Pacific Crest Triathlon

On Sunday, June 24 I completed my 2nd Olympic Distance Triathlon of the season(1 mile Swim, 25.8 mile bike, 6.2 mile run) in Sunriver Oregon. Nice thing about central Oregon is the chance of rain is almost zero; however the benefits are negated by the extreme drop in temperature at night. It was around 35 degrees when we arrived at Wikiup reservoir! I was excited to swim in a non radioactive, non Portland area body of water. No "Poo Lake" (Blue Lake) or "Vansewer Lake" (Vancouver Lake). Despite the clean reservoir water, I knew the swim was going to be interesting when fellow athletes expressed concern about my sleeveless wetsuit. ..
It was announced the water was 62 degrees and I was one of the few athletes wearing a farmer john wetsuit (full body sans the arms). I think the outside temperature maybe warmed up to 55 degrees by the time we were to start the swim (thank god!) During the last third of the swim my arms and feet were majorly chilled!







When I got out of the water to pull my wetsuit off to get ready for the bike my arms/hands were frozen and could barely move my fingers (note to self, wear full body wetsuit with arms if ever do this event again).


After fumbling and grunting for a few minutes I was finally on the bike.





The bike course was mostly a rolling downhill. As a result of being frozen from the swim and my equilibrium being off (symptom of borderline hypothermia), I almost crashed when I went to get on my aerobars. At this point I knew safety was more important then gaining 1 mph on the bike. Other effects from the mild hypothermia included my heart rate registering lower (150 - 155 bpm) while my RPE being the same as the Blue Lake tri I did two weeks prior (with my HR around 160) and not being able to drink my bottle of accelerade on the ride. My hands could barely grab the bottle. When I was able to finally grab the bottle , my mouth and throat were so cold I couldn't tolerate more then baby sips. After about 15 miles into the bike I finally started to warm up! Due to road construction there were a ton of cars on the road. The peak of the frustration for myself and other cyclists involved was when some stupid camper blocked the course by hanging over in the bike lane while being positioned on the road in a fashion preventing us from going around. I didn't have to say anything (disparaging words and hand signals from the fellow cyclists were flying liberally ;-) During the end of the bike I was freaked out from not drinking my accelerade and feared bonking (muscles shutting down) on the run.

Before the run I did a cliff espresso 2x shot and off I went through the lovely 6 mile paved trail stretch through Sun River Resort. I was told by a bystander I had nice running form! This is something I have diligently been working on for the last three years; I naturally run a little bit like Phoebe from friends (legs flail out to the side) but have been working on keeping my feet straight and utilizing some of the techniques out of the Chi running book. Not long after I passed a little girl who stuck her hand out for me to tag; I felt like a rock star. The run is both the most daunting (after swimming and biking first) and most rewarding part of a tri. Being cheered on and supported by spectators gives the extra motivation needed to survive the last 2 miles of the run. This is the point when you think to yourself you may not be able to take another step. On the run HR around 168-170. Pushed 172 to 175ish last two miles.

The race was a blast! There were 800 of us, including the duathletes. I was happy with my results and I cannot wait to go back and do the race next year!

Overall Time 245:07:00
Overall Women 42/186 23%
Age Group 8/39 21%
Swim 26/39 67%
Bike 7/39 18%
Run 9/39 23%

Bike MPH 20:49 Run MPM 8:20

More Photos http://www.finishshots.com/racerresults3.php?raceid=473&bibnumber=164

Columbia River Gorge Ride

On Saturday, June 16th my two friends and I (the same group did the RTB ride in May) set out to do a 38 mile bike loop (about 3000 total feet of elevation gain) in the Columbia River Gorge. The ride started outside of The Dalles and was put on by the organization “Friends of the Historic Columbia River Highway” the http://www.hcrh.org/events.html. It was the windiest bike ride I have ever done (I do not have proof but I believe the crosswinds were 30mph!) Here is a simple math equation

World renowned wind surfing location = sucky road bike conditions


Although the winds were challenging, leading me to almost get blown off my bike no less then 4 times and causing a varity of expletives to fly out of my mouth while repeating “I will NEVER do a ride in the gorge again” the views were absolutely breathtaking and it was worth enduring tornado like conditions (okay maybe I am exaggerating just a little..) to climb and descend Rowena Crest , Mayerdale Estate, Mosier Viewpoint, and the Mosier Twin Tunnels.












View from Rowena Crest
















..what we had to climb to reach the top of Rowena Crest






The rest stop at Mayerdale Estate had the amazing fresh fruit Oregon is known for this time of year. I think I cleaned out half of their Watermelon supply and as a result cleaned myself out the next day.

I remember us girls philosophizing when the ride was over about why they didn’t warn us about the wind and then I had this common sensical epiphany. How is this any more logical then someone doing a ride in Portland then saying “I cannot believe they didn’t tell us it would be raining and the roads would be wet” ;-)



HCRH State Trail

Road biking is almost always an adventure, the conditions rarely perfect but with each ride and new challenging condition, you become that much of a better cyclist and learn something new about yourself not only physically, but as a human being. For me it was being reaffirmed when things get tough (like the wind) you just can’t stop, you have to push through it.







Outside Mosier Twin Tunnels

I am looking forward to my next ride in the gorge toward the end of summer when the winds are supposedly a little milder; maybe there will only be 20mph wind gusts ;-)

Blue Lake Olympic Triathlon - June 10, 2007

I was so relieved to find out there was not going to be a drenching downpour of rain during my first Olympic Distance Triathlon of the season. An Olympic Distance Triathlon is a 1 mile swim, 24 mile bike, and 6.2 mile run all done consecutively. It was about 60 degrees and overcast, PERFECT race weather! I was nervous enough as it was and was NOT in the mood for inclement Oregon weather crap!

During the drive to Blue Lake I was nervous as all get out! Like an idiot (and I know better by now considering this is my 3rd season) I did not get in the open water or use my wetsuit at least one time before the event. I pulled into Blue Lake Park and holy lots o cars! The Blue Lake Olympic Distance Triathlon this year was a qualifier for the USAT Triathlon Age Group National Championship and a TRI NorthWest Club/Team Championship event. This is where Triathlon Clubs from across the NW compete for the boasting rights as the top club of athletes in the region from Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana. Lots of hard core people.

To prep for the swim I got into Blue Lake about 5 minutes before the swim start. I have often referred to it as “Blue Toilet” because quite frankly, it has been quite nasty in the past. This year it wasn’t too bad. My nerves finally calmed after I had been in the water a few minutes! During the swim I was actually in the middle of the pack for the first time during an Olympic distance swim (I know because I got kicked in the head like 4 times!) Water resistance is beautiful! In all years past I had been a back floater. I had to “keep it real” at one point in the swim (means that little redneck side of me came peeking out). This woman kept thrashing into me (she should have either passed or got behind me, I was on a straight path to the buoy and was not going to veer). Finally after the 3rd minute of being kicked and clawed I smacked her one. I think she said something but I didn’t care, at least she backed off; when it comes to the open water it is survival of the fittest baby! My left calf started cramping up on the swim and I was a little nervous, but was able to kick it off! I swallowed about a gallon of blue lake water during the swim; I am still on high alert for anything physically suspicious (weird bowel movements, skin rashes, glowing in the dark, etc.)

On the bike I had some nice cross, head, and tail winds! I was proud; I remained on my aerobars almost the entire time! I passed a ton of people on the bike, which was a huge boost to my ego. My biking was crap until about a month ago; 50 mile rides at a high aerobic pace and hill (also known as “I feel like I am going to barf”) intervals really paid off over the last month! On the bike I stayed mostly around Heart Rate 160 (upper z2, high aerobic/endurance) for the first 16 miles. At mile 16 I pushed to HR 163-167 for the remaining 8 miles (z3, my lactate threshold level). Sipped almost an entire 12oz bottle of accelerade during the ride.







At the beginning of the run did a cliff espresso gel shot. Gave me that final zzzzzzzap I needed for the run! The first 1.5 miles were brutal; legs felt like bricks (yes, this is normal, sad but true!) I finally got into a rhythm by mile 2. On the run I ran mostly HR 168-170 (z3 lactate threshold). My left quad was acting up a little bit and my knee felt a little lose at times. No major issues though. Something has to start hurting at 2 hrs and 15 minutes of racing, right? During the last 2 miles of run pushed to 173-174 range (lower z4, anaerobic zone) Legs were too fatigued to allow me to go “all out” for the last two miles so got passed by a good amount of people. Next time I will dig deep and push it, no matter what! This is where power words come in!

After the race it was then announced for women, the most competitive age group is 30-34. Lucky me, I am 30 ;-)
Summary of my Results:

Overall Time: 2:42:01
Overall Women: 75/172 44%
Age Group Place: 18/36 50% (I’ll take it at an event like this!)
Age Group Swim: 27/36 75% (In the past I have been in the bottom 3)
Age Group Bike: 12/36 33% (Best relative bike leg so far!)
Age Group Run: 20/36 56% (lots of strong runners this event!)


Bike Pace 19.98 Miles Per Hour
Run Pace: 8:08 Minute Per Mile


Had 30 minute massage after race (felt wonderful!) I was beat the rest of the day and barely moved from the couch. Felt like gave it everything I could during the event, and would not have expected to feel any better! I told my hubby if I ever have a ton of energy after an event to beat me, because I obviously did not try hard enough!

Had the support of my two friends from work; I thank them for the photo supply for the blog!










Additional Ph0tos http://www.finishshots.com/racerresults3.php?raceid=468&bibnumber=341

I do it all over again Sunday, June 24th when I do the Pacific Crest Olympic Distance in Sunriver; cannot wait!

Japan 2006

I had the opportunity to go to Tokyo Japan twice in 2006 for business. Considering Canada was considered the extent of my foreign country experience before this it was an assult on all my senses. In a good way though!




This is what I refer to as Tokyo's version of Pike Street Market. This is a line of little shops lining the sidewalks leading to Asaksa temple...
















One of the shops, up close!


















The Pagoda







































The worlds largest condom store!













Smirnoff Tokyo Icebar. Yes, a bar made of Ice! One of only 5 in the world. I may have lasted more then 20 minutes had I not been a skirt and toeless shoes







Night before I came home (I was on 6 of about 12 glasses of plum wine that night! Yes, the 12 hour flight back to Portland the next day was BRUTAL!) We were at a Korean BBQ. As you can see they bring out raw food and you cook it in your mini fire pit at your table. I wonder what the USDA would think of this...

Tropical Paradise - December 2006

My hubby and I went on a 6 night cruise around xmas time leaving from FT Lauderdale then porting in the Grand Bahamas, Grand Cayman Islands, then Costa Maya Mexico.


I felt a little evil when I was in the cabin of the boat with a huge smile on my face as I hear on TV Denver is snowed in. I had my swimsuit on ready to hang out on the deck ;-)















View from a Tiki bar in Costa Maya; in real life the water really is that teal. Amazing.

Legendary figure in Grand Cayman. Supposedly part of the founding history of the country... Glad to know the Grand Cayman islands are known for something else other then money laundering.

Formal Night

Swimming with dolphins in Costa Maya. We determined we need one as a pet.

I couldn't resist.... Cop photos rock; especially foreign country Mexican cops!

WE GOT TO MEET NICKELBACK!!

Okay, this was like 4 months ago but forgive me for not having a blog site then ;-). This was too cool of an experience not to post; I aein't never met anyon famous befr'. My friend T won backstage passes on Sirius radio to meet the band backstage! A drunken prefunk ensued at T's house in preparation for the big event ...

Once we arrived at the Memorial Coliseum we had a couple more drinks to prevent any potential buzz kill. We had to meet at a designated area where the band manager and a security guard took us down in the pits to meet the band. To our dismay it was announced no personal photos ;-( As we were waiting to meet the band downstairs T was asking the band manager things about the different members. He announced the drummer Daniel's trademark saying is "Party on Bitches" and that my boyfriend (Ryan the guitarist) is a huge country music fan! We then get taken through the metal detectors to meet the band and SHABAAAAM!!!we catch our first glimpse! As we are approaching the band for autographs (we had the band picture they gave us as an item for them to sign) my mind starts going blank and my mouth starts going dry. They were seated at a table and for the FIRST TIME IN MY LIFE I was speechless! I couldn't talk without my lips sticking to my teeth. They were probably thinking "where did the meth addict come from, were we not just in Spokane last night" I wonder if I had any of that dried mucus stuff showing that seems to present itself in these types of situations for me. T on the other hand held it together and was very cool! The first at the table was Mike the bassist then seated next to him was Daniel. T asked the guys, as per the song "Rockstar", if they have indeed ever "joined the mile high club at 37,000 feet". Mike and Daniel laughed and blushed then retorted with "no, but what are you doing later". We then came up to Ryan, the guitarist. I just refer to him as my boyfriend, for future reference. He is by far the most intriguing and handsome member in the group. The only think I could think of to say was "My husband would love you; he is a huge country music fan". He then said "oh yea" and smiled. He was by far the most introverted and shy in the group. Kind of funny for a guitarist, normally they are show hounds on and off stage. The last at the table was Chad, the lead singer. He was definitely sure of himself and very good looking in real life. Prior to meeting him in person I always thought he had an uncanny resemblance to Jesus; TV and Photographs really do not do him justice! We concurred T and Chad have the same hair; Chad if you ever read this, please do not ever flat iron your hair again (not unless you are trying on purpose to look like a level 3 sex offender). Once we got done with the autographs we then got our picture taken with the band! I was able to squeak out a meek "nice to meet you" when we were done, followed by Daniel saying "nice to meet you ladies too" in this I'm not sure if he is really engaged tone of voice ;-) As we were parting T gave the recommended farewell of "Party on Bitches" and the whole band was laughing. Once we left the repressed excitement came rushing out of me like a smoltering couger and I went tearing down the hall hysterically screaming "I MET NICKELBACK OH MY GOD I MET NICKELBACK" followed by a couple of attempted cartwheels, screaming, and hysterical jumping up and downs! The bands manager came and talked to us after the event and said "we were cool ladies" and asked our names. As long as I don't end up on the bands website doing wheelbarrows (I believe that's what they call a cartwheel that really isn't) I will be happy! The concert of course was amazing!!! Definitely a blog worthy experience I will never forget!

Trip To The Dakotas

En Route to moms farm from Rapid City SD on April 19th! It was 65 and sunny like 60 miles before this!

Mom and husbands farm, pretty incredible. Next time you enjoy your Top Loin in a steakhouse (or if your a hippie your hummus - they do grow chic peas as well) remember city folk, this is where it all starts!

These baby calves are around 1-3 weeks and about 80 pounds. The cows motto is "epidural is for sissy's". They told me.

There were four baby calves who were bum. Means either the mom rejected them, died, or had twins so "kicked" one off. As you can tell this calf does not have very good etiquite. STAY, WAIT!!!! Oh yea, thats right, its not a dog. Here is a buisness idea; Petsmart obedience, for cows!

My mom's pet cow Patty. Mom says she bares a striking resemblance to one of her best friends consequently, whos name happens to be Patty. Good thing Patty has a sense of humor, not sure how I would handle the bovine comparision ;-)

THE FAM (not the FARM)

Mom

Grandpa - Yes in the Dakotas they say Grandpa and not Grand-dad!

Aunt 1 - Another Dakotaism is Aunt is pronounced like the bug, Ant, not Ont!

Aunt 2

Reach The Beach

On Saturday, May 19th myself and two girlfriends completed the 55 mile route for the Reach the Beach ride. The ride is a fundraiser for the American Lung Association of Oregon http://www.reachthebeach.org/. With one friend recovering from being sick out both ends as a result of food poisoning, and myself and the other suffering from the wonderful Oregon seasonal allergies of pollen, mold, and 10,000 other types of allergens indigenous to the wonderfully lush pacific northwest; lets just say the three of us were not functioning at peek athletic capacity. We arrived in the town of Amity and were forced to do a double take when we saw a woman in full bike swag SMOKING!!! Did my husband perhaps take a wrong turn and end up in North Idaho? WTF, smoking before a ride sponsored by the American Lung Association; we were all overwhelmed with the irony. The ride itself was wonderful and beautiful! It was my longest ride of the year by 20 miles. The weather was perfect, 60 degrees with overcast, Just the way we true Oregonians like it! The thing that always ceases to amaze me in cycling are the amount of fat old men with beer guts who effortlessly make me eat their dust. Definitely a blow to the ego. I think Jethro and Cleatus sitting amongst the mound of empty beer cans cheering the cyclists on gave my friend and me the final motivation we needed to catch, jockey, and ultimately pull with a head wind a daddy long legs and one of them "older fatties" I am secretly jealous of. My bruised ego from being passed so often earlier in the ride was healed when the two guys we pulled commented “we were strong riders”. Considering I normally get my ass handed to me in a triathlon on the bike leg, this was just what I needed to temporarily inflate myself to think I am some amazing cyclist. After the event I was feeling so crafty I even slapped down 10 bucks for the ugliest bike jersey I have ever seen. It has rats and power lines. I do not believe a further description is needed. My ultimate goal is to own ugliest bike gear of anyone I know! The husband of one of my friends was en route to pick up the female cycling entourage and blew a head gasket (not him, the pickup). As result we had to endure a charter bus ride pack to Portland; an experience that can only be paralleled on a Greyhound. Behind us was some elitist Vocal Diarrheaist from the east coast with a voice about as annoying as a cat caught under a car tire. She was going on about a whole myriad of topics. One being how us simple little Oregon folk are just so darn nice, whether in the city or the country. She obviously has not met me ;-) VD also went on about the different kinds of poop and the effect on the vegetation in her yard. I would have loved to offer up the goods from me and my Rottweiler for her to “try out”. This actually may have shut her up! On a ride my two friends went on a few weeks ago a certain serial killer looking thing took a liking to one of the girls, boring her to tears for FOUR hours straight on a previous 60 mile ride about his cycling glory days back in 2003. Nothing was thought much of the annoying guy with the bad comb over until we ran into him on the “greyhound bike charter”. He kept looking back at my friend the entire time, despite her attempts to ward him off by blatantly ignoring him and mine and my other friends doubled up hysterical laughing when “Lance Bundy” walked back to obsessively attempt, just one more time, a conversation. We also learned to never eat community boxed cookies. “Tinkle treats” went out to take a leak when we were dropping passengers off at the first stop then had no problem coming in with his urine hands and feasting on the shared goods. Nasty. We rolled into Ptown at midnight and that was a day! Cannot wait for our next adventure!!