If it was easy, everyone would do it.

Waco 70.3 was to be my big finish for my 2018 season. So did it live up to the hype? No. Did I give it my all? Hell yes. I debated throwing in the towel several times, but that's not how you get better. I also was actively learning, with each excruciating step. I put myself in a position to work hard and that's what I did. I was battered by 17 other pros who have been doing this for years, and they exposed my weaknesses. I made several changes in the right direction for 2018 versus my first year as a professional. The best part? I have a lot more to make. First, I will break down the race before going into details.


The swim: NOT. This won't come as a surprise to those following along, but no swim because of the river being deemed unsafe. This was kind of a bummer because I've been working on it. However, I will get more time to work on it before the next one!


7:50 the first athlete went off, and the next athlete was sent off 30 seconds later.  I was sitting in position 16 which was determined by a random drawing at the pro meeting. 7:57:30 my turn to roll and I take off. I make up early ground on guy in front of me, but before I know it around mile 7 I get passed by the first person. I put up a fight, but no luck and before I know it another guy is blowing by me. I remain composed, and this continues to happen a few more times. In the I end up coming off 20th. Not exactly where I thought I would be. What happened you ask? Well rough power estimates using my speed, cadence, route, and weather conditions had me at 298 watts. (Yes I used the 'W' word) For reference though I believed I would need roughly 300 watts for a good time.


Soooooooo what happened? Luckily I spent hours this weekend talking to TJ Tollakson before and after the race. He gave me priceless information and advice.  While my power is excellent currently, I'm lacking race power. My best workouts are on the computrainer, safe from the elements and terrain changes. This is good for power development, but makes a fare weather racer. To put the same efforts outside would much harder, which is what I need to do. Iowa winters will be tough, but when possible I need to get outside. Also in the works will be a training camp in warm climate. Then once Iowa lets up weather wise it's go time for some 4x30 minutes of suffering outdoor.


Alright so enough of that, back to the race! The atmosphere as you approach transition is amazing, and in my mind I was ready to give them a show on the run.  I went through transition with the fastest time, I'll take that little victory. I take off, honestly felt great getting off the bike. That is until the hills. A recent add on to the race and one I should have scouted beforehand more. Live and learn. I ran straight into the wall. My legs were trashed halfway through the hills and I had 10 miles to go...needless to say I fought the demons and passed 2 guys. Posting the 12th fastest pro run split. A far cry from my goal of running the fastest split on the day, but alright considering how trashed I felt.


In the end I finished my first 69.1 (next up is a full 70.3 fingers crossed) and I could not have done it without everyone's help and support. I will continue to push my limits day in and out. On to the next season after a bit of easy time to recover. With more knowledge and experience of course!

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