU1pxDeSfsCvcLqV77wJ8lHjNuEZMSyCAEMSFYFtpnMjWQZOYgBYedV4eKhME46E/s1600/P5180007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9U4Px6kfcZ4nLqDeR-jqCCNDPs7PLI3U_9GiTZUS1J0f1GlPv9XlXxo8733AkI0AUTD3o4rEwPm8jU1pxDeSfsCvcLqV77wJ8lHjNuEZMSyCAEMSFYFtpnMjWQZOYgBYedV4eKhME46E/s200/P5180007.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvDu6QOGXf7RvFoXQ240ZqPdCXVTzzfCk3FW51kY4yqAg7LhLFtaoIZHIlPiAe80yDr36zD52mPWCcar00glmyAt-uT-Qr0qzfGU2_SiTm0vCXQquvGBm4ZZvCcRHN7F0oPHXLjC4z7c/s1600/P5180008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvDu6QOGXf7RvFoXQ240ZqPdCXVTzzfCk3FW51kY4yqAg7LhLFtaoIZHIlPiAe80yDr36zD52mPWCcar00glmyAt-uT-Qr0qzfGU2_SiTm0vCXQquvGBm4ZZvCcRHN7F0oPHXLjC4z7c/s200/P5180008.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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There will be police, but PLEASE take care to not go too fast into either turn. There have been wipe outs at this corner and it is way too early to end your day!<br />
<br />
At the end of Cat Swamp Rd, you will have another quick downhill leading into a right turn onto Middle Road Turnpike.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQDYsEw2QWGOyoUv7uy1vi9xoV-WGfjkaswq7p1MfQiBKE-lYLMiOcERq6EQWrfro2wlx8GZ_3dS5QJgtbXajZzhRoO1sOg10MnqJko4x-MpxEl7IJ5z0-xd3BcJZW7gBc0PSOM-ousKk/s1600/P5180011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQDYsEw2QWGOyoUv7uy1vi9xoV-WGfjkaswq7p1MfQiBKE-lYLMiOcERq6EQWrfro2wlx8GZ_3dS5QJgtbXajZzhRoO1sOg10MnqJko4x-MpxEl7IJ5z0-xd3BcJZW7gBc0PSOM-ousKk/s200/P5180011.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieBMYurT11jDibpFthuLuyQam5LAABxjSAat__iiMgPy9Xxvme0R7PTFcMJNhcMx9mNsxxXDcQlzpfEha9kJ8Y93-h5crCH26Otu821XY6NlK4dhZVZ85Yj8QX7TGGqoKNf0D8vhHuCYE/s1600/P5180012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieBMYurT11jDibpFthuLuyQam5LAABxjSAat__iiMgPy9Xxvme0R7PTFcMJNhcMx9mNsxxXDcQlzpfEha9kJ8Y93-h5crCH26Otu821XY6NlK4dhZVZ85Yj8QX7TGGqoKNf0D8vhHuCYE/s200/P5180012.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
About half a mile later, you'll hit a rather steep uphill, a quick down with a turn, and what I call the Quassy three little bears. These are three quick uphills where people will bunch up quickly.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBp97iRvOwzlef_pq-RAmX3HlExMM1LJZAW7xofB2KuPoVsrVFGZLQSxnEPc4d5IhVIgAuDoHrftBkqjVn_Tkqw_Wf_bG7iBlvZtk-MzuoPJkeuR4vA8wAnH_ssC0UCt9Tuxq6JQFSnI8/s1600/P5180017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBp97iRvOwzlef_pq-RAmX3HlExMM1LJZAW7xofB2KuPoVsrVFGZLQSxnEPc4d5IhVIgAuDoHrftBkqjVn_Tkqw_Wf_bG7iBlvZtk-MzuoPJkeuR4vA8wAnH_ssC0UCt9Tuxq6JQFSnI8/s200/P5180017.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUtx64Yte6ijZRYHZMIeHq5cAH-_VNWnyofevKxJ_GFYN19PllKNhgKrPSqaxDykXeRk7alKSMy_KSfWjH_fHLBBBgfQrqLnqp306_w1ma97ImblXAxDxFIOOoezNh8-OoJRRuUz_5qfw/s1600/P5180018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUtx64Yte6ijZRYHZMIeHq5cAH-_VNWnyofevKxJ_GFYN19PllKNhgKrPSqaxDykXeRk7alKSMy_KSfWjH_fHLBBBgfQrqLnqp306_w1ma97ImblXAxDxFIOOoezNh8-OoJRRuUz_5qfw/s200/P5180018.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Get over the three bears, down a little hill, up a super quick steep hill, and you will hit a 4-way stop where we turn left onto Quassapaug Rd. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZBNtu5xcZjy2p0aWdUDJ1QMelV4Vgl4l69Bi4rye1ErLWnWuNb2qiZ5DSddMKUmls_0v9bLRTeBA3oceUp18CMkzEj0UiaXQ2_IgdRrEXdkEYtmurS-P9WBZF-LhdFJodmbb4SKv_sM/s1600/P5180023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZBNtu5xcZjy2p0aWdUDJ1QMelV4Vgl4l69Bi4rye1ErLWnWuNb2qiZ5DSddMKUmls_0v9bLRTeBA3oceUp18CMkzEj0UiaXQ2_IgdRrEXdkEYtmurS-P9WBZF-LhdFJodmbb4SKv_sM/s200/P5180023.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7zpGMW94t97LqfRiiblzXfseBFOoQ7xeDftUijM2VU4pHwqMk9iskBEJ98P5EZX3917rz3_kWzptyN-JYQAPsAjnG7j7e92J4aB8ilGzJE-YVRG8FnKlcgqPwhWdwysc4WmmuXfizUJs/s1600/P5180019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7zpGMW94t97LqfRiiblzXfseBFOoQ7xeDftUijM2VU4pHwqMk9iskBEJ98P5EZX3917rz3_kWzptyN-JYQAPsAjnG7j7e92J4aB8ilGzJE-YVRG8FnKlcgqPwhWdwysc4WmmuXfizUJs/s200/P5180019.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Down a nice hill for some speed and back up a quick hill to another stop
sign. Straight on! If you ride the course closer to race day or
after, the farm just ahead on the left has a wooden stand out front
where they sell corn. I've always wanted to stop. <br />
<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJEN7rtdPdruCg_rABjplAzqJ4n5_g5eNGO2ii6EkfKlSjkg8B4MzDkQSbFOW-9SPDQmq-XNA0TMEiEW4wrfPV4og8sHNc0PTfip4Ln0aDEW2TIzCKhyphenhyphen70-1MIh_6NdLdoZRVhTjVLik/s1600/P5060021.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJEN7rtdPdruCg_rABjplAzqJ4n5_g5eNGO2ii6EkfKlSjkg8B4MzDkQSbFOW-9SPDQmq-XNA0TMEiEW4wrfPV4og8sHNc0PTfip4Ln0aDEW2TIzCKhyphenhyphen70-1MIh_6NdLdoZRVhTjVLik/s320/P5060021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Another great little downhill to pick up some speed and then we hit Main
St N below. This is where the lollipop begins. Once we complete the
loop, we will be coming back from the road straight across. However, we
have to go right here. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlEB2cxNmO2xsiSVeSfwC3a4esM3uDw_Hx74-CSgcGAhfyyOqFmbwmu2kF5RwgEca3Lhf_qYl9_KnZkvExqd1mOFfyjVqyr3VTVxsRxlKMbKcI7Vf8jCNIyNhADhp7f27j2q7njjCLewI/s1600/P5060022.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlEB2cxNmO2xsiSVeSfwC3a4esM3uDw_Hx74-CSgcGAhfyyOqFmbwmu2kF5RwgEca3Lhf_qYl9_KnZkvExqd1mOFfyjVqyr3VTVxsRxlKMbKcI7Vf8jCNIyNhADhp7f27j2q7njjCLewI/s320/P5060022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Down the road, and up a few hills, you'll see six eagle statues on your left. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxaY1cSmcPf-nKRM68Wyd780N-kB3lIOK9zt4Xa4sw9dOhb0BwjP6heR_rw1omAWY_tvZNGPrKkKP7Sdw9wcWWzhJnPmRQcqR-d9ERzUTJZKmtFanytDnaImgAd8wDhTjvgvykDmhf6X4/s1600/P5060023.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxaY1cSmcPf-nKRM68Wyd780N-kB3lIOK9zt4Xa4sw9dOhb0BwjP6heR_rw1omAWY_tvZNGPrKkKP7Sdw9wcWWzhJnPmRQcqR-d9ERzUTJZKmtFanytDnaImgAd8wDhTjvgvykDmhf6X4/s320/P5060023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This marks Platt Rd where we take a left. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijcG035wlcBrhSiJKrFrqH5eJTEddr_P1-zaPEDvyKo9aLTcCc6oe-9D554AcyYXng2O3gjT17CZp5W0cHMaF4LoUTX0pWsvQ7u1yXujPj8H1ddSlvCscHj1IGmWodANpw-gIhaXBZqh8/s1600/P5060024.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijcG035wlcBrhSiJKrFrqH5eJTEddr_P1-zaPEDvyKo9aLTcCc6oe-9D554AcyYXng2O3gjT17CZp5W0cHMaF4LoUTX0pWsvQ7u1yXujPj8H1ddSlvCscHj1IGmWodANpw-gIhaXBZqh8/s200/P5060024.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOsXwb_FIznYi81kfMum33woCholuIz0gLE3-BXahtxkjMhh95AZ6iNrkfbY5I-9tuHf2x2qAb4rHpkxvYaUVZ4zhA1LyEkdw3uLJANyVwpoyCwAeCwZXtVMGGCY1b2UWyzDiS0FZzwTE/s1600/P5060025.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOsXwb_FIznYi81kfMum33woCholuIz0gLE3-BXahtxkjMhh95AZ6iNrkfbY5I-9tuHf2x2qAb4rHpkxvYaUVZ4zhA1LyEkdw3uLJANyVwpoyCwAeCwZXtVMGGCY1b2UWyzDiS0FZzwTE/s200/P5060025.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Once all the trees fill in their leaves, that fence and the colors will pop to make even the most focused athlete smile!<br />
<br />
...until you get here. At the end of Platt Rd is a short but fairly
steep climb. This is the first climb where I am happy to have that
lower end gear.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtddaMSAu5JRCXodxxSJmfp5wpB6QYSdcsillZWFStJSMXZ-eRekJsaw8Dr0nEL_NKMHGSEInHHhHBNxYRdAJdr5pzosrGCAyr_h7m0uIZYEd79-ucKMAr53SNX4Peefq9buH8TmQ666g/s1600/P5060026.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtddaMSAu5JRCXodxxSJmfp5wpB6QYSdcsillZWFStJSMXZ-eRekJsaw8Dr0nEL_NKMHGSEInHHhHBNxYRdAJdr5pzosrGCAyr_h7m0uIZYEd79-ucKMAr53SNX4Peefq9buH8TmQ666g/s320/P5060026.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
When you get to the top (like any other hill), it is tempting to build back up some speed. <b> </b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Tip No.2</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Be cautious at the end of Platt Road </b></span></div>
<br />
Once you're at the top of the hill (picture left), it is a short 0.2
miles to a hairy corner (picture right) if you are carrying too much
speed. Play it safe and build the speed back up after the turn onto
Guernseytown Rd.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDjO_KkPs6bAop4idAHNiSmdDkDCQNwI9VaJK9L7i9yJYLgSjJcLKm0mygTVOxyLx5_B2hZB57gf-_2KBYg5AYeHi-ju6qPqSflSXum8Csw0F9X2IAyWTO4VTLsS0jlgCPuXVw2f68POA/s1600/P5060027.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDjO_KkPs6bAop4idAHNiSmdDkDCQNwI9VaJK9L7i9yJYLgSjJcLKm0mygTVOxyLx5_B2hZB57gf-_2KBYg5AYeHi-ju6qPqSflSXum8Csw0F9X2IAyWTO4VTLsS0jlgCPuXVw2f68POA/s200/P5060027.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpx1Quhve3npQRg9AWrnqRn5jz7AZUYUAuadEwlXPJ6EJBy4HEYI5Vw8vmoxHS9LHHEw2WsVeBeEwy_W_9bOyNQHfXPnQFo6FtffEva0rzNRivoRUfJg2D8uiKEVioCYfXrUc68n80X4/s1600/P5060028.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpx1Quhve3npQRg9AWrnqRn5jz7AZUYUAuadEwlXPJ6EJBy4HEYI5Vw8vmoxHS9LHHEw2WsVeBeEwy_W_9bOyNQHfXPnQFo6FtffEva0rzNRivoRUfJg2D8uiKEVioCYfXrUc68n80X4/s200/P5060028.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Follow that road for a while, up and down the hills, and then you'll end up here. Take the right split.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOu_PtRXcPmZwUWgLACiBnOROwgM2-pwRL9ZDU1wmAqwF4Vq55qDGpwyqv4QJwea0nFJbfk9XgPBq5JV2O5Mg2xddZbZezr7OrWQ9on1-Bcwo0cp0SoNd-SIXJy3o3nNMsKPqKkHr6wwk/s1600/P5060029.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOu_PtRXcPmZwUWgLACiBnOROwgM2-pwRL9ZDU1wmAqwF4Vq55qDGpwyqv4QJwea0nFJbfk9XgPBq5JV2O5Mg2xddZbZezr7OrWQ9on1-Bcwo0cp0SoNd-SIXJy3o3nNMsKPqKkHr6wwk/s320/P5060029.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Just around the corner is a stop sign. Straight onward on Judd Farm Rd
to a speed downhill followed by you guessed it! More climbing!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9UYJYQwAc2sxOPAW2zB1RHDf4pWpqxvE1v_38XMjFM3zPCn5zZvCfWQus4t4IGjWoKs0wX8lQyxd8TLT1i4y_QbS2yWcyPIhTbHMA-hutoRVH_lg2umz8qrcBfVyM0lRxTSFqWn0FTQQ/s1600/P5060030.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9UYJYQwAc2sxOPAW2zB1RHDf4pWpqxvE1v_38XMjFM3zPCn5zZvCfWQus4t4IGjWoKs0wX8lQyxd8TLT1i4y_QbS2yWcyPIhTbHMA-hutoRVH_lg2umz8qrcBfVyM0lRxTSFqWn0FTQQ/s320/P5060030.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
You're not on this road long. A few quick climbs which your momentum can carry you up and then you'll see three yellow arrows.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Tip No.3</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>When you see the yellow arrows, shift DOWN! </b></span></div>
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Just around that slight bend is the steepest climb of the day. It's
short, but man is it punchy. You do NOT want to get caught on that hill
in the wrong gear. Been there! Not fun!<br />
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The picture below does not do this hill justice. I feel as though it
should have hand holds for climbing up it. Okay... maybe not that
steep, but it certainly is the worst incline of the day. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXsseg5hc2Zoo-_VZvUtsAJMO3wId8OZ6yb7H5dpwpAaQAS6Ej44Up9aiWO4lKncdBSRyqPBD3LOqc21TO0nMSJ6NzVKMjRfecRTQY6ZPcXxyriEnR01YMDOFkb2VT6MtZAsxRqBRqZw/s1600/P5060032.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXsseg5hc2Zoo-_VZvUtsAJMO3wId8OZ6yb7H5dpwpAaQAS6Ej44Up9aiWO4lKncdBSRyqPBD3LOqc21TO0nMSJ6NzVKMjRfecRTQY6ZPcXxyriEnR01YMDOFkb2VT6MtZAsxRqBRqZw/s320/P5060032.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Make it up that hill and you can turn left onto Litchfield Rd to enjoy a nice downhill. Up, down, up, down, up, down, up!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxOC4vUTGkv8mWKNnpf-mXTKZ8yuWXMSMNWD-0uYlz5EkDdNj37wr6skKuLdlq_OacXOlUWX-S8iRHizViYEAQqwi7dFtXfONa69JizoV95AYofs2ChqnNlFxsbI-fe1RfIsNE5zGxdw/s1600/P5060034.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxOC4vUTGkv8mWKNnpf-mXTKZ8yuWXMSMNWD-0uYlz5EkDdNj37wr6skKuLdlq_OacXOlUWX-S8iRHizViYEAQqwi7dFtXfONa69JizoV95AYofs2ChqnNlFxsbI-fe1RfIsNE5zGxdw/s200/P5060034.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxwLnRUJgoFGVkX0iZjPZS6xm48H1iQGz-69_axtXILtpNFJajWN_eK_EhWF78nUujnJdFcBPV7yITiz45lMK0V_GMHDu28hi93B8Dsx8kzNMSz0SB6OlGIGje0sDLM5dkVjCBqtS9pvI/s1600/P5060036.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxwLnRUJgoFGVkX0iZjPZS6xm48H1iQGz-69_axtXILtpNFJajWN_eK_EhWF78nUujnJdFcBPV7yITiz45lMK0V_GMHDu28hi93B8Dsx8kzNMSz0SB6OlGIGje0sDLM5dkVjCBqtS9pvI/s200/P5060036.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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A few miles later, you'll come up on The Cardinal Grill on the right at a stop sign. Take a right onto Thomaston Road. <br />
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Now we get to have some real fun! Who wants to go fast?! Head down Thomaston and you'll start seeing turn signal road signs.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvwz7Rwo0a2actxmqUxAD5q7qA_HchX4l2dc5fepDodChWOLOMQo6DVG2lvP77npoo7zIO5zwiyy7N8MjU6ga0zFyyTROTK-j2w-a1T7OrqEnRs0Uy9rmLf04eZov-PN9vnnfY7Ca-Hg/s1600/P5180035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvwz7Rwo0a2actxmqUxAD5q7qA_HchX4l2dc5fepDodChWOLOMQo6DVG2lvP77npoo7zIO5zwiyy7N8MjU6ga0zFyyTROTK-j2w-a1T7OrqEnRs0Uy9rmLf04eZov-PN9vnnfY7Ca-Hg/s200/P5180035.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqA55kig1S4Vmfw4xcXwas0RZZIoDcPh5TZCZMrnzUoKsB-hfsJIddQt_ie1W8e2lX67KHHBYMTAknZmmwfXlWa-wyRaJUpKsg1PyVUCc9Ff87l7mjvCLjmxuSWQtv6mi_q7C987yRe4/s1600/P5180037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqA55kig1S4Vmfw4xcXwas0RZZIoDcPh5TZCZMrnzUoKsB-hfsJIddQt_ie1W8e2lX67KHHBYMTAknZmmwfXlWa-wyRaJUpKsg1PyVUCc9Ff87l7mjvCLjmxuSWQtv6mi_q7C987yRe4/s200/P5180037.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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After a few left and right twists, the road starts to increase the grade and you can easily pick up some FAST speed.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Tip No.4</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Right turn at bottom of hill</span></b></div>
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Below is the hill that can get you up to 50 mph, but be careful. There is a right hand turn at the bottom which can come up quick. It is tempting to make a pass or make up lost time, but that is only if you make that turn at the bottom. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpghj5ASNEwfUVWZdCYXnConuM0rlXEuIK8tKBcYK93Q9ZxethQ1RqqP_x6tsQ1Q2ypj32JiJysh6v8InYYEJ-A32ICqH_aVCcnGVDsONXlC2EvY44uTNCupus3h7PnWbP1p7-pq66RNI/s1600/P5180038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpghj5ASNEwfUVWZdCYXnConuM0rlXEuIK8tKBcYK93Q9ZxethQ1RqqP_x6tsQ1Q2ypj32JiJysh6v8InYYEJ-A32ICqH_aVCcnGVDsONXlC2EvY44uTNCupus3h7PnWbP1p7-pq66RNI/s320/P5180038.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Be aware that the views are very distracting! </div>
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A couple miles down the road, you will pass Black Rock Lake on the right as you bend to the left. Then you'll hit another great downhill heading into a small town.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIr-3IyK3gMs8PCMpNb6pM7eUrmTrxR3352kZthlijpDmZmwwUdxkZUgBlDS6Zemo_JHQAtNXEItmJRjwzAO8fgnqGzSTXsnb3fWjGhH9LILMpwlM7cxGO6qxuQawoaCZlJcXMC8Ymggo/s1600/P5180043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIr-3IyK3gMs8PCMpNb6pM7eUrmTrxR3352kZthlijpDmZmwwUdxkZUgBlDS6Zemo_JHQAtNXEItmJRjwzAO8fgnqGzSTXsnb3fWjGhH9LILMpwlM7cxGO6qxuQawoaCZlJcXMC8Ymggo/s200/P5180043.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh81ok72CbxuQjIT1zMCIuPHUQ0eJHB344FHu92m5kT0OGW_FmtkmG3-JCTJjl2F0P4aFHoSViEp6TVWR1YwCKX5PXXjZuUFGbJX8wPSPgcVqizjVcdgukyAANKpVPd3O4d9403bQU5TW0/s1600/P5180044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh81ok72CbxuQjIT1zMCIuPHUQ0eJHB344FHu92m5kT0OGW_FmtkmG3-JCTJjl2F0P4aFHoSViEp6TVWR1YwCKX5PXXjZuUFGbJX8wPSPgcVqizjVcdgukyAANKpVPd3O4d9403bQU5TW0/s200/P5180044.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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At the bottom of the hill, you pass a school on the right hand side and quickly come up on a stop light where we turn left onto Route 109. <br />
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Just about a mile down the road, we hit another stop light where we take a left onto S Main St (Route 254). There are car sale locations on either side of the road.<br />
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Another short 0.5 mile and we make a left onto Center St.<br />
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The Thomaston Fire Department is on the right as you turn and they are quite welcoming to Rev3!!!<br />
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You won't even got a quarter mile on Center St before you hit a stop sign on Northfield Rd. Go left and start climbing!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8O1xc10W7_chlRHJ1GnzS2r4Qt-r6AE-sI5BSozMrQMc9cd4Cs24C85OmOjltRhVEZUu_wYRb8Rrd8njolkU052Er7sHVqpOLxL4WwbRxYz2kiTOGkVXxRyp8sldG0QswHicsDGFleOk/s1600/P5180059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8O1xc10W7_chlRHJ1GnzS2r4Qt-r6AE-sI5BSozMrQMc9cd4Cs24C85OmOjltRhVEZUu_wYRb8Rrd8njolkU052Er7sHVqpOLxL4WwbRxYz2kiTOGkVXxRyp8sldG0QswHicsDGFleOk/s200/P5180059.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg19gdxU9b52wgMOVnj_XO9Tz7755pPDGFGNbffPNPVkq4AioBlPr217s5-DQ7Sohtw6DLc0IxG2Ye67alxMf53XYMR9wB5H8O2wu07U-w2P9mA9c5PrVU_FRitglL9ShmsnGTfCWcXMQs/s1600/P5180058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg19gdxU9b52wgMOVnj_XO9Tz7755pPDGFGNbffPNPVkq4AioBlPr217s5-DQ7Sohtw6DLc0IxG2Ye67alxMf53XYMR9wB5H8O2wu07U-w2P9mA9c5PrVU_FRitglL9ShmsnGTfCWcXMQs/s200/P5180058.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Northfield Rd goes on for seven miles. That's right SEVEN MILES!! Sprinkled among those miles are several decent hills. I count them as seven, but you may count them differently. Either way, this is one section where you will make use of your lower gears and rightly so. Save the energy for the back half of the bike! Let your cadence get you through.<br />
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Eventually, you will hit the final hill (below) and then you'll hang a left onto East St.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8puFUwZ0ESlJt7GAVm2iu9Z6pv-2iUMAm8R3cuKH1l-7Rd9yc53TvOJ9NaQokne3mKWGXGHu2w1594DP_uHYS7mool5KV4OPvuMq40UOMGWqOER06ivgze0aVatYDIc42poQcmes2Oic/s1600/P5180062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8puFUwZ0ESlJt7GAVm2iu9Z6pv-2iUMAm8R3cuKH1l-7Rd9yc53TvOJ9NaQokne3mKWGXGHu2w1594DP_uHYS7mool5KV4OPvuMq40UOMGWqOER06ivgze0aVatYDIc42poQcmes2Oic/s320/P5180062.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Final hill on Northfield Rd</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2HknZrTkdo-GH9_Oi5aeyvKhHks-7vjm713HZAcJnvhgFNk6Cbx1qM4Fs3S5yxZK8mVBqqx9lBYcK25dDFDGV0Sa7YKtiOC0_kUPEoidvRIgZMVhIaB87QATDXcqi69XkDP5Im6dXoTY/s1600/P5180063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2HknZrTkdo-GH9_Oi5aeyvKhHks-7vjm713HZAcJnvhgFNk6Cbx1qM4Fs3S5yxZK8mVBqqx9lBYcK25dDFDGV0Sa7YKtiOC0_kUPEoidvRIgZMVhIaB87QATDXcqi69XkDP5Im6dXoTY/s320/P5180063.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stop sign to take a left onto East St</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Then not 0.1 mile later, you will make a left onto Chestnut Hill Rd. <br />
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Maybe half a mile later, you come upon the most dangerous section of the entire course.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Tip No.5</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Watch your speed on Camp Dutton Rd.</span></b></div>
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You first take a right onto Camp Dutton Rd and the road begins to tilt down. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Mx8CZAq8TbxbsBlJdTUeyc7eGmyzbaQ4IBFs-nqrylA_6XeOP9R-yWiYOgOds73VaiVNB6a_K8279hfhpfNMsad8ACpKHrVQ-QoxnicvYQYJYexRBxbuqcCzR0vtoex9fgSLLvyiC-4/s1600/P5180066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Mx8CZAq8TbxbsBlJdTUeyc7eGmyzbaQ4IBFs-nqrylA_6XeOP9R-yWiYOgOds73VaiVNB6a_K8279hfhpfNMsad8ACpKHrVQ-QoxnicvYQYJYexRBxbuqcCzR0vtoex9fgSLLvyiC-4/s200/P5180066.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Gv2HFuFgKz1IDM7QqiSlnM5HAt2bdsdTeTKtfBNdV2T-38SC8UOKi3X5iqi5p4vbnmqPK5MqSDXqHeoRhWIcMC7Kib340Vz-8Acq02lOWzSlJG2m0BwCjc08h-lrKmSUUoBaWVhCwAs/s1600/P5180067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Gv2HFuFgKz1IDM7QqiSlnM5HAt2bdsdTeTKtfBNdV2T-38SC8UOKi3X5iqi5p4vbnmqPK5MqSDXqHeoRhWIcMC7Kib340Vz-8Acq02lOWzSlJG2m0BwCjc08h-lrKmSUUoBaWVhCwAs/s200/P5180067.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Having ridden this course some 40 times maybe, I remember the first few times that I rode down Camp Dutton Road. I had just rode up, up, and UP Northfield Road. The opportunity of a downhill to provide some free speed is very tempting and I've let the speed increase a tad too far a couple of times. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDTWR9K70BZDOVfpaDfq9jrAnGbJYAWEcluOlNAbA4jBUpaGMBnD0v921Mze-0_zrNjNzD-Kxo6fcKXXFeiJB8ZXIrMDi2rebHAqUyYI1ay8TsNdl1UKXTDQpN8UNOd6L_VCGFA36DcU/s1600/P5180068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDTWR9K70BZDOVfpaDfq9jrAnGbJYAWEcluOlNAbA4jBUpaGMBnD0v921Mze-0_zrNjNzD-Kxo6fcKXXFeiJB8ZXIrMDi2rebHAqUyYI1ay8TsNdl1UKXTDQpN8UNOd6L_VCGFA36DcU/s320/P5180068.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The road conditions are fine. But as you head down, the road begins to bend left. <br />
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And a slight left turn turns even tighter. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Hx14y3-ctaxMbwZn6eO8lYo5mddN3K1pyPqfwEQTWJvu3I09eg3tIKxyQeW2220gDUrLqdoIto0OgroAyN9FqQ6_U-xndzfi_B8VqyGizHWd_t9lSKRytDYC1ddg32E-HhWYAuyHwiI/s1600/P5180070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Hx14y3-ctaxMbwZn6eO8lYo5mddN3K1pyPqfwEQTWJvu3I09eg3tIKxyQeW2220gDUrLqdoIto0OgroAyN9FqQ6_U-xndzfi_B8VqyGizHWd_t9lSKRytDYC1ddg32E-HhWYAuyHwiI/s320/P5180070.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Unless you keep your speed down before the turn, you will be pushed in the direction of the guard rail. I have, on two occasions (one in practice and on in race), come too close for comfort to that guard rail. <br />
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As you continue on, the road will bend right, left again, and end in a stop sign. The rest of the road is open to speed. Open it up there, not before. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibxAbZI4c4VUMhMsXxdoHPSS6NQwFb6x2PR3f8dqBOD5zNQR4PJ68jRlWNprEWsdKICVSI9v8g6IIlU2KLmpSwYMHA5E0PuAEYdSWyG0dyR1jvDnfyhrVU4265rLA0Xu0PsQK7Vj66Egg/s1600/P5180072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibxAbZI4c4VUMhMsXxdoHPSS6NQwFb6x2PR3f8dqBOD5zNQR4PJ68jRlWNprEWsdKICVSI9v8g6IIlU2KLmpSwYMHA5E0PuAEYdSWyG0dyR1jvDnfyhrVU4265rLA0Xu0PsQK7Vj66Egg/s320/P5180072.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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At the end of Camp Dutton Rd, you hit a stop sign and turn left onto S Plains Rd.<br />
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And yet again, some beautiful views!! Sorry, I only got two pictures. <br />
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As you top the hill seen above, you will see your next right hand turn onto County Rd. <br />
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Half of County Rd, much like Tuttle Rd at the start, is half slight incline and half downhill, all of which is a gorgeous strip of tree covered road. <br />
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County Rd hits an end on Alain White Rd which is where the 6 mile out and back (O&B) begins. Take a right onto Alain White Rd (as shown below) and ride for 3 miles.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOKZoMxT54OT5VMC9SFjJx-sOo4o7dGNXE0o-vj-Mu9h5RSa_UrrVJ05BDBsqKa_-tdtwpEd0tHdCzG9jyWa7fgX-ukGGMcTiZl1MiBSKtJ96OB0kvBRHzKzNZvGTptWHoMSGCx0Vm2-o/s1600/P5180086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOKZoMxT54OT5VMC9SFjJx-sOo4o7dGNXE0o-vj-Mu9h5RSa_UrrVJ05BDBsqKa_-tdtwpEd0tHdCzG9jyWa7fgX-ukGGMcTiZl1MiBSKtJ96OB0kvBRHzKzNZvGTptWHoMSGCx0Vm2-o/s200/P5180086.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYeVVWqHkH9ybO_M_gKNxycUNaIgeGw1EkY8bTt7CR6vqUpOT3z7Sgl-sgObCAuKRJtHhk5DW0zvuenK_NLAONazR38AYXVtlCzjRbpSJfBwfJQxlQLCO-f7FZSb9vrslx9kHR3U0OiOk/s1600/P5180087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYeVVWqHkH9ybO_M_gKNxycUNaIgeGw1EkY8bTt7CR6vqUpOT3z7Sgl-sgObCAuKRJtHhk5DW0zvuenK_NLAONazR38AYXVtlCzjRbpSJfBwfJQxlQLCO-f7FZSb9vrslx9kHR3U0OiOk/s200/P5180087.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Just before the 3 mile mark, there is a bridge. Your U-turn comes less than 0.1 mile beyond. <br />
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Head back where you came from and head past the turn you made off of County Rd. You'll come to a stop light at East St and you'll turn left. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBU_E-t4A5sOWCS6q_OmJrNBsF-V2-cLEGWN461uzSrUXOrotWa3fjnzHa5We04eQjbHomPJ3EAbRukkzXaL84LyYCmQa67KIOLIswd0IicRaCIqGXqQP7Oud0AjiXACbmywWXI4JcdE/s1600/P5180091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBU_E-t4A5sOWCS6q_OmJrNBsF-V2-cLEGWN461uzSrUXOrotWa3fjnzHa5We04eQjbHomPJ3EAbRukkzXaL84LyYCmQa67KIOLIswd0IicRaCIqGXqQP7Oud0AjiXACbmywWXI4JcdE/s320/P5180091.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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About 0.1 mile later, you turn right onto Benton Rd. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You will continue down Benton Rd and hit a stop sign, at which point you will turn right onto... .still Benton Rd.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-mzchp70ln1TWqPrjBN6a__2z8B1AE7llxaxs8sQpXrrh-xatZIZ-uBQdTRRn9TLGtlfdr6ebVEQG0je3RCHtV7JFRQWKWgU8c19HTMSV1Zu-Cts1tRyGqrpK0X1WJuPrPkfvxi2b-94/s1600/P5180094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-mzchp70ln1TWqPrjBN6a__2z8B1AE7llxaxs8sQpXrrh-xatZIZ-uBQdTRRn9TLGtlfdr6ebVEQG0je3RCHtV7JFRQWKWgU8c19HTMSV1Zu-Cts1tRyGqrpK0X1WJuPrPkfvxi2b-94/s200/P5180094.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgajxeM5FtP4Fhx79rws0Osmuqz9GhE-y39mg3QF_lGYJZ1DFpa-TNSnj-0oFqbZTAVYjRPj2HIZIeqqLtckdPsqZPwOlYOTfzuBpSwchhC2lJaR4ftDLJekr7wekmpK4iMsvMyz9QCIss/s1600/P5180095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgajxeM5FtP4Fhx79rws0Osmuqz9GhE-y39mg3QF_lGYJZ1DFpa-TNSnj-0oFqbZTAVYjRPj2HIZIeqqLtckdPsqZPwOlYOTfzuBpSwchhC2lJaR4ftDLJekr7wekmpK4iMsvMyz9QCIss/s200/P5180095.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Down the road a ways and we hit a fork in the road (not literally unless
someone plays a cruel joke on you). You bear right onto Hard Hill Rd. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuh_9TZNfE1LlhpLqlx2THPIfpV2PSwYbrjGIzsjRHOLvz7sz7aFaJuiZTk_um0KLUPDC4pEsvN6vmoNIpkLsrfVl7igL6lbRWP7rwAXb5Ens9SeAWaICZuTeL7ZWkkAA21zytV99sidU/s1600/P5060044.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuh_9TZNfE1LlhpLqlx2THPIfpV2PSwYbrjGIzsjRHOLvz7sz7aFaJuiZTk_um0KLUPDC4pEsvN6vmoNIpkLsrfVl7igL6lbRWP7rwAXb5Ens9SeAWaICZuTeL7ZWkkAA21zytV99sidU/s320/P5060044.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yes, the road lives up to it's name. These are likely the two steepest descents of the day. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span>Tip No.6</span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span>Speedy Hard Hill Rd Descents </span></b></span></div>
<br />
Hard Hill Road has two very fast descents. Personally, I have clocked
over 50 mph during races at Quassy and every time it is on Hard Hill
Road. If you are uneasy about speed or descending, this would be a
great time to get out of the saddle, stretch the back, get in some
nutrition, and take it easier downhill. They are not long, so you will
not lose major time.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZigkjhiqqdwvHNss0okFnTo_S9HRqe3I5cAbTaRPVw9tvq07Id59g9saEjOBd8k4ZRkXanJ162m-7dYcVNhUaKnRHLoIASEXXW6dj0xEWko5n8MSpOY58W5uORTDaPfVovPrc4kHOS5c/s1600/P5180101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZigkjhiqqdwvHNss0okFnTo_S9HRqe3I5cAbTaRPVw9tvq07Id59g9saEjOBd8k4ZRkXanJ162m-7dYcVNhUaKnRHLoIASEXXW6dj0xEWko5n8MSpOY58W5uORTDaPfVovPrc4kHOS5c/s320/P5180101.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you love descending, please be aware of others on the road and the twists and turns of the course.<br />
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span><b>Tip No.7</b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span><b> Nonnewaug Rd has a quick right turn</b></span></span></div>
<br />
Just beyond the second descent (the longer and faster of the two), there
is a section of road that twists and turns. This is where we turn onto
Nonnewaug Road. For those who build up their speed on the downhill,
you will likely need some brakes here. Classically, the corners here do
have some loose dirt, dust, gravel. Rev3 sweeps it, yes, but this is
farm country. It can reappear rather quickly!<br />
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After the longer of the two descents, you will see a stop ahead sign. This is your cue to throttle the speed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQz03t7XOUZFM9_hJYFLsMXGrQPBx3R4TLejoWX57qn1DYHNfxNTDNXSHrDyWfDrNXgCZi7qOVasfP8bcaf2H1Zi3luIMbs04mcKm1zYKOlJxf_3szkLxNtRh-XGi6CHzcn7aU07EW00o/s1600/P5060045.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQz03t7XOUZFM9_hJYFLsMXGrQPBx3R4TLejoWX57qn1DYHNfxNTDNXSHrDyWfDrNXgCZi7qOVasfP8bcaf2H1Zi3luIMbs04mcKm1zYKOlJxf_3szkLxNtRh-XGi6CHzcn7aU07EW00o/s320/P5060045.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Just beyond that right bend, you hit Nonnewaug Rd. It is a bear left turn that can throw you wide if you have enough speed. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH2jh0SWU6m4Bdj0-TYFemY4O3aE0mR_1tCETbWLqaUxZmqxtryCdFLrmAoOuRC3oBgm5gekKLydQ3rYcryFSd5cqxpuZrwG3HbgcMDozAvXuapU4U9dbyC8-MZKwbMCeWJKs_OhyphenhyphenPDik/s1600/P5060046.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH2jh0SWU6m4Bdj0-TYFemY4O3aE0mR_1tCETbWLqaUxZmqxtryCdFLrmAoOuRC3oBgm5gekKLydQ3rYcryFSd5cqxpuZrwG3HbgcMDozAvXuapU4U9dbyC8-MZKwbMCeWJKs_OhyphenhyphenPDik/s200/P5060046.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBZ_TrG3tA8pJLCoQGV-Saj4HRUkaGkjlAZkRjCuNlL1aykS_CSg1iwn9JULAcO3_-d8zpAII3QhrDZO5jt_tS-TcxZoxJ7qk5nH83V_V9PcEafKMogbf8t2_MNHT0K0vUhVbB87g41Ns/s1600/P5060047.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBZ_TrG3tA8pJLCoQGV-Saj4HRUkaGkjlAZkRjCuNlL1aykS_CSg1iwn9JULAcO3_-d8zpAII3QhrDZO5jt_tS-TcxZoxJ7qk5nH83V_V9PcEafKMogbf8t2_MNHT0K0vUhVbB87g41Ns/s200/P5060047.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Not 0.1 mile later, you have a tight right bend (below) followed by an
even tighter left bend (not pictured). I've ridden this course
somewhere near 50 times and this is the one place where I do not test my
speed limits. Safety first! <br />
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Shortly after, you'll see the road begin to wind again, going slightly uphill. A left turn is coming onto Bethlehem Rd. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37nQGWrcSUmLMbJT0wvUx8we24LKVSl7elEMblJxSmmhJRv4pT4N2Uh66UN1cCA0XHBGQIBwT9mNRgSpRoaW6OJxFFSMcJ5gli4nsfY1_Xao2lGKAHphCpVnlpRYL6uLVDXfyx-UJwDY/s1600/P5060050.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37nQGWrcSUmLMbJT0wvUx8we24LKVSl7elEMblJxSmmhJRv4pT4N2Uh66UN1cCA0XHBGQIBwT9mNRgSpRoaW6OJxFFSMcJ5gli4nsfY1_Xao2lGKAHphCpVnlpRYL6uLVDXfyx-UJwDY/s200/P5060050.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDyBRn9kZn_Zrl0P0YCum8EeKlum-jI5KZofpuTTw8lqWnf3GVh-y-FkAA5avW7JPB8S2AntlLCt1rzAwi4Kpup1MvdEULq11G4lKVplyDZG96erSiRt6QtAxqMPUu_BMXJRBemUhOW2g/s1600/P5060051.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDyBRn9kZn_Zrl0P0YCum8EeKlum-jI5KZofpuTTw8lqWnf3GVh-y-FkAA5avW7JPB8S2AntlLCt1rzAwi4Kpup1MvdEULq11G4lKVplyDZG96erSiRt6QtAxqMPUu_BMXJRBemUhOW2g/s200/P5060051.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Bethlehem Rd runs right into Main St N (we turned onto that one
earlier). This is where the lollipop ends and it's time to head back to
transition! We continue straight over the road to get back onto Quassapaug Road. From here, it is familiar territory! <br />
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Stop sign - and straight on ahead!</div>
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Stop sign and we turn right onto Middle Road Turnpike. <br />
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Down the three bears, twist, turn, downhill, and a left turn onto Cat Swamp Rd. <br />
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At the end of Cat Swamp, we have another very quick S-turn onto Tuttle Rd, which puts you on a fun hill. You'll want to be in your lower gear. <br />
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Two turns to go! Get to the end of Tuttle Rd and head left onto Sherman Hill Rd. The photo below is where you'll be coming FROM (towards the camera).<br />
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Make it up the hills of Sherman Hill Rd and you can make your final turn (left) into Quassy Amusement Park. <br />
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Get your feet out of your shoes (if you do that), slow down, and get ready to RUN!!<br />
<br />
If you are racing Rev3 Quassy (whether it's still 2017 or well beyond),
comment below and I'd love to meet up! This race is my back yard, so I
will be there whether I'm racing or not!!<br />
<br />
<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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<br />
<u><b>QUESTIONS</b></u><br />
<b>1. What is your favorite bike course you've ridden?</b><br />
<i>If you can't tell, I am quite a fan of the Rev3 Quassy Half course. </i><br />
<br />
<b>2. Do you change your bike gear depending on the course you are riding?</b><br />
<i>I will change my rear cassette to fit the course.</i><b> </b><i> </i><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">DREAM. BELIEVE. ACHIEVE. </span>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-64541523505824898572017-05-07T08:18:00.000-04:002017-05-07T08:18:31.889-04:00Rev3 Quassy Olympic Bike Course (2017)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Rev3 Quassy</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">2017</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Olympic Bike Course</span></div>
<br />
I have raced the Rev3 Quassy Half five times and this year I've decided to give the Olympic a try. While the two share a significant amount of the day's terrain, there are some slight differences. I thought it might be helpful for other races to get a visual on what some of the turns and terrain look like.<br />
<br />
For those unfamiliar with the course, it centers around Quassy Amusement Park in Middlebury, CT.<br />
<ul>
<li>30 min from Hartford, CT</li>
<li><2 from="" hours="" li="" nyc="">
</2></li>
<li>2 hours from Boston, MA</li>
</ul>
<br />
It's
the perfect venue for any triathlete! If you want an Olympic race, we
have it! If you want a half, we have it! Don't like to run?, we have
an aquabike! Do you like to race with your buddies?, we have relays!
If you want a place where your little ones can have fun while you race,
we have an amusement park! Do your little ones want to race too?!
We've got a kids race! <br />
<br />
First off, the <a href="http://rev3tri.com/quassy/course-maps/">Rev3 Quassy Olympic Bike Course map</a>.<br />
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The course is a lollipop. Head out, make a single loop, and head back. In total, there is 1693 ft (516 m) of elevation change and as is Quassy tradition, it is spread out throughout the entire course. There are few places where you can tuck down into aero and ride out a flat section. It's either up or down, which keeps us coming back for more every single year!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>A Note on Equipment</b></u></span><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Whether you are from a flat or hilly area, I strongly recommend an 11-28 cassette for this course no matter what size chain rings you have or whether you're riding a triathlon or road bike. The 28 (or larger if you'd like) will come in handy with some long climbs and punchy hills. The 11 will come in handy for those who like to build up their speed on the downhills. This course has it all!! <br />
<br />
If you do not consider yourself strong with climbing at a low cadence, I may suggest looking into a compact (or mid-compact) chain ring if you don't have one already. While my race bike has a standard 53-39, today's ride was on a mid-compact (52-34) with an 11-28 cassette and left me with a desire for one more gear! <br />
<br />
Plan to put out some power if you decide to race on a smaller range cassette!</blockquote>
<br />
<br />
Below is a key for those riding the course. I've split it up into the sections that you ride out and back on as well as the loop that you make.<br />
<ul>
<li>Head out of Quassy Amusement Park</li>
<li>Left onto Sherman Hill Rd</li>
<li>Left onto Tranquility Rd</li>
<li>Continue on Old Watertown Rd</li>
<li>Continue on Quassapaug Rd </li>
<li>Right onto Main St. N</li>
</ul>
** Begin Loop **<br />
<ul>
<li>Left onto Platt Rd</li>
<li>Left onto Guernseytown Rd</li>
<li>Right onto Judd Farm Rd</li>
<li>Left onto Litchfield Rd</li>
<li>Left onto Anderson Rd</li>
<li>Left onto Benton Rd</li>
<li>Bear Right onto Hard Hill Rd. N</li>
<li>Continue on Nonnewaug Rd</li>
<li>Left onto Bethlehem Rd</li>
<li>Straight onto Quassapaug Rd</li>
</ul>
** Done with loop ** <br />
<ul>
<li>Continue on Old Watertown Rd</li>
<li>Right onto Tranquility Rd</li>
<li>Right into Quassy Amusement Park </li>
</ul>
<br />
Now for some visuals and things to be aware of (steep hills, fast descents, quick turns, and road conditions). <br />
<br />
You will start your day with transition. As of this ride, it is May 6th and Rev3 hasn't arrived quite yet, but imagine a large blue transition area blocking out the right side of this picture. You will come FROM that area out along the wooden fence. The mount line will be roughly where the back end of the silver SUV is, about 50 feet from Bike Out. There is lots of room, so please run on past the line and keep the line itself clear for those coming behind you.<br />
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You'll make a gradual 90 degree turn...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrGk_biOsn6swBoIH1IjkquzBmtLT9kmYfBTMcugKSQjGWht6fQfsb7k4dLo12oQHTr6orDwWJxgKpfZN9cVMXNmUqtSRQOYKmj6dvswbOyimLTX4ICmiXP5YWF6NrE4vA5BIXNsmB-Ms/s1600/P5060002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrGk_biOsn6swBoIH1IjkquzBmtLT9kmYfBTMcugKSQjGWht6fQfsb7k4dLo12oQHTr6orDwWJxgKpfZN9cVMXNmUqtSRQOYKmj6dvswbOyimLTX4ICmiXP5YWF6NrE4vA5BIXNsmB-Ms/s200/P5060002.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzfM7KzF9TvNlHvk5w7qfGwuVAWNzgKASBf2L0eHUx5IjBSZADeueeQaqjVw5XgoumBAtaUVqwiF-GSwGV2H0eVro7wpiyM5AvIWA4d4n_A5ykz5C-NSoDPEGib9aIjV2P6q0rzGMogxc/s1600/P5060003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzfM7KzF9TvNlHvk5w7qfGwuVAWNzgKASBf2L0eHUx5IjBSZADeueeQaqjVw5XgoumBAtaUVqwiF-GSwGV2H0eVro7wpiyM5AvIWA4d4n_A5ykz5C-NSoDPEGib9aIjV2P6q0rzGMogxc/s200/P5060003.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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...and head out the Quassy Amusement Park driveway. Spectators will be fenced off on the right, so this is the ideal spot to clip in, slip on the shoes, and adjust the helmet/glasses. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn3Oixd-Lo4fAhw9F1qhFW_ZpIZKnZaKcrqS2BRbypNOZiz1jSf5EGl3H5-TNP8wYjeh0YfUfxL29xjysGAOxAVy1nPsvGw9idWuDuOTRNDszKgZULqTvpW-cPuowC4wc_utGZ-Bq_vnM/s1600/P5060004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn3Oixd-Lo4fAhw9F1qhFW_ZpIZKnZaKcrqS2BRbypNOZiz1jSf5EGl3H5-TNP8wYjeh0YfUfxL29xjysGAOxAVy1nPsvGw9idWuDuOTRNDszKgZULqTvpW-cPuowC4wc_utGZ-Bq_vnM/s320/P5060004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Why? Because Quassy is known for it's hills and the Olympic dishes it out right from the start. You'll approach the park exit and take a left. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnwqayNdyL6doB81b70qWCEG39qZrRJ6304rK5nWm6FKW-3fk22ZXCMTlQEkzLHpUJnkxJk3Am80MtFqIdYXmVyEXMYdiYHyGmcEd6I-iG0Ae4tyVvjfEMIOpEBo3XyBEd6yFNfeM8SA/s1600/P5060005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnwqayNdyL6doB81b70qWCEG39qZrRJ6304rK5nWm6FKW-3fk22ZXCMTlQEkzLHpUJnkxJk3Am80MtFqIdYXmVyEXMYdiYHyGmcEd6I-iG0Ae4tyVvjfEMIOpEBo3XyBEd6yFNfeM8SA/s320/P5060005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here is the park entrance/exit from the other side of the road. As you take a left out of the park (right in the picture), you'll head up the first hill on Sherman Hill Rd. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisFbeNNHOD-HBVf0LDpM2q-3fhHTK0T7H7qT5Zk5sd4Sm38FE4bFD5jC5CukzxHog6k_JXIftjZc2yGuZwzTmp9vkpfp8ahQSwpYMCfAL_E64HUl0EmmSt4DEcqin7tb51xSQ3WE0uJ2o/s1600/P5060010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisFbeNNHOD-HBVf0LDpM2q-3fhHTK0T7H7qT5Zk5sd4Sm38FE4bFD5jC5CukzxHog6k_JXIftjZc2yGuZwzTmp9vkpfp8ahQSwpYMCfAL_E64HUl0EmmSt4DEcqin7tb51xSQ3WE0uJ2o/s200/P5060010.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD0rndzTkub7ALRWqDV1UxVwG5I7YvHg3pR5wPOvE_TdOWgYn8Id_xivy3n9BArSIxLzWMtw0HB0fJ_VGRn1mDqm2QuAuSYRhYDZZnztSY0V1NsG00zf-yWQpT5HTzscXZJOw810w5zKQ/s1600/P5060011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD0rndzTkub7ALRWqDV1UxVwG5I7YvHg3pR5wPOvE_TdOWgYn8Id_xivy3n9BArSIxLzWMtw0HB0fJ_VGRn1mDqm2QuAuSYRhYDZZnztSY0V1NsG00zf-yWQpT5HTzscXZJOw810w5zKQ/s200/P5060011.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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You'll head roughly half a mile down the road and then bear left. <br />
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This will put you at your first stop sign with Tranquility Rd where you take a left.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjXbYJqNoA6Y-t4acMgmgUkyBh7U6pdmlAOm0FETYX3nxIUZmeE_qH89Y_2A91sWovfAK_NxR-HvUoithmz5oG5RW8rQhlTFi28iKH28JV9UOHmaKToRUdR-CE1DDF_q8KpWazFDY5h08/s1600/P5060015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjXbYJqNoA6Y-t4acMgmgUkyBh7U6pdmlAOm0FETYX3nxIUZmeE_qH89Y_2A91sWovfAK_NxR-HvUoithmz5oG5RW8rQhlTFi28iKH28JV9UOHmaKToRUdR-CE1DDF_q8KpWazFDY5h08/s200/P5060015.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje3Wl_uuemu7vdSz7oa3CbryJENKaNOkG6MoXXrFtP-whQx4b8su28GeE-oug22W1FGxrSaYMa0oHHbo9v2e3VKq95-LWAfkj1D8tYj7uYBGVdzL3MNPtM955e_qunnTYm-V-D_0LtZco/s1600/P5060016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje3Wl_uuemu7vdSz7oa3CbryJENKaNOkG6MoXXrFtP-whQx4b8su28GeE-oug22W1FGxrSaYMa0oHHbo9v2e3VKq95-LWAfkj1D8tYj7uYBGVdzL3MNPtM955e_qunnTYm-V-D_0LtZco/s200/P5060016.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Another note about Quassy... The course is GORGEOUS!! Today's pictures simply do not do the scenery justice, but I did my best. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiro7qeL6dRs6m7IQ1BQHD7a1QbNwx8k8ZhJt0Ryeg5vZ_XQGs4nR01r9WgwVWMI4MKhNwuulxAZGSLItl_rFEIdz7fGzXQUe6qbGDLBsbazz3bITOtbhYjok0khIxpvv-3_Qb-im_dq6Y/s1600/P5060017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiro7qeL6dRs6m7IQ1BQHD7a1QbNwx8k8ZhJt0Ryeg5vZ_XQGs4nR01r9WgwVWMI4MKhNwuulxAZGSLItl_rFEIdz7fGzXQUe6qbGDLBsbazz3bITOtbhYjok0khIxpvv-3_Qb-im_dq6Y/s320/P5060017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another stop sign half a mile later and you continue straight. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPIsjIyPSdnyUeZmpSlPhIovY_W9JYlET9bv0x290CbZdz_n66vQoWzUfCRdco-wfnBMfJYlX97UZpchtNhctEExUn97steEaorDGZB5gKLhd3AhFoM8e1OXr7ISVHfT5bDZeSsSwTP-s/s1600/P5060018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPIsjIyPSdnyUeZmpSlPhIovY_W9JYlET9bv0x290CbZdz_n66vQoWzUfCRdco-wfnBMfJYlX97UZpchtNhctEExUn97steEaorDGZB5gKLhd3AhFoM8e1OXr7ISVHfT5bDZeSsSwTP-s/s320/P5060018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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In this segment (between the image above and below on Tranquility Rd), the pavement isn't great. We are in New England and winter isn't kind to pavement. However, it is certainly rideable, but not the best place to lay down your biggest power of the day and put in some early passes. Just be mindful of the rough terrain.<br />
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Another stop sign and another straight on!<br />
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You'll head down that road for a ways along some pretty nice pavement, passing nice houses, and some beautiful tree lined road. Then another stop sign.<br />
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If you are familiar with the half course, this is where it meets up. The half would be coming from the left and eventually heading back that way as well. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcp-uY2ddvjaRqMHPf9Sjg6sw33u-1qicc_uwc7mkalq8qChF4s0B0_p6hJ1u4hYdqU7FUrFZvr4jCLQpcAD5XUqv0zVRBG9JuL4kgEETNiXqZC9cXETeOJC0C9DK7_Q2FqgRZ6C-5ktc/s1600/P5060020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcp-uY2ddvjaRqMHPf9Sjg6sw33u-1qicc_uwc7mkalq8qChF4s0B0_p6hJ1u4hYdqU7FUrFZvr4jCLQpcAD5XUqv0zVRBG9JuL4kgEETNiXqZC9cXETeOJC0C9DK7_Q2FqgRZ6C-5ktc/s320/P5060020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Down a nice hill for some speed and back up a quick hill to another stop sign. Straight on! If you ride the course closer to race day or after, the farm just ahead on the left has a wooden stand out front where they sell corn. I've always wanted to stop. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJEN7rtdPdruCg_rABjplAzqJ4n5_g5eNGO2ii6EkfKlSjkg8B4MzDkQSbFOW-9SPDQmq-XNA0TMEiEW4wrfPV4og8sHNc0PTfip4Ln0aDEW2TIzCKhyphenhyphen70-1MIh_6NdLdoZRVhTjVLik/s1600/P5060021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJEN7rtdPdruCg_rABjplAzqJ4n5_g5eNGO2ii6EkfKlSjkg8B4MzDkQSbFOW-9SPDQmq-XNA0TMEiEW4wrfPV4og8sHNc0PTfip4Ln0aDEW2TIzCKhyphenhyphen70-1MIh_6NdLdoZRVhTjVLik/s320/P5060021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another great little downhill to pick up some speed and then we hit Main St N below. This is where the lollipop begins. Once we complete the loop, we will be coming back from the road straight across. However, we have to go right here. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlEB2cxNmO2xsiSVeSfwC3a4esM3uDw_Hx74-CSgcGAhfyyOqFmbwmu2kF5RwgEca3Lhf_qYl9_KnZkvExqd1mOFfyjVqyr3VTVxsRxlKMbKcI7Vf8jCNIyNhADhp7f27j2q7njjCLewI/s1600/P5060022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlEB2cxNmO2xsiSVeSfwC3a4esM3uDw_Hx74-CSgcGAhfyyOqFmbwmu2kF5RwgEca3Lhf_qYl9_KnZkvExqd1mOFfyjVqyr3VTVxsRxlKMbKcI7Vf8jCNIyNhADhp7f27j2q7njjCLewI/s320/P5060022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Down the road, and up a few hills, you'll see six eagle statues on your left. <br />
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This marks Platt Rd where we take a left. <br />
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Once all the trees fill in their leaves, that fence and the colors will pop to make even the most focused athlete smile!<br />
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...until you get here. At the end of Platt Rd is a short but fairly steep climb. This is the first climb where I am happy to have that lower end gear.<br />
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When you get to the top (like any other hill), it is tempting to build back up some speed. <b> </b><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Tip No. 1</b></span></div>
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Once you're at the top of the hill (picture left), it is a short 0.2 miles to a hairy corner (picture right) if you are carrying too much speed. Play it safe and build the speed back up after the turn onto Guernseytown Rd.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDjO_KkPs6bAop4idAHNiSmdDkDCQNwI9VaJK9L7i9yJYLgSjJcLKm0mygTVOxyLx5_B2hZB57gf-_2KBYg5AYeHi-ju6qPqSflSXum8Csw0F9X2IAyWTO4VTLsS0jlgCPuXVw2f68POA/s1600/P5060027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDjO_KkPs6bAop4idAHNiSmdDkDCQNwI9VaJK9L7i9yJYLgSjJcLKm0mygTVOxyLx5_B2hZB57gf-_2KBYg5AYeHi-ju6qPqSflSXum8Csw0F9X2IAyWTO4VTLsS0jlgCPuXVw2f68POA/s200/P5060027.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpx1Quhve3npQRg9AWrnqRn5jz7AZUYUAuadEwlXPJ6EJBy4HEYI5Vw8vmoxHS9LHHEw2WsVeBeEwy_W_9bOyNQHfXPnQFo6FtffEva0rzNRivoRUfJg2D8uiKEVioCYfXrUc68n80X4/s1600/P5060028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpx1Quhve3npQRg9AWrnqRn5jz7AZUYUAuadEwlXPJ6EJBy4HEYI5Vw8vmoxHS9LHHEw2WsVeBeEwy_W_9bOyNQHfXPnQFo6FtffEva0rzNRivoRUfJg2D8uiKEVioCYfXrUc68n80X4/s200/P5060028.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Follow that road for a while, up and down the hills, and then you'll end up here. Take the right split.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOu_PtRXcPmZwUWgLACiBnOROwgM2-pwRL9ZDU1wmAqwF4Vq55qDGpwyqv4QJwea0nFJbfk9XgPBq5JV2O5Mg2xddZbZezr7OrWQ9on1-Bcwo0cp0SoNd-SIXJy3o3nNMsKPqKkHr6wwk/s1600/P5060029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOu_PtRXcPmZwUWgLACiBnOROwgM2-pwRL9ZDU1wmAqwF4Vq55qDGpwyqv4QJwea0nFJbfk9XgPBq5JV2O5Mg2xddZbZezr7OrWQ9on1-Bcwo0cp0SoNd-SIXJy3o3nNMsKPqKkHr6wwk/s320/P5060029.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Just around the corner is a stop sign. Straight onward on Judd Farm Rd to a speed downhill followed by you guessed it! More climbing!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9UYJYQwAc2sxOPAW2zB1RHDf4pWpqxvE1v_38XMjFM3zPCn5zZvCfWQus4t4IGjWoKs0wX8lQyxd8TLT1i4y_QbS2yWcyPIhTbHMA-hutoRVH_lg2umz8qrcBfVyM0lRxTSFqWn0FTQQ/s1600/P5060030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9UYJYQwAc2sxOPAW2zB1RHDf4pWpqxvE1v_38XMjFM3zPCn5zZvCfWQus4t4IGjWoKs0wX8lQyxd8TLT1i4y_QbS2yWcyPIhTbHMA-hutoRVH_lg2umz8qrcBfVyM0lRxTSFqWn0FTQQ/s320/P5060030.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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You're not on this road long. A few quick climbs which your momentum can carry you up and then you'll see three yellow arrows.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Tip No. 2</b></span></div>
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When you see these arrows, be ready to shift DOWN!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHLIHwItHIFxY2UuYgGgEW1vjTMGwPMWe289d2FSjUiHX9LUo0wY8mcxxjHyYKytcnFZHM2h8nooHP25F9qWKTpda5pe2M1KP73sIWV_SbeThjX3Sbuclc8Dhi9_dJsxaU7mlZwXi89nQ/s1600/P5060031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHLIHwItHIFxY2UuYgGgEW1vjTMGwPMWe289d2FSjUiHX9LUo0wY8mcxxjHyYKytcnFZHM2h8nooHP25F9qWKTpda5pe2M1KP73sIWV_SbeThjX3Sbuclc8Dhi9_dJsxaU7mlZwXi89nQ/s320/P5060031.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Just around that slight bend is the steepest climb of the day. It's short, but man is it punchy. You do NOT want to get caught on that hill in the wrong gear. Been there! Not fun!<br />
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The picture below does not do this hill justice. I feel as though it should have hand holds for climbing up it. Okay... maybe not that steep, but it certainly is the worst incline of the day. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXsseg5hc2Zoo-_VZvUtsAJMO3wId8OZ6yb7H5dpwpAaQAS6Ej44Up9aiWO4lKncdBSRyqPBD3LOqc21TO0nMSJ6NzVKMjRfecRTQY6ZPcXxyriEnR01YMDOFkb2VT6MtZAsxRqBRqZw/s1600/P5060032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXsseg5hc2Zoo-_VZvUtsAJMO3wId8OZ6yb7H5dpwpAaQAS6Ej44Up9aiWO4lKncdBSRyqPBD3LOqc21TO0nMSJ6NzVKMjRfecRTQY6ZPcXxyriEnR01YMDOFkb2VT6MtZAsxRqBRqZw/s320/P5060032.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Make it up that hill and you can turn left onto Litchfield Rd to enjoy a nice downhill. Up, down, up, down, up, down, up!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxOC4vUTGkv8mWKNnpf-mXTKZ8yuWXMSMNWD-0uYlz5EkDdNj37wr6skKuLdlq_OacXOlUWX-S8iRHizViYEAQqwi7dFtXfONa69JizoV95AYofs2ChqnNlFxsbI-fe1RfIsNE5zGxdw/s1600/P5060034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmxOC4vUTGkv8mWKNnpf-mXTKZ8yuWXMSMNWD-0uYlz5EkDdNj37wr6skKuLdlq_OacXOlUWX-S8iRHizViYEAQqwi7dFtXfONa69JizoV95AYofs2ChqnNlFxsbI-fe1RfIsNE5zGxdw/s200/P5060034.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxwLnRUJgoFGVkX0iZjPZS6xm48H1iQGz-69_axtXILtpNFJajWN_eK_EhWF78nUujnJdFcBPV7yITiz45lMK0V_GMHDu28hi93B8Dsx8kzNMSz0SB6OlGIGje0sDLM5dkVjCBqtS9pvI/s1600/P5060036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxwLnRUJgoFGVkX0iZjPZS6xm48H1iQGz-69_axtXILtpNFJajWN_eK_EhWF78nUujnJdFcBPV7yITiz45lMK0V_GMHDu28hi93B8Dsx8kzNMSz0SB6OlGIGje0sDLM5dkVjCBqtS9pvI/s200/P5060036.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Take a ride down Litchfield Rd. for a bit and you'll pass a yellow street sign. This is for Anderson Rd. That's the one you want! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0eSpXIw6O7gRE7JNsWt3DNRmLxX9okN-lIRt80_3CKR76C8j4SQgzEnnIhuEvfSdP-Jpd5ERL4hLmu0PWTzh2cyRWuhgR5LSvMFhYat_yqxdT9iZfirw6vgsdvAy-9XgbRmWs2I2G_1E/s1600/P5060037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0eSpXIw6O7gRE7JNsWt3DNRmLxX9okN-lIRt80_3CKR76C8j4SQgzEnnIhuEvfSdP-Jpd5ERL4hLmu0PWTzh2cyRWuhgR5LSvMFhYat_yqxdT9iZfirw6vgsdvAy-9XgbRmWs2I2G_1E/s320/P5060037.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Left onto Anderson Rd and there is no surprise at this point - an incline comes to greet you. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTiA0H37ox6tfkHO45gihriSXWE9Efs0rLv1uUY8XCJJ9ViDLkDxZOx2j4ZSs_obk3-xtIWZ8LtY_fmEt0DZ9Ez0wWp7kzHAFRcB6vAPKdeMZvwvkhjCgxdBtLYbNrEA2hbraW7vBDWuM/s1600/P5060038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTiA0H37ox6tfkHO45gihriSXWE9Efs0rLv1uUY8XCJJ9ViDLkDxZOx2j4ZSs_obk3-xtIWZ8LtY_fmEt0DZ9Ez0wWp7kzHAFRcB6vAPKdeMZvwvkhjCgxdBtLYbNrEA2hbraW7vBDWuM/s200/P5060038.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Ctf_nGrAyK9mxzKPPQeMsjAadpJ085-dDon9REW_RjcztQF3RQNE4HFnliFlgJ2nqgL3xzjNLy7CuBtflnZSBUbLyZhFUUCOvoxKxxjFMr7EA7u_66rEF2tlM9gUaIhIeFdKEPfaR6c/s1600/P5060039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Ctf_nGrAyK9mxzKPPQeMsjAadpJ085-dDon9REW_RjcztQF3RQNE4HFnliFlgJ2nqgL3xzjNLy7CuBtflnZSBUbLyZhFUUCOvoxKxxjFMr7EA7u_66rEF2tlM9gUaIhIeFdKEPfaR6c/s200/P5060039.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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At the top, you can see that another hill awaits on the other side. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxlS38_xJ8AMvOgUWzofCZu6LcnPWhM3DLgBZsg73LFVVzaPspflNsPfV9hdRTeEcNeke8CJE_XsoAYgk_bX4WcCknFb6r8Cv9Eosd6pnCjy8xm1d8nH6b6CqbgFzf5vj4uEDWA-SRy9w/s1600/P5060040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxlS38_xJ8AMvOgUWzofCZu6LcnPWhM3DLgBZsg73LFVVzaPspflNsPfV9hdRTeEcNeke8CJE_XsoAYgk_bX4WcCknFb6r8Cv9Eosd6pnCjy8xm1d8nH6b6CqbgFzf5vj4uEDWA-SRy9w/s320/P5060040.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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You hit the other side fairly quickly where you'll take a left onto Benton Rd. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk-pU16KAMSWAl5IidagWGUAjgA0I6UxpPGlPqcwx4JlYJoFI0SzVPGNMCjscFJmooYaEqBPuFjvZx0xzOwCtTCUf6YUHHfsDuSkTzhWl6h-vOVxbPLIGI8pU7DWlTfagnqwN3e6morLc/s1600/P5060041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk-pU16KAMSWAl5IidagWGUAjgA0I6UxpPGlPqcwx4JlYJoFI0SzVPGNMCjscFJmooYaEqBPuFjvZx0xzOwCtTCUf6YUHHfsDuSkTzhWl6h-vOVxbPLIGI8pU7DWlTfagnqwN3e6morLc/s200/P5060041.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-0HIrbj7cPsLwjQlwGPfwo_nnD23IirXS0HvG7u55CgDwkZluFMPP5iR701ImgU9I98AJ4tVEmxl_L_C_nZclEhJPFhPw1Ex-7S32cPmoIRiyVg3hlXm6JzWaGc-FiiqzZrIAcJfVmxg/s1600/P5060042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-0HIrbj7cPsLwjQlwGPfwo_nnD23IirXS0HvG7u55CgDwkZluFMPP5iR701ImgU9I98AJ4tVEmxl_L_C_nZclEhJPFhPw1Ex-7S32cPmoIRiyVg3hlXm6JzWaGc-FiiqzZrIAcJfVmxg/s200/P5060042.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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If you miss the stop sign, you'll notice the Anderson Farm sign!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirS_tarBKSUWr-KovZ8iYs2UW_YQSWyv-KgyFMs8dibhQDZRTzKv140J7vvkb_m32i_QOajJORTDU1PzNKT1PG6Y3wILagvRlDk1FxdL0-lgxNGj8f-pi22gJJ-jo2_jTjoclSh33fW20/s1600/P5060043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirS_tarBKSUWr-KovZ8iYs2UW_YQSWyv-KgyFMs8dibhQDZRTzKv140J7vvkb_m32i_QOajJORTDU1PzNKT1PG6Y3wILagvRlDk1FxdL0-lgxNGj8f-pi22gJJ-jo2_jTjoclSh33fW20/s320/P5060043.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Benton Rd was very recently repaved and is much smoother than it has been in the past. For those who have competed before, it offers a nice little perk! <br />
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Down the road a ways and we hit a fork in the road (not literally unless someone plays a cruel joke on you). You bear right onto Hard Hill Rd. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuh_9TZNfE1LlhpLqlx2THPIfpV2PSwYbrjGIzsjRHOLvz7sz7aFaJuiZTk_um0KLUPDC4pEsvN6vmoNIpkLsrfVl7igL6lbRWP7rwAXb5Ens9SeAWaICZuTeL7ZWkkAA21zytV99sidU/s1600/P5060044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuh_9TZNfE1LlhpLqlx2THPIfpV2PSwYbrjGIzsjRHOLvz7sz7aFaJuiZTk_um0KLUPDC4pEsvN6vmoNIpkLsrfVl7igL6lbRWP7rwAXb5Ens9SeAWaICZuTeL7ZWkkAA21zytV99sidU/s320/P5060044.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yes, the road lives up to it's name. These are likely the two steepest descents of the day. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Tip No. 3</span></b></div>
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Hard Hill Road has two very fast descents. Personally, I have clocked over 50 mph during races at Quassy and every time it is on Hard Hill Road. If you are uneasy about speed or descending, this would be a great time to get out of the saddle, stretch the back, get in some nutrition, and take it easier downhill. They are not long, so you will not lose major time.<br />
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If you love descending, please be aware of others on the road and the twists and turns of the course.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Tip No. 4</b></span></div>
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Just beyond the second descent (the longer and faster of the two), there is a section of road that twists and turns. This is where we turn onto Nonnnewaug Road. For those who build up their speed on the downhill, you will likely need some brakes here. Classically, the corners here do have some loose dirt, dust, gravel. Rev3 sweeps it, yes, but this is farm country. It can reappear rather quickly!<br />
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After the longer of the two descents, you will see a stop ahead sign. This is your cue to throttle the speed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQz03t7XOUZFM9_hJYFLsMXGrQPBx3R4TLejoWX57qn1DYHNfxNTDNXSHrDyWfDrNXgCZi7qOVasfP8bcaf2H1Zi3luIMbs04mcKm1zYKOlJxf_3szkLxNtRh-XGi6CHzcn7aU07EW00o/s1600/P5060045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQz03t7XOUZFM9_hJYFLsMXGrQPBx3R4TLejoWX57qn1DYHNfxNTDNXSHrDyWfDrNXgCZi7qOVasfP8bcaf2H1Zi3luIMbs04mcKm1zYKOlJxf_3szkLxNtRh-XGi6CHzcn7aU07EW00o/s320/P5060045.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Just beyond that right bend, you hit Nonnewaug Rd. It is a bear left turn that can throw you wide if you have enough speed. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH2jh0SWU6m4Bdj0-TYFemY4O3aE0mR_1tCETbWLqaUxZmqxtryCdFLrmAoOuRC3oBgm5gekKLydQ3rYcryFSd5cqxpuZrwG3HbgcMDozAvXuapU4U9dbyC8-MZKwbMCeWJKs_OhyphenhyphenPDik/s1600/P5060046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH2jh0SWU6m4Bdj0-TYFemY4O3aE0mR_1tCETbWLqaUxZmqxtryCdFLrmAoOuRC3oBgm5gekKLydQ3rYcryFSd5cqxpuZrwG3HbgcMDozAvXuapU4U9dbyC8-MZKwbMCeWJKs_OhyphenhyphenPDik/s200/P5060046.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBZ_TrG3tA8pJLCoQGV-Saj4HRUkaGkjlAZkRjCuNlL1aykS_CSg1iwn9JULAcO3_-d8zpAII3QhrDZO5jt_tS-TcxZoxJ7qk5nH83V_V9PcEafKMogbf8t2_MNHT0K0vUhVbB87g41Ns/s1600/P5060047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBZ_TrG3tA8pJLCoQGV-Saj4HRUkaGkjlAZkRjCuNlL1aykS_CSg1iwn9JULAcO3_-d8zpAII3QhrDZO5jt_tS-TcxZoxJ7qk5nH83V_V9PcEafKMogbf8t2_MNHT0K0vUhVbB87g41Ns/s200/P5060047.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Not 0.1 mile later, you have a tight right bend (below) followed by an even tighter left bend (not pictured). I've ridden this course somewhere near 50 times and this is the one place where I do not test my speed limits. Safety first! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-hUCrhzmOfSU2lzmhFdiHh97YJpM1yOLs69eqtFfw0ynVmnEt18xBEHqmbUE-erRgCQfh6ssLYA4VYzxBTJyBysrltaw-b0uy7ZVhLecfciQtiVI0V_6xkBK2gWzeOptRsQCQLkAadI/s1600/P5060049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-hUCrhzmOfSU2lzmhFdiHh97YJpM1yOLs69eqtFfw0ynVmnEt18xBEHqmbUE-erRgCQfh6ssLYA4VYzxBTJyBysrltaw-b0uy7ZVhLecfciQtiVI0V_6xkBK2gWzeOptRsQCQLkAadI/s320/P5060049.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Shortly after, you'll see the road begin to wind again, going slightly uphill. A left turn is coming onto Bethlehem Rd. <br />
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Bethlehem Rd runs right into Main St N (we turned onto that one earlier). This is where the lollipop ends and it's time to head back to transition! <br />
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We continue straight over the road to get back onto Quassapaug Road. From here, it is familiar territory! We'll continue straight ahead until we hit Sherman Hill Rd a half mile from transition. <br />
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Stop sign - and straight on ahead!</div>
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Stop sign and straight onward (the half bike course would turn right here). <br />
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Another stop sign coming up. And another "Keep going straight." <br />
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We do bear right here on Tranquility Rd. <br />
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Back over the bridge! <br />
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Take a right before the hut and head straight down Sherman Hill Rd. <br />
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Finally, we take a right directly back into Quassy Amusement Park.<br />
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Down the hill and a right into Quassy. <br />
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Down the entrance (keep to the right as runners will be coming out on the left) and hang a right into transition where we (thankfully or not) leave the bike for the run shoes. <br />
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If you are the aquabike, then you have an easy rest of the day. For those in the full race, we've got some more hills to contend with!! But don't worry. Quassy does give us one small break. We get a downhill start to the run!<br />
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When you leave for the day, there are a few things that will always ring true for this course. Hills, beautiful greens, and farms (cows, horses, and crops!). It's a gorgeous place to live and train.<br />
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If you are racing Rev3 Quassy (whether it's still 2017 or well beyond), comment below and I'd love to meet up! This race is my back yard, so I will be there whether I'm racing or not!!<br />
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<u><b>QUESTIONS</b></u><br />
<b>1. Do you check out the race course before race day?</b><br />
<i>I drive the bike course at the very least. If it's local (like Quassy), I'll get out and ride on it as much as possible pre-race day. </i><br />
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<b>2. Which type of course do you prefer? Hilly, flat, or rolling?</b><br />
<i>I used to argue for rolling - it gives you a break time to time without breaking you. However, Quassy pulls me back EVERY YEAR and the last couple of years I've done quite well on flat courses. I guess I've broadened my horizons. </i><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">DREAM. BELIEVE. ACHIEVE. </span>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-64883732455700764382017-04-26T15:12:00.003-04:002017-05-07T08:18:13.081-04:00RACE REPORT: White Lake Spring Half<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">April 22nd, 2017</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">White Lake, NC</span></i></div>
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Thanks to a solid race at IM 70.3 NC in October last year, my 2017 season had been lined up as of that sunny afternoon overlooking the USS North Carolina. My focus was IM 70.3 Worlds in September. With that in place, my coach and I decided to try something I've always wanted to, an earlier season A-race. I live in CT, so the earliest we race multisport locally is late May with no big races until June. I like to get in a sprint race or two before an A-race to shake the cobwebs off. But I've always been intrigued by (<i>read: jealous of those who have access to races in</i>) the super early season. So despite the typical weather, early it was, which meant traveling. Fortune even had it so that my original plans for early May got changed to late April (earlier!!).<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Why do such an early season race? </span></b></div>
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The benefit of a super early race is that it provides motivation for your training and provides plenty of time post-race to alter training as needed to address aspects that you want to improve before doing a mid-season or late season race. If you know me or read my blog before, you might know that I've had some rather packed racing seasons (20-30 races) and slowly have worked back to making bigger targets of fewer races as my goals have become more defined.<br />
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The goals going into this race were to...<br />
<ul>
<li>See where my training had gotten me over the winter, </li>
<li>See where I need to focus before going into IM 70.3 Worlds in Sept, and</li>
<li>Test out how I do with such an early season race. </li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Ok... Racecation time!</span></b></div>
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One of my best friends and certainly my longest lives in NC and this was the perfect excuse to make a long weekend out of the trip. Racecation! And another great event from SetUp Events.<br />
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For a focused race, I like to be on site as early as possible. Given that this was a Saturday race with a Friday athlete meeting (albeit optional), I made arrangements to be in town on Thursday. And as I'm sure I've told myself before, I realized Wednesday mid-morning that I should have taken that day off as well. I will always spend too much time getting things prepped and ultimately stay up too late the night before I get up at 2am for a 13 hour drive. Haha. Lesson learned. ...I hope.<br />
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I arrived in NC on Thursday, rested, relaxed, and enjoyed good company.<br />
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On Friday, it was time to get into race prep mode! I woke up without an alarm and did my early race prep shake out in and along Wrightsville Beach. The water was warm enough to go without the wetsuit (and with shaved legs!). It must have been mid-70s!! <br />
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Once I was back to my host's home, I made a large pancake breakfast, gear organization, take a nap, scout the course, athlete meeting, and in bed early. This day has become pretty typical for me. The only changes I make to this are dictated by the specific race schedule (athlete meeting time mainly).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7oDcJAfexdKZv-HI2frEzoNdaZuoilzG_IB6sztBgtmopNAR3N0viBjYg9WdJ6cSXft7GnQTFhXn7OthgSIcAbRGfM3_v42imy-jhyphenhyphenUJf9iDjWUBRYHS3FoZFBBE18M4XZvYfrKrrtXE/s1600/IMG_2264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7oDcJAfexdKZv-HI2frEzoNdaZuoilzG_IB6sztBgtmopNAR3N0viBjYg9WdJ6cSXft7GnQTFhXn7OthgSIcAbRGfM3_v42imy-jhyphenhyphenUJf9iDjWUBRYHS3FoZFBBE18M4XZvYfrKrrtXE/s640/IMG_2264.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This bike course is flat! 351 feet of elevation change.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Race Report</span></b></span></div>
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For anyone looking for course info on the race, I've included an initial paragraph in each section below covering what to pay attention to. I use your reports for the same info, so I can only give back!<br />
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Everything else is my own experience; mostly for my own recap and digestion, but also for your reading pleasure. Hopefully I can be your dummy to trip up so that you don't have to.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>PRE-RACE</b></u></span><br />
<br />
<i>The race is centered at the FFA Center at White Lake (Highway 53 in Elizabethtown, NC). They have ample parking inside the park for the number of athletes the race pulls in with overflow 0.25 mile down the road for spectators and late athletes. Gates opened at 5am, but there was no official close of transition. The 70.3 race began at 7am and the International (Oly) at 8a. As you'll read, the olympic athletes were in transition setting up when I ran in to get my bike. It's a small race, so no issues. You bring your bike and pick up your timing chip that morning during your transition set up. They offer plastic bands which can dig into the skin, so I suggest bringing a fabric strap if you have one from another race. The swim is off of two docks, which provides plenty of warm up area inside of the docks. Plenty of bathrooms and ample space! Great setup overall.</i><br />
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Race morning went pretty smooth. I woke up at 3am, put on my Breathe Right nose strip, a couple of race tattoos, and sun tan lotion. I made 3 over easy eggs, had a banana, an entire jar of unsweetened applesauce, and 2 pieces of bread. Then I packed up the car (bike, gear, food, me) and made the 50 minute drive. Along the way I picked up a bag of ice for my bike nutrition.<br />
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As I parked the car, I put in my headphones and started up the playlist. That means one thing - it's game time! At that point, I am in my own head - thinking about the race, mentally prepping for the day, and silently bouncing to the beat of the music. This is how I remain calm pre-race. It works great, but the playlist has taken some time to get right.<br />
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I got to transition at 4:51a and the gates were open already. Score! I parked, hit the bathroom, and started setting up. I was the 2nd person in transition. Many people like to get extra sleep and leave transition setup until later. I much prefer being calm and taking my time. I had transition fully set up by 6:30a.<br />
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One last trip to the car to get my wetsuit on (hoping that it would work smoothly - I hadn't put it on since my last race in October) and I was off to the water. Full sleeves don't go on quickly, so I wasn't in the water until 6:50a.<br />
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Water temp was 75-76, so the wetsuit was merely for bouyancy. The water was calm. My stroke felt good. My goggles (only retested yesterday after sitting in my bag all winter). I certainly was going into this race with a couple questions as to where I would find cobwebs to shake off, but I was excited. Now if only the weather could remain cloudy (forecast was for upper 80s)!!<br />
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Five minute delay to get the lifeguards out on the course meant a bit more time to warm up. I was the second wave. I was ready!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>SWIM</b></u></span><br />
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<i>White Lake is a man made, spring fed lake that only reaches 9 feet deep in the center. Unless it is windy, the water is very calm. The swim course is an clockwise upside down triangle with an in water start. You start near the left side dock and head out in a Northern direction. You turn after 3 buoys to head E/SE for 3 buoys, and then make the final turn to end at the right side dock where you exit the water by ladder. Waves go off every 5 minutes, so you have plenty of space!</i><br />
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As the announcer counted down the time (5 min, 3 min, 90s, 60s, 30s, 15s, GO!), I went over my goals. Hard out of the gate to find my space, then back it off to a maintainable effort. If you can, find feet to draft, but don't expect it. At the end, kick it home and finish hard. I find it really helps to review those process goals in order to keep me from focusing on goals I can't control (time, place, etc).<br />
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As the buzzer went off, I shot out at likely 100 or 200 yard pace. I'm a swimmer, so I don't mind the fray, but I might as well steer clear of it when I can. Within that time, I was out ahead of the group. A couple guys had speared ahead of the group off to the right side of the line, but I was pretty sure they were off the line towards the main buoy. I'd let them find their own way.<br />
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Half way to the first buoy, I pulled the effort back an focused on something I felt I could hold for the whole race. At the first buoy, I started to feel the mental dread; wondering why I do this. Immediately, I told myself pushing to that mental point was not worth the 30s I might save, so I backed off again.<br />
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By the 2nd buoy, I noticed another white cap (my wave) off to my right. The guy who had pulled ahead to the right of the start line must have caught back up. However, he seemed to be veering right again. I know that I veer left, so I made sure to check that it wasn't me moving away. It may have been, but I seemed to be staying within reason of the line of sight. Kept moving along. Every time we hit a buoy (which were not aligned well with one another), me and I presume Steve Johnson (looking at the results) would come back together. As soon as we passed the buoy, we'd separate again. It was a little entertaining though I would always recheck my sight line because of it.<br />
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We passed a handful of swimmers from the first wave. I was impressed that there weren't more of them. The five minute separation time seemed to work well.<br />
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As we made our way down the final length of the clockwise course, my swim cap finally came off. It's funny that as a swimmer my caps always seem to come off. Maybe it means I need to look at limiting my head movement. They never came off as a pool swimmer. Has that happened to you?<br />
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As I hit the final buoy, I switched to primarily unilateral breathing. This did push me a bit more left, but I shook off my only other competitor without a problem. There was one other purple cap (wave #1) ahead of me and I swam by him just before making it to the closer ladder to exit the water.<br />
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I felt I had a solid swim. My wetsuit and googles worked well, my new sleeved jersey didn't bother me, and nothing fell apart. It could have been a bit faster (pushing harder to bearing the mental pain, having competition to edge me on), but I wasn't unhappy with it by any means. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>TRANSTITION 1</b></u></span><br />
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<i>T1 starts on the dock as you exit the water. You run down the wooden dock (0.05 mile?), along the roped off grass, and into transition. Keep in mind that Olympic athletes will be setting up in transition when you get there, so don't be surprised. The bike exit is next to the road and the mount line is very close, so there is very little running with your bike. The rground itself is grass/dirt. If it is wet, it could get muddy. If it's dry, you may want a towel to brush off your feet. </i><br />
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As I hopped onto the deck, the volunteer asked me what color cap I was. '<i>I knew you'd do that.</i>' I yelled "WHITE!" without even looking. I enjoy transitions and making them fast. I believe I think well with the HR elevated or at least I've gotten my pattern of what to do and how nailed into my muscle memory.<br />
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<i> </i><br />
The wetsuit came down to my hips as I ran. I took it off while standing at my bike easily enough, popped my nutrition into my jersey pockets, put on my helmet and sunglasses, and then took a little long putting on my arm coolers. <i></i>Given this heat, I was not going without them, but in previous races, it has taken me a mile or two to roll them up on my arms. I've always left them rolled up, slipped them onto my wrists in T1 and then rolled them up while on the bike. Today I decided to take the time in transition to roll them up and save myself the hassle on the bike. It may still have saved me time but it still took longer than expected.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u>Note to Self</u>: Practice putting on arm coolers while wet</span></div>
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Once those were on, I was off. I started the Garmin while I was exiting transition. (<i>Note: I do not swim with my watch, only the quick release band. I leave the watch itself on my bike and then put it on my wrist in T2</i>). <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>BIKE</b></u></span><br />
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<i>The bike course is one of the simplest I've ever seen. There are five turns on the entire course and two of those are out of an into transition; so really there are only 3 turns. And they are all right hand turns!! I promise you cannot get lost here! It also has a total of 351 feet of elevation gain. This is flat!</i><br />
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<i>You start out on Hwy 53 going 1.5 miles before taking a right and going 8.5 miles on Hwy 701. Both of these roads are smooth with good riding surface. At mile 11, you take a right onto Hwy 210 where you stay for 25 miles. Hwy 210 is a smooth road to drive on, but a little bumpy on the bike. If you stay within a foot of the white line (edge of the road), the surface is much smoother. This road is open in places but has a fair amount of tree coverage providing both intermittent shade as well as a buffer from any wind. The terrain would be considered rolling for a NC race. It is enough of a change in grade to allow you to change gears regularly which is a nice mental break. The last turn before transition puts you onto Hwy 53, which is much more open and as I've been told is always a headwind. The road was 90% repaved as of race day and I presume the remaining 5 miles will finished shortly after.</i><br />
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<i>Aid stations are at mile 22 & 39 and offer only water (no sport drink, gels, or food). Both stations were staffed by 2 volunteers each handing out Deer Park sport top bottles that were NOT chilled. Do not count on cold water. </i><br />
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As I left transition, someone was already yelling "Mount!" at me. The mount line is roughly 5 run steps from the bike exit. There is no way I'm mounting that close when I have another 90 degree turn 5 steps later. For safety reasons, I ran the extra steps, entered the main road, and mounted there. Since no one came after me, I decided it was a legal move. I'm used to being yelled at for pushing my dismount RIGHT up to the line, but this was a first for waiting until much later to mount. Flying mount and I'm away!<br />
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I pedaled for a bit, slipped my feet in the shoes, pedaled some more, pulled the straps tight, and was off. Almost immediately, my left inner thigh had a rather sharp cramp. 'Uh-oh' was the only thing I could think. I had been worried about what effect the heat may have on me. I'm coming from CT and NC isn't exactly "cool" this time of year even for the locals. I immediately began thinking that I may have to deal with cramping throughout the race. But don't dwell on it! I kept pedaling. I coasted with the leg straight, coasted with it pulled up, I moved my knee out to stretch it, I rubbed it a bit (all of this within some 15s). It eased a little; enough to pedal without much pain, so I pushed on and began sipping my UCan hydrate. For the next 11 miles, I was focused on getting in my liquids to mitigate any additional cramping. My leg was fine by mile 4. Whether it was my focus on hydration or just dumb luck that the cramp wasn't heat related, I didn't have another cramp all day.<br />
<br />
I quickly found an effort level to stick to. As you may recall, I do not use any metric for pacing. I find an effort I can hold and stick to it while shooting to kick it up a notch for a negative split on the back half. My cadence tended to sit around 85-90 rpm most of the race. In some of the later miles, I found it drop into 80-85 and still feel fine, but that felt really low in the first 20 miles or so.<br />
<br />
Around mile 6.5, one person passed me. That would be the only one of the day. Otherwise, I passed 7 or 8 other athletes (3 girls and at least 4 guys). As nice as that was, it meant that the I only saw 7 or 8 people the entire time. Twice I looked behind me and there was no one. I might as well have been out for a long ride. Very different from the bigger races.<br />
<br />
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<br />
Funny enough, despite the tiny nature of this race (compared to say WTC), I saw two officials drive by twice each. I've been in IM races with huge packs drafting and not once did I see an official. My hat is off to the USAT officials at White Lake!<br />
<br />
Most of the ride was nothing to write home about. Hwy 701 went well. I peed quickly at mile 11 and didn't do so again until roughly 9pm that evening. I managed to get in about 75% of a water bottle before the aid station at mile 22. I may have gotten in 75% of another bottle along with 1.5 packs of Powerbar Energy Blasts before the aid station at 39. I always bring my custom Infinit formula with me, but I rarely ever use it. I find I take more liquid in when I separate my carb intake into solid food. From mile 35-45, I got in my 16oz. coke. I was likely low on liquid, but I felt consistent and solid getting off the bike.<br />
<br />
As for terrain, I enjoyed the rolling feel of Hwy 210 though the bumpy road got annoying at times. But oh man! When we turned onto 53, that wind tunnel hits you. It only took a minute or so for me to start saying goodbye to my time goals for the day. I had hoped to go sub-4:30 with a sub-2:25/2:20 bike. However, I had 20 miles on Hwy 53 and knew that even 10 miles of that wind would force me to go out of my race zone in order to hold onto that time goal. That wasn't going to happen. I stuck to effort and plugged along.<br />
<br />
One worthy note was that as I turned onto Hwy 53, the police had stopped 2 cars to let me turn safely. Once I had turned, the cars went by. The first drove by at an acceptable speed and moved ahead. The second came by a little slowly. I figured they were just being cautious and nice, but they continued to only move 0.05 mile ahead of me and then pulled over to the side of the road. Immediately I began thinking defensively... '<i>Is this person going to pull out in front of me? I can't see them in the car - are they going to open their door? Is anyone behind me? Can I pull out into the lane to avoid this Bozo?</i>' I pulled out into the road a bit and with little room left noticed that they had let up on their brakes making slow forward progress. <i>'Here it comes. They're going to pull out in front of me. Here goes my race!</i>' Then I hear it....<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">"Kurt!! Heeeeeeyyyy!!"</span></b></div>
<br />
It was Papa Middleton; my best friends dad who I grew up with back home. Haha!! I heard later all about how he just happened to arrive at that intersection in time to see me make the turn. What ironic timing!!<br />
<br />
Making it back into the park area, I passed two more cyclists and felt good; happy to be out of that wind. I pulled the arm coolers down, slipped my feet out, pedaled my way into transition, and dismounted.<br />
<br />
Overall, a solid bike effort. The wind will have slowed me down and I didn't get in as much liquid as I wanted, but I still felt good. <br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>TRANSITION 2</b></u></span><br />
<br />
<i>At this point in the day, transition is taken over by both half and Olympic athletes. Everyone follows the same path, so there is no confusion at all. You bike in on one end, rack the bike, change gear, and run out the opposite end. However, instead of running straight (which would lead you back towards the lake), you wrap right around the transition, running right by the bike in/out side. Again, the ground is grass/dirt so you may want a separate towel to brush off your feet before putting on socks/shoes.</i><br />
<br />
This again took a little longer than expected. As I ran in with the bike, I had the great idea of grabbing my watch off the bike to save time. My front wheel quickly veered into me and I dropped the watch.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u>Note to Self</u>: Leave the watch on the bike until it's racked!</span></div>
<br />
My helmet and glasses came off smooth. I unzipped my Castelli Free Speed jersey and pulled. It didn't come off. I pulled again. The sleeve was stuck on my arm. '<i>Thanks Castelli, but I'm not that bulky.</i>' Again, pulled and it wouldn't budge. I had to get my fingers under the sleeve to pull it off. *sigh*<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u>Note to Self</u>: Practice taking off a wet Castelli Free Speed Jersey</span></div>
<br />
I sat down and realized how much dirt was on my feet. I quickly brushed them off with my transition towel, put on my socks/shoes, grabbed my gear and ran. I had my race belt and visor on before exiting transition. I put the half jersey on once I was out onto the road (straight and no worry about bumps in the grass).<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>RUN</b></u></span><br />
<br />
<i>The run course is an out and back with a short out and back included on the out bound journey. It is 99% open (no shade), so plan on being beaten down by the weather (sun, rain, hail, etc). The course has 315 of elevation gain (only 36 feet less than the bike!). Aid stations are roughly every mile. However, between station 4 and 5, there is a sizeable distance (I would presume 1.5+ miles). Aid stations are manned by 2-5 volunteers. At most,
someone is out ahead asking what you'd like. Stations #1 & 2 (you
hit #2 twice in the small O&B and #1 is the final station before the
finish) are water and Gatorade only. All the other stations have ice
and wet towels. </i><br />
<br />
<i>Runners run out along the right side of the road and back on the same side (left on the way back). Be aware if this bothers your joints (US athletes are used to running with a left sloping tamber of the road, not the right which can affect your hips, knees, ankles, and lower back). </i><br />
<br />
<br />
My goal for this race was to go sub-1:30. I have only done it once with a few 1:30-1:33s. This time, instead of my typical process of going by HR and effort, my coach and I decided to target 7:00/mile for the first 6 miles. Evenly split, a 1:30 half would be 6:52/mile. I wanted to be conservative, get in my nutrition, and leave myself enough energy to have a push in the back half. As an athlete, this type of racing scares me because I typically am not all with it mentally at the end and have trouble pushing at that point. However, as a coach, I know that holding back and leaving yourself that mental faculty late in the race is the way to go. So we tried it.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">The plan worked. ...somewhat.</span></div>
<br />
Once I was out onto the road, I put on the Castelli Half Jersey (my Rev3 version of the sports bra), and immediately started checking my watch. I felt like I was at an easy pace. This wasn't a real push. I could hold this for awhile. Unfortunately, I was under 6:00/mile. '<i>Seriously?</i>' My effort based runs always have me at 6:00/mile in the first mile but it still feels like a bit more of a push. I wanted to avoid the drop off in pace, so I kept pulling back. Mile was still clipped off at a 6:10 pace. I kept slowing down.<br />
<br />
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<br />
Unfortunately, something else deviated my mental focus. At the first turn, the three volunteers were sitting off under a tree. I can't argue against them wanting to stay cool. I kept running straight towards the intersection where I made a right hand turn. Behind me I heard them say "Go Right." I turned around thinking 'Yeah, I am. Why are you yelling that at me now? I'm already passed you.' Then I saw another athlete taking a right much sooner, running behind the gas station on the corner and into an aid station. I was already half way into the turn, so I kept going. I missed the first aid station completely. I am thankful that the volunteers were out on the road directing athletes in towards the aid station on my return trip. I can't be angry though (despite what was in my head at the time). It's my job to know the course.<br />
<br />
Either way, as I ran into mile 2, my adrenaline was a little higher and it was harder to slow myself down. It went off at 6:28/mile. Still needed to slow down. I kept trying.<br />
<br />
We turned off of the main road onto a side street to do a small out & back. This was my first opportunity to see who was in front of me. One guy was already done with the O&B (about 1.5 miles). Even if he was from the first wave, there was no way he was only 5 minutes ahead of me. Then a couple more guys passed. I knew I was still in the top pack, but I didn't know who was from what wave. I couldn't make out ages on the leg (despite trying), so I had to stick to my own race and focus on the 7:00/mile pace.<br />
<br />
Aid station 2 (the first one I got to partake in) was ice and water for me. Water to sip and pour over the head and ice into the bra and hands. That felt good! And the water sat well in my stomach which is always the first test. We hit the turn around, came back, and this time I drank a full cup of gatorade, water over the head, and more ice. That was my pattern for the rest of the race; get liquids in and stay cool!<br />
<br />
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<br />
Mile 3 was 6:44/mile. I was doing better, but despite being happy about banked time, I was fearful that it would come back to bite me as usual. In mile 4, I had to stop at an aid station for maybe 2 seconds to grab all the cups. That mile clipped off at 6:59/mile. Without giving it much thought, I locked onto that and let my body sit at that effort with a quick stop to grab cups at each station. I was at my 7:00/mile pace! I held that through mile 9.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">I had three mental struggles during this run. </span></div>
<br />
Between stations #4 and 5, there is a long distance; I would venture to guess 1.5 miles or a bit more. That distance really wore on me and my mental state started drifting downward. Maybe I need work on the mental factor, maybe I was overheating, maybe I need mental work in the heat. Who knows, but I really wish they could move them closer. As soon as I got to the next station, I felt better and the pace picked back up. During this stretch (and a bit beyond), I switched my Garmin which had lap pace and HR on the screen to the menu screen. There was no use in focusing on pace, so I took that away from myself. Focus on what you can change! Once my mood picked back up, I switched back.<br />
<br />
The next was the mile markers. As I was running, I noticed that there were miles spray painted on the road. At one point, I ran over number "9" which faced the other direction. I got excited. I thought I recalled mile 9 being at the end of the turn around. That meant that I had less than a mile before the turn around. Within 0.25 mile, I saw a lawn sign which read "Mile 7. Run Course." '<i>Wait a second...</i>' I quickly realized I should follow the lawn signs; I believe the spray painted numbers were for the sprint race bike course the next day. But that meant that I had farther to go. My mood dropped immediately.<br />
<br />
Thankfully, that mental low was boosted by the turn around coming roughly 0.5 mile before I expected. As I rounded the turn, I told the two kids standing there '<i>You guys are awesome! I've been looking for you!</i>' Making comments or jokes is one of the best ways I've found to keep my mood up. As soon as I made the turn, my pace picked up a little and stayed there for about a mile. Sometimes the smallest things make a huge difference!<br />
<br />
Then at mile 10, the paced dropped off. This was again when I was between the two stations with a much larger than 1 mile distance between them. Maybe that did it. Maybe it was the fact that I neglected to use any of my gels. Either way, I dropped to a 7:20-7:30 pace and couldn't recover. In fact, I battled myself mentally and did end up walking twice for 2-5 seconds each. Both times my inner athlete pushed me along and I opted to slow down in order to maintain forward progress at 7:30/mile instead of walking at 15-20/mile. Again, I switched the watch to the menu screen. There was no use in having my motivation killed by seeing the pace. <br />
<br />
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 6"/>
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<br />
<br />
With about 0.5 mile to go, I picked up the pace and turned the Garmin screen
back on to show overall average pace. I was at 6:59/mile with a 171
HR. As I pushed, it jumped to 175. I focused on holding it
there. For a quarter mile it felt fine but then it was its own form of
torture as my breathing intensified. But it's half a mile, I can hold
this; the finish line is RIGHT THERE!<br />
<br />
As I entered the finish chute, Jim was there to snap a good picture (nice job
dude!).<br />
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I ran straight through the chute, collapsed in the shade, and tried my best
to get my breathing under control. Thankfully, another spectator/athlete
grabbed me a water and I was good. I sat there for a good 5 minutes!<br />
<br />
Overall, the run wasn't
what I had hoped, but it still went well. The heat was similar to
Eagleman last June and I broke down much more at that race (1:40 finish,
7:39/mile). Knowing that I had held it to roughly 7:00/mile with only a
few seconds spent at each aid station was a big improvement. I cannot be
unhappy about that.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
<b><u></u><u>POST-RACE</u></b></span><br />
<br />
<i>Once
past the finish line, SetUp Events had the required medal and water sitting in
ice in a kiddie pool. Just beyond that is the large pavilion where they
have seating, more drinks (pop/soda, Gatorade, and water), snacks, and Dominoes
pizza. White Lake is only 30 feet from the pavilion and athletes are
welcome to get in to cool off or warm down.</i><br />
<i><br />
If
you parked in the FFA Center, you are not allowed to leave until 1pm, but you
are welcome to gather your things from transition at any time. Awards for
the Olympic were at 1pm. Awards for the Half were at 2pm. All top
finishers received a White Lake Spring Half thermos.</i><br />
<br />
Once
I had recovered my breathing and my HR had dropped (that took 3 bottles of cold
water), I made it back to my car where I laid down for 5 minutes before having
the mental desire to start changing. I did so and grabbed my gear from
transition, finishing the rest of the liter of Coke I had brought in the
process; quick carbs and caffeine! I took my goggles and hopped into
White Lake. One thing I have learned is that if I am able to swim
post-race, my recovery is significantly faster. It may be the mobility,
the cold therapy, or a mixture, but it is a staple for me.<br />
<br />
While I was in the water,
I spoke to another local athlete who was headed to a banquet that evening his
company stuck him with going to (I hope it went okay for him!). In asking
for my name, he asked "Are you from one of the college teams?"
Haha. Thanks! I know I look young when I shave, but that's a decent
stretch!<br />
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<br />
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<span style="font-size: 24.0pt;">Proof that being active keeps you young!</span></div>
<br />
I
did stick around for awards at 2pm before heading home. I was 5th overall
and 1st in my age group. That is Thomas on the left and Mike on the
right; both great guys! While I waited around, I had some food and did a
good amount of mobility to try and mitigate the soreness I'm sure would come.<br />
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
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<br />
After getting home, I showered and headed out to visit friends. We had
pizza and chatted before I left to go to a local production of a Shakespeare
comedy. Surprisingly, the only issue I had the rest of the day was that
my left knee was painful (likely a tight ITB). It wasn't until the next morning
that the soreness set in. Oooo!!! But would that stop me?
No! We went rock climbing that afternoon, which was actually quite good
for the body. I needed to move.<br />
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<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
<b><u></u><u>DATA ANALYSIS</u></b></span><br />
<br />
I'll
start by saying that I have no right to overly complain about this race.
I had a strong time which is quite consistent with my previous races.
However, I will not lie and tell you that I am completely happy. I tend
to pick out what I can fix first before I acknowledge the positives. So
the data always gets digested!! Here we go!<br />
<br />
I do not race with
time. I have had too many races where a bad time gets in my head and
ruins the day. I truly believe (as an athlete and coach) that most of us
should be racing without time on our mini super computer watches. So...
the only thing I knew when I finished was that I had a roughly 7:00/mile pace
on the run. I asked Jim what time it was and based on that, I figured I
had a 4:35-4:40 finish. I fully admit, that does not make me happy.
Yes, it was a hot day. Yes, it was a warm run. But I wanted a
sub-4:30 in optimal conditions. However, I took a breathe and knew that I
could pick things apart in the data. <br />
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Swim
= 31:20 (4th fastest)</div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
T1
= 2:43</div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
Bike
= 2:28:26 (11th fastest)</div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
T2
= 1:48</div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
Run
= 1:30:41 (4th fastest)</div>
<div align="center" style="text-align: center;">
FINISH
= 4:34:55<b> </b></div>
<br />
<b>SWIM</b><br />
If that time is correct, then I swam WAY off course! Based on that
time, I would call that course a 1.35 mile swim instead of 1.2. I haven't
swum over 30 minutes since 2014. My normal time is around 28
minutes. Not that it's not possible, but it shocked me. I did reach
out to some other competitors who had gps data. Their distance ranged
from 2236 to 2450 yards (1.27 to 1.39 miles). No one swims the perfect
straight line, so we expect the gps to be slightly over (if it can be assumed
to be accurate to start) and I don't know how well these guys sighted.
But given that not a single competitor broke 30 minutes, I am calling this swim
long. <b> </b><br />
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<br />
<b>BIKE</b><br />
In optimal
conditions, I had hoped for a 2:25, maybe even 2:20. My bike strength had
increased since last fall but I didn't know where that would put me. This
course, however, was a bit windy and I knew my top ability wasn't going to show
in the time. No worries! I know that a 2:28 can be bested. But
I also did a 2:26:11 at Eagleman last year. So can I go sub-2:25?<br />
<br />
My HR of 158 bpm is
typical. No surprise there.<br />
<br />
I may look at getting a
power meter in order to better compare the data post-race. Either way,
much more cycling is in my future. I was 4th fastest on the swim and
run. If I was first on the swim, I could have gained 1:02. If I was
1st on the run, I could have gained 5:07. However, moving to fist on the
bike would have saved me >12 minutes. That's where I can make the
biggest dent. <br />
<br />
<b>RUN</b><br />
I
have run one sub-1:30 70.3 run and I wanted another! The heat was going
to be a factor for sure since my 1:29 run was on a cloudy day in the
mid-60s. Overall, I can't complain about 40s away from my goal while
admitting that I lost roughly 75s in the final 3 miles from slowing down.
That would have been my sub-1:30 right there.<br />
<br />
The goal was to run
7:00/mile for 6 miles and kick it up from there. It took me 3 miles
before I got that right. That may have come back to bite me at mile
10. But I held strong to that pace for 7 miles! And I only broke
down with 3 miles to go, not 5, 7, or 10! I do think that staying slower
at the start was a better decision (especially with the heat). It allowed
me to get more liquid in and stay cooler. However, I should have
attempted taking a gel so that I could rule that out for reasons why I slowed
down in the final 3 miles.<br />
<br />
I am looking at the
options of doing a half marathon for testing purposes for practicing the mental
side of pushing that back half.<br />
<br />
In the end, my total time
was not what I wanted, but as you can see below, my times have been quite
consistent which is something I AM proud of. I've gone under 4:45 since
for 7 out of 7 races since 2015.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u><span style="font-size: 24.0pt;">IN THE END</span></u></b><br />
<br />
The White Lake Spring
Half was a solid event. SetUp did a wonderful job putting on the race and
I thoroughly enjoyed my racecation. As always, there are things to head
back to the drawing board with, but that is the nature of the beast.<br />
<br />
Next up is Rev3 Quassy Olympic on June 3rd! Let's bring it!<br />
<br />
Thanks to everyone who made this day possible. Thanks to my coach Charlotte Saunders for putting up with me, Jim & Blair for hosting me in NC, Newington Bike for my race bike, Castelli & Rev3 for one awesome race kit, Powerbar for making some killer nutrition products, my triathlon club HEAT for letting me be quirky through the sport, and always my family for not thinking I'm "too" crazy. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
---------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<br />
<u><b>QUESTIONS</b></u><br />
<b>1. Have you ever had your swim cap come off during the swim?</b><br />
<i>It's happened to me twice. Honestly, I like when it does as it keeps me cooler.</i><br />
<br />
<b>2. If you were to choose the perfect weather for race day, what would it be?</b><br />
<i>My perfect race day would be cloudy and in the 60s. The swim would be incredibly windy, but it would settle down during the bike. On the run, it would rain.</i><br />
<br />
<b>3. What is your favorite post race activity?</b><br />
I used to eat and nap all day. Now, it's swim, eat, and keep the body moving!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">DREAM. BELIEVE. ACHIEVE. </span>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-46331701646210417372017-01-04T09:48:00.000-05:002017-01-04T09:48:11.038-05:00I Need Monthly Challenge IdeasI am a fan of challenging yourself, expanding your horizon, and pushing those limits. I love adventure, new experiences, and doing something simply for the novelty of it.<br />
<br />
Athletics is a MAJOR way I get to challenge my limits. That initial challenge somewhat took over my life; triathlon, personal training, coaching, etc. Monthly challenges are a way I get to try new things in so many other directions. Some I incorporate into my normal life. Others I don't. That's the beauty of it. You only live once, so why not experience everything you can in that time?!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
In the past, I've done challenges to change my diet (paleo twice, vegetarian), financial savings, and reading every night. As a result, I went vegetarian for 2 years and have been pescatarian for 1.5 years. I have a plan to be debt free within 4 years, 4 years ahead of schedule. I do still love to read, but it is tough to fit in. <br />
<br />
Most recently December 2016 was a peanut butter intervention. I admittedly have been known to down an entire jar (2800+ calories) of all natural peanut butter before I realize what I've done. That needed to stop. I am now allowed one jar per week. That challenge taught me that I did not need peanut butter as a snack. There were other things I could eat and forced me to make those foods available. <br />
<br />
Looking ahead to 2017, I only have two challenges in mind. <br />
<br />
<u><b>Meditation</b></u><br />
I will be meditating 5+ minutes per day in order to try and clear my mind of the anxiety of never ending to do list in my head. <br />
<br />
<u><b>No Texting</b></u><i> (only calling & email)</i><br />
I am intrigued by how texting has changed how civilization communicates and therefore how we interact. I want to go back to a time where you had to speak with someone verbally in order to interact. <br />
<br />
I am in need of suggestions for monthly challenges. The only requirement is that it push a limit or force me to try something new. Let the suggestions fly!!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
January - Meditation (5+ min/day)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
February - No texting (I can only call or email)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
March - ??</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
April - ??</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
May - ?? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
June - ??</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
July - ??</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
August - ??</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
September - ??</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
October - ??</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
November - ??</div>
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December - ??</div>
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---------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<u><b>QUESTIONS</b></u></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>1. Have you ever done a monthly challenge? If so, what have you done?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>2. If you could try a new experience, what would it be?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>3. What would you change about your normal daily routine?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
DREAM. BELIEVE. ACHIEVE. </div>
Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-696716592038905072017-01-03T18:36:00.000-05:002017-01-03T18:53:34.359-05:00The Year of the Sports Bra<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjzUSFTtDRdsXV01YUm50fHH7scq_rXW_0DDd1vlKlXfU1M7J_Z0QQt8ucDsVjkfeFgzcWwBPdy9Go_tn4yZL8G685SF3kytLqNoPbIoVNR89bPCQOBBXVFFeytPIpnmjteVnESE3Af8/s1600/36_m-100751662-DIGITAL_HIGHRES-1608_097047-6052192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjzUSFTtDRdsXV01YUm50fHH7scq_rXW_0DDd1vlKlXfU1M7J_Z0QQt8ucDsVjkfeFgzcWwBPdy9Go_tn4yZL8G685SF3kytLqNoPbIoVNR89bPCQOBBXVFFeytPIpnmjteVnESE3Af8/s320/36_m-100751662-DIGITAL_HIGHRES-1608_097047-6052192.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">IM 70.3 NC</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
For those who know me, you already know this story. <br />
<br />
For those who don't, I can already hear you judging. That's okay. Trust me, I get it. All I will say is that I am a triathlete and we will try ANYTHING. <br />
<br />
Here's the quick run down...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I wear a sports bra for WTC (Ironman branded) races.<br />
<i>WHY?! ...you ask.</i><br />
WTC has a rule that males need to wear a shirt for the bike and the run.<br />
I have always known I run better with no shirt.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I wear a bra because it alleviates the affects of heat while satisfying WTC's shirt rule.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The bra (LG Powerbra) is rather comfortable!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yes, I get looks and questions all the time.<br />
Yes, I was self-conscious the first two times I did it. After that, I embraced it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I fully plan on continuing to wear it. It's awesome!</div>
<br />
Here's the run down story to the question I get at every race.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"Ok, I have to ask. ...why the bra?"</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI5df-Zq6qm3v97G701BcxlqXwaeaAlsrSj9OFCqyFLVdUJ5sy8g0bDF1SmgJ5uU3rxtWLLWmWh6VyyAYEjAsXddzMUl9PBFt7ZRYQ_6CjBflQcS52khhIDFOgPcPegDTlJvQRTciuoXc/s1600/19_m-100751662-DIGITAL_HIGHRES-1608_072105-6052175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI5df-Zq6qm3v97G701BcxlqXwaeaAlsrSj9OFCqyFLVdUJ5sy8g0bDF1SmgJ5uU3rxtWLLWmWh6VyyAYEjAsXddzMUl9PBFt7ZRYQ_6CjBflQcS52khhIDFOgPcPegDTlJvQRTciuoXc/s320/19_m-100751662-DIGITAL_HIGHRES-1608_072105-6052175.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">IM 70.3 NC</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Over the 2015-2016 winter, I set up my 2016 race schedule; three IM 70.3s (Eagleman, Timberman, and North Carolina) that would all have potentially hot conditions. Knowing that my best performances have been in mild temperatures, I began looking for tactics to help with the inevitable race day heat. As of late 2015, I exchanged my "No shirt if it's 50+ degreees" running rule for "You have to wear a shirt no matter what." I began wearing a shirt on every run whether it was 30 degrees or 90. That came with some not too enjoyable experiences, but all with the goal that I 'd be better on race day. I also began cutting out the fan on trainer rides. My monthly cost for Febreze and laundry quickly shot up. All of this was in hopes of allowing me to deal better with the heat.<br />
<br />
Then I began considering my race attire. I have a variety of jerseys and I know which one provides the least heat impact, but I wanted to know if there was something better. I began looking into the newer fabrics, into the sleeved jerseys, and others. Some reviews argued that they weren't great to run in but were manageable. I didn't want "manageable." I wanted "great." Looking at my inventory, I knew I could bike well in my Newington Bike jersey, but I much preferred running without a shirt altogether. Unfortunately, WTC does not allow that.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
WTC's rule states that a shirt must be worn at all times during the bike and run. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2jKxC1rHxef1WlYLJx30ZvTb-QclEeDkOuCjwI6JAavJrrx9jue-IBS-2fvZrPVCQdM9c6kWFvTFMKu_KtobxvaBPD5yfa4bHXn_j9labj7uyzJqP3ERxvyU3QOiQZ5RwU2WZrUs2IX0/s1600/Bike+Shirt+Rule.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2jKxC1rHxef1WlYLJx30ZvTb-QclEeDkOuCjwI6JAavJrrx9jue-IBS-2fvZrPVCQdM9c6kWFvTFMKu_KtobxvaBPD5yfa4bHXn_j9labj7uyzJqP3ERxvyU3QOiQZ5RwU2WZrUs2IX0/s320/Bike+Shirt+Rule.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsw1-9sP5fCZo_SWpgZfzu8iixwk33pKrFKRAzaSODL3AyhGP2V_jqwar4fDQvZnpBAjA57Mkq8LJEXP3SQTS2UFp0s31v63E-cvp-g8-9Un3yxL3w5GWjZRbFIkW2EFYjdg2ncAC5G9c/s1600/Run+Shirt+Rule.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="37" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsw1-9sP5fCZo_SWpgZfzu8iixwk33pKrFKRAzaSODL3AyhGP2V_jqwar4fDQvZnpBAjA57Mkq8LJEXP3SQTS2UFp0s31v63E-cvp-g8-9Un3yxL3w5GWjZRbFIkW2EFYjdg2ncAC5G9c/s400/Run+Shirt+Rule.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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I began looking at simple run singlets that I could cut short in order to limit the amount of fabric I had on me. Somewhere in that venture, an idea took the smallest of roots and began to grow. Of course at first, I laughed. No way would I actually do that. Would I? I didn't even know who to ask about it. Who could I talk to without it sounding crazy? I asked my coach who was on board for giving it a try. I also asked a fellow coach who was my previous coach. She was ALL ABOUT IT! Not only that, she swore that male pros used to wear their significant other's sports bra in races before, but it fell out of "trend." <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">And the ball began to roll.</span></div>
<br />
Trust me when I say that it was quite weird for me at first. I am a heterosexual male who is voluntarily considering wearing a bra in public for everyone to see. Oh, and it's not for Halloween! But before I even considered buying one, I needed to make sure that WTC/IM would allow it. The head referee at IM 70.3 Timberman had joked about it once, but I needed to know he was serious. <br />
<br />
I contacted WTC/IM and inquired about the details of the "no shirt" rule; what is the technical side of the rule and could a sports bra suffice as a shirt? The Global Rules Director provided the following insight.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ-mJn84MtWGENB5V322W8DK-EudipDrwmmi5xVA9OApbVe4wv52-rvmSzycAZuMj2HdhRQ1gfWocEy98wbrbMgTiyFBucx5shQhi6AO6D7-jOX-yqkwdKPoYy0oUuaRDrzqfhv2LirOw/s1600/Sports+Bra+Email+01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ-mJn84MtWGENB5V322W8DK-EudipDrwmmi5xVA9OApbVe4wv52-rvmSzycAZuMj2HdhRQ1gfWocEy98wbrbMgTiyFBucx5shQhi6AO6D7-jOX-yqkwdKPoYy0oUuaRDrzqfhv2LirOw/s640/Sports+Bra+Email+01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJK2te_pi_5adWXCISC-1laTbnl4aRW42D2K-lMtuuzMEcAnbSH_YtIWL5w2KgXv6fmqIMBpc2xaiLgvGs9FNH61bR8N8CRDupUbrS_FxXZN12AlrKrpLV_aH9hzafLqAsiekuTLfKFbo/s1600/Sports+Bra+Email+02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJK2te_pi_5adWXCISC-1laTbnl4aRW42D2K-lMtuuzMEcAnbSH_YtIWL5w2KgXv6fmqIMBpc2xaiLgvGs9FNH61bR8N8CRDupUbrS_FxXZN12AlrKrpLV_aH9hzafLqAsiekuTLfKFbo/s640/Sports+Bra+Email+02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I had a green light from WTC/IM to give this a try. <br />
<br />
I asked some close female friends for their recommendation on sports bras. That got some interesting responses, but altogether they were supportive (while laughing). In the end, I went with the brand I trust, Louis Garneau. They make the jersey that I love, so I trusted them to make a bra I could handle. I opted for the LG Powerbra. <br />
<br />
I tested it on two long runs under a dark colored shirt. Those went fine. The two hardest moments were the first time I wore it in a half marathon and the first time I wore it in a triathlon. I am by no means immune to social norms and embarrassment. I strongly considered leaving my throw away shirt on for that first half marathon. What would people say? What would they not say but think? Is there another option I hadn't considered and am going to make a fool out of myself? Why don't I just wait until race day at Eagleman and wear it then?!<br />
<br />
*Sigh* Off came the shirt before the start. If I didn't do it then, I may never have.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNBAsCp9TlZHi39WgEDX3DW0SFPVPoHlbnxbFQi1mS0uUyt7Pw2lUlaOXndm6HEQlDsKpp0lF8ROPN7kBm2ICYO_HO3TJd9wZ76Knk4Xr_FexFQfYDvZKWUR1iNpOefbrHxA81iAsEVvM/s1600/Capstone+Photography+-+27.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNBAsCp9TlZHi39WgEDX3DW0SFPVPoHlbnxbFQi1mS0uUyt7Pw2lUlaOXndm6HEQlDsKpp0lF8ROPN7kBm2ICYO_HO3TJd9wZ76Knk4Xr_FexFQfYDvZKWUR1iNpOefbrHxA81iAsEVvM/s320/Capstone+Photography+-+27.png" width="220" /></a></div>
<br />
After that race started the questions. "<i>Were you the guy with the bra?</i>" Yeah, that was me. "<i>Okay, I have to ask, why the bra?</i>" When I explained it, the spectators agreed that it made sense and the women even chimed in saying that they love wearing just their bra; it's great for the heat and to store ice in. Great!!<br />
<br />
I found the bra served another purpose as well - Motivation. I did not want to be caught as a male wearing a bra while not looking fast. Haha<br />
<br />
Fast forward to IM 70.3 Eagleman. In race mode, I found that I had zero qualms about what people thought. In fact, I had some fun with it as I heard comments. My favorite was from a volunteer in transition.<br />
<br />
(*Running through transition with no shirt and the bra in my hand*)<br />
<b>VOLUNTEER</b>: Woah!! Go back, you have to have a shirt.<br />
<b>ME</b>: (holding up the bra) I have it right here.<br />
<b>VOLUNTEER</b>: Okay, but get it on quick.<br />
(<i>* I put on the bra while running through the exit chute *</i>) <br />
<b>VOLUNTEER </b>(to another): Is that... a bra?<br />
<b>ME</b>: (yelling back) Yes it is!<br />
<b>VOLUNTEER</b>: (<i>*visibly and audibly laughing*</i>)<br />
<br />
On course, the bra was great! Eagleman was super hot (90s heat wave) and I my run felt apart. I ran aid station to aid station just trying to make it without walking in between. At every station, I drank water, gatorade, and stuffed ice into the bra. Those women were right - the bra was so useful! Post-race, I found I had the 4th fastest run in my AG, a stat I have never been close to. The bra was a staple right there and then! I still pulled it off shortly after crossing the finish line though.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>It was comfortable, useful, and let me run my own race the way I want to.</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Enough said!!</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuTJ3H0M-yxqofd03iYgrmaPGM1X4HvMEnM_GVGjhimq1M0r-SYoxgdguOUaU1JYGcPfeAwiAav2UKkZEcGD8kC4LGdx3XMSfJytV054Gx47JSoAV3omCZwhUJvAKOAj7JU4Exo3XwU2k/s1600/15_m-100751662-DIGITAL_HIGHRES-1608_059218-6052171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuTJ3H0M-yxqofd03iYgrmaPGM1X4HvMEnM_GVGjhimq1M0r-SYoxgdguOUaU1JYGcPfeAwiAav2UKkZEcGD8kC4LGdx3XMSfJytV054Gx47JSoAV3omCZwhUJvAKOAj7JU4Exo3XwU2k/s320/15_m-100751662-DIGITAL_HIGHRES-1608_059218-6052171.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">IM 70.3 NC<b><br /></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</b></span></div>
<br />
Ahead to IM 70.3 Timberman. This race didn't go as well, but the bra proved itself to be quite helpful in keeping me cool. And the Betty girls who were cheering gave me a good laugh.<br />
<br />
<b>BETTY GIRL</b>: (<i>quietly to the others</i>) Here comes that guy in a bra again.<br />
<br />
I just waved.<br />
<br />
Finally, IM 70.3 NC. At this point, the bra had become my habit and I was not phased by the idea of wearing it at all. I actually wore it post-race for awhile because I was too tired to attempt the removal and wanted to use it as a place to store my gels, medal, etc. The embarrassment was gone. The other guys in the food tent didn't even ask about it.<br />
<br />
Hey, how'd your race go?<br />
Do you like those shoes? I'm looking at something new.<br />
What'd you think of that wind on the bike? Brutal, right?!<br />
Did you see the prom aid station?! I was looking all over for a limo!<br />
<br />
The two final 2016 nails in the sports bra coffin came after. I placed 6th overall with the 6th fastest run of the day. BOOM! And that allowed me to earn my slot to the 2017 WC in Chattanooga, TN.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0PERjF3KK6xVgM2Vq2T8P6XUlmTlZi9F2iSH7CqGEVvceCt_Cp_zQ-yW-qBE3wzHAqHDoLDs80Dut8AHO1LkYl5u9cfzORneqWHgyDk7Hn9Y-z6py_IZIs2bYFLxsy_jZDDUAWBkx_bk/s1600/Mike+Fecik.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0PERjF3KK6xVgM2Vq2T8P6XUlmTlZi9F2iSH7CqGEVvceCt_Cp_zQ-yW-qBE3wzHAqHDoLDs80Dut8AHO1LkYl5u9cfzORneqWHgyDk7Hn9Y-z6py_IZIs2bYFLxsy_jZDDUAWBkx_bk/s320/Mike+Fecik.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">IM 70.3 NC Awards (I'm in the middle)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At the end of the day, we are triathletes. We were the first group to put pointed bars on our bikes so that we could bend forward out of the wind to save a few minutes. We were the first to wear helmets that look like sperm on our head because it promised us faster times. We nit pick every ounce of weight on our bikes despite the 10 pounds of water and gels we tape to it. We argue over whether 23 or 25c tires are faster. And we wear anything that is advertised as a faster material or equipment.<br />
<br />
So why should a guy wearing a sports bra surprise ANYONE?!?<br />
<br />
<i>Fun Fact... </i><br />
The last time I raced at Beach 2 Battleship (now IMNC), I was the only guy in a pink kit. My spectators told me I was super easy to pick out. This year, there were at least half a dozen guys in pink. <br />
<br />
The next time I race there, I may not be the only guy in a bra!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<br />
<u><b>QUESTIONS</b></u><br />
<b>1. Guys, would you consider wearing a sports bra if it meant you'd be faster?</b><br />
<br />
<b>2. Ladies, how much do you love your sports bra when you run? </b><br />
<br />
<b>3. Would you laugh if you saw a guy wearing a sports bra in a race?</b><br />
<i>If anyone has ever seen another guy wearing a sports bra in a race, I want to know!! </i><br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">DREAM. BELIEVE. ACHIEVE.</span></b>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-27084758815745468212016-06-29T08:16:00.000-04:002016-06-29T08:16:29.146-04:00RECIPE: Cinnamon Toast Chick PeasYum!!<br />
<br />
I admit that I had serious doubts about this recipe. It was posted by a friend of mine who said that it tasted like Cinnamon Toast Crunch. I immediately called BS, but thought it was worth a try. I will tell you that it's not perfect, but it's 95% there. Incredible!!<br />
<br />
So if you are looking for something sweet and crunchy, but want to stay healthy. Here you go!<br />
<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
1 15.5oz. can of Chick Peas<br />
1 tbsp olive oil<br />
1 tbsp honey<br />
Cinnamon to taste<br />
<br />
DIRECTIONS<br />
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Drain & rinse the chickpeas. Then dry them on a paper towel. Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the chick peas out in a single layer. Bake for 45 min or until crispy.<br />
<br />
While the chick peas are still warm, toss them in a bowl with the olive oil, honey, and cinnamon. Spread them back out on the sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until caramelized.<br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<br />
After making this recipe, I immediately had comments from friends about what they add for seasonings. They number of combinations are endless! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDz-heXbK_Oj8fhUUlmnoAKqG-gefO7p21xyTqTSUdEe-A3bgk0w0paoX46q8vvde9-IbjAGcwDgrua-GGsRFUqmKTa6nvLT5P1b2-SEwaz3DM3oYy43Fv50WJDCTiv2j7C74uniEzuZ8/s1600/Cinnamon+Toast+Chick+Peas+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDz-heXbK_Oj8fhUUlmnoAKqG-gefO7p21xyTqTSUdEe-A3bgk0w0paoX46q8vvde9-IbjAGcwDgrua-GGsRFUqmKTa6nvLT5P1b2-SEwaz3DM3oYy43Fv50WJDCTiv2j7C74uniEzuZ8/s320/Cinnamon+Toast+Chick+Peas+-+01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It was the next morning that the magic really happened. If a recipe was able to follow through on a promise to taste like Cinnamon Toast Crunch, I had to take one more step and eat it just like you would the cereal. <br />
<br />
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<br />
And magic it was!! YUM!!<br />
<br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">DREAM. BELIEVE. ACHIEVE.</span></b>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-59093372849973956592016-03-25T09:00:00.000-04:002016-03-25T09:00:01.300-04:00Freakin' A Friday!! 020 - Commit Me!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">When did this happen to you last??</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>...'cause I know it did!</i></div>
<br />
We are endurance athletes!<br />
<br />
What does that mean?; one of two things. We either have a lot of time we spend with a select few training buddies (whom we get REAL close with on many different topics) or we spend a lot of time in our own self-conscious. Either way...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">We have a lot of time to think!</span></div>
<br />
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<br />
<br />
<b>Sometimes </b>those thoughts are totally normal; mental notes of things on the To Do List.<br />
<br />
<b>Sometimes </b>they are funny; remembering a joke someone said awhile back and it feels new all over again.<br />
<br />
And <b>sometimes </b>I think I'd be forced to meet with a psychiatrist if the things going through my head were projected outward. <br />
<br />
Here are a few of my favorite more recent lines of thought during various workouts.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>SWIM</b></u></span></div>
<br />
I was doing a swim workout that had multiple 500 and 1000s in it. I am bad at counting laps! As a competitive swimmer, I used to have a friend be an unofficial counter for me during the 200 Breastroke. Yes, I would lose count going from 1 to 4. Anyways, I've found a variety of interesting ways to keep count - or more like keeping my interest in counting without my mind wandering off. <br />
<br />
On this day, I decided that I could count each lap of my 500/1000s only using the word "Fifty." Here's what I came up with for 20 laps of the pool.<br />
<br />
1 - Fifty <i>(it's a 50, easy)</i><br />
2 - Fifty Fifty <i>(two 50s = 50 beyond 50 = 100)</i><br />
3 - Fifty <i>("one 50" = 150)</i><br />
4 - Fifty Fifty <i>(50 beyond "one 50" = 200)</i><br />
5 - Fifty Fifty <i>("two 50s" = 250)</i><br />
6 - Fifty Fifty Fifty <i>(50 beyond "two 50s" = 300)</i><br />
7 - Fifty Fifty Fifty <i>(50 short of "one 50" before half way = 350)</i><br />
8 - Fifty Fifty Fifty <i>(two 50s short of half way = 400)</i><br />
9 - Fifty Fifty <i>(one 50 short of half way = 450)</i><br />
10 - Fifty <i>(half way = 500)</i><br />
11 - Fifty Fifty <i>(one 50 beyond half way = 550)</i><br />
12 - Fifty Fifty Fifty <i>(two 50s beyond half way = 600)</i><br />
13 - Fifty Fifty <i>(one 50 [150] beyond half way = 650)</i><br />
14 - Fifty Fifty Fifty <i>(two 50s [250] and a 50 to go = 700)</i><br />
15 - Fifty Fifty <i>(half way beyond half way = 750)</i><br />
16 - Fifty Fifty Fifty <i>(one 50 [150] and a fifty to go = 800)</i><br />
17 - Fifty <i>(one 50 [150] left)</i><br />
18 - Fifty Fifty <i>(two 50s left)</i><br />
19 - Fifty <i>(one 50 to go)</i><br />
20 - Fifty Fifty <i>(There's about a 50% chance I counted that correctly!)</i><br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>RUN</b></u></span></div>
<br />
On a long, easy run, my mind tends to wander more than any structured run. On this particular day, I was half way through my run when I imagined myself running past my dad's house; the house I grew up in and my grand & great-grandfather built. In my mind, the house looked just as it had before, but my dad had sold the house; I must have been back to visit friends.<br />
<br />
As I run down the street, I stopped on the side of the road to take in the memories of my childhood. As I stood there, a couple came out of the house. They saw me and asked if they could help at all. I told them that I had grown up in the house. "You must have been here when they built it" they told me. No, that was a generation before me. <br />
<br />
The conversation immediately went into details about the house.<br />
<ul>
<li>The house was built in the mid to late 1960s.</li>
<li>The porch was an addition, originally intended as a garage.</li>
<li>The trees were planted when the house was built, but half of them torn down later.</li>
</ul>
<br />
Turns out, this couple was not those that my dad sold the house to. That couple had turned around and sold the house quickly to the current residents with very misleading information. They were told the house was built in the late 1980s and they paid a significant amount more than it may have sold for otherwise. <br />
<br />
Before I left, I gave them my dad's number so that they could get more accurate information. They were incredibly thankful and I headed back out to finish my run.<br />
<br />
As I made it back home (to my real apartment), I was amazed at the amount of info I recalled about the house. <br />
<br />
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>BIKE</b></u></span></div>
<br />
Have you ever wanted to redesign your room, apartment, house, or office? One of my favorite stations (when I'm somewhere that has cable), is HGTV.<br />
<br />
While on my bike, all of my thoughts came to mind.<br />
<ul>
<li>My bed takes up a lot of space in my room. A futon would make more sense.</li>
<li>I could use that extra space for workout gear and storing my bikes.</li>
<li>When I moved in to my apartment, I loved the idea of using part of my long closet as a reading nook. I should try that out.</li>
<li>If I find the closet comfortable for reading, I bet I could sleep in there - save a LOT of room!</li>
<li>If I sleep in the closet, I could get an oversized chair to read in.</li>
<li>My desk has always felt insufficient for studying and projects. I'd like to have a corner desk.</li>
<li>I've always wanted to have a large white board - or better yet a large glass panel just like college study sessions on windows.</li>
</ul>
I spent a good portion of that ride rethinking how I would rearrange my room. After I got off the bike, I followed up with a few items.<br />
<ul>
<li>I measured the closet width. 27.2" wide.</li>
<li>I found a company that makes 26.5" wide beds. Surprisingly cheap too.</li>
<li>I checked craigslist for futons and an oversized chair (I'm a craigslist addict!)</li>
<li>I started designing a corner standing desk. I might be able to get my dad to help me build one to my specifications.</li>
</ul>
<br />
This is what goes through my head! And that's just scratching the surface. Go ahead - commit me!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Freakin' Hilarious!! </span>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-51718927137591265522016-03-20T19:04:00.000-04:002016-03-20T19:04:17.581-04:00RACE REPORT: 2016 Colchester Half Marathon<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">The 24th Annual</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>"Tough as Nails" </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Colchester Half Marathon</span></div>
<br />
When you find a good quality race, it is hard to say "no."<br />
<br />
That is so incredibly true of this race! Welcome to year #4 of my attendance of this race. Why do I race here so consistently?<br />
<ul>
<li>It's hard to find a half marathon in February! It's cold here in the northeast! </li>
<li>40 minutes from home.</li>
<li>$14 for a half marathon?? Yes and Thank You!</li>
<li>This is up there for the best post-race food! I would pay more than $14 for the meal alone.</li>
<li>The race director is AMAZING towards each and every racer.</li>
</ul>
<br />
If you're interested, here are my previous race reports.<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://wojo-becominganironman.blogspot.com/2015/03/race-report-2015-colchester-half.html">2015 Colchester Half Marathon</a></li>
<ul>
<li>Huge surprise PR! </li>
</ul>
<li><a href="http://wojo-becominganironman.blogspot.com/2014/02/race-report-colchester-half-marathon.html">2014 Colchester Half Marathon</a></li>
<ul>
<li>I was sick, but ran anyways! </li>
</ul>
<li><a href="http://wojo-becominganironman.blogspot.com/2013/02/race-report-colchester-half-marathon.html">2013 Colchester Half Marathon</a></li>
<ul>
<li>I ran this first time on a last minute whim, the day before a marathon. </li>
</ul>
</ul>
<br />
Ok! Here we go. What happened at the Colchester Half Marathon in 2016?!<br />
<br />
The race starts at 10am. Gotta' love early season races that are restricted by sunlight! So I was up at 5:30a as usual, waited to have breakfast until 7a (2 eggs, banana, applesauce, toast), and headed to the race about 8:15a.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXKP736N7rM1agwZHGlrybQZ1do9t8sVncUmlW_MF5aLnFqgaxZ4SUj6omY9CExn-75WfLsmQcm1X-g9MSaArekAKWaNhkNB0SSkjkTcIn1L_k907oVldClwP13ODQtpQ8zG-eg927FTE/s1600/IMG_0965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXKP736N7rM1agwZHGlrybQZ1do9t8sVncUmlW_MF5aLnFqgaxZ4SUj6omY9CExn-75WfLsmQcm1X-g9MSaArekAKWaNhkNB0SSkjkTcIn1L_k907oVldClwP13ODQtpQ8zG-eg927FTE/s640/IMG_0965.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The race is centered at Bacon Academy High School in Colchester, CT and the parking lot looks like this as soon as you get there. It is packed!! And I typically arrive early for races, but I tend to get one of the last parking spots at this one.<br />
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<br />
Bacon Academy High! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJHJba1Xg5SZSqrE28VHbBfsrEhyphenhyphenBliveqO7BIrWouDTyIzHxAdTK_HKAbCU86q9xRrj7_HT5f2E9AkzsxLhf-QdAGCAqdxZEtdCeTM1oPSvKInq2f6Cx0ZkFC89R4ZMQCWMbZhKHBbH4/s1600/IMG_0968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJHJba1Xg5SZSqrE28VHbBfsrEhyphenhyphenBliveqO7BIrWouDTyIzHxAdTK_HKAbCU86q9xRrj7_HT5f2E9AkzsxLhf-QdAGCAqdxZEtdCeTM1oPSvKInq2f6Cx0ZkFC89R4ZMQCWMbZhKHBbH4/s320/IMG_0968.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Inside, it is a swarming mass of runners chatting, getting ready, and all around shaking the nerves out. Upstairs, downstairs - all runners!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh57MGdK6y8T0IYHIUZPsNNZKD03YOKwJE3_EI6iLk1Y6nc-5e7n_YMosBvlf_QRT8YIJhKu2L8IFuJjzJ4kMxMopdHdqtiu1pNQktDmxZlaDrjq_4z5agQfALO1s2z3mIlbL0tDtgPpzg/s1600/IMG_0969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh57MGdK6y8T0IYHIUZPsNNZKD03YOKwJE3_EI6iLk1Y6nc-5e7n_YMosBvlf_QRT8YIJhKu2L8IFuJjzJ4kMxMopdHdqtiu1pNQktDmxZlaDrjq_4z5agQfALO1s2z3mIlbL0tDtgPpzg/s320/IMG_0969.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Registration and bib pick up are completely volunteer. This race would not go on without the incredible help of volunteers year in and year out. Thank you!!! If I didn't love this race so much, I would volunteer in a heartbeat!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVFDmKGtQRDIldiK0uVqILzJkN3UOgBuAIAeLZhyIcFJNNNVPsJzQ-dXbsk_972ISVvkWrDjangYFMLTKR9KOydA4jNKLvyeGRypFz2SlkMmWFo0UIlpBBaHEKASubHHvFQKNzyhHycRo/s320/Kristen+-+06.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The HEAT crew pre-race</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
I chatted with some friends, hit the long bathroom line a couple times, changed into thermal shorts because of the temperature drop, and then headed out to warm up; about 10 minutes. It's nice to run down and back up the final hill just to get it in your head that "<i>Hey, you just ran this earlier today. You got this. RUN!</i>"<br />
<br />
I immediately knew that my double layer mittens would be too much. But with 4 minutes to race start (and this race is ON TIME!), I quickly asked a volunteer if she could hold them for me. Instead, we stuffed them under a finish line cone. Great idea!! But trust me, I had multiple thoughts of "<i>I wonder if they'll be there when I get back.</i>" They were.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSv8ifxFN774srZQ_A4bw2wkhPXxI8KuQ1XnmxHTnCjhfy8zN2MVZzthN0YoseM6l0AqTYbbGbdcBRwa3EiYVbgsdXGwJryITTvlpmqZ2zRAmD7kgrVyyCgvc6ixn6RZTy2W9BxvNBqC8/s1600/Kristen+-+07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSv8ifxFN774srZQ_A4bw2wkhPXxI8KuQ1XnmxHTnCjhfy8zN2MVZzthN0YoseM6l0AqTYbbGbdcBRwa3EiYVbgsdXGwJryITTvlpmqZ2zRAmD7kgrVyyCgvc6ixn6RZTy2W9BxvNBqC8/s320/Kristen+-+07.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kristen & I pre-race. ...about to CRUSH IT!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Okay! I'm ready. Ready as I'll ever be. I said good luck to all my friends, found my way to the front, and prepped myself. I had a new friend running this year too - Pete. Pete is 14 years old and has done a 1:18. My hope was simply not to let him crush me too bad. Man has he flourished!! Great kid too, but MAN can he fly!<br />
<br />
Up to the start line. Rick, the race director, thanked the runners, the volunteers, and the weather gods. And without much ceremony, sent us on our way!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYEfmPw80USEuogdJDFXv1HWrHyGasVCVXc7MbQwRh1cuIKJRjIleTy_UKhE_tb5jKLT_jNBqmbQw-UBW2Ph0BdSb90W8zJJLJ2vjBKecZkUju63k147zJu5C9GSwahaRy5J0rqfADkNo/s1600/Jenn+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYEfmPw80USEuogdJDFXv1HWrHyGasVCVXc7MbQwRh1cuIKJRjIleTy_UKhE_tb5jKLT_jNBqmbQw-UBW2Ph0BdSb90W8zJJLJ2vjBKecZkUju63k147zJu5C9GSwahaRy5J0rqfADkNo/s640/Jenn+-+01.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture thanks to <a href="http://www.sandiastudio.com/">JS Photography</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm in the blue with the party hat (it's a tradition with my birthday) and Pete is in the green. Gotta' keep him in sights!!<br />
<br />
Race Nerves<br />
<br />
I will admit that on my way to the race, I had some butterfly's in my stomach. It's the first race of the year, I've done very little high speed running, my longest "tempo" may have been 20 minutes, and I have no idea what to expect for time or performance. Here's how I deal with that.<br />
<ul>
<li>I don't run with any usable metric. I run with total ascent so that I am forced to go by feel.</li>
<li>I set process goals. For this race, it was negative split and feel strong in the back half.</li>
<li>I remember that I paid $14 for this race. My financial side can't get bent out of shape about that!</li>
<li>I wear a birthday hat. Yes, Tuesday was my birthday, but it's just FUN. I love cracking jokes mid-race. That's my way of lightening the mood.</li>
</ul>
<br />
So in those first 5 miles, I was worried. I was!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Can I hold this effort?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Am I going to burn out?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Should I pull back?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">How am I going to feel at mile 10 when I need to REALLY push??</span></div>
<br />
<br />
That whole time, I cracked jokes - some out loud and others in my head. And eventually my body and mind came around.<br />
<br />
Around mile 5-6, something clicked. I had control of the effort level, I felt the gauge on my gas tank, and my body screamed at me "We got this!" From that point on, I was in control; not a single internal question from there to the finish.<br />
<br />
And I don't know why, but I love this course. It would be gorgeous with some foliage, but it's still great in the dead of winter.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2XD4-5jlx6bCp4V8-E66svvU8ebEpr8q3eHes-pT20ogCdkih-fO3PMxFT2a2GSLa0UuUEIQ5dZEYCkN2tAdaKoNgyL1nVK_CoSQh-GAQTtu1LQTOuixkwjh7SqtyU96PEPrr93-qXMg/s1600/Kristen+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2XD4-5jlx6bCp4V8-E66svvU8ebEpr8q3eHes-pT20ogCdkih-fO3PMxFT2a2GSLa0UuUEIQ5dZEYCkN2tAdaKoNgyL1nVK_CoSQh-GAQTtu1LQTOuixkwjh7SqtyU96PEPrr93-qXMg/s200/Kristen+-+01.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLZoTG-sTsJvfzxLLYNSeii_cjYjHSPorjXefSLKYrQ1M2ziGyPdU1N-snzQ3cgyn9LldBtTlTB0LCgQ5T6BPtm-SFCiSIv9JVkCawK-WoGgkY7O1P5SMvJ-bL9AWNXWrE2M9mAp2S5M/s1600/Kristen+-+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLZoTG-sTsJvfzxLLYNSeii_cjYjHSPorjXefSLKYrQ1M2ziGyPdU1N-snzQ3cgyn9LldBtTlTB0LCgQ5T6BPtm-SFCiSIv9JVkCawK-WoGgkY7O1P5SMvJ-bL9AWNXWrE2M9mAp2S5M/s200/Kristen+-+02.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
The course is mostly paved roads, but there are some dirt roads we use. At times they can be frozen over, slushy, etc. This year, they were PERFECT! And the farms are great to look at! Again, in the summer, this would be even better.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFuL8fKHwQ9Cr5dmprUR3liFc4cjh8xogQFmCxsrVS0aPbMStr2wyt0uZV5eiIPIYMVsuWDcEebbnYiKtd-Ns6o7DrK0fWc2Enkdl2pFpDDhjVidejSp1k-4wCyg1BpquwrednKczBkno/s1600/Kristen+-+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFuL8fKHwQ9Cr5dmprUR3liFc4cjh8xogQFmCxsrVS0aPbMStr2wyt0uZV5eiIPIYMVsuWDcEebbnYiKtd-Ns6o7DrK0fWc2Enkdl2pFpDDhjVidejSp1k-4wCyg1BpquwrednKczBkno/s200/Kristen+-+03.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn8yr5TkEKMpa5mBq8M4cZqASFyAGeTCqb3d_ncUOWrTPqcWXvSeXarS7Ty0InEXBMKyE1JWeFUBrynmnUi9qlCHNhEFMuxb1eZv-Y7DmlNvgdFysngZMmpWotC3GzK_xG4z5ShMjafxo/s1600/Kristen+-+04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn8yr5TkEKMpa5mBq8M4cZqASFyAGeTCqb3d_ncUOWrTPqcWXvSeXarS7Ty0InEXBMKyE1JWeFUBrynmnUi9qlCHNhEFMuxb1eZv-Y7DmlNvgdFysngZMmpWotC3GzK_xG4z5ShMjafxo/s200/Kristen+-+04.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
A part of me just wants to come back and run this course in June for the scenery!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj48Y9TS5uvkZ0fdy_yils0RaUd9Nw4rrvZ1MQd7NpfGQAuBAWrMbSbJ89u2U2IZzUFUvniWU7D9blvDjnfjqIL_pYiYmVaJxoQ83kSbayDMN8Z2ekNV_BZibe539eug4-DwGslipOIlno/s1600/Wanda+-+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj48Y9TS5uvkZ0fdy_yils0RaUd9Nw4rrvZ1MQd7NpfGQAuBAWrMbSbJ89u2U2IZzUFUvniWU7D9blvDjnfjqIL_pYiYmVaJxoQ83kSbayDMN8Z2ekNV_BZibe539eug4-DwGslipOIlno/s320/Wanda+-+02.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick and Andy at mile 4/5</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
Did I mention Rick, the race director?! AMAZING!! Rick makes this race so much fun for every racer!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSgRZBGwn__CXkvxyy9VULCb_M6iW_-1gNtht98Jb8k5XDwEWJJTh9LBmzwfE6R4_xX5_thSTEl4Kw8k4V2Y_DsH0OAyceSUOFQY1eyZHoawNJjs70JjhrJZGkKmmfaox9iRrUn7xQxiU/s1600/Kristen+-+05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSgRZBGwn__CXkvxyy9VULCb_M6iW_-1gNtht98Jb8k5XDwEWJJTh9LBmzwfE6R4_xX5_thSTEl4Kw8k4V2Y_DsH0OAyceSUOFQY1eyZHoawNJjs70JjhrJZGkKmmfaox9iRrUn7xQxiU/s320/Kristen+-+05.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick on the final hill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Without fail, he is out at mile 4-5 cheering us on and giving high-fives. And then he stands on that last hill welcoming every single runner to the finish line. He got there just after I finished (after he was done at mile 4/5) and was on that hill still when I left to drive home.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Thank you Rick!!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Such an amazing race and atmosphere!</span></div>
<br />
And last, but certainly not least, we have the post-race food!!<br />
<br />
We're at a high school, so they get to use the cafeteria and every year, they do not disappoint.<br />
<ul>
<li>Lasagna</li>
<li>Soup</li>
<li>Veggies</li>
<li>Salad</li>
<li>Bread</li>
<li>Brownies the size of your fist</li>
<li>Ice cream</li>
<li>Drinks</li>
<li>Pizza</li>
</ul>
<br />
Eat your fill!! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ466GcSTfQ-PSH4xiyaZ_a-z_UP5TqxoHZC7NPRmRE2L-w3yZ55HS60rSawN2mACszHIU43jJaSU4aqiKKlQBU2FBuewvsw91_tCPrZh7tR4ZMfEhMxlKB3YTV-jXTAkZ6CrB9hKaMNs/s1600/Wanda+-+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ466GcSTfQ-PSH4xiyaZ_a-z_UP5TqxoHZC7NPRmRE2L-w3yZ55HS60rSawN2mACszHIU43jJaSU4aqiKKlQBU2FBuewvsw91_tCPrZh7tR4ZMfEhMxlKB3YTV-jXTAkZ6CrB9hKaMNs/s200/Wanda+-+01.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmFrSTJvdYSHGb0EZ4H3vMDTYsmFPKyVtM3CiGRz4WO-GpEeslajs3sQSPLvrpD17CDU2V02ibQWJPukMYfFV_XVIzZNm01FcYuFbyUxJpOPJ8hdayYDw1GurmXamFBVdQW_WadWrrHuA/s1600/IMG_0970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmFrSTJvdYSHGb0EZ4H3vMDTYsmFPKyVtM3CiGRz4WO-GpEeslajs3sQSPLvrpD17CDU2V02ibQWJPukMYfFV_XVIzZNm01FcYuFbyUxJpOPJ8hdayYDw1GurmXamFBVdQW_WadWrrHuA/s200/IMG_0970.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU8Mpq-UZ42hPhhV7jRn_2JydE0JgeTGF-8L9EhL77dWA1kuZIDvv5G6adHKTMKemz7dpRIX7JnxdzZPHxwD-90JGax9Gdd6ctoRIxzq8XAUsYIVPHi1vhtwl9O4TAaDRT0Ya8fzrab4I/s1600/IMG_0972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU8Mpq-UZ42hPhhV7jRn_2JydE0JgeTGF-8L9EhL77dWA1kuZIDvv5G6adHKTMKemz7dpRIX7JnxdzZPHxwD-90JGax9Gdd6ctoRIxzq8XAUsYIVPHi1vhtwl9O4TAaDRT0Ya8fzrab4I/s200/IMG_0972.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOQ3Vnf9a1Kryn9TMm1cUVEp4uZlY6-grfWvqwR-wyLJRURByzropZoErSpc-Q_nwlDmUS-KnURNpBxng1lsAf-J93lTeI8vlnIXX4tWFVBrLBbIAJz4lGvmXNo4aG5jsiShKPWAViSA/s1600/IMG_0973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOQ3Vnf9a1Kryn9TMm1cUVEp4uZlY6-grfWvqwR-wyLJRURByzropZoErSpc-Q_nwlDmUS-KnURNpBxng1lsAf-J93lTeI8vlnIXX4tWFVBrLBbIAJz4lGvmXNo4aG5jsiShKPWAViSA/s200/IMG_0973.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I will be back in 2017 for yet another running of the hills!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
-------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<br />
<u><b>QUESTIONS</b></u><br />
<b>1. What race do you do every year? And why?</b><br />
<i>The Colchester Half Marathon is one because it's cheap, has great food, is the first of the year in the northeast, and never disappoints. Rev3 Quassy is another, but this year I am actually skipping it. *gasp*</i><br />
<br />
<b>2. What is your first race of the year? What is kicking off your season?</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>DREAM. BELIEVE. ACHIEVE. </b></span>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-51653255989565610682016-03-11T09:00:00.000-05:002016-03-11T18:08:59.689-05:00Freakin' A Friday!! 019 - SOLD OUT!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Has this ever happened to you??</span></div>
<br />
You've spent a lot of time (maybe hours, weeks, months, or even years!) putting together your race calendar for the upcoming season.<br />
<br />
You crossed checked reviews on the race, hotel prices, your vacation days with HR, coordinated the race timings, and maybe even joined a group to train together.<br />
<br />
Then when it comes time to sign up for the race, you see these dreaded words...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8prc8Xin0Jnr5E85G-27zM6t9aDJSwb0DAHSA3QF2VWN24OYkYvZtZZcs5k3jSVE067B6jU1ahqS3OnD3SYK4fcrXKQCgSZI_8U7HKROVHo8sIkOXXVcyFUnI_yzddCqTUHDOuRPv7C4/s1600/Sold+Out.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8prc8Xin0Jnr5E85G-27zM6t9aDJSwb0DAHSA3QF2VWN24OYkYvZtZZcs5k3jSVE067B6jU1ahqS3OnD3SYK4fcrXKQCgSZI_8U7HKROVHo8sIkOXXVcyFUnI_yzddCqTUHDOuRPv7C4/s400/Sold+Out.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It is in this moment that you begin to review the 7 stages of grief.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 1</b>: Shock </span></div>
<br />
You immediately (internally or out loud) shout "WHAT?!" Somehow the meaning didn't sink in as you read it twice, three, four....seven times.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 2</b>: Denial</span></div>
<br />
You quickly refresh the page, close down and reopen the browser, restart your computer, or even call a friend to have them check it for you on their computer.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 3</b>: Anger </span></div>
<br />
At this point it's someone else's fault. This completely ruined your season and the whole reasoning behind your other race choices, which of course you can't get out of now. Everything is wrong! Why didn't the race company inform you? You get emails from them all the time! Someone should have alerted you! You would have signed up if you had only known!!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 4</b>: Bargaining</span></div>
<br />
Okay... So maybe there's someone I can contact; wiggle a way in. I'll just email EVERYONE.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 5</b>: Guilt</span></div>
<br />
You've proven to yourself that it's
true. Now it's time to beat yourself up over waiting that extra day,
week, or month to fork over the entry fee. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 6</b>: Depression</span></div>
<br />
Forget today's workout. I'm just going to eat ice cream and watch a movie! Or five.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Step 7</b>: Acceptance</span></div>
<br />
Beaten, battered, and bruised, you found your way back to your desk, pull up the race calendar spreadsheet (because you're obviously a type A), gave into reality and decided to head back to the drawing board in order to reconfigure the year. With this recent catastrophe fresh in your mind, you quickly sign up for anything and everything left on your list!!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
-----------------------------------------------------------</div>
<br />
This happened to me recently with the new IM 70.3 North Carolina. I didn't expect it to fill up as quick as it did. I raced it as Beach 2 Battleship in 2012 and expected registration to be about the same. I was wrong! Sad day. But onward we move!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Freakin' A!!!</span></b>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-25499081935822991882016-03-04T09:00:00.000-05:002016-03-04T09:00:14.642-05:00Freakin' A Friday!! 018 - STOP!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Has this happened to you?!</span></div>
<br />
Technology is great! As triathletes, we use so many forms of new designs, electronics, and gadgets. Heck, we could be called the 'Sport of Gadgets.' But every so often it's the gadget that ruins the workout. Just when we thought we had it all going for us, BAM! Nothing you can do. <br />
<br />
Here's one of my pet peeves - Treadmills.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_unbtZbW3GRJexi_Afar6a7ZBay-9zSktemxMNys5dDVqTXqK6-elK4u5IXYgUKyCkfndszS_iUNU6AxvAn4rkaNfcY32hItJ0OljFAHUopbi7SY5Z6JOY0RGctcbo3uEYqTBBOJVIms/s1600/Treadmill+Feet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_unbtZbW3GRJexi_Afar6a7ZBay-9zSktemxMNys5dDVqTXqK6-elK4u5IXYgUKyCkfndszS_iUNU6AxvAn4rkaNfcY32hItJ0OljFAHUopbi7SY5Z6JOY0RGctcbo3uEYqTBBOJVIms/s320/Treadmill+Feet.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
If you've followed me for awhile, you know that I dislike treadmills altogether. I've run in just about any weather there is in the north east in order to avoid treadmills. Well, surprise! I've been using the treadmill more than the outdoors so far this winter. I know! Crazy!! And we're having an incredibly mild winter. It's all for the sake of heat and mental training. But anyways... One thing I really dislike on cardio equipment is the time limitation. As endurance athletes, we are the unfortunate exception when it comes to most gym workouts.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Who says my workout can only be 60 minutes?!</span></div>
<br />
When I first joined a gym back in 2010, the treadmills used to stop on me after 20 minutes. Dead Stop! I ran straight into the display of so many treadmills at that gym! I no longer go there. I "put them down" if you know what I mean.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FE9ZMgEP8AhAk4NmP1VeWNZ6KmbhEzPq2z9m4o0zjWqamnCxPjPs-NCjTTDZxMXkzFri7B7Hrh64VWQrTn9GKpaNa8pQF3dZL-EDWAdqWjKDYu_QQwLbtRGME417lYzC_hydfO9Xuqk/s1600/Life+Fitness+Treadmill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FE9ZMgEP8AhAk4NmP1VeWNZ6KmbhEzPq2z9m4o0zjWqamnCxPjPs-NCjTTDZxMXkzFri7B7Hrh64VWQrTn9GKpaNa8pQF3dZL-EDWAdqWjKDYu_QQwLbtRGME417lYzC_hydfO9Xuqk/s320/Life+Fitness+Treadmill.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEq4LUxBD5oxJl9CaJRPpNaiyw_TRaOVGVS6JPuYXMHWAHgwAR7uJShWhNYe4qSLkxsqMU2cB2bVpCEtFTz8H3XAKjpFUARfAdfCx-nRcW3FXX_ljInmFqhuLCOIkiSFhRDf9_qPKCAFI/s1600/Treadmill+Feet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
Fast forward to today... Now that I WORK at a gym, I have made sure that all cardio equipment is set for an unlimited length of time for workouts. They will not stop on you until you tell it to or your self-selected program does. <br />
<br />
However, the gym that I frequent for my own workouts doesn't feel the same. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Running on a treadmill at most gyms</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">is like Treadmill Russian Roulette.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">You never know which one is going to be loaded.</span></div>
<br />
I have learned of two at this gym that are programmed not to stop at 60 minutes. If my run has me going longer, I preferentially chose one of those two; even if it means I'm getting onto a treadmill right next to someone else and there are a long string of open ones down the aisle. Sorry buddy - it's your lucky day!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4cai50GOuddfs-6FoTBfzNCjLLy6ogfvavFakaaKLrIiWytWJjHVPk3OK1UCOugiiCa2kp3T9R6iCoHPgMZvaOIR9sMsNEKHpbTpF4KPDWOD2JbRsJkgVWQEB0gKhqdzt_UgdB73wZBY/s1600/Yup%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4cai50GOuddfs-6FoTBfzNCjLLy6ogfvavFakaaKLrIiWytWJjHVPk3OK1UCOugiiCa2kp3T9R6iCoHPgMZvaOIR9sMsNEKHpbTpF4KPDWOD2JbRsJkgVWQEB0gKhqdzt_UgdB73wZBY/s320/Yup%2521.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I had to learn this the hard way though. And what do you do?? Some will restart quickly and you can keep going. Some have shut down for multiple minutes forcing me to jump onto the treadmill next to it. Some stop suddently! Thankfully these ones go into a Cool Down mode so it's a slower process. Either way, it's annoying!<br />
<br />
When I have a 75 minute, 90 minutes, or 2 hour run, I don't want to have to stop part way in just because of the technology being limiting! I've already kept myself from taking a bathroom break! <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Just let me RUN!</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Freakin' A!!!</span>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-8691680662377453872016-02-26T09:00:00.000-05:002016-02-26T09:01:01.401-05:00Freakin' A Friday!! 017 - Marketing<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Has this happened to you?!</span></div>
<br />
How many times have you walked past a sign, driven past a billboard, listened to a radio ad, or watched a commercial and thought "...wait. Really?! How can they say that??" It baffles me how much misdirected information or just blatantly wrong information is out there.<br />
<br />
These are based on actual ads I have seen. <br />
<br />
The tv tells you they have the workout product that will bust through those extra 50 pounds you're carrying around in just <u><b>14 minutes a day!</b></u> Have we become THAT lazy?? Fourteen minutes a day is still 52 minutes short of the recommended weekly activity for adults. <br />
<br />
The radio has sponsored ads from companies that sell fiber pills which fill you up so that you don't have to worry about WHAT you eat because the pills take care of HOW MUCH you eat. Of course all the DJs swear by it. I turn the station every time I hear it come on. Eat a real piece of food. Fiber! <br />
<br />
And the most recent that I've seen is the sign below posted near the entrance of a gym that I frequent.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYMyuPQ4qxOw31kCfgnT0OhGnKDpCHdNYB-G5ytYbS8iOfLLpK-w-v5bQ8OZsOcUQh2gkfSB-vBKeeUZx2eCUBA_kH31hak88UU3dHC0IOGim08wh4HaD41zhg-pXi4ei0shM9ir_ToA/s1600/Cardio+doesn%2527t+burn+fat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYMyuPQ4qxOw31kCfgnT0OhGnKDpCHdNYB-G5ytYbS8iOfLLpK-w-v5bQ8OZsOcUQh2gkfSB-vBKeeUZx2eCUBA_kH31hak88UU3dHC0IOGim08wh4HaD41zhg-pXi4ei0shM9ir_ToA/s320/Cardio+doesn%2527t+burn+fat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I acknowledge that I am biased in multiple ways. I am an endurance triathlete and a personal trainer/endurance coach. However, part of that bias is based on real scientific research. Granted, I'm not jumping at the gun to go into marketing because that is one department I don't care to take part in, but come on. Really?! Do we need to give people false information in order to convince them to do something they don't need, but you make money at? Can't we just tell people the truth and be done?!<br />
<br />
Thankfully, a few days later, the sign got switched to this.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib7CHGvnQjIye8qWE1_bX93xgklbwbEwqGEma5kYm3cL_dK0Msc0Ne__uvfDjZXxPSWHATwuZbmwPnuO6z9Z7Zr93CJSFLMoAQcYRydBDLUM0OawwhSgWnI5E_0ujS89J8sP6ETzzxB-U/s1600/cardio+not+the+best+fat+burn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib7CHGvnQjIye8qWE1_bX93xgklbwbEwqGEma5kYm3cL_dK0Msc0Ne__uvfDjZXxPSWHATwuZbmwPnuO6z9Z7Zr93CJSFLMoAQcYRydBDLUM0OawwhSgWnI5E_0ujS89J8sP6ETzzxB-U/s320/cardio+not+the+best+fat+burn.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I could still argue it, but at least it initiates a logical discussion. Good job gym!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Freakin' A!!!</span></b>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-18561109473958298842016-02-19T09:00:00.000-05:002016-02-19T16:37:02.675-05:00Freakin' A Friday!! 016 - Baby, It's Cold Outside<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Has this ever happened to you?</span></div>
<br />
Thanks to the affects of last week's <a href="http://wojo-becominganironman.blogspot.com/2016/02/freakin-friday-015-off-label-use-of.html">off-label use of chlorine</a>, I was in desperate need of a haircut. If I left my hair as is, it got tough or brittle. If I used gel to try and fake it looking alive, it was BAD! My only other option was to try and cut the dead hair off.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4YP3Yy3Ou1hDQvtWfkCsY-tFs7OULbgN3N_GPu_ZYbB870fXLDuYBR9jA7sZClS2pe7TgEkF6FpNgMf1l968fD6jwwGTPZ6sHpmOEzbzn6PhuefUcYgWWxxfjfsXGJiOHwjS42M6Qr4/s1600/Chlorine+Hair.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4YP3Yy3Ou1hDQvtWfkCsY-tFs7OULbgN3N_GPu_ZYbB870fXLDuYBR9jA7sZClS2pe7TgEkF6FpNgMf1l968fD6jwwGTPZ6sHpmOEzbzn6PhuefUcYgWWxxfjfsXGJiOHwjS42M6Qr4/s320/Chlorine+Hair.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
See the difference in color?! It's so dead, brittle, soft, and... DEAD!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirZzIKTNuWyGuSyOlFu9CnkY5nNLvqiId38quVilycpA_PJTWTC3Fw20xzSc2ILAm0F4oyf6jpseG3_2JbsTcJoM00q8K0163-hAIVrpXMpSdRCTjRVdFVj3aeblaVzfLsQkubn3ehL-E/s1600/Slate+Hair.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirZzIKTNuWyGuSyOlFu9CnkY5nNLvqiId38quVilycpA_PJTWTC3Fw20xzSc2ILAm0F4oyf6jpseG3_2JbsTcJoM00q8K0163-hAIVrpXMpSdRCTjRVdFVj3aeblaVzfLsQkubn3ehL-E/s320/Slate+Hair.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It really HAD started to turn grey. But it was grey tipped! And if I went much longer, I'm sure that might have started turning green. Ugh!!<br />
<br />
So one morning I woke up early and chopped it off. And then immediately regretted it (in part).<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">IT'S COLD!</span></b></div>
<br />
You know that new haircut feeling. It feels like you've been outside for hours with a nice warm hat on and then someone comes by and takes it away as the wind starts to pick up. BRRRRRRRRR!!!! Girls, I'm sure there's some similar feeling you have, right? If not, then consider yourself lucky.<br />
<br />
This is why I prefer longer hair in the winter.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Freakin' A!!!</b></span>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-64038405542061776652016-02-12T09:00:00.000-05:002016-02-17T12:24:49.474-05:00Freakin' A Friday!! 015 - Off Label Use of Chlorine<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Has this ever happened to you?!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwybgwI4K6y7oZv65VKgCbFXxt1lZzsGJE40ctXxcTKL1Jwok6Nl33ak-85C08JblXa_kCM9ERGtRPLJeOX6JVMZJi1gMv5knUTqsDokauSMIi58sbdHtTOf6-onVn9vRYqH4U3kC7xwE/s1600/Chlorine+-+breakfast+of+champions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwybgwI4K6y7oZv65VKgCbFXxt1lZzsGJE40ctXxcTKL1Jwok6Nl33ak-85C08JblXa_kCM9ERGtRPLJeOX6JVMZJi1gMv5knUTqsDokauSMIi58sbdHtTOf6-onVn9vRYqH4U3kC7xwE/s320/Chlorine+-+breakfast+of+champions.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I recently did a three week swim focus in my training. I was in the pool 6-7 times a week. Below are some actual questions I got - and some others that I've heard of before.<br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>Hair Lightening</b></u><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4YP3Yy3Ou1hDQvtWfkCsY-tFs7OULbgN3N_GPu_ZYbB870fXLDuYBR9jA7sZClS2pe7TgEkF6FpNgMf1l968fD6jwwGTPZ6sHpmOEzbzn6PhuefUcYgWWxxfjfsXGJiOHwjS42M6Qr4/s1600/Chlorine+Hair.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4YP3Yy3Ou1hDQvtWfkCsY-tFs7OULbgN3N_GPu_ZYbB870fXLDuYBR9jA7sZClS2pe7TgEkF6FpNgMf1l968fD6jwwGTPZ6sHpmOEzbzn6PhuefUcYgWWxxfjfsXGJiOHwjS42M6Qr4/s200/Chlorine+Hair.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what Chlorine does!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Q: Your hair is lighter. Did you get it dyed?<br />
<br />
A: No. I've been swimming a lot. It's the chlorine.<br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>Going Grey</b></u><br />
<br />
Q: Did you dye your hair? That is a really good slate color!<br />
<br />
A: Umm... No. That's just the chlorine.<br />
<br />
** This person knows I've done crazy things with my hair in the past. <br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>Tanning</b></u><br />
<br />
Q: Have you been tanning? You look darker.<br />
<br />
A: No. My hair is lighter, so it makes my skin look darker.<br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>Faking a Pool Installation</b></u><br />
<br />
Q: Are you guys getting a pool? I smell chlorine.<br />
<br />
A: No. That's just me. It won't come off my skin. <br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>No Moisturizer? No problem.</b></u><br />
<br />
Q: Your skin is so soft. What moisturizer do you use?<br />
<br />
A: I don't. The hair on my arm is so dead that it feels super smooth.<br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>No razor? No problem.</b></u><br />
<br />
Q: Have you been shaving your body already?<br />
<br />
A: No. My leg/arm hair has become so brittle and thin that it has either broken off or is transparent.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Freakin' A!!!</span></b><br />
<br />
<br />Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-78526546639339813382016-02-05T09:00:00.000-05:002016-02-05T09:00:06.510-05:00Freakin' A Friday!! 014 - Carbo-Loading for the Couch<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> Has this happened to you?!</span></div>
<br />
You are walking into the grocery store fully prepared with your list of healthy foods and meals, you've avoided coming on an empty stomach because that just leads to bad things, and as soon as you walk in the door, you are greeted face first by one of these...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2CO4zux2jEhc17hdytBymi68Nk3qUBHPjVcvMuvON1tCVQ1W8Qnmx-fIu2AsEv5q-QVa469x3mPQ5l-ZZwkI1q59JcnwNHyeIdJfkajVrMGNQ10gCsoo018Kkmtyaajc6A-z9nrpWwvQ/s1600/Superbowl+Display.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2CO4zux2jEhc17hdytBymi68Nk3qUBHPjVcvMuvON1tCVQ1W8Qnmx-fIu2AsEv5q-QVa469x3mPQ5l-ZZwkI1q59JcnwNHyeIdJfkajVrMGNQ10gCsoo018Kkmtyaajc6A-z9nrpWwvQ/s320/Superbowl+Display.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
You literally have to do a lateral just to get around it because it is blocking your move.<br />
<br />
Yup! Someone at the marketing department decided you need just ONE more test of your will. They don't care that you don't watch football or that you specifically don't eat ANY of those foods. Well... Actually they do. They want to break you!! They put all the bad, tasty, and empty calorie foods right in front of you. "Just try to say no!" <br />
<br />
Long ago, you adopted the practice of only shopping on the outside of the grocery store layout, not going into the aisles so that you could avoid all the temptations of the prepackaged food varieties. But NOOOOO!!! That's not enough. Now you can't walk in the door without the all might marketing dollar being flaunted in your face.<br />
<br />
When will they start putting up signs at the door that say<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"Did you get 5 servings of fruits & veggies today?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Visit our produce department!!"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"Looking for a little spice to your meals?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Visit our seafood department for our fresh catch of the day!?</span></div>
<br />
No! It'll never happen. Marketing doesn't care about your health. And neither do sports. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ojWGk8POyJ76JYF_rpJqMoJ2WgI38Gip-j-RVHCpT58cO-Uw39QKtm74vHuukNuIwJGDH45Oy_xx3BoQGVYh-dfVDcwPZwVbqKFNR0zPmCBq_1vQNBjqgpsB7J7tKT42dzCqjvGprWE/s1600/Superbowl+50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ojWGk8POyJ76JYF_rpJqMoJ2WgI38Gip-j-RVHCpT58cO-Uw39QKtm74vHuukNuIwJGDH45Oy_xx3BoQGVYh-dfVDcwPZwVbqKFNR0zPmCBq_1vQNBjqgpsB7J7tKT42dzCqjvGprWE/s320/Superbowl+50.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
You walk past all the displays of chips, cookies, pop (soda), pizza, an endless variety of appetizers, and who knows what else because you put on the blinders at this point because you know it's WAY before taper time when you need to think about carbo-loading. And then it hits you...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Why are football fans carbo-loading? </span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">and</span></i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Why are they carbo-loading DURING the game?</span></div>
<br />
All they're going to do is sit on the couch and yell at the tv! Sure, there might be some power driven squats or jumps off the couch to the celebration of a play, or a fist pump, high five, or cheer, but their calorie expenditure will certainly be in the majority of the lower end range. They certainly are not familiar with how sports nutrition works. They probably even picked up some sports drinks so that they can feel like their in the game because "Who drinks water?!"<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Carry on athletes!</span></div>
<br />
Walk with confidence past the chips and pick up your bananas. Steer clear of the pizza and stock that cart with items for your veggie stir fry. Avoid the corn dog and mozzarella stick appetizers and fill up on some lean meat or seafood. Trust me, no one else is going to be going for it, so you'll have those sections of the store all to yourself.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Training does not stop for Football!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Even if that means a 4 hour trainer ride while you watch the game.</i></div>
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Freakin' A!!</span></b>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-66915608863835633142016-01-29T17:25:00.001-05:002016-01-29T17:25:33.115-05:00Freakin' A Friday!! 013 - Human Vortex Magnets<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Has this happened to you?! </span></div>
<br />
Have you ever been sucked into a human vortex magnet? <br />
<br />
No, I'm not talking about Facebook. These are physical vortexes at specific locations that pull you down to the ground like a piece of metal coming close to a magnet and being sucked directly to it.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Yes, they exist!</span></div>
<br />
In my experience, there are more that exist out in the woods. You're running along, enjoying nature, ignoring the possibility of coming face to face with <a href="http://wojo-becominganironman.blogspot.com/2015/12/freakin-friday-006-frozen-in-your-tracts.html">Mother Nature</a>, and all of a sudden BAM!! You are sucked directly to the ground, your breath is blown out of your lungs, and you're wildly trying to figure... HUH?! <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Where am I?</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I was running though the gorgeous green woods and now I'm not moving and staring at dirt.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Did someone hit me?</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Is this a nightmare?</i></span></div>
<br />
Nope! Just another human vortex magnet trying to suck me into the deep crevices of the earth. Gosh I hate when they do that!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdKghv5cojxiN5Ou6GssVHtCP0pklGnJUzgCbrKxodziyk1o2QmrWOKxeiyaUjR11EJ_zZ2guAWcnlYIgmeFwSyapbLZ61mu0lj0ZrkOR_GJvmtQodIbwrg3hFRgcPfhVA4LHtVuwZ5k/s1600/knee+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdKghv5cojxiN5Ou6GssVHtCP0pklGnJUzgCbrKxodziyk1o2QmrWOKxeiyaUjR11EJ_zZ2guAWcnlYIgmeFwSyapbLZ61mu0lj0ZrkOR_GJvmtQodIbwrg3hFRgcPfhVA4LHtVuwZ5k/s320/knee+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I've managed to avoid being dragged into the dark depths, but not without battle wounds! <br />
<br />
Then again a couple months later on a sidewalk in broad daylight, it strikes again!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg41w8b1yROL1r0jzbxCatJR47Uw6cXYVwb5aquQjY_vKh2zFPllThEcMeBWOj2D3uTlJFp42vI8WrlqRuX6ptAjV0Y8v17mw9NdYeQs7McFcvl6eI9bHCVNWF18yjPPdgSpYr58FSg3dk/s1600/knee+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg41w8b1yROL1r0jzbxCatJR47Uw6cXYVwb5aquQjY_vKh2zFPllThEcMeBWOj2D3uTlJFp42vI8WrlqRuX6ptAjV0Y8v17mw9NdYeQs7McFcvl6eI9bHCVNWF18yjPPdgSpYr58FSg3dk/s320/knee+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The battle was a win, but the war is NOT OVER!! Bring it vortices! You will not get me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Freakin' A!!!</span></b><br />
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Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-89315054227350676602016-01-22T09:00:00.000-05:002016-01-22T09:00:03.285-05:00Freakin' A Friday!! 012 - Did I Do That?<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Has this happened to you??</span></div>
<br />
You're at the pool (or maybe on the trainer with your bike or out on a run at the track) just getting in your workout for the day. <br />
<br />
You're just starting one of the main focus sets/intervals when the world decides that 'making this easy' is a step below you and BAM!!!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxWq7KaJEzLXYx2sLDkueAWleUJZhpm2PmMkWP3zpsQVQ6Q5LrUnVeJEoB1hNDY_mTNgBY9QKVnkptC3xdLx3tL31x0g11gJCnzx0dIMk-0NY8PelLxUvQS1dLzTynNPbt4dKopRc9N8E/s1600/Paddles+Broke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxWq7KaJEzLXYx2sLDkueAWleUJZhpm2PmMkWP3zpsQVQ6Q5LrUnVeJEoB1hNDY_mTNgBY9QKVnkptC3xdLx3tL31x0g11gJCnzx0dIMk-0NY8PelLxUvQS1dLzTynNPbt4dKopRc9N8E/s320/Paddles+Broke.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
...your Hulk strength breaks the paddle right from under your hand. Someone up above is laughing at you, you swear it!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Gosh darnit! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">That's what I get for doing swim strength for four months straight.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(<i>Not really. That's what I get for gripping the paddle wrong!</i>)</div>
<br />
But what do I do now?! I have a paddle set that I need to do. The paddle is broken. Do I swim with just one paddle? Do I do the set without the paddle? Do I go home because the world has sent me a sign that I'm done for the day?<br />
<br />
Nope! You grab your 2nd pair of paddles (oh-yes! You're a Type A and have back ups [<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>thanks to a review you're working on for additional paddles</i></span>]) and say "Take That World!" as you continue on. Of course you note in the training log that there was extra rest before that interval too.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Have you had equipment break (or not work) on you when you needed it?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">What did you do?</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Freakin' A!!!</span></b>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-14804535410827103842016-01-15T09:00:00.000-05:002016-01-15T09:00:09.298-05:00Freakin' A Friday!! 011 - Rumbly in my Tumbly<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Has it happened to you??</span></div>
<br />
<br />
Maybe you're out on a long ride, a long morning run (without breakfast), somewhere in the middle of the open water, or just at the local gym on the other side of town lifting...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">GRUMBLE!</span></div>
<br />
Your body starts talking to you. Sure, at first it's just air moving around as chyme is moving out of your stomach via the pyloric sphincter into your duodenum (can you tell I'm brushing up on A&P and nutrition?). <br />
<br />
You reach for a gel, bar, chew, or the like and Gosh Darnit, you're out! <br />
<br />
It doesn't even bother you. Totally normal. In fact, it means you're lighter than if you had eaten that extra snack/meal you considered earlier. That means you're faster, right? Awesome!!<br />
<br />
Sure, it's loud, but it'll go away. ...right?<br />
<br />
I'll just drink some more water; fill up that space and take care of the Ghrelin signal that I'm hungry. I'm so smart!!<br />
<br />
I'm just too focused on it! That's it! If I can distract myself, it'll go away and won't have any effect.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">....</span></div>
<br />
I think my stomach is starting to eat itself. Okay buddy, speed up here and we'll get home to eat quicker before it gets any worse!<br />
<br />
Ah Hell, I've increased my metabolism and my innards are cannibalizing my other organs.<br />
<br />
My body is going to become a black hole of hunger, consuming everything within reach and slowly sucking the universe into it's dark depths!! Goodbye cruel world!!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
-----------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<br />
<br />
Yup... It's hunger. Maybe you didn't get enough. Maybe you didn't get the right thing. Maybe you spilled most of it on your shirt. However it happened, you are stranded with a constant nagging reminder of your hunger<br />
<br />
To be honest, it always make me think of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cx-T137FKM4">Pooh Bear</a> and his constant search for hunny. <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpFO38bPAkzEfip-F4mrmVV76oU8mjz9RvtU5yZK3l0ov1d2MbsXDnuMJ3z7eYQjghyaCHvYjwX8L-Xg8H71ePgXyzzcy0J454b_hfZUJL-7nOo9sh1TysVZgwwRnapiOs1S6cM3cdAk/s1600/pooh+bear+hunny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpFO38bPAkzEfip-F4mrmVV76oU8mjz9RvtU5yZK3l0ov1d2MbsXDnuMJ3z7eYQjghyaCHvYjwX8L-Xg8H71ePgXyzzcy0J454b_hfZUJL-7nOo9sh1TysVZgwwRnapiOs1S6cM3cdAk/s400/pooh+bear+hunny.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqOPgtgdksgHEYRdQg6vElnxTS8yrzrcYzywqAaj1YHRBv-8h06o73H_gvEJXeTE0kBkp1slCOy9gTbo5wfHkNcyK1c1Y-lK8EjWGygWbibdhT2zTgwn2GSyXqsV0XFqfRQ6-ItfiNnzM/s1600/pooh+bear+oh%252C+bother.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Oh Bother!!</span></b>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-11246583580547785572016-01-08T09:00:00.000-05:002016-01-08T09:00:17.893-05:00Freakin' A Friday!! 010 - "I Forgot"Which is it?!<br />
<br />
It's morning. You wake up, get a quick bite to eat, and slowly get ready for your workout. Of course there's a little <a href="http://wojo-becominganironman.blogspot.com/2015/12/freakin-friday-007-procrastination.html">procrastination</a> in the speed of your preparations, but oh-well. Fill a bottle, pack your bag, grab the Bodyglide, write down the workout... You've got time.<br />
<br />
Somewhere in the process you remember that you forgot to wash your bike shorts, left your wet swim suit at the bottom of the bag, failed to pick up the nutrition you knew you were out of, blanked on a meeting/appointment/errand that you had, or all of the above. OMG! What do I do?!<br />
<br />
We've all done it!<br />
<br />
The next five minutes (or two hours) are spent asking yourself a number of questions...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"What do I do?"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"Do I want to do it anyways?"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">"Can I get away without doing it?"</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"Will coach yell at me?" </span><i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"Will I feel bad if I just skip it?"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"Can I get it done LATER?"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">"Maybe this is a sign"</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"I'd be a badass if I do it anyways!"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"Bragging rights!!" </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"...or I could take a nap!"</span></div>
<br />
What to do! What to do! Which side will prevail? The Type A Triathlete or the Type L (for lazy) Devil on your Shoulder? Did you honestly forget something or was it your subconscious attempting to undermine your efforts?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"If I honestly forget it,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">then my Type A side doesn't have to feel guilty!"</span></div>
<br />
Nice try!<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Freakin' A!!</b></span>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-56937253199205715972016-01-01T09:00:00.000-05:002016-01-01T09:00:02.952-05:00Freakin' A Friday!! 009 - New Year, Same Old MeEvery year I hear it...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"Come out with us!"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"Stay up! It's fun."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"Why are you in bed so early?!"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"You're no fun."</span></div>
<br />
You know me! I haven't changed. I have work and workouts to do tomorrow. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Early to bed = Early to Rise.</span></div>
<br />
I do the same thing each of the other 364 days of the year. Why are you surprised today?<br />
<br />
Enjoy your New Year's Eve. I'll enjoy my lack of a hangover on New Year's Day.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Freakin' A!!</b></span>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-88063185367970940922015-12-25T09:00:00.000-05:002015-12-25T09:00:05.879-05:00Freakin' A Friday!! 008 - What the Holiday?As a fitness professional, my schedule tends to be the opposite of most people. When you're busy at work, I'm off doing my workouts and work around the house. When you're out of work, I clock in! And when there is a holiday - major or minor - it's just another day for me. That fact alone has caused some frustrating incidents!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>Where is everyone?</b></u></span></div>
<br />
It's a Monday/Friday just like any other week and I decide to catch up on some errands before work. In the spring and fall, I will head over to the town hall to drop off my tax payments. To my surprise, the typically packed parking lot is empty. It's 10am. Where is everyone? It's not until I get to the door and see the sign "Closed for [Insert Holiday]."<br />
<br />
Gosh Darnit!<br />
<br />
Columbus Day, President's Day, Labor Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, etc. I never remember when any of those are! <br />
<br />
Or it happens this way...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>Where did everybody come from?</b></u></span></div>
<br />
I'm at work and all of a sudden I take notice of the people around the gym. Either it's simply over packed for the time, there's a lot of kids there during school hours, or I start to see the regular evening goers working out well before their 5pm work release time. What gives? If it's a few people, maybe they just took a personal day, but after a certain number, I know I've missed something. Eventually somebody clues me into whatever holiday I've neglected. With luck, it's not anything I had to prep for! haha<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><u><span style="font-size: large;">So can you do me a favor?</span></u></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Tell me when the next holiday is.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I'll probably miss it otherwise. </span></div>
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Freakin' A!!!</span></b>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-26788020539046453282015-12-18T19:05:00.000-05:002015-12-18T19:05:00.152-05:00Freakin' A Friday!! 007 - Procrastination<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Ok, when was the last time this happened?!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Yesterday?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Today?</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiibI5zsaWzf_JS_UWzTsmuUdg8PiL4MvRb9bY3ZQaylFQHY1VaivRbr516VqX6wweIy-lZr5R54YKf-709niLQVp0IPQfOPJnhdrnAne8a6ImyNtI8PLuS-YgdF-1kY2zh93jn8qjJPWM/s1600/clock+ticking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiibI5zsaWzf_JS_UWzTsmuUdg8PiL4MvRb9bY3ZQaylFQHY1VaivRbr516VqX6wweIy-lZr5R54YKf-709niLQVp0IPQfOPJnhdrnAne8a6ImyNtI8PLuS-YgdF-1kY2zh93jn8qjJPWM/s320/clock+ticking.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
You got up or got home and your plan is to start your workout in 30 minutes. You have a schedule to keep of course! You're a triathlete (read: Type A).<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:00:00 </span></div>
<br />
You prep the bike, your swim gear, run shoes, or gym clothes. You're all packed.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:10:00 </span></div>
<br />
You grab a water bottle or any nutrition you need. Check!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:12:00</span> </div>
<br />
You check the workout just to be sure you remember what it is. Don't want to forget it!! Maybe you write it down just in case. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:16:00</span></div>
<br />
You check the GPS watch. Is it charged? Yes, it is. Good! <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:18:00 </span></div>
<br />
Let's get a quick snack. It has been awhile since you ate. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:25:00</span></div>
<br />
You check your email "one last time" to be sure you're free to step away for awhile. One quick email. Good, done. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:28:00 </span></div>
<br />
What's the weather like right now? Should I wear something different? Nope, just what I expected. I'm good. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:31:00</span></div>
<br />
Well, you're already online, so let's check Facebook. Oh, a couple notifications. Hmmm... A message from Pete too. Ok, real quick! Oh, look at that video Sara posted! Haha<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:35:00 </span></div>
<br />
I gotta' go!! You shut your computer.<br />
<br />
Let me hit the bathroom and I'll be off. *flush*<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:39:00 </span></div>
<br />
Check the phone again. Still no messages. Cool!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:40:00 </span></div>
<br />
Any emails? Nope.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:42:00 </span></div>
<br />
Did I grab enough water? <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:43:00 </span></div>
<br />
Hmmm... Maybe I do want to change my shirt...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:45:00 </span></div>
<br />
Did Pete get back to me on Facebook? Nope, but there's another post from Sara. Hilarious!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">6:50:00 </span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">And little do you know, an hour has gone by!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Procrastination takes down yet another hard set plan.</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Freakin A!!</span></b>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5850016502233066661.post-43887861148869787002015-12-11T09:00:00.000-05:002015-12-11T09:00:09.241-05:00Freakin' A Friday!! 006 - Frozen in Your TractsI'm sure many of you have had experiences while running on the road and/or sidewalk like last week's post. Because of that, plenty of us search out non-traffic laden routes. Whether it be a rail-to-trail, a local park with a paved loop, or the good old trails off in the woods, we find our sanctuary somewhere. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">...until something like this happens!</span></div>
<br />
You get up early (okay, "early" according to everybody else) on a beautiful weekend. The weather is crisp, the sun is just peaking over the horizon, and you're up and ready for your run. You're tired of the roads, so you head to your local trail. It's perfect! Plenty of beautiful views well away from any traffic to hinder you. Awesome!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj76cH0fGTgPGaT9w8wgzO7DWiPdH33s_kKDHMql8F24Ztsmkn7RDiEjr2dDbZP_CeEObKs8y5TCnWE6L0C17z_6Xd0DrhwdNQIkOE4NydqCd08UdoulUp0T5-JMleELLYcWbsOkR4fwmU/s1600/rail+to+trail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj76cH0fGTgPGaT9w8wgzO7DWiPdH33s_kKDHMql8F24Ztsmkn7RDiEjr2dDbZP_CeEObKs8y5TCnWE6L0C17z_6Xd0DrhwdNQIkOE4NydqCd08UdoulUp0T5-JMleELLYcWbsOkR4fwmU/s320/rail+to+trail.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
You get there to find a number of other cars parked. These are your comrades in arms; other early morning runners, cyclists, and walkers! <br />
<br />
You get out, warm up a bit, pack your water, and make the biggest decision of the day. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Do I head left?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Or do I head right?</span></div>
<br />
Hmmmm.... After a second, you decide you always go right, so why not left today? Sure! Change it up. It's all an adventure. Off you go!<br />
<br />
If you've got music, you pop on the perfect song. If not, you just get into the groove of your breathing and listening to the peaceful surroundings. Then it happens! <br />
<br />
There's a rustling in the woods. "<i>Hmmm... Maybe a squirrel or a nearby dog.</i>" Then out pops one of nature's majestic creatures...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKcmniT67PLi_TomzbSrbOIxVztxOJpheg-PdN6djpQiRueGkR5Z6TmZg8SAjYib9GPTJVpi-KWpKkygBHsnX0tSWEJAJpW2AgFZgqhZCB0TTpVFlq0qwrBgDDValeKpK9aG71XG4sOcw/s1600/Black+Bear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKcmniT67PLi_TomzbSrbOIxVztxOJpheg-PdN6djpQiRueGkR5Z6TmZg8SAjYib9GPTJVpi-KWpKkygBHsnX0tSWEJAJpW2AgFZgqhZCB0TTpVFlq0qwrBgDDValeKpK9aG71XG4sOcw/s1600/Black+Bear.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hello there!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Until this moment, you have never fully understood the true meaning of "<b>Frozen in Your Tracts</b>." As the seconds tick by (which feel like minutes), you earn a full comprehension! You dare not move a muscle other than to blink!<br />
<br />
In those frozen moments your mind starts to wander (read: RACE LIKE A WORM OUT OF THE MOUTH OF A BIRD!)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Can I out run a bear?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>No, you can't outrun a bear, you idiot!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>If I run, will that provoke it to follow? Or should I stay put? </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Should I play dead?</i></div>
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<i>Is it "Brown, get down. Black, move back"? Or am I getting that mixed up?</i></div>
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<i>Shoot! What do I do?</i></div>
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<i>Why is that lady ahead of me still walking this way with her tiny dog?!</i></div>
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<i>The dog is so going to provoke the bear!</i></div>
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<i>I am screwed.</i></div>
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<i>I should have written a will.</i></div>
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<i>I wonder what the HR data will look like on my Garmin.</i></div>
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<i>I am so done for. </i></div>
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In reality, the bear merely ran across the path on it's own way actually more afraid of you than you were of him/her. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgga-Mi76b-BxcyY4GnFyi_w3z3Xudp9M2IhuIeWCZfnT872GSZ9vxhDQeGSaMqCycZuQUYO2r-1EQynrgEcxnZAes3V3V0N7OQE2WDX7wmTHG_bKET1aP8VFiXjkg5K4TKcGJPvl-fuq4/s1600/Black+Bear+Running+Across+the+Path.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgga-Mi76b-BxcyY4GnFyi_w3z3Xudp9M2IhuIeWCZfnT872GSZ9vxhDQeGSaMqCycZuQUYO2r-1EQynrgEcxnZAes3V3V0N7OQE2WDX7wmTHG_bKET1aP8VFiXjkg5K4TKcGJPvl-fuq4/s320/Black+Bear+Running+Across+the+Path.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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But in that super-extended moment of panic, it felt like your final moments were going to look something like this...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeHTCLxxISJvYKmBabOqxMv0PRQPx_HUvCO-vOfL0dEpwAttR6di-_g8UP7Slb5xkQdKGXOeZKNH_kqZhpP-ZnuV7BSEcdVnlj18A7n1YAN4D4AY5Y1Vvv0NwhhO6YUu46iBTPpy7qu4/s1600/Black+Bear+Chasing+Me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSeHTCLxxISJvYKmBabOqxMv0PRQPx_HUvCO-vOfL0dEpwAttR6di-_g8UP7Slb5xkQdKGXOeZKNH_kqZhpP-ZnuV7BSEcdVnlj18A7n1YAN4D4AY5Y1Vvv0NwhhO6YUu46iBTPpy7qu4/s320/Black+Bear+Chasing+Me.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How much did those track workouts do for you??</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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After what seems like 5-10 minutes, you s-l-o-w-l-y walk backwards the way you came, being sure to keep an eye on the spot where the bear ran back into the woods AND the lady up ahead with the dog who has now stopped to take pictures. IDIOT!<br />
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Twenty (or maybe it was 100) steps later, you turn and walk, then jog, then run back to your car being super sensitive to any rustling of the leaves no matter how far off it may seem. <br />
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As you get back to the car, you take a moment to celebrate. "<i>I just survived a black bear attack.</i>" Noooooot quite! You were lucky to simply not pee your pants in the middle of the rail to trails. But that's not how the story goes when it gets told to your friends when you get home.. <br />
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But of course you're a Type A personality, so that has to wait until after you finish your run. Sure, there's a bear off to the left side of the trail, but that still leaves the right side!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">What A Morning! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Freakin' A!!</b></span>Kurt @ Becoming An Ironmanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13865313303891773591noreply@blogger.com0