tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73648061103107646842024-03-13T06:33:27.355-07:00run.driven.gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.comBlogger84125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-12064067182350743252015-01-31T07:09:00.001-08:002015-01-31T07:09:51.001-08:00Birth, Baby, Body<br />
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
Here is a copy of my article that recently featured in PABC's <i>Directions </i> Magazine. With no e-copies, I decided to do a repost for people to read. </div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KC4QBKQlfGc/VMzwDwGjEGI/AAAAAAAABMk/STopcuPLYH0/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KC4QBKQlfGc/VMzwDwGjEGI/AAAAAAAABMk/STopcuPLYH0/s1600/photo.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<b><u>"Birth, baby, body"</u></b></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
During a recent PABC course, I finally came up with the title of the article I was wanting to put together. Don't you love it when things just fall into place?</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
If you read no farther, I want you to know this. When a woman gives birth to a child, what follows is a tremendous period of change. It isn't just sleepless nights, blurry days, aching body parts, diapers, and constant worry that you may not be doing the right thing for your baby. Your heart and eyes are opened to something completely anew.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
What I've found to be a bit disheartening, is how fast we want this baby and new mama stage to pass. Ever heard, "Does your baby sleep through the night?", "is he or she walking yet?", and the classic, "When are you going back to work?". What is the rush here? Where is the fire? It's nobody's fault - it's our culture - but we do have some power here to make a change as leaders in a health care field that is positive, practical and professional.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
I thought you had a baby and just got on with things.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
Then I had a baby. Let's just call it a game changer.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
You spend the beginning of your baby's life in a dreamy, heart bursting, love-filled state, mixed with soul crushing tiredness and a constant feeling of being out of control. Eventually though, a lot of people asked, "When will you be going back to racing?".</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
I struggled with not training like I had. I began to feel out of shape. At the same time, I was so much more tired than I had ever been during Ironman training, so what was I doing wrong? To be both 'out of shape' and too tired to actually run? I started to take all this quite personally. </div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
And I know I'm not the only one.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
Ever seen a sign for a 'Mommy Bootcamp'? Heard 'how to lose the baby weight'? These are rhetorical questions. I know you have. And I do believe, in clinical practice, we are beginning to see women with significant problems from returning to intense sports too soon because our culture drives us there. And we're seeing pelvic floor dysfunction, back pain, pelvic girdle pain, postural pain, knee pain, the list goes on. </div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
So let's support a slower, gentler approach to the postpartum period. Let's realize and recognize how hard this period of growth for both the baby and the mother can be. Let's not worry so much about getting 'back on track' and be the leaders in supporting this period of time we get to spend with our tiny, little, perfect humans.</div>
gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-62393050244567880432014-09-24T09:02:00.001-07:002014-09-24T09:07:42.922-07:00"Ta-ta" to the Sports Bra?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">A sports bra. </span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">What could be so 'offensive' about it? I read an article recently and it drove me bananas. The writer was questioning etiquette of wearing one in public while running. Where I can sympathize in the feeling of 'what if someone looks at me funny', I am not a joiner in 'well, maybe I shouldn't wear it then'. </span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Let's just cut to the chase here. Sports bras have become my best friend these days (although some days I feel like with chafing, they're my worst enemy). I'm a new mama. I breastfeed my child. So my breast 'profile' has changed - significantly - from when I was non nursing & full time racing. And whereas before I mostly belonged to the ranks of women who wore the smallest sports bra they could find and sometimes wondered why they wore one anyways, now I am truly in need of the technology that sports bras offer us. So, let' s just take a moment and thank god for people who understand sports bras. To the company that rhymes with "schmooving fomfort", I love you.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">But back to the issue of modesty. Occasionally pre-baby I would take off on a training run in only a sports bra. It would have to be hot, really hot. And I would just live with the thought that perhaps people would look at me and maybe scoff at my lack of clothing. Oh well. I felt a bit self conscious about not having chiselled 6-pack abs. Oh well. If you're running fast enough people can only look at you for so long. I often opted for shirt on though, not wanting people (ie guys) in my running group to feel uncomfortable. Then one day, when doing a solo workout at the track, in a weird combo of heat & humidity followed by pouring rain, I flung off the shirt and ran just in the sports bra. I felt so much cooler. I felt stronger & faster. I felt like a badass who just didn't care what anyone thought.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I felt good about myself. What a revelation.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Flash forward to me about 5 months pregnant. As you likely know, I continued to run through pregnancy. I received much encouragement from my medical doctor to do so with only a few caveats. Drink enough, eat enough, don't run yourself into the ground, and do NOT get too hot out there.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Now, there is just something about carrying around an extra 20+lbs, with a new layer of insulation (aka, baby growing body fat), and a hairless baby monkey clinging to your core that just heats you up. So as I started to run into the late spring and summer I noticed I was hotter earlier. So I ran in just my sports bra. This was an absolute no brainer. I never worried what other people thought. I was out there taking care of my baby. I felt so much cooler (also perhaps due to the very neat increased surface area of carrying around a melon in your belly). And then something else terrific happened.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I felt better about myself. No more worries about 'what if my stomach looked funny', or 'what if people stare at my boobs'. Hell, no, because I was an undeniably strong woman. Nope, no worries there because they were undoubtably staring at my stomach. And that I understand. There's a lack of pregnant women runners out there, and I remember staring (in awe!) of a very pregnant runner who ran past me years ago. So I just felt strong, confident, in charge of my body. I got thumbs up, I got "You go girl", I got "Awesome", and once during a race I got "She's packing! This mumma's packing - woooooooooo". A personal fave for originality.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Now, back to current day, and just about every day I've been running since that has been hot. There is no shirt involved. Why? Here's why. Because my body is my own. Because you don't get to say anything about it. Because I've made it so strong from the inside out that whether it looks 'idealized' or not, it shows up and it gets the job done. It works damn hard.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">When I started running sans shirt after having a baby, I know I have a different body. I have that extra layer of breastfeeding bodyfat everywhere, sort of fluffy and unfamiliar in it's composition after racing for a long time. I have much larger breasts due to breastfeeding a very healthy baby boy - and a whole new collection of sports bras to support the fact. They're not implants people - they're milk. I have chafing scars that line my chest, and I'm not ashamed of them. I got those scars through hard work. They're me.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I don't look like a Runners' World cover model. But am I out there working hard enough to gasp for breath, to not be able to push any harder, to have to wonder where the closest washroom is, or get choked up when I realize just how grateful for how hard my body is willing to work? You bet your bottom dollar.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Do I 'worry' about what people will think? Not anymore. Am I glad? I most certainly am. So here's my point. I'm not happy about an article promoting women to do more worrying. We worry enough. We live everywhere in lives but in the present moment, something I'm realizing more and more as I age, and more as I see a little beautiful boy who does live in the current moment and is in awe of life. </span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">So I think women should run more in that spirit. However they want, whenever they want, feeling the best that they can, because that's what this is all about. Running is a gift, and so is your body. Don't let anyone take that away from you. Perhaps I've become a bit more bold as I age and realize that my body is a living breathing working thing, not a picture for someone to gossip about. Thank goodness for that.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Happy running women. We're all in this together.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">G</span></div>
gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-77191553673574046322014-04-01T19:25:00.000-07:002014-04-01T19:25:20.547-07:00Powered By Chocolate Milk Giveaway!!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"></span><br />
<div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 1.35em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); line-height: 21px;">Hi Everyone!</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">I love chocolate milk. I think you know that. As you know, I’m a proud Powered by Chocolate Milk ambassador, and I have some big news!! And this is no April Fool's - this is #fo-real. What an awesome way to start kicking off your spring thing, no matter what the sport, crazy goal or race.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">I have 5 prize packs to give away. Want to see what's in them? Check out the photo below!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w9KDiUx5KCk/UztxEUMtAiI/AAAAAAAABK4/bej-qI_TBOw/s1600/PBCM+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w9KDiUx5KCk/UztxEUMtAiI/AAAAAAAABK4/bej-qI_TBOw/s1600/PBCM+1.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">Awesome, right? Yes, I would like to win one, but I'm out of the running, but you're not and it's all yours (well, could be!) if you enter. Entering the giveaway definitely increases your chances of winning by 100% (compared to not entering :)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">What a sweet package for active, happy chocolate milk drinking people! There's a $50 Running Room gift card, an aluminum water bottle, dri-fit shirt, and of course chocolate milk! And you could win it - it's SUPER easy! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"></span></span>
<div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 1.35em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span style="line-height: 21px;">To e</span><span style="line-height: 21px;">nter, leave a comment below with details on your favourite post-workout recovery tip. I want to hear them all - even if you think it's crazy - if you like it, it's gold. Let us know!</span><span style="line-height: 21px;"> </span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">Then, tweet to me, “I just entered to win a @pbchocolatemilk prize pack on @gillianliz blog. #pbcm”</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"></span>
<div class="ecxMsoNormal" style="line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 1.35em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Tada. Soooo easy. The only thing easier is drinking free chocolate milk. Which you might be doing...</div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="line-height: 21px;">At the end of the week <a href="" style="cursor: default; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 21px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">on Friday April 11</a>, I’ll be announcing the names of five lucky winners. Don’t forget to follow me so I can get your contact information! </span><span style="line-height: 21px;">Winners must live in Western Canada. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">That's it, that's all. I hope you win! Can't wait to hear your entries!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">In the meantime, here's how I'm recovering these days - with a growing happy healthy baby who wants everything I eat :)</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDIl1lAgXoU/Uzt0CsMx5lI/AAAAAAAABLE/DmR1ObJspKc/s1600/IMG_7413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDIl1lAgXoU/Uzt0CsMx5lI/AAAAAAAABLE/DmR1ObJspKc/s1600/IMG_7413.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Good luck everyone! xo</div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-51688106865369806772014-03-01T10:40:00.001-08:002014-03-01T10:40:50.417-08:00Mount Washington Tumblr Blog: Check me out!Hey everyone,<br />
Just to keep you up to speed that I am also blogging over on my very own <a href="http://www.mountwashington.ca/">Mount Washington Alpine Resort'</a>s Tumblr page - so for some powdery, sun-shiny, blizzard-y & athlete-turned-mama turned mama-athlete updates - go check it out. <br />
At the very least, I have nice photos!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1qWZ217ZwGM/UxIpF1mRjmI/AAAAAAAABKI/pIihdA573kU/s1600/mw1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1qWZ217ZwGM/UxIpF1mRjmI/AAAAAAAABKI/pIihdA573kU/s1600/mw1.jpg" height="168" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Here's the link, here's the love!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://gillianblogmountwashington.tumblr.com/">http://gillianblogmountwashington.tumblr.com/</a><br />
<br />
Ciao chickens!<br />
xo ggillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-25841955621638806172014-01-28T15:03:00.001-08:002014-01-28T15:03:58.416-08:00QOM, or "What it's like to be a mumma-athlete"First off, this is not a blog about anything related to Strava. I still only vaguely know what it is and still adamantly refuse to get a 'bike computer'. I'm talking metaphorical mountains here, people.<br />
<br />
My goal for this blog is to help reach some of the new (and not so new) mummas out there who have worked hard to regain their fitness out there after giving birth. I had no idea how hard it would be. So if I had no idea, maybe a few other people didn't either, and maybe talking about it might make a few people feel better. So, here's my take.<br />
<br />
Side note: I know now it's impossible to sing the Itsy-Bitsy-Spider while typing a blog. I just tried. It's a no go.<br />
<br />
What is possible though is popping your baby into a Ergo and swaying him back and forth while he happily looks at the world while you try to do a blog. Standing up with the computer at the windowsill. And within 10 minutes, the little monkey is asleep. There is no better feeling I don't think than having your baby fall asleep on you. Just the best. They let of a radiant warmth that is everything good about babies. Magic.<br />
<br />
So, I won't lie. It's been a bit hard to blog lately because if I do get spare time, I don't want to spend it typing away at the computer. I likely want to read a book 'just because'. I want to have a shower. I want to brush the mats out of my hair. I often just say, 'to heck with spare time', I want to go back to tickling my baby into giggle fits. I used to think of exercise as my 'spare time', but it's getting more and more incorporated into daily life, which is really good for me. Consistency goes a long way these days.<br />
<br />
I am getting back out on the trails. It was harder, <i>much</i>, <i>much</i> harder, than I anticipated to get going in the post partum period. It has nothing to do with my 'fitness' level, and everything to do with the fact that you are drained beyond all recognition in the first period when your new baby arrives. The world does us no favours in the this department, as if it's "have a baby & then win olympic gold" 6 months later as the norm (or I saw it that way). Ironically, I have never experienced a more love filled stage in my life, regardless of the tiredness. It is simply a different stage of life, where to me, our baby mattered more than anything else, and everything followed suit. They are only one month old for one month of their entire life, then, it's gone. So running could wait. And seeing as I couldn't walk a straight line after delivery, running was going to have to wait.<br />
<br />
But considering I ran up until 2 days before I went into labour (because the day before was a swim day, of course), I felt fitter going into labour than I did 3 months after giving birth. Weird. Enter the mind games. "Will I ever run fast again?", "How do other moms do it?", "I am going backwards". It wasn't very fun. I grumbled about it for weeks on end. I saw friends running fast and I wasn't even jealous, I was just sad for what I felt I had lost. I was also grumpy with myself for letting these negative thoughts take over some or any of the time I could have spent focusing on what a lovely baby we had. Arg! So I was in a bit of a pinch. Many, many experienced moms kept telling me, "Don't worry, it's temporary, and you'll be back". I gritted my teeth, but I had to believe them. They were real human beings, and all of them really excelling in the post baby period. It had to be possible. I just thought, I guess mistakenly, that it happened overnight.<br />
<br />
Newsflash. It does not. But flash forward to now, a couple of months later. I am seeing it happen. I am feeling the fitness come back, like fresh blood into my veins, . It is a much more amazing feeling than I ever thought. I definitely took being in shape for granted, and as is the case with many neurotic endurance athletes, thought I really wasn't in that great of shape (yes, even after winning Ironman), and could do better. Well, now I know I was in pretty wicked shape. I have a much better appreciation for that now. But surprisingly, I am really enjoying the 'coming back into shape' period. After really working on a high level of fitness for a number of years, I haven't touched on the basic stuff for a while. And it's much more rewarding and full of clarity than I expected. Here is an example.<br />
<br />
I started skate skiing a few weeks back. I would have started a couple months back, but as every BC skier knows right now, the skiing is the P to the ITS. But we got some snow, and I was immediately out on skis. Enter a trail called The Grind. It embodies it's namesake. I used to work my way up there working hard but could reach the top without stopping.<br />
<br />
Not this year.<br />
<br />
I suffered on that hill the first time up. I probably stopped half a dozen times. Feet aching, breath abating, muscles searing, coordination floundering, heart dropping (really, skyrocketing). I'm sure I fell on the way up, feeling embarrassed that people would be watching and thinking how awfully out of shape I was. I know that's a bad complex to have, but it's tied to my ego, the same ego that told me that if I wanted to win a race, I could, I just had to believe it. So ego is not all bad. But sometimes your ego is tough to deal with. So, I struggled on in quite poor technique I'm sure, but I made it to the top.<br />
<br />
Flash back to yesterday, 2 weeks later. I skied up the hill. No stopping. I skied a few loops around the top (not shredding my elbow to bits as I had done a few days ago on the ice - bonus). When I came back down the hill, I decided to go up it again. I was almost giddy with enthusiasm to do this. My legs of course protested much more on the 2nd go, but it felt so good. I was doing it, I was doing what I could do not that long ago. Talk about finding hope on a half scraped out ski hill. I was in love with that moment.<br />
<br />
And it's that moment, and the feeling today that I could do 100 pushups. Not consecutive people, come on, but 100! I haven't been able to do that since 2012. It's my reward for pulling myself up the ski hill, ugly if I have to, pretty if I'm lucky, and either way, feeling really quite proud of myself at the top. Someone asked me at the top of the hill if I was "that biathlon girl" - I smiled, and said "No", but I thought to myself, what I'm thinking about myself has been validated. I'm an athlete. I missed that.<br />
<br />
I think I got used to race placings as reward for my training, as it's a highly satisfying experience to win, or podium, at a race. People take notice, and help fill up that insecure spot we all seem to have from time to time, that yes, we really are a good athlete or good person. But I'm not breaking down any doors right now on the racing front, and almost welcome the respite from that world. Racing would be fun right now only because there would be other people that would show up you could talk to or joke with, as I do a lot of my training alone on a mountain, often in blizzards or fog, but sometimes in absolutely gorgeous sunshine which requires t-shirt skiing and 60SPF sunblock.<br />
<br />
But I'm loving just moving my body and feeling it get stronger. For those people who have delivered a baby, they will understand the unbelievable feelings of bringing a child into this world. Maybe it's just taken me 5 months to move on from revelling in how amazing my body was to do that, and maybe now is why my body is ready to move back into sport. I don't know. It seems a nicer theory than just 'everything was so hard and I was so tired and depressed and didn't want to spend an extra ounce of energy unless I needed to'. As I found out with labour, your inner 'body' knows more than your brain will ever be capable of finding out, and sometimes you just have to go with it, and I guess I've done that without noticing. <br />
<br />
Not that I want to hold anything over anyone's head, but you really won't understand this feeling until you go through it. You will not know how hard moms (or dads) work until you become one. You will not know what's it's like to go for your first run after you've hard a baby (read: wobbly, and wobbly may be a metaphor for all things with a new child). So to all the mummas who have come back into fitness after having a baby, I'm in awe, and I'm feeling pretty darn lucky to be becoming one of them.<br />
<br />
I can only see a mountain of strength to be gained this year. I can't wait.<br />
<br />
xo ggillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-77059945706383157302014-01-24T10:14:00.001-08:002014-01-24T10:14:34.100-08:00Triathlete Magazine, "Bun in the Oven, Wheels on the Ground"Pretty neat - I with a few other awesome ladies-with-babies made it into <a href="http://triathlon.competitor.com/">Triathlete Magazine</a>!<br />
<br />
Check out the link below!<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_54621047"><br /></a>
<a href="http://triathlon.competitor.com/2014/01/news/bun-in-the-oven-wheels-on-the-ground_92843">http://triathlon.competitor.com/2014/01/news/bun-in-the-oven-wheels-on-the-ground_92843</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lo6u9r7UhN8/UuKtXu4jUjI/AAAAAAAABJw/jTqygaV3OQg/s1600/IMG_7070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lo6u9r7UhN8/UuKtXu4jUjI/AAAAAAAABJw/jTqygaV3OQg/s1600/IMG_7070.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-82220210433844281032014-01-19T15:20:00.000-08:002014-01-19T15:20:35.899-08:00I'm "baaaaa-aaaack" , or the 2014 Mount Washington Yeti Snowshoe Race!The title of the blog is borrowed from a dear friend of mine, Steph, who wrote that on my facebook wall after I talked about completing this race. It struck a chord with me, it made me remember - oh yeah...I was that girl who did something pretty great in a race a while back. Waaaay back, it feels like.<br />
<br />
I've been pretty enamoured with my life lately, and very proud & focused on growing a baby, having a baby, and loving our new life with this baby. So racing seems like a long time ago - although yes, if you do recall, I raced in the <a href="http://rundriven.blogspot.ca/2013/07/ill-carry-weight-or-2013-subaru.html">Subaru Vancouver Sprint Triathlon</a> in July and had a blast, but I was honestly on cruise control with no thoughts of really 'pushing' anything. I was 34 weeks pregnant after all!<br />
<br />
Flash forward to me running up a very long hill. In snowshoes, all alone, breathing very hard & wondering when I was going to fall over.<br />
<br />
Flash backward to me thinking entering a snowshoe race in the 'enduro' category after only stringing <i>one week</i> of regular training (doing something every day for at least 45 min) 5 months after having a baby. Months 2-5 generally consisted of me maybe doing 2 30-60 min runs a week, and in the last couple of months trying to throw in a core workout a week. (For the record, month one was learning to walk a straight line again and not get winded in the grocery store).<br />
<br />
Flash forward again to me walking up a hill. Gasp!<br />
<br />
Flash backward to me showing up to the race realizing I didn't bring a watch. When in my life have I shown up to race without a watch. Oh right, "never-ever-in-my-life".<br />
<br />
Flash forward (you are catching on?) to me realizing I really just don't have that 'push on all accounts' urge to flatten myself on this course. It's a funny feeling. Something I think I've taken for granted. It's not there right now.<br />
<br />
Backward: "Oh my goodness, I've never run a trail race before. Or a snowshoe race - FUN!"<br />
<br />
So I lined up with a posse of other sunshine & snow loving eager snowshoe racers at the <a href="http://theyeti.ca/">Yeti Snowshoe Series</a> race #1 at <a href="http://www.mountwashington.ca/">Mount Washington Alpine Resort</a>. A crazy white Yeti was there to wish us luck - and off we went!<br />
<br />
Talk about a beautiful day when your race starts off like this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yvv0l-s6RfM/UtxVgo2wTnI/AAAAAAAABIs/EkXn365M8Hk/s1600/yeti+race+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yvv0l-s6RfM/UtxVgo2wTnI/AAAAAAAABIs/EkXn365M8Hk/s1600/yeti+race+1.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And your race course looks like this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iTeQgcIy_Ik/UtxVsB3NY_I/AAAAAAAABI0/IBiEm43-UbI/s1600/yeti+race+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iTeQgcIy_Ik/UtxVsB3NY_I/AAAAAAAABI0/IBiEm43-UbI/s1600/yeti+race+2.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So I'll describe the course in one word: HILLS! I have not run up and down so many hills in a long time. In fact I think I ran more hills in the Yeti race than I did in the entirety of 2013 (not kidding, not even a little bit). So lap one was a little tough to take, realizing that if you don't train on hills (or don't train at all, I realize now...) that running up hills is one tough venture! But by lap two, I was starting to enjoy the struggle. I also decided that on one particular hill, where I saw almost every woman ahead of me walking up, that I would walk up too (usually this is sacrilege). But I was by myself, and having fun, and thinking to myself, "why not?". And I survived. Both the hill & the ego check.<br />
<br />
And how can you not enjoy yourself with fans out on course like this?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-96lJAvQf5Qs/UtxWarZAcfI/AAAAAAAABJA/0R7ox_D88eA/s1600/yeti+race3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-96lJAvQf5Qs/UtxWarZAcfI/AAAAAAAABJA/0R7ox_D88eA/s1600/yeti+race3.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After this, it was another kilometre or so to the finish, but I tell you, it feels a lot longer on snowshoes than it does on the road. There must be a lot of technique to the art of not-super sloppy fitness slogging on snowshoes (my style). Maybe one day I'll learn it too, because this race was really fun and I definitely want to do another.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And being able to zoom around in the chariot makes both husband and baby quite happy. Look, Dad & Matthias got some freshies!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3GlvNZ-PB_I/UtxX1FREuqI/AAAAAAAABJM/rJisSFcSOJc/s1600/yeti+race+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3GlvNZ-PB_I/UtxX1FREuqI/AAAAAAAABJM/rJisSFcSOJc/s1600/yeti+race+4.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
So, maybe there's something to this trail running thing after all. I'm quite far out of 'competitive' mode at the moment, so doing new things and tackling new challenges where you have no stick to compare yourself against is pretty awesome. All you have to do is go out, have fun, and work hard. Sounds about exactly right for me right now. I also must add - much easier on the old lady hips & knees I'm feeling right now getting back into running after having a baby. My muscles could feel it the next day but no pain at all in any joints - which is kind of important when you do 100 deadlifts with a 17lb+ baby daily.<br />
<br />
And when it's all said and done, I get this little man to give me a squeeze - how can it get any better than that? Actually I get a squeeze from the bigger man as well, so it does get better! And if you're racing solo, I saw the Yeti giving out quite a few squeezes as well - what a nice big white fluffy creature! The Yeti also provided us with a table of treats after - most coveted by me of course was the chocolate milk! It's been a long time since I did a race and remembered how good chocolate milk tastes after! So, <a href="http://poweredbychocolatemilk.com/">Powered By Chocolate Milk</a>, as the title of the blog suggests - I'm "baaaa-aaaack". Tell the cows Imma-coming! All said and done, I finished in 4th place, and in 1 hour and 1 or 2 minutes, for a 10km snowshoe - which I was more than happy with, especially considering I haven't been cracking 50 min for a 10km on the road - so encouraging!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3WQbv_mAx0s/UtxYtQUoAgI/AAAAAAAABJY/5yKLvc8ZmpQ/s1600/yeti+race+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3WQbv_mAx0s/UtxYtQUoAgI/AAAAAAAABJY/5yKLvc8ZmpQ/s1600/yeti+race+5.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
A huge thanks to the great people at the <a href="http://theyeti.ca/">Yeti Snowshoe Series</a> & <a href="http://5peaks.com/">5 Peaks Adventures Trail Racing</a> Series for letting me be a part of this race. I had a blast! I will do it again! And scarily enough, you might have converted a roadie into a trail runner (at least for a while). The lure of the marathon still pulls quite strongly, as does the pavement we run on in that little race called <a href="http://rundriven.blogspot.ca/2012/09/ironman-canada-2012-race-report-or.html">Ironman</a>, but for now, as a new mama taking her first new steps back on the racing circuit, this was a perfect event! <br />
<br />
And I must say, running up here on the snow in snowshoes is really going to make running on the road feel quite easy breezy. Can't wait! But for now, we're mountain people for the winter. So do your little snow dance please and get us some new stuff so our baby can rip some more freshsies!<br />
<br />
Enjoy the start of your new year, and get out there and have fun!<br />
xo<br />
gilliangillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-89869316230609860032013-09-14T22:07:00.000-07:002013-09-16T06:36:33.388-07:00"How to Have a Baby", or "Labour Legs".Well, it's official. We have a kid! In fact, we had one a month ago but I haven't had two hands to type out my thoughts since. I'll probably have to tackle this 20 times for 20 minutes before I actually get a blog out, but here goes, because I'm determined to fill you in one of life's most interesting events. How to have a baby.<br />
<br />
Read: not 'how to make a baby', that, you can find in great detail elsewhere. <br />
<br />
I'll let you know right now, this blog will be long, very long. I have no brainpower to install it in chapters, so you may just need to make a mental bookmark somewhere if your cookies are burning part way through the read.<br />
<br />
If you've read along on my blog or online during my pregnancy so far, you'll know that I've tackled the racing pregnant great divide. Should you or shouldn't you? Well, I did and it turned out superbly. It was challenging at times, it gave me an entirely different perspective on what 'racing' really means, and it helped me stay true to myself. I'm an athlete, and I'm an athlete no matter if I'm carrying a little bean inside me or not. Little did I know how useful continuing to train & continuing to push my limits would be when it came to labour & delivery.<br />
<br />
So at 33.5 weeks, I did the Vancouver Sprint Triathlon (you can read about <a href="http://rundriven.blogspot.ca/2013/07/ill-carry-weight-or-2013-subaru.html">here</a> and <a href="http://triathlonmagazine.ca/2013/07/sections/news/gillian-clayton-completes-the-vancouver-sprint-triathlon/">here</a>) and had a blast. It was like my retirement race, but for pregnancy, and of which I only had 2 races during said career. But it felt like closure, I felt like after I had completed that race I was ready to start transitioning to getting my body ready to have this kid. And of course at that point, I figured I still had 6.5 weeks to go in my pregnancy, so lots of time to wind down & become a pokey 'jogger' on the seawall. <br />
<br />
Roughly two weeks later, enter week 36. A couple of funny things happened. All of a sudden I felt like I should wash the beautiful clothes that had been given to us for our future kiddo. Then the next day I really felt like at the very least, I should buy some blankets for the tiny human. People talk about 'nesting', getting your house ready, I don't know, knitting baby socks or something, but I did not have these feelings. I was not surprised considering my urges were generally to go out and do workouts. But now looking back, that was my nesting in a different way. Iron-nesting.<br />
<br />
In any case, I bought blankets, I washed clothes (I did not clean my house). Friday I went for a run, of which was the first time that I felt, heck, a little stretch break at the half way mark (30min) wasn't a bad idea. Then I promptly stopped at 1 hr on the dot, and walked the rest of the way home. Usually I eek out the last kilometre even though I'm tired and it's over one hour. But that day I decided an hour was my limit. I could tell I had started to slow down, but ironically, I was breathing better than ever and wished my body would go the whole distance over again. Breathing better, I should have known...<br />
<br />
Saturday I swam and made jokes to my good friend about how the baby could really come any day now. I knew it would be early. I joked, 'hey, press on it's bum and see if you can help it come out'. I went for a beautiful swim, slowly rolling along Kits Pool. I really felt I would be spending much more time here in the last few weeks, also knowing that if I went over due (as people often do), I could be here for 5 more weeks. I was told swimming could help get the baby in the right position to come out, so I loved being in the water & stretching out my tummy. That was my last swim of the season there.<br />
<br />
Then Sunday came. I woke up to grey skies. I felt - flat. I usually tried to get myself out the door for a workout 'most' days before noon. I wasn't going anywhere, I read a book instead. I then got an urge to insist we must buy a baby carrier that day, so we went and spent two hours looking like total fools trying to figure out "what buckles go where", "where does that strap go", and all "that fake baby is totally awkward", and finally "what the heck are we getting ourselves into?". Well, we got ourselves into a sandwich on Commercial Drive, because I was starving. And then we went home. That felt like a max out on 'pre-parenting' for the day.<br />
<br />
We were going out to Bard on the Beach, and uncharacteristically, I wanted to lie down for a bit. I could have actually gone to bed then (oh, how I wish I had...), but we went to see Hamlet instead. "To thine own self be true"? Good one Shakespeare. We sat beside a man who congratulated us on our pregnancy & told us this was his first night out since he and his wife had a brand new baby weeks ago. That seemed so surreal to us, so far off. At that point, it was exactly 12 hours off. <br />
<br />
Now I have to say, before I go on, that I am someone who loved the process of labour & delivery. Loved it. So I'll explain what happened because I really wish I had talked to more people about how a labour & delivery goes, but I find very few people want to talk about it. So, that's why I'm doing what I'm doing. I want more people to love this process as much as I did, because it is so amazingly life changing, and it really has changed my life in a huge way.<br />
<br />
So back to Sunday night...<br />
<br />
I made a statement to my husband walking home that I think I could finally identify a Braxton Hicks contraction, as I could vaguely feel 2 in a row. I think I had felt them running before, but it's hard to tell what's what when you are carting around a baby, constantly need to pee & have sore feet. My husband has heard me chatter about every single pregnancy symptom (yes, every one) since the dawn of time so this did not ring any alarm bells for him. I went home & went to bed early.<br />
<br />
I woke up to pee. This is what pregnant women do. If I was a professional triathlete last year, I'm a professional water release specialist this year. I went back to bed. I had almost fallen back asleep. It was sometime after midnight.<br />
<br />
My water broke.<br />
<br />
What?<br />
<br />
I got up and there was no denying this was what it was. I got up to tell my husband, who was still awake. It was quite obvious to him as well what was going on. Hmm. So now I was a bit perplexed.<br />
<br />
What do you do now?<br />
<br />
We just lay there, calmly discussing the fact that we really had no idea what to do except wait. Well, I waited all of 10 minutes before I definitely started feeling these contraction things I'd heard you get in labour. Now I don't sit around and mope about cramps because honestly (sorry girls) I just don't get them. But these quickly became quite identifiable as uterine in nature, except now my uterus was the size of a watermelon & getting more excitable with each contraction. I timed the first few. I was told they can start around 15-20 min apart. They were 5 minutes apart.<br />
<br />
So, now being quite thrown off that my water broke and 5 min apart contractions were coming at 37 weeks, we called our <a href="http://www.thevancouverdoula.com/index.html">doula</a>. I will explain later how tremendously important our doula was in our pregnancy, labour & delivery. Nobody likes to call anybody at 1:30am. She very gently explained that at this stage, it was best for as many people to rest as much as possible (as in me if possible, my husband and her). 2 out of 3 ain't bad I guess. We said we would call back when we needed her, or didn't know what to do anymore (turns out these are synonymous terms). My very calm husband tried to sleep, I tried for all of 5 minutes and had to get up.<br />
<br />
A good chunk of the labour is quite time-less, as in, time was quite irrelevant to progress. I tried to get some nutrition in (juice), and was scuppered by reflux. Oh well. We had just (I mean 'just', like 2 days ago) gone over positions to labour in (vertical is better than horizontal is the motto), but still find time to rest as you go along. Lots of people have lengthy labours (I did not - it was less than 7 hours), so need rest to make it through. Well, I don't care that my labour was short, it was tiring, and I'm glad I saved every ounce of energy I had until the very end. If you thought your legs were fall down wobbly tired at the end of an Ironman well, they have nothing on labour legs. Labour legs are hardcore tired.<br />
<br />
So eventually I re-timed these contractions, as quite honestly, I was getting a bit tired, a bit scared, and in the dark at 3:30am, a bit lonely. They were about 3 minutes apart. Ooookay. So I woke up my husband. He asked how he could help. I said, "I don't know, just stop sleeping". Useful Gillian, useful. He started to putter around packing a bag (ultimate procrastinators, we had not done this, but to be fair, 37 weeks....), and continuously checking in on me. <br />
<br />
And here is what I'm doing. I sat on a stability ball & rest between each contraction. When they came it was like having your abdomen slowly wrung out like a rag from top to bottom, all the while using deep and really long exhalation breathing, just waiting for the peak of each contraction to come so that the next breath feel on a slightly less tightened feeling, which meant the contraction was dropping off & rest was coming. At this point, anyways, I could actually rest.<br />
<br />
I really thought no matter how hard each contraction would be as I progressed, that I would get this wonderful rest period, like going to the spa for 1-2 minutes between contractions. Well, no. When I had restful periods, I really didn't need them because the contractions were so light (not that I felt that way at the time). Towards the last two hours, there just was no rest. There was no comfortable position, it was just find a space to support your body before you have to get up and move through another contraction. So, I wish someone had told me that. Now, saying that, when people say, "oh well, you'll be fit for labour", they weren't joking. And really, honestly, I was a super fit pregnant person, so I can NOT imagine what labour must be like if you have not been working on your hardcore labour legs for the last 9 months. <br />
<br />
You also need hardcore labour arms as well. Labour fingers also help, as they can dig into a couch with such tenacity that they could make breadcrumbs out of rock solid stale bread. Luckily for my support team, no one was subject to the wrath of my labour fingers, or else we could have all been admitted to the hospital.<br />
<br />
So, at 3 minutes apart, feeling a bit overwhelmed, we decided to call back our wonderful doula, <a href="http://www.thevancouverdoula.com/index.html">Lolli</a>. She talked to me (briefly as there was no way I could talk with contractions), talked to Shawn, listened to some of my contractions over the phone, and then decided to head our way. When Shawn said she would be by in about an hour or so, I really did not think I could last that long at home. But, with really no time to panic or worry with contractions rolling on, I just kept doing what I needed to do. Which was stand up from couch from weird fetal position (oh the irony), get a death grip on the couch, and start to breathe through each contraction while standing bent over at the hips, until each one settled down. Repeat that every 3-3.5 minutes. And I thought repeats at the track were hard. Ha. Ha.<br />
<br />
Shawn ate a bowl of cereal. It seemed funny to me at the time, but it was a very smart thing for him to do. I wasn't eating anything. I really envisioned that during my 2 minute spa breaks I'd be able to eat like, a banana? A gel? What else do they have at the aid station? Gatorade? Nope. Not happening. I continued on with the breathing & moving until Lolli got there. <br />
<br />
It was so comforting to have someone experienced show up at this point. Until then, both of us are just brand spanking new to this whole process, and while doing a good job, we really didn't know what to expect. There was a point in between calling Lolli & her showing up that I understood why women would make the decision to get an epidural. So I can sympathize with that completely. But there are no epidurals in my living room, and that is exactly why we wanted to labour at home as long as possible. And having her there meant that I could just continue on with what my body needed to do, and leave the 'when to get to the hospital' jazz up to her suggestion. Because if it was my call, we'd be there looong before we needed to and knew that could ultimately lead to less desirable outcomes for us. And in the end, I had a natural delivery without any need for interventions of any kind. <br />
<br />
Connecting with our doula was the best decision we made in our pregnancy outside of actually deciding to get pregnant. If you don't know about what a doula is or does, you should learn. You can read in more detail how Lolli helped us <a href="https://plus.google.com/111532733556823269184/reviews?hl=en">here</a>, a testimonial to her wonderful skills as a doula. You should learn if you're thinking of becoming pregnant, are pregnant, or have friends or relatives that are pregnant. In my eyes, they are absolutely essential in positive prenatal & perinatal care. They are someone that helps educate you in your pregnancy, prepares you mentally & emotionally for labour & delivery, and supports every aspect of pregnancy you can think of, and even those you can't. They fill in every gap of doubt, uncertainty, fear, unknowing-ness, and help you focus on your strengths & desires for your birth plan, how you want your labour & delivery to unfold. If all your prenatal care is going to the doc's to pee in a cup, get weighed, measure your belly, listen to the doppler, take your blood pressure, and be asked if you have any sadness or blues, then you are really missing out on a huge piece of the pregnancy pie. Not to say those things aren't useful, but they check the boxes of a medical pregnancy, and no matter who you are, your pregnancy is so much more than a medical thing.<br />
<br />
I could go on forever on the usefulness of doulas and labour support, but for the sake of my 20 minute typing periods, I'll hold off. I would strongly suggest though, if you have questions or comments, to get in touch with me, either on this blog or elsewhere, as I would be happy to answer to them all. <br />
<br />
So we are still at home, with our doula, and let me tell you, I am making some pretty weird noises at this point. Dying dairy cow would be appropriate. And I don't say that to scare you, I just say it because it was a noise louder than I thought a human could make. A little bit awesome actually, that I had that in me. Amazing also, that likely my whole neighbourhood heard it. I have my angry cycle commuter shouter voice which I thought was pretty bad-ass, but this labour voice is a whole other level.<br />
<br />
So there is that, and between those noises are incredibly forceful inhalations where I swore my VO2 max capacity had doubled. It felt like I could draw in twice the amount of air into my lungs as I had all through pregnancy. Maybe I could. But I knew I definitely needed that amount of oxygen to get through each contraction. There must have been a huge demand internally for a person to breathe like that. And in essence, I suppose the uterus is working so forcefully it needs oxygen, as does your placenta, because your baby to be needs it as well. It was not lost on me at this point that I was happy that I had done speedwork intervals up to 32 weeks of pregnancy and had exposed my little bean to mild stress that it could adapt to in labour. It made me feel safer knowing that this kid was tough & fit, like his mumma. (Not that we knew he was a 'he' yet).<br />
<br />
Eventually Lolli asked me to get up and move to the bathroom (I can't remember why but I'm sure she had a plan). The whole, "oh I'm worried that baby is going to fall out into the toilet" jazz? Nooo way is anything going to fall out of you, I guarantee.<br />
<br />
Now, for any male who has made it this far in my blog, firstly, I salute you. Secondly, I'm going to start talking about fluids, so hang in there. As the baby descends down through the pelvis, it does so in a turning type motion, which means there are times when more amniotic fluid can pass past the baby's head as your cervix dilates. And at this point, as I got up to walk, there was a whole lot more fluid coming along and hitting the deck. <br />
<br />
I'll also say that at this point, I had stopped making eye contact with either Shawn or Lolli, as I was so inwardly focused that I could distract myself with anyone else's emotions. I also had no idea if I was 1cm dilated, 5cm dilated, or more. I had no clue. For me there was no feeling of quantity of dilation and no real feeling of a cervix anyways. All I could feel was contractions, which were definitely descending in location, which means, yes, you start to feel like you're going to deliver a baby out of your butt.<br />
<br />
And I've just lost all male readers. <br />
<br />
That's ok, they don't actually have to deliver a baby, but women do, so I am willing to bet there are still some women reading this.<br />
<br />
So, eventually I heard Lolli say, "Shawn, I think we should think about getting going". And I thought, 'sweet relief, I may actually be getting somewhere here'. But still, in my mind, I really could have been 25 or 50% of the way there, I had no idea really. And I really never had time to think or worry, as I said, because the contractions are really all consuming and that is actually really great, because you really should't be thinking about anything else than each breath of each contraction. You have to be so present in what you're doing to get through, and that is essentially why it is so hard. We have so many hang ups, mental blocks, whatever they are, that can truly scupper people in labour. The bottom line is that your body knows how to do this. Our minds mess with it and the body has to spend extra energy convincing you to just leave it alone & let it do it's job. It's hard. It's harder than hard actually, but it's completely possible. <br />
<br />
I was supported. I was safe. I felt like I was doing the right thing & had all the confidence in myself to continue. That said, I needed reassuring words & touch through each contraction, but with those, I could keep going, keep working, keep focusing on bringing this baby down. In my eyes, this is how you have a good labour, regardless of the path that you choose. If you have these pieces in place, the rest just comes naturally.<br />
<br />
We drove to the hospital around 6 am (water breaking/labour had started around 12:30). We were relatively quickly escorted up to the maternity ward (this is where cow noises will get you somewhere in a hurry, as will cascades of fluid on the floor). Some nurse asked if I was going to deliver in emergency - I thought to myself, no thank you very much I'll hold it. And then I thought, woah, could I actually be that close to delivering a baby. Nah. I bet there's more.<br />
<br />
So, zoomed up to maternity, very comically on all fours on stretcher facing backwards making said noises in my actual place of work (luckily no colleagues work at 6am), and into the maternity ward. I noticed I was bypassed past the assessment room and all of a sudden found myself in an actual ward room where you deliver. Interesting.<br />
<br />
Even more interesting is when they asked me to get on the bed to be examined to see how far my labour had progressed, and have them tell me that I was fully dilated. <br />
<br />
Get real.<br />
<br />
Quite literally, this was all getting real in a fast way. The on-call doctor was called. Our delivering doctor didn't have a chance of making it. It felt like quite a long time until said on-call doctor came. At this point, I really didn't mind who delivered this baby, because they were essentially the catcher, while I had my team on either side of Shawn & Lolli telling me everything I needed to hear, and being my voice to any requests or comments from the health care team (I heard nothing they said, could have been the 'zone', could have been the 'cow').<br />
<br />
Finally, the doc shows up. Not long after, I ask if it's ok to push this baby out now. The answer was of course, yes. I will say, at this point, I am both a combo of totally racked with shaky labour legs but also feeling the most powerful I've felt in any athletic endeavour in my life. Like I could rip a steel bar in half powerful. So when they said push this baby out, that was music to my ears. So push I did. As I tried to recollect the experience, it felt like I maybe was pushing for, I don't know, half an hour? I checked in with my husband on that one. He thought more like 7 minutes. I said, no way. I couldn't remember how many times I had to push. He thought about 4, maybe 5 times. The delivery was again, like labour, timeless to me.<br />
<br />
It is, the coolest feeling to deliver a child. Does it hurt? Of course. Does it matter? No. Does every minute of your labour prepare you for this? Absolutely. The body knows what to do. It is totally manageable. Of course there are some people that have unforeseen complications & that messes with the rhythm of the thing, and I am eternally grateful that I didn't have any of those, because I know lots of people that had. So physically, the pain is quite manageable, but it is feeling strong & confident & supported that is the tricky part. I had that in spades, and I had the greatest labour & delivery I could imagine. I truly loved it. In fact, I thought I could totally do it all over again. Not every woman's thought immediately after having a child...but I wish it was. I like this article for it's explanations on the psychology of giving birth, <a href="http://birthpsychology.com/free-article/childbirth-ordinary-miracle">Childbirth: The Ordinary Miracle</a>. So much truth.<br />
<br />
And just like that, you hear a cry. And it certainly wasn't my own because I had no extra energy to divert to crying. And just like that, you can feel an umbilical cord against your leg, and Lolli helped me to turn over (I decided to deliver backwards just to keep the staff on their toes?), and I was handed our brand new baby boy. My husband had tears in his eyes. Neither one of us could talk, all we could do is just stare at this new child in amazement. It is a feeling like no other. <br />
<br />
It is absolute love.<br />
<br />
It was amazing. It has taken a long time to sink in, and I'll reflect back upon it for the rest of my life. It has inspired me to be a different person & to seek out & learn new things. It has changed my perspective on so many things. I couldn't have asked for more support. I couldn't have done it any better.<br />
<br />
And the end result is this tiny human who looks at us with his big eyes with all the trust in the world that we're his people, and he belongs with us. It melts your heart.<br />
<br />
Now where I used to be lining up morning workouts, I'm pretty happy with warm morning snuggles instead. It's an amazing time.<br />
<br />
And for the 30 minutes I ran this week, for the first time feeling like I was floating on air and soaking in the feeling of driving my legs & arms into fatigue, I say watch out to whoever races against me in 2014, because I've got some new supermumma powers I can't wait to unveil.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dpJaSv3rpOY/UjVBAsq81uI/AAAAAAAABIM/6ioGDWNfWVk/s1600/photo-25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dpJaSv3rpOY/UjVBAsq81uI/AAAAAAAABIM/6ioGDWNfWVk/s400/photo-25.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
xox<br />
gillian<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-11087894254211434582013-07-22T11:37:00.000-07:002013-07-22T11:37:49.462-07:00"I'll carry the weight", or 2013 Subaru Vancouver Sprint Triathlon pregnant 'race' report This song struck me quite emotionally while running yesterday, from Canadian artist Serena Ryder, about what it's been like to run around with this little bean in me for the last 8 months:<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>.......</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I'll carry the weight</i><br />
<i>I'll do anything for you</i><br />
<i>My bones may break</i><br />
<i>But I'll never be untrue...</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Your love is like an ocean</i><br />
<i>That always takes me home</i><br />
<i>Whispering wind is blowing</i><br />
<i>Telling me I'm not alone</i><br />
<i>Your love is like a river</i><br />
<i>That I am floating down</i><br />
<i>I've never been a swimmer</i><br />
<i>But I know that I'll never drown</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>The current grows stronger</i><br />
<i>Under different shades of blue</i><br />
<i>I've fallen in your water</i><br />
<i>Forget everything I knew....</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Oh, what I wouldn't do....</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-51lGSOKaJME/Ue11_uCpz4I/AAAAAAAABG8/9wisa7cDIEU/s1600/IMG_7054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-51lGSOKaJME/Ue11_uCpz4I/AAAAAAAABG8/9wisa7cDIEU/s400/IMG_7054.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<br />
There have been some amazing moments running along in the past few weeks, where I go from totally irritated (read: often my bladder), sore, grumpy, frustrated, to completely inspired, light, strong, floating even. It can change so quickly and is unlike anything I ever felt in training before. And it goes back & forth, and I just have to ride it out for the better or for the worse, sort of like these weird semi-contractions I can get from time to time. But it makes me feel alive, and I think that is a major reason why I stick with it. And it gives good reason as why I chose to race this past weekend.<br />
<br />
So how did it go, you ask? Let me tell you!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iJ3skWEaTqo/Ue1yjJlfGXI/AAAAAAAABF0/mn5gGiiBmj8/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-07-20+at+2.53.58+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iJ3skWEaTqo/Ue1yjJlfGXI/AAAAAAAABF0/mn5gGiiBmj8/s400/Screen+shot+2013-07-20+at+2.53.58+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
"I wanted to ask but.....", "Are you pregnant?", and "Are you doing the whole thing?".<br />
<br />
Most common phrases heard during last week's <a href="http://triseries.ca/vancouver/index.php">Subaru Vancouver Sprint Triathlon</a>. Honestly, people, are you polite or are you actually doubtful? I know we live in a world of inane political correctness, but come on. Lean girl eats a cantaloupe whole for lunch? Like how a snake eats a pig? I think it's become more obvious to me when girls are pregnant, so I know I should cut people some slack. But it would be so funny if I wasn't, how on earth could you get a belly like that? <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tCHwsMhwdBY/Ue1zRCbWzVI/AAAAAAAABF8/FRMQG0eDKUc/s1600/IMG_7070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tCHwsMhwdBY/Ue1zRCbWzVI/AAAAAAAABF8/FRMQG0eDKUc/s400/IMG_7070.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
"You are totally my hero". "You are so inspirational". "You are crazy". Ah, the love.<br />
<br />
In any case, yes, I did the <i>whole </i>thing. As in, the shortest races I've ever done. 500m swim, 20km bike, and 5km run. It was awesome. I would also like to include that if you are racing while reasonably pregnant, the transitions really should be included, as to me, they were actually the harder events. No kidding. Run up long beach in sand when your ligaments are slowly turning to rubber bands? Check. Get biking shoes on while not sticking out your rear so far that no one can get by with their bike? Get on & off bike while people watch you and wonder, "what the hell is up with her stomach?" Return & put on running shoes & then get upper ab cramp (actually I was quite excited, meaning my abs are still strong enough to actually cramp), then push the baby down away from my ribs & take a big pregnancy breath to reassure you & your baby that everything is fine & you're going to run now. Clearly, T1 and T2 were far more athletic events for me.<br />
<br />
Well, there's still no 'pregnancy' category at the races (although, it did show up on the back of my race #), but I'm pretty sure that I'm winning them so far. I can't help it. Apparently being 33 weeks pregnant did not make me much less competitive than usual. Nice to know that some things never change. I like to win stuff.<br />
<br />
Let's cut into some of the more memorable moments & dilemmas that I had going into this race. <br />
<br />
1 week before the race, at the doctor's office, at week 32 check up time:<br />
<br />
Me: "I'm doing a race next week"<br />
Her: "Oh, you are?"<br />
Me: "Yes, it's short. It's for fun." (She understands my race history)<br />
Her:"Ok."<br />
(pause)<br />
Her: "What is the likelihood of you, say, crashing your bike?"<br />
Me: "Well, a lot less likely than when I cycle commute to work in traffic".<br />
Her: Silently gives me the evil eye<br />
Her: Then laughs, "Well, that's interesting logic".<br />
Me: Series of explanations of closed course, riding on the right, getting passed is ok, I will watch the road for bumps. "I'll be fine". My husband is at the appointment with me, & she is also his family doctor, so she seems to take some comfort in the fact Shawn will be at the race with me.<br />
Her: "Well, at least you're riding with people who know what they're doing"<br />
Me: I resist telling her that a lot of these people are monkeys on speed bananas when they're racing.<br />
Her: "Be safe then, and good luck. Have fun".<br />
Me: I have the best doctor.<br />
<br />
"I have confidence in confidence alone":<br />
<br />
I was of unshakeable confidence the day before that visit. Thought nothing of the race, just show up, swim a bit, bike and run & everything is fun. I really didn't think too much about what could go wrong, or if I did, I certainly didn't embody any of the stress that comes along with worry.<br />
<br />
But now I started to feel a little hesitant about the process. Quite a few "what if's" popped into my head. At the time, this was distressing. Looking back, this was probably actually a great thing for me to have to work through. <br />
<br />
The swim, "always floundering":<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XfRj9g5qCsc/Ue1z8xG5F5I/AAAAAAAABGI/o3DDYxHGSVM/s1600/image-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XfRj9g5qCsc/Ue1z8xG5F5I/AAAAAAAABGI/o3DDYxHGSVM/s400/image-21.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I went for my first open water swim of the year down at the beach the day before. It was cold. I did not like it. Amazingly, my wetsuit fit (maybe Blue Seventy should start marketing it's suits to 'grow' with pregnant women...?), which was a relief. But my body didn't really 'warm up' to the chill of the ocean and I envisioned some of my first triathlon experiences that largely involved panic attacks & feeling like my heart was going to burst out of my chest. Now, on my own & responsible only for myself, I can handle high levels of stress in the water (read: <a href="http://rundriven.blogspot.ca/2012/05/ironman-st-george-part-i-swim.html">My swim experience at Ironman St George</a>, for example). But I am now responsible for this little baby and it's well being. It was a very heavy feeling. Not a bad or good one, but a definite sense of duty to ensure that this baby comes first. I would guess moms and dads already understand this. And in essence, it sums up the entire race experience for me, but there was more confidence where there was less risk, certainly. So the doctor's visit was a useful 'check-in' for me.<br />
<br />
I also realized I was being a bit dramatic about the whole swim thing (consistent given my swim history), when I was pretty sure I saw a killer whale jump out in the ocean just off course. <br />
<br />
It was probably a salmon.<br />
<br />
So on race day, after a very pleasant warm up, I lined up at the back, tried to console the first time very nervous looking back of packers, "Hey, I'm doing this pregnant - you can definitely do it not pregnant", and very much enjoyed walking into the water last. Or at least I was trying for dead last. Some pokey girl with no wetsuit was last in (and can you blame her?). I'll say, it's a much more pleasant start to go in last than first. Why didn't I think of that a couple of years back....?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kxhwhFJYbQU/Ue10ntNzzrI/AAAAAAAABGQ/0ZkKi-FnBJQ/s1600/IMG_7077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kxhwhFJYbQU/Ue10ntNzzrI/AAAAAAAABGQ/0ZkKi-FnBJQ/s400/IMG_7077.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And lo and behold, I was totally fine & very comfortable in the swim. It was a bit upsetting to be very relaxed & cognizant of other people at the back of the back, really struggling with swimming, floating on their backs, doing the panicked thrash about, gasping for air, and I really felt a pang of guilt that I should stop & reassure them that they'd be fine. But there were boats out there for that, and I knew they would be fine (again, I've seen 'not fine' at other races like St George - there is a big difference). So around the buoys I went, flying way off course with the current (which really was fun when you could care less about winning a race), and zipped back into shore. And no one kicked me or my child. Bonus.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EVd-8f2kjJA/Ue105mZSW2I/AAAAAAAABGY/IqcoxgNWWqs/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-07-20+at+2.37.32+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EVd-8f2kjJA/Ue105mZSW2I/AAAAAAAABGY/IqcoxgNWWqs/s400/Screen+shot+2013-07-20+at+2.37.32+PM.png" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
T1, "Insert strange stares here":<br />
<br />
Sandy run slog. Wishing I had a sign that said, "Yes, I'm pregnant". Noticing that I had sandy toes. Very impressed that I could get the wetsuit off without a cramp or major baby ninja kick to the ribs usually causing a little bit of reflux (at best), or puke (it happens).<br />
<br />
The bike, "The aerobars are still possible!":<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hDO-pfmvkJA/Ue11CLGK9hI/AAAAAAAABGg/4TqbOLLtSvY/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-07-20+at+2.41.31+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hDO-pfmvkJA/Ue11CLGK9hI/AAAAAAAABGg/4TqbOLLtSvY/s400/Screen+shot+2013-07-20+at+2.41.31+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Really, a cruise. I was worried that the Spanish Banks hill would be tough on my ability to breathe, as the baby is up high enough that bent over, there isn't much room for diagphramatic excursion, and therefore, oxygen. But I slowly pedalled up and everything was fine.<br />
<br />
The turnaround merge thing that we had to do in the sprint though was a touch ridiculous & only because I could care less about time and went very cautiously, was it safe. I let the speed bananas monkeys just blow on past before taking my appropro place on the road.<br />
<br />
The 'no pass' zone was interesting because I was behind a woman who was behind a very young competitor (I believe he was 16), who was obviously not as fast as the train of people behind him. But no pass is no pass, despite how much barking the asshats behind us did (can you read english fools?), we all slowed down & had a nice little cruise through the UBC suburbs. Then, hilariously enough, said asshats who were so upset that they couldn't pass, passed in a great fury of gearing up and hammering down on pedals, only to accelerate for such a short period of time they appeared to gas themselves, and for sport, I repassed a bunch quite easily and was then ahead of them again in the next no pass zone. They did less complaining this time :)<br />
<br />
The downhill was my only true concern for the bike so I rode to the right & let people fly by, thinking to myself, crap, did I ride down the hill that fast last year? Braking all the way down in my comfort zone, I was happy to pedal on the flats to get back to T2. Anyone that passed me on an up or downhill was really right back there with me on the flats. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OGyguo7g5HQ/Ue11HyXZJJI/AAAAAAAABGo/a_PNmlAC3R4/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-07-20+at+2.45.14+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OGyguo7g5HQ/Ue11HyXZJJI/AAAAAAAABGo/a_PNmlAC3R4/s400/Screen+shot+2013-07-20+at+2.45.14+PM.png" width="262" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
T2, "Unbuckle my shoe" (please, someone, do it for me):<br />
<br />
I had my eye on an older gentleman that was peddling into T2 in front of me. I thought, I could pass, but then I also thought, for what purpose? So I let him go. Good thing, because as he dismounted he also fell over, crashing two other women down (women who tried to pass him). I skipped by the yardsale & went to rack my bike.<br />
<br />
Then I got that dreaded ab cramp. But with some straightening up & relaxed breathing, I was off to the races. As in, I walked a few steps & decided running would be fine, then I ran past my major T2 cheering section, and ran out onto the course. More familiar faces where out there, cheering & majorly supportive - my husband & his posse of massage therapists, Allan P, Clint L - thanks so much for your big smiles & shouts of encouragement! It's nice to feel like you're still 'racing' even though you're not actually racing anyone but yourself.<br />
<br />
The Run, "Bellies out":<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nHE9ttDFIso/Ue11QouHDLI/AAAAAAAABGw/kkgPnaSb23A/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-07-20+at+2.49.09+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nHE9ttDFIso/Ue11QouHDLI/AAAAAAAABGw/kkgPnaSb23A/s400/Screen+shot+2013-07-20+at+2.49.09+PM.png" width="263" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Firstly, a woman blasted past me, and I realized, that's probably how people felt when I went past them last year (no lack of ego here). And then I just settled into a rhythm of breathing (which is quite important for me at this stage to be able to run comfortably), and enjoyed the beautiful sunny day it was. <br />
<br />
It was warm, which is something I've been quite careful with, so it wasn't long until the belly made an appearance from underneath my racing kit (ironically it was my national racing kit that was the only kit that 'fit' at this stage). I don't think I've run with a shirt on, only a sports bra, for probably a month, maybe two. It's hot, and I have a lot of belly surface area to cool off on, so I'm not suffering under a shirt for modesty's sake. Besides which, I think it makes the message more clear - "pregnant runner". Because that is what I am.<br />
<br />
So up & around the hillier section of the course (I could have done with the flatter western section but c'est la vie) & back down around the park, I had fun - I even passed people! Exhilarating. (Who cares if they've bonked from doing the 1/2 Ironman....). At 4km to go, running very conservatively I decided to speed up a bit. Side note: I forgot to get a new battery for the heart rate monitor I have been wearing so I took it easier than usual after my doctor had asked me to now keep my heart rate around 170 or so for the last 7 weeks of pregnancy - only because I have been very comfortably training at lower than lactate threshold, or short speed intervals with it about 10 to 18 beats higher. And before you freak out, please understand it was very easy for me to get my heart rate to 220+ in training....<br />
<br />
So there were 3 guys right ahead of me and you know how impossible it is for me to resist passing them...and I was running with such comfortable effort that it really was fun to shift gears and sail by them (of course knowing that we had probably 500m left in the race). A girls' gotta do what a girls' gotta do boys...<br />
<br />
The finish, "Belly rubs are for dogs, people":<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JxfmuPieDYk/Ue126yRp_6I/AAAAAAAABHM/eGGamgFhaMU/s1600/chicked1:2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JxfmuPieDYk/Ue126yRp_6I/AAAAAAAABHM/eGGamgFhaMU/s320/chicked1:2.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
What can I say? To see happy & smiling people (a lot of stranger smiles which is weird but kind of nice) - and familiar faces being supportive & encouraging was very uplifting to me. It had erased any doubts that I had of myself before lining up for this race, any worries about criticisms or "I told you so's". It also made me realize that it had been a while since I had lined up & faced some fears head-on. I had so many challenges last year that is almost became second nature to be tackling major fears, but this year has been a little quieter, and although of different challenges, not as many that made me feel uncomfortable & out of my element. And getting through the process of racing this time was definitely a hurdle to overcome.<br />
<br />
And my time wasn't too shabby either. 1:19:05, which is only 4 minutes slower than the triathlon I did at 26 weeks (which is a bit incomparable with it it being a pool swim & a flat bike), and still only 17 minutes slower than my one and only fastest attempt at the Sprint distance at 1:02. More surprisingly (as I wasn't fussed about time) was that I ran a comfortable 21:52 5km! As I run these days, I just feel like I am going slow as molasses, which I don't mind because I'm happy to still be able to run at 34 weeks, but I really didn't think I could run that fast (although maybe the course was short - but I'd be the only person to admit it I'm sure). I finished exactly 100th OA, I think 9th in my AG, and in the top 25 women. Pretty darn good for 33 weeks pregnant.<br />
<br />
Where to from here?<br />
<br />
Now at 34 weeks pregnant, I've decided I am now officially retiring from racing - until the baby is born. It will probably take me longer to get back to racing postpartum than it will be relative to pre-partum! I think I can be happy with jogging along (I decidedly gave up 'speedwork' at 32 weeks as my knees and pelvis were starting to complain quite loudly), cruising around on my bike & swimming like it's a perennial recovery day at Kits pool for the next 6 weeks.<br />
<br />
I have finished work & am now off until this baby arrives, which means I get so much free time that I never had before. It is <i>so</i> nice. I had a pretty busy work schedule with working full time & commuting back and forth to Vancouver Island on a near weekly basis to work, that being able to just do nothing is a pure joy. Mind you, my nothing might be different than other people's nothing, but it's nice to have the down time. I am becoming increasingly proficient in napping, and luckily, the ability to be home & on my own food schedule has helped settle my awful, awful experiences with acid reflux, which was affecting me quite negatively for the last 2 months.<br />
<br />
Again, I have nothing but great things to say about everyone that has been so supportive & encouraging about my desire to want to continue to remain active throughout my pregnancy. I don't know how anyone would do it any other way, but that's my bias & I'm fully respectful to everyone finding their own path. It is an amazing learning experience about your body, and it has been much more rewarding than I ever thought it could be.<br />
<br />
I still have this inkling, as I continue to go out & train, that I'm still training for a big 'race' that will happen sometime around the end of August. I still have that feeling like I'm prepping my body & my mind for something tougher & more challenging coming up. As with every race I did, the stakes were raised & the pressure was greater, and it really is very similar in that sense with awaiting this labour & delivery. I find it such a fascinating process, and I am honestly very excited to see what this is all about. Sure, some people may read this & think I'm crazy, but if you haven't figured out by now that these are the type of things that I live for, then you probably don't know me very well.<br />
<br />
I've cried in an Ironman (into my goggles for anonymity), I've bled & oozed things, I've peed myself & most certainly have pooped painful rocks, I've torn things & have been absolutely stand still racked with pain and at times, questioned if the lights were going to go out on me. So, not saying I have this down pat, but those were some of my best memories of doing the sport that I love. And why wouldn't I face this next challenge head on with my hands full of confidence that I am going to do great? Makes sense to me, so that's what I'm going with.<br />
<br />
So thank you for reading, and hopefully it gives some light into what my experience was like, and even more so, hopefully it inspires those that didn't think it was possible, or wanted to try for themselves to achieve things that aren't mainstream. I still maintain that in the future we will see a 'pregnant' category at the races, even if Tri-BC hasn't made one yet :)<br />
<br />
Happy summer training everyone - see you out there - I will be easy to spot :)<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ae2sDishjFg/Ue15CeLWKrI/AAAAAAAABHc/iXuzE2VrWow/s1600/34+weeks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ae2sDishjFg/Ue15CeLWKrI/AAAAAAAABHc/iXuzE2VrWow/s320/34+weeks.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">34 wks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-20891057632637600212013-05-29T11:28:00.001-07:002013-05-30T15:30:14.573-07:00My 1st pregnant race report! The Comox Tri-K Sprint Triathlon, or "Aero-bellies unite"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
What an interesting weekend I just had! You may or may not be caught up to the fact that I did my first 'race' in pregnancy, this past weekend at the <a href="http://www.trik.ca/">Shoreline Orthodontics Comox Valley Tri-K Triathlon</a>. A big thanks also to <a href="http://www.tribc.org/">Triathlon BC</a>, who supported a pre-race expo with the <a href="http://cvtriclub.ca/">Comox Valley Triathlon club</a>. I was delighted to be invited & to speak on all things triathlon on Saturday, a well attended event with a lot of great positive feedback! I'll post some photos at the end of the expo & the other great guest speakers!<br />
<br />
First off, this is what a 26 week pregnant person at a triathlon looks like. You may have not seen one of these before.<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MjyqCcTaiSw/UaYo21N-wiI/AAAAAAAABDk/2zoCiyAwce0/s1600/P1070584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MjyqCcTaiSw/UaYo21N-wiI/AAAAAAAABDk/2zoCiyAwce0/s400/P1070584.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Comox Valley Sprint Triathlon @ 26 weeks pregnant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Yes, I am pregnant. Yes, I raced. Yes, there were some funny sideways looks. And yes, someone told me to please not deliver the baby on the bike course. (I don't think being aero qualifies as a good labour position anyways).<br />
<br />
I'm 26 weeks pregnant & change. My baby is now likened to the length of a cucumber (we're past citrus fruits - yeah! mostly an inside pregnant woman's joke really....), and almost 2 lbs. I am, however, significantly bigger than the date of my last triathlon, <a href="http://rundriven.blogspot.ca/2012/09/ironman-canada-2012-race-report-or.html">Ironman Canada</a>. I don't weigh myself at home, but last check up at the doc's office had me in around 22 or so lbs heavier. Our kid kicks & moves around, and I think is learning how to mimic riding a bicycle in utero, based on the number of times I get bumped in the ribs these days. I would love to be able to see right through my stomach & see what he or she is doing, but I'll have to wait until it comes out. For now, I'm very happy that it is safe & sound exactly where it is.<br />
<br />
So back to the race. Why did I do this? Good question.<br />
<br />
I've thought about that a lot myself. The long & short of it is, I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it. Why? Because this is a huge part of my life & my identity & the core of what makes me tick. It makes me happy. I know we're beyond pregnancy as a 'condition' or 'situation' in this world, but I'm not sure we're quite up to speed (literally) in the world of 'what can a pregnant woman do'? <br />
<br />
This, apparently.<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JmTDpsixl34/UaY7Q2AlNLI/AAAAAAAABEE/9hBidupXg9A/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-05-28+at+3.38.04+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JmTDpsixl34/UaY7Q2AlNLI/AAAAAAAABEE/9hBidupXg9A/s320/Screen+shot+2013-05-28+at+3.38.04+PM.png" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Vancouver Island Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
The only point of contention was the bike. Was I a little nervous about the bike course? Yes. So why did I decide to do it? I have had no hesitancy about being on a bicycle at this point or at any point so far in my pregnancy. Am I careful when riding? Yes. But I have always been, & so being careful doesn't make me scared, and therefore I feel quite comfortable. Surely though, in a race course, you take on the risk of the 'other'. The 'other' cyclist who may bump into you by mistake causing a crash was really my only fear. But the course was flat, straight & had lots of room, so my fears were quashed by a bit of course recon. <br />
<br />
And one would ask - why do anything you're afraid to do? To which as general rules apply, we would all say, 'because it helps you overcome insecurity & doubt', 'builds confidence & strength', and 'sets an example for yourself & others'. To me, being pregnant does not make these reasons any less important, and in the case that I would state that pregnancy actually makes you stronger and is a better time than ever to serve as a role model, why wouldn't you take on important challenges in life? And that is why I did what I did, and signed up for a sprint triathlon.<br />
<br />
If you thinking, yeah well, this signing up for a race thing when you're pregnant really isn't that big of a deal, then you've obviously never been a pregnant woman who is constantly questioned on her daily activities of athleticism. It has been a challenge to get to this point in my pregnancy, while swimming, biking, & running in the 'best' possible way I can. In my case, it is what is 'best' that I find the most interesting. <br />
<br />
As I have mentioned before, I have been very lucky to have a great medical support team that has been supportive & forward thinking in terms of athletics & pregnancy. That said, there is only so much they can do & say, and then you, the woman, is left alone to make her own decisions about what is 'best' for her & the developing fetus. Now this conversation can go on for miles, but I'll tell you what I thought was best. Doing the race. I could go on for ever on this topic, which I might in another instalment of a blog, but I'm more tri focused today :)<br />
<br />
So let me break down for you the fun & somewhat funny experiences I had in the Comox Sprint Tri this past weekend!<br />
<br />
The swim: 500m (9:19). Minimum 19 seconds spent getting out of hot 25 m short course pool. 4th fastest swim time!<br />
<br />
Now, this was a new experience. A pool start 500m swim. Staggered start, and I got to share a lane with the two fastest boy swimmers in the race. Good for drafting for 5 seconds I guess. I did wonder what might have been going through the guys' minds at this point. <br />
<br />
Prior to the start of the swim, I got to stand around chatting with friends in my avant guard sports bra & very tight shorts combo (because not much else in my triathlon kit selection fits) and get some seriously funny looks from families on the sidelines. In my heat, I got a few "Impressive!''s from the other men racing near me, and I made some funny jokes like "If you kick me in the stomach when passing, I'll totally clock you, haha...." followed by making direct eye contact that meant I'm not actually joking and that wouldn't be my first fist underwater, "haha".<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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O5LcEGv8K-0/UaY7cGEK5NI/AAAAAAAABEM/VQ6mO5--eR0/s1600/947188_516245505101521_531147789_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O5LcEGv8K-0/UaY7cGEK5NI/AAAAAAAABEM/VQ6mO5--eR0/s320/947188_516245505101521_531147789_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start of swim with friend Sophia, the 'team' behind <a href="http://www.activelivingphysio.com/">Active Living Physiotherapy</a>!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Then we were off. And I found out swimming in a sports bra is like swimming with those parachutes behind you. But I'm all for increasing my resistance in training these days (read: weight gain), so that was terrific. After 500 m of swimming in a pool which likely had a temperature of 26 degrees C, a bit too hot for someone with a built in heater to feel 'great' in, I faced my biggest challenge of the whole triathlon. Getting out of the pool. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HyZo9ImrVvs/UaYyBFN6tcI/AAAAAAAABD0/m5a9n6ZgdM0/s1600/dogpool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HyZo9ImrVvs/UaYyBFN6tcI/AAAAAAAABD0/m5a9n6ZgdM0/s320/dogpool.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
As we were getting out from the deep end (read: no floor to jump up of), and a general softening of my triceps (not entirely my fault as hormones are somewhat to blame), it was not the most graceful performance. It did initially get some feeble cheers of "Good for you, you can do it", until I stood up & revealed my soccer-ball shaped stomach in which cheers because more robust in the form of "AWESOME!! Way to go girl! Go Gillian" (who knows me there anyways? - oh right, swim organizer & Canadian Olympic Bronze medallist women's 4x100 medley in Montreal's Susan Sloan who I had the pleasure of meeting the day before at the Tri-K Expo). So awesome. I will eventually be knocking down the door of that woman to become my swim mentor. Anyway, that really was the most strenuous thing I had to tackle, and even that wasn't so bad.<br />
<br />
T1: (2:49)<br />
<br />
After a bit of walk/running out of the pool (I thought to myself, you shouldn't run on a pool deck, those are the rules), I jogged down to the T1 area, letting (gulp) a couple men pass me. Don't worry, they get passed later. My Dad was there to remind me to 'take it easy', to which I tell him I AM running easy. He then offers to take my goggles & cap. I instantly think, no, that's outside assistance & carry them into my T1 area with me. Some habits die hard. <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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2OD0jBNgp60/UaY8RAS7FKI/AAAAAAAABEc/CgKRjrtBOFg/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-05-28+at+3.37.21+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2OD0jBNgp60/UaY8RAS7FKI/AAAAAAAABEc/CgKRjrtBOFg/s320/Screen+shot+2013-05-28+at+3.37.21+PM.png" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Vancouver Island Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
If getting out of the pool was the hardest thing I did, transitions were certainly the thing I had to take the most time with. You swallow a soccer ball then try to put on your shoes. It ain't easy folks. It's a bit of a round the stomach side bend manoeuvre which can sometimes cause a bit of discomfort, so you have to take it easy. So I did. Then I had to put on my heart rate monitor (thanks Kelsey!), then I had to put on my tri top (I actually had one that fit!), then my Dad's helmet (fitted accordingly), my recently glued together bike shoes (they were in rough shape), and off I went on my old faithful road bike. I smiled when I saw the glimmer of that little silver sticker on my stem that you get when you go to the Ironman World Championships. It was a nice reminder that this bike had served me well over the years, and I was happy to be reunited with it.<br />
<br />
Then insert the "please don't deliver your baby on the bike course" comment. I really didn't think I looked that pregnant. I don't feel 'that' pregnant, but alas, people are noticing (which is a good thing!).<br />
Up to the mount line & on with my flying squirrel mount. Ha, no.<br />
<br />
Bike: (20km in 36:21. 2nd fastest bike time!)<br />
Having a trusty HR monitor, was able to see where I was right away, which was my usual high heart rate. So, it is a nice reminder to just take it easy & adjust to the bike. I hadn't really tried out my aerobars in a while, but after seeing how straight the course was, and the fact the wind was a bit in our face (and being all for minimizing work output), I tucked into aero and was surprised to find it was better than sitting upright in the drops. Score!<br />
<br />
So off I went, cycling comfortably and passing a few people along the way. A few men reminded me to 'remember to have fun' and/or 'make sure to take it easy', to which I was both grateful for and also a bit humoured by, as I really wanted to reply, "actually, thanks, I am taking it easy (whilst passing you)". But this is a fun race & all I was interested in was having fun. And I was!<br />
<br />
Quite an uneventful cycle after I passed a number of people & then had no one really in front of me (we start staggered so you really never know who's ahead, who's behind) and I cycled back into town. I dutifully took lots of little sips from my bottle of trusty sports drink, thinking I was probably the only person to be doing so. Also probably the only person to get instantaneous reflux from said yellow sports drink but luckily that is nothing new and at least I felt like I had good reason to. Got hit by one huge bumble bee right off the nose, and another off the arm, but quite a comfortable ride.<br />
<br />
Dismounting off the bike was a little tender, I must say, and I'm pretty sure I said to myself "let's go belly" as I was groaning a bit getting my leg over the back of my bike. But then again, I'm not sure it was any less graceful than any other dismount I've done. <br />
<br />
T2: (1:49 - key note: both 60-69 year old females were faster than me in this category)<br />
Again, Dad was there reminding me again to take it easy. I make jokes that I got hit in the nose with a bumblebee (honestly, it was big & hurt a bit) to alleviate any of this concerns. As in, I didn't have my killler 'game face' thrash through transition look. <br />
<br />
And then back to the shoes. Oh, the annoyance of having to switch bike shoes for socks & running shoes. That took a while and I was in no rush. Really one of my only fears was getting a side stitch in transition with all the bending & shifting around of a kid in my stomach. But as I walked out a bit into the run, nothing was bothering me so I took up a pony trot, and all was fine (I do not start my runs in a blaze of glory these days, although there are 30 second intervals occasionally which would impress most lookers-on). And off to the run I went.<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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RRJ6U_fB7Hk/UaY_tWxCsgI/AAAAAAAABEs/NvsS_KCbbyg/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-05-28+at+3.40.12+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RRJ6U_fB7Hk/UaY_tWxCsgI/AAAAAAAABEs/NvsS_KCbbyg/s320/Screen+shot+2013-05-28+at+3.40.12+PM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Vancouver Island Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Run: (5km trail in 25:39)<br />
Just because you're pregnant & taking it easy doesn't mean you all of a sudden do not feel like you have triathlon legs on the run, I found out. I have been feeling great on most of my runs, and all of a sudden I had that old familiar feeling back of "aha - you just swam & biked". And I loved it. So, with HR monitor in check, I ran comfortably for the first 1-2km of the run, then when things felt easier, I was able to smooth out my running (a constant challenge with a daily growing bump) & get into a nice rhythm for the next 3 km. We had a lovely shaded trail section (although a bit muddy in parts which I took care to not slip n' slide through losing any precious ankle ligaments I have working for me at the moment), and back up to the track where we finished with all sorts of cheers & supporters, balloons & announcers! <br />
<br />
Total Time: 1:15:57<br />
<br />
It was SO FUN.<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sM1eFdKudxw/UaZAQNPPQrI/AAAAAAAABE0/6TOxeROnbUk/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-05-28+at+3.39.33+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sM1eFdKudxw/UaZAQNPPQrI/AAAAAAAABE0/6TOxeROnbUk/s400/Screen+shot+2013-05-28+at+3.39.33+PM.png" width="361" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy of Vancouver Island Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I LOVED IT.<br />
<br />
There is no other way to express than by abusing the caps-lock button. But it's true. It was so fun, to be out there, enjoying myself on a sunny day, feeling great, cheering on others, having others cheer on me (to the volunteer who once realizing I was pregnant, starting shouting "awesome girl, you're PACKIN', she's PACKIN' everybody....woooo go Momma!")<br />
<br />
And I would be lying if it wasn't great to stop & chat with community spectators, volunteers, race directors, Tri-BC officials & sponsors of the race after and feel both thankful for all the work they did and just plain great about what I was able to accomplish. <br />
<br />
Of course, it was fun to peel through the race results I see where I ended up, a 4th place overall & a 2nd in my age group was terrific & fun to see! Especially on a course where you're not competing head to head, and I was only really competing against myself. Although I feel confident in claiming the overall winner of the 'pregnancy' category.<br />
<br />
I know I joke, but it does make me wonder if there will ever be a 'pregnancy' division in the future of racing or not. Time will tell, but I have a suspicion it just might appear.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7IaBIWHG5p8/UaZHHBfN-7I/AAAAAAAABFc/b8SvsbtZ_gQ/s1600/Photo+on+2013-05-25+at+18.19+%232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7IaBIWHG5p8/UaZHHBfN-7I/AAAAAAAABFc/b8SvsbtZ_gQ/s320/Photo+on+2013-05-25+at+18.19+%232.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So a huge thank you to everyone involved, to those that supported me, to those that challenged me, and hopefully to those who paid attention to the fact that athletics is important in pregnancy, and important to women who have lives entwined in sport & can never be separated from such. I feel lucky to be who I am and where I am at this point in time in my life. It is a pretty neat time to be me.<br />
<br />
Now, without delay & to wrap up, some photos from the fantastic <a href="http://www.trik.ca/trik-expo-2013.pdf">Tri-K expo</a> held on Saturday. I had the pleasure of meeting ITU superstar <a href="http://mattysharpe.blogspot.ca/">Matt Sharpe</a>, and overly accomplished triathlete Kelly Guest as part of the guest speaker series. It was really great to connect with other people with the same local roots & get to hear about what they're up to in the triathlon world. Pretty darn neat!<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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cPKtlTCH9-I/UaZDIKC8SJI/AAAAAAAABFE/laWon7WB3yU/s1600/P1070581.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cPKtlTCH9-I/UaZDIKC8SJI/AAAAAAAABFE/laWon7WB3yU/s320/P1070581.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, Kelly & Matt @ the Expo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R-FXufQN44c/UaZDpySEdWI/AAAAAAAABFM/GFyTu16U870/s1600/P1070563.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R-FXufQN44c/UaZDpySEdWI/AAAAAAAABFM/GFyTu16U870/s320/P1070563.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me chatting at the expo about my roots in sport. Also, looking pregnant - a news flash to me! Now I get the funny looks..... </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-17761042643263787072013-04-23T21:47:00.001-07:002013-04-23T21:47:13.422-07:00Start Spreading The News!As promised, a blog about big news!<br />
<br />
I have been out of writing not because I was busy or bored, but because I hit an interesting point where I could not write about what was going on. And when you have big news, you just want to get it out there. I've lived my life more publicly last year than I ever have in my entire life. To now be deeply set within my own circle & a bit closed off from the world was quite a change. In all honesty, I noticed but never really minded - I was quite preoccupied with what was going on anyway. Triatha-what?<br />
<br />
With that, some of my readers will already know exactly what I'm going to write about next. But some won't, so, that's why I'm writing this. So let me tell you a little about what life has been like in the last 4 months.<br />
<br />
Christmas time:<br />
Ski with friends. Feel like they're on perfect snow and you're in tar-laced quicksand. Blame your wax.<br />
Start skiing on your own because you feel the need to start training intensely to ramp up your fitness.<br />
Stop in the middle of your xc ski run and realize you just can't get enough oxygen in. Then see stars.<br />
Bonk every time you ski - have one good ski, then 3 dreadful ones. <br />
End up so wrecked on one ski that when you come home, you wallop down water and then have a 30 min nap in the sauna - with your sweatpants & a toque on. <br />
Assume this is normal. Also assume you are not training enough and this is the consequence.<br />
<br />
January:<br />
Return to run with friends. Get your butt kicked on an interval run, end up cramped & doubled over. <br />
Really assume you are out of shape. <br />
Listen to a friend's sage advice, wonder if she's right. <br />
<br />
January, next day:<br />
Take this test & get this result.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5wYMCJ0-Z8A/UXdGK0az8TI/AAAAAAAABBo/d_n_FqDrToM/s1600/test.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5wYMCJ0-Z8A/UXdGK0az8TI/AAAAAAAABBo/d_n_FqDrToM/s320/test.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Go to work in complete daze. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Try not to get hit on your bike.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
January, two days later:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Take this test & get this result.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zyxyP9UEi1Y/UXdG5pboOjI/AAAAAAAABBw/etp4e4uiL2s/s1600/test2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zyxyP9UEi1Y/UXdG5pboOjI/AAAAAAAABBw/etp4e4uiL2s/s200/test2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Realize this test might not be wrong, but assume it is. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Make doctors appointment for tomorrow.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
January, three days later:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Have a chat with your doctor, explain you've been short of breath and training is quite 'off'.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Oh, and you took two of the above tests and that they were both positive.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Then assume stunned look, as in the 'what do I do now' look.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Doctor smiles. Wait for doctor to ask you if you want to do another one to make sure.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Because you're unsure in your ability to operate such a scientific procedure, you say "yes".</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Give a urine sample. Wonder how in the world urine became your new life predictor.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Get this test back: (yes, each test I took was different for the lack of trust in one brand factor)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O5Wct77M-6M/UXdIr0dwUII/AAAAAAAABCA/3L-xUXlSWtI/s1600/test3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O5Wct77M-6M/UXdIr0dwUII/AAAAAAAABCA/3L-xUXlSWtI/s200/test3.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Finally take a deep breath & realize you're pregnant.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
January, three days & 30 minutes later:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Intercept husband just as he is coming to visit the same doctor.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Think you're going to freak him out.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Tell husband you're pregnant.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Observe husband's happy, semi-calm, shocked & excited response.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Feel what it feels like to be in a totally above the clouds moment in life.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Now, I'm not going to recollect every living moment since then, but I do want to talk about what has been important to me over the past few months of a totally new life experience.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Months 1-3 can really be summed up as follows: soul-crushing tiredness with a reflux-nausea combo that lasts all day. And no, this is not an exaggeration. The tiredness is so frustrating & inescapable. The nausea the same. You do feel better that you weren't just getting steadily unfit while training hard. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
One of the greatest gifts of all is that you find out your best friend is pregnant, and you are 4 weeks apart in due dates. The ability to finally talk to someone apart from your partner is a dream come true - you have so many things to say, questions, complaints, things to laugh about, and you get to share them with your best friend. A small miracle.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Then you start to change shape. Hm. I think in general you're just supposed to accept your body changes (there are many) and love them. Well, I did not initially. For some one in what I would call 'reasonably good shape', it's a bit weird to not have that in your control anymore. Now, I was still running (as long as I didn't give up and just lay on the coach flattened after work), swimming & biking at a much reduced intensity (mostly b/c I felt I was going to chuck my cookies on a minute-ly basis) but getting bigger, and softer - very weird. Note: I actually never chucked anything, until I got a noro-virus.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Now if we fast forward to now, just about everything gets better. You can eat salad again. You can make it past 7pm before going to bed. You can feel good for a whole day. Even your pee breaks on your runs get better. That said, you have to pee 3 times before even leaving the house to run. And that's considered 'success'. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I have been followed & advised by a great medical team who has allowed me to continue living the life that brings me the life rewards I'm so familiar with. After the first trimester, when I was feeling better and less anxious about the fragility of life, I was able to discuss increasing effort of exercise in pregnancy with my doctor. And mostly what I found out is very little is actually known on what is safe and not safe in pregnancy. It is an ethical issue. Basically, you can't ask pregnant women to put their embryos/fetuses at risk. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So, there is a lot we don't know. And there are a lot of misconceptions about what is safe & not safe. And I'm not here to tell people what to do, because I firmly believe every person has to make these decisions for themselves. But what we found is that because my baseline fitness pre-pregnancy was quite high, as long as I wasn't increasing my training, and followed a few parameters with a heads up for listening to signs of your body needing to slow down or stop. So without too much explanation, <i>my</i> parameters for those who are curious (and something I think more women athletes should know more about) were as follows: follow a 'lactate threshold" or less effort for ventilation, pay attention to heart rate but know that even 81% of max has been studied & considered safe in gold standard research, pay attention to hydration & blood sugar needs (my doctor knows my history with occasional bonks in training), and interestingly, above all in terms of importance - do not overheat while training. But there are no rules - these are <i>my</i> choices.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I was able to go back to running fast - after 3 months of slow 10-12 km runs, doing 1 minute pick ups was exhilarating. Never mind the fact my hip & SI joints felt like the Tin Man in the Wizard of Oz. But the more I did them (which was now dictated by 'do I feel like it'?), the better they felt. I was able to start doing tempo runs again. Was it a little hard that my new 'hard' pace was probably at my old marathon pace? You bet. But your mindset starts to shift as you progress in pregnancy. I went from being hard on myself for being so slow (maybe I was still in semi-denial about the pregnancy), to starting to be proud of myself for getting out and running when it felt hard, running through some of the aches & pains. I still think the longest run I've done is around 18km (and left me with fierce chafing of my new found chub rub :) - but it was worth it. I felt tough again. I was me again. Just a new kind of me.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And now, this new me has this little tiny human growing at an astonishing rate. We've just reached a milestone where we can feel (and see) it kick. It's an amazing feeling. And let the unnecessary bragging about your child start - it is an active baby! It makes me feel sad for anyone who doesn't get to feel this feeling. Mind you, I definitely feel I deserve it after putting in the hard miles for the first few months. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EtP9rAy1nS4/UXdgIl5y4PI/AAAAAAAABCw/UE7GswhDbzs/s1600/IMG_6298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EtP9rAy1nS4/UXdgIl5y4PI/AAAAAAAABCw/UE7GswhDbzs/s320/IMG_6298.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I have a belly, whether it is tiny or otherwise it's hard to say - but to me, it's a dramatic change. Some days I walk around and am transported into my old body, the one I knew so well, the one I had a very strong bond with, and then I'm surprised to look down or into a mirror & realize I'm different. The nice thing is, I only feel like I'm getting stronger. And tougher. If I can train with the tiny human weighing me down in the 20lb+ category, with about half of the lung volume available to me, with constant aches, while constantly needing to pee, and being unable to race & rediscovering how much you truly miss the sport you just got started in, it makes me excited for my future. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
More than anything, I'm excited for this tiny human to grow & maintain a healthy pregnancy. And if I can sit with myself & enjoy feeling these tiny kicks & get more excited about that than running, that's growth for myself as well. The nice thing about pregnancy is that your baby is not the only one growing.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So if you see me running out on the roads or trails, don't be surprised if I look like I'm carrying home a cantaloupe home from the produce store. And for interest's sake, I'll give you a snap shot of 3 weeks of pregnancy. Not that I have been one to flaunt my abs, so what the heck, here they are in stretched out only to be stretched out more version. You're going to see it when I hit Kits pool in a month or so anyways :)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
18 weeks</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GYaq9DAy9yE/UXddWKI9_EI/AAAAAAAABCQ/vdUA5Qnibqw/s1600/IMG_6341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GYaq9DAy9yE/UXddWKI9_EI/AAAAAAAABCQ/vdUA5Qnibqw/s320/IMG_6341.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
19 weeks </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ba8zF21AMQE/UXddtVzohyI/AAAAAAAABCY/k5KTFdvGDko/s1600/IMG_6345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ba8zF21AMQE/UXddtVzohyI/AAAAAAAABCY/k5KTFdvGDko/s320/IMG_6345.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
20 weeks</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IXR8kZ0jdXc/UXddvJ9FcXI/AAAAAAAABCg/tCGdqzVc4JM/s1600/IMG_6349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IXR8kZ0jdXc/UXddvJ9FcXI/AAAAAAAABCg/tCGdqzVc4JM/s320/IMG_6349.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So there's my little bump that accompanies me on my runs, my swims & rides. They come to sleep with me, work with me, goes for rides on the seaplane with me and eats all my food (I think).</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And there's the update, the breaking of the silence after so many months. It has been great to be able to talk about it with my friends & family and feel so supported from all the people I care about. It's especially nice to have the support & mentorship from so many amazing athlete moms as well - I feel so lucky to be surrounded by such a positive environment. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
From here, it's full speed ahead learning and growing in more ways than one. Stay tuned for updates :)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And one last thing - the irony is in the due date. Initially set for Sept 1st, it was hinted to me that perhaps the tiny human and I are a few days ahead of schedule - which would land me pretty close to, oh, say a day like August 25th. And what else is happening that day? Oh, just a little 'Challenge' and an 'Ironman'. It would seem appropriate to line up for another endurance event that day. A theme of "9 hours and 46 minutes or less"?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Time will tell :)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-37280496945868569832013-04-23T17:36:00.001-07:002013-04-23T17:36:19.088-07:00Mount Washington Blog Post #4: Snow to Surf is Coming!This race is one of 'those' races. It's the kind you can sit back & reminisce with friends for years to come. It has a great sense of team spirit about it, and show cases some of the best sports on the island. If you haven't done it yet, it's time to start planning a team. I'll be there next year - and happy to start taking names of who wants on my team! <br />
And p.s., I'll make sure we're <a href="http://www.poweredbychocolatemilk.com/">Powered by Chocolate Milk</a>!<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"></span><br />
<div class="article-header" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="module-title" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;">
<div class="module-title2" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="module-title3" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<h1 class="title" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: CabinBold, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 31px; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 34px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 10px; text-transform: uppercase; width: auto;">
<a href="http://www.mountwashington.ca/blog-gillian/267-snow-to-surf-is-coming.html" style="-webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.2s; -webkit-transition-property: color; -webkit-transition-timing-function: linear; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #5e331a; font-size: 31px; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; visibility: visible;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 31px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 0.7; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">SNOW</span> TO SURF IS COMING!</a></h1>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="clear" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; display: block; float: none; font-size: 0px; height: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; visibility: hidden; width: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="rt-articleinfo" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="rt-articleinfo-text" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; float: left; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;">
<div class="rt-articleinfo-text2" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="rt-date-posted" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline-block; font-size: 1em; font-weight: normal; line-height: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 15px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;">
23 April 2013</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="clear" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; display: block; float: none; font-size: 0px; height: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; visibility: hidden; width: 0px;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<img alt="Mount Washington Blog Post" class="mw-image floatleft" src="http://www.mountwashington.ca/images/bloggers/gillian-photo.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 0px 0px 5px 1px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 0px 0px 5px 1px; float: left; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 15px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" width="125" />It's almost that time of year again - a bittersweet time. It's almost end of ski season - and nearing the legendary Snow to Surf Race.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Many of you that read this blog will know what this race is about. Many of you will have participated in one leg or the other. And if you're smart - you've never done the run leg. I have had the honour to do this race 2 times in my lifetime so far, and I guarantee I'll have done it 20+ times by the time I'm too old to do any of the legs of the race. I was even part of the "Turf to Surf" one year, and the other the 25th Anniversary race - both superb!</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
If you have NEVER heard of this race (where have you been hiding?!), let me summarize. My last time in the race was done as a 'missing members' (not a full squad so some people had to do 2 legs of the race) and was done as a family team - so we were very proud of our day at Snow to Surf - and unbelievably - we won our category! This by far was one of the best races I've ever done on Vancouver Island. And the chocolate medals from Courtenay's Hot Chocolates are amazing!</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Here is how it starts. Someone who wants to feel a complete & utter absolute burning of the legs tears up hill in ski boots (how far - far enough to wish you had signed up for the run leg) and then whips down the mountain while trying to feel any sense of legs underneath them. Then, the relay is passed onto a XC skier - this is where I feel the race really shines in it's elite bank of XC skiers. So, you're likely to be passed by men & women much older (& smaller) than you. It's ok - you have many stages to go! Our friend and ex olympian swimmer took on both those legs - like a fish out of water he was (he learned to XC ski the day before), but such a good sport.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Next up, I now hear, is a snowshoe relay to replace one of the run legs. Smart move, Mt Washington. What a great idea to showcase the sport - of which there are races hosted up on Mt Washington, so it's guaranteed to bring some speedsters to that leg.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
After that - it's the dreaded run leg. I think it's best reserved for someone that has never done it and considers themselves a good runner. And they will do well - no doubt. They will just wonder why they can't reach the toilet without climbing their hands down the walls beside it after. Pain is temporary - pride is forever! (Ironically getting to the toilet is all pain, no pride, however). Now when we did the race, it was a double run leg, of 17km straight down the mountain, and that was my double segment. Great at the time, and then I couldn't face running downhill for a month afterwards. (Also, see toilet commentary).</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Onward, you pass to the mountain biker. It sounds like a heck of a lot of fun - I want to do that someday! From mountain biker to kayaker is a flurry of transitions and off across the lake goes your teammate (in my case, my brother did the double mountain bike-kayak combo - which was a little tricky as he beat us with his mountain bike before we got the kayak to the lake (there are logistics in this race beyond the athletic - which I suppose means we were big on muscle, short on brains). So, after him tromping around in a fury that his kayak wasn't there - we carried it into the water while he jumped in and madly paddled across the lake. Making him mad made him paddle faster, so it was actually a good tactic.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Next up - the road bike. This my (now) husband did with style. My brother & I, along with the ex-olympian, could be called 'ridiculously competitive'. So as we were yelling profanities to said (now) husband, he bravely tromped on with the bike course. Now, unfortunately, he did have a crash with someone part way through - the only damage being the woman involved in said crash was more concerned her bike was ok than she was - and obviously she was fine, as she zoomed past my husband and chicked him to the high hills.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
From the bike finish, comes the final transition to the canoe leg. This my Dad & his partner participated in. To set up the 'seriousness' scale of the canoe participants, my Dad did ask the race director if he could take his dog in the canoe with him (director: "no"). So you get a sense of the juxtaposition of competitiveness here. I'm not sure if they packed a picnic for the paddle or not.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
In any case, as we sped (unnecessarily really) to the finish line, Shawn (husband) rode on and cheered (actually he yelled at them to pick up the pace) the canoeists along the bay shore. As my Dad & Linda approached, I have a fond memory of one of the 'serious' canoe boats (wrapped up so no water would get in and all muscle & grit upon their faces) just passed our boat happily paddling away (probably looking at birds) only to dump meters before the finish line. Suckers. Not that I'm competitive or anything.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Finally, a race up and out of the boat went Linda, as we watched her run past the finish bell (you must ring it) completely, and she ran on through the parking lot to who knows where. Well, Linda knew where, as she had done this race 25 years ago (it was the 25th anniversary), and the bell was further back in the lot then. But, turned around she came back & rang the bell as it tolls, and we had completed our mission.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
A long story, but a fun one. I could relive this race a thousand times and end up in tears of laughter remembering parts along the way (except the end of my legs after the run, that is just straight tears, no laughter). So I highly encourage you to participate, watch, support, drive the gear around, or just come down to the finish line & hang out in the after-party area to hear such stories of tenacity & hilarity.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
I can't wait to do it again, and although it will have to wait for me this year, it won't for next year - so it's time to start planning my team!</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Anyone want to do the run leg?</div>
gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-3978323472654068622013-04-18T08:50:00.000-07:002013-04-18T08:51:00.452-07:00Mount Washington Blog #3: A tale of two cities<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Hi Everyone - March's Mount Washington Blog is up & running! The theme - what's in a smile?</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Thanks for following along AND...check out the other Mt Washinton blogs at: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://www.mountwashington.ca/mount-washington-blog.html" style="text-decoration: none;">http://www.mountwashington.ca/mount-washington-blog.html</a></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"></span></span>
<div class="article-header" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="module-title" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;">
<div class="module-title2" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="module-title3" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<h1 class="title" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: CabinBold, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 31px; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 34px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 10px; text-transform: uppercase; width: auto;">
<a href="http://www.mountwashington.ca/blog-gillian/262-a-tale-of-two-cities.html" style="-webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.2s; -webkit-transition-property: color; -webkit-transition-timing-function: linear; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #2358a6; font-size: 31px; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; visibility: visible;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 31px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 0.7; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">A</span> TALE OF TWO CITIES</a></h1>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="clear" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; display: block; float: none; font-size: 0px; height: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; visibility: hidden; width: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="rt-articleinfo" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="rt-articleinfo-text" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; float: left; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;">
<div class="rt-articleinfo-text2" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="rt-date-posted" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline-block; font-size: 1em; font-weight: normal; line-height: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 15px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;">
27 March 2013</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="clear" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; display: block; float: none; font-size: 0px; height: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; visibility: hidden; width: 0px;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<img alt="Mount Washington Blog Post" class="mw-image floatleft" src="http://www.mountwashington.ca/images/bloggers/gillian-photo.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 0px 0px 5px 1px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 0px 0px 5px 1px; float: left; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 15px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" width="125" />I was out on the nordic trails recently, cruising on my skis, taking my time, poking around a lovely trail called "Far East". Now I'm not great with directions, but I'm pretty sure it heads east. As you come to the turnaround point in the trail you capture a breathtaking vista of snow-filled hills backed by the Johnstone Strait behind it, with the Coast Mountains dusted in snow snugged up at the end of your sight line. It's gorgeous. Something to smile about.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
This day though, a rolling series of clouds were coming through and you couldn't see the vista. Fair enough, I've seen it many times & it will be there again. Interestingly though, I noticed, people were still full of smiles every time I passed them on the trails. Now, if all you ever did in your life was cross country ski, I suppose you would think this is normal. I'm here to tell you this is actually something pretty special.</div>
<img alt="Mount Washington Blog Post" class="mw-image floatleft" height="224" smartload="3" src="http://www.mountwashington.ca/images/bloggers/gillian-group.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 0px 0px 5px 1px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 0px 0px 5px 1px; float: left; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 15px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" width="400" /><br />
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
I'm an endurance athlete. I spend a lot of time training and this means I spend a lot of time encountering other people coming in the other direction. Where I live, it would be shocking if someone said hello to you (sometimes people I actually know are too 'in the zone' to recognize & acknowledge each other - and to be fair, I've been guilty of this too). And there's a place for that - when you are training so hard you are using every useful braincell of yours to maintain upright stance & not run into any innocent bystanders, I think you have a pass.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
But there are a lot of people that just never acknowledge each other, period. And when I found this abrasive at first, eventually you sink into the pattern, because it's disheartening to always be saying hello only to receive silence in return. But today, and so many other days I've had up the mountain, de rigour is to smile, say hello, make a witty joke about how you meant to stick that pole between your legs so that you would have a chance to practice face planting, etc. It's nice - and it's contagious - once you start, you want to do it more - make more people smile. It's just downright fun.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
And if you occasionally end up oxygen deprived, seeing a blur of stars or just wishing you would fall so that you could like down on the nice, cool track, I think it's also fair game for those who can spare the oxygen to speak, to have free commentary, all in good humour. I often reach the top of hills with my great friends that I ski with, only to have them chat about how lovely the view is & how terrific life is, while I hold onto my poles for dear life as I hang over them gasping for air. I love that they're still happily chatting while I'm searching for oxygen.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
And if you want to run into some really friendly people, then you have to meet some of the Hosts that patrol & encourage all the nordic skiers in and around many trails at Mount Washington. They are terrific people & they're there to make your day better - so do say hello. You may not have even known that they exist - but they do! And I'm sure they're willing to impart advice on anything you'd like to ask them about (hint hint: I'd ask them about your ski technique as they are great skiers themselves!). They're there to make you smile.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
There's a theme here. Miles of smiles.</div>
gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-29594447668319686412013-02-26T17:56:00.002-08:002013-02-26T17:56:45.066-08:00Mount Washington Blog #2 - SunshineHey Everyone - just linking you up to my musings on Mt Washington - in 'light' of February, a definitely dark dud of a month, I wanted to remind you there's a great place to find happiness - the mountains!<br />
<br />
Thanks for following along AND...check out the other Mt Washinton blogs at: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://www.mountwashington.ca/mount-washington-blog.html">http://www.mountwashington.ca/mount-washington-blog.html</a></span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: CabinBold, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 31px; line-height: 34px; text-transform: uppercase;"><a href="http://www.mountwashington.ca/blog-gillian/251-sunshine.html" style="-webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.2s; -webkit-transition-property: color; -webkit-transition-timing-function: linear; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #2358a6; font-size: 31px; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; visibility: visible;">SUNSHINE</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"></span><br />
<div class="article-header" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="clear" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; display: block; float: none; font-size: 0px; height: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; visibility: hidden; width: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="rt-articleinfo" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="rt-articleinfo-text" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; float: left; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;">
<div class="rt-articleinfo-text2" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="rt-date-posted" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline-block; font-size: 1em; font-weight: normal; line-height: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 15px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;">
01 February 2013</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="clear" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; display: block; float: none; font-size: 0px; height: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; visibility: hidden; width: 0px;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<img alt="Mount Washington Blog Post" class="mw-image floatleft" src="http://www.mountwashington.ca/images/bloggers/gillian.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 0px 0px 5px 1px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 0px 0px 5px 1px; float: left; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 15px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" width="125px" />It's time for a plug for all things related to happiness - with February coming on full force - our weather systems in B.C. aren't getting any better. In fact, as I look out my window, I'd say we're going downhill.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
I'm a sensitive soul to the sun - and it is a necessity for me to get through we(s)t coast Canadian winters. I'm careful about it - don't get me wrong, I wear sunscreen & cover up against it when I can. In fact, you may think being a triathlon has all the glamour of the ability to get 'good' tans when we're out training. To be truthful, sun is probably my #1 work hazard out on the roads & in the water. Despite sunscreen, awkward tan lines are the #2 work hazard (my best friend could attest to this when she saw my criss-crossed back in horror when I showed up for her wedding for which I needed to wear a strapless dress…but I digress…). So yes, the sun needs to be respected, but for me, it also has to be found.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
And where do you find sun more often than any other place in a Canadian winter?</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
You bet your last cookie - you find sun on the mountains.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FKcfxFoyKNg/US1mjvXN8PI/AAAAAAAABA4/piY_3vAXmV8/s1600/DSC04263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FKcfxFoyKNg/US1mjvXN8PI/AAAAAAAABA4/piY_3vAXmV8/s400/DSC04263.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mt washington above the clouds </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
And what mountain is closest to you?</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
I bet it's Mt Washington.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
We've just gone through an amazing 2 week inversion where the entire Comox Valley (and what looked like to be the entire island) was blanketed in a white quilt of dense cloud. But above it? Sun & blue skies. Truly amazing. And…..it was warmer on the top of the mountain than it was down at sea level!</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Now, whether you're a skier, boarder, snow-shoe fanatic or just someone who doesn't want to be under grey skies & misty damp bone chilling cold, you need to be up on top of the mountain on days like this. Winter sport enthusiasts really need no convincing, but based on how some people's lives play out, some have never ventured on top of the mountains and found something they like to do. Fair enough. I say though, that it doesn't matter if you ski & slide or not, you should be up here.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
I'll explain why.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
It's called Vitamin D. Canadians have widespread deficiencies of this vitamin, and it's unbelievably important to your health. Cancer, heart disease, bone health, seasonal depression in the winter months - yikes - all linked to low levels of Vitamin D. Now, bear in mind, I'm not your doctor so always check with your medical professional, but getting a minimal amount of full sun exposure (~20 min) can make a big difference to your health (Of course you have to be careful about not getting too much sun too). Sometimes on the ground we can go weeks without getting enough sun - but on days & weeks like we've had up the mountain, we're surrounded by it.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
So ski or slide or sit out on deck at one of the great lodges up at Mt Washington, you're doing yourself a favour by boosting your Vitamin D. Feeling better during those great months is a great boost to be a happier & healthier person year round, and there isn't a person in the world that wouldn't benefit from that!</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
So if I'm in the Eagle chair line in the sun happier, then you're happier, then the ski lifty line control is happier, and we're all laughing and having a great time - the happiness is contagious and hard to stop.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Make the world a happier place - go find some sun :)</div>
<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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hUGxFIn_R1s/US1m2GkfcJI/AAAAAAAABBE/9fOCwepqTq0/s1600/DSC04251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hUGxFIn_R1s/US1m2GkfcJI/AAAAAAAABBE/9fOCwepqTq0/s400/DSC04251.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">we are happier than all of our friends who are not here :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Happy skiing!</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-18629902084176831392013-01-06T08:46:00.000-08:002013-01-06T22:06:44.305-08:00Mount Washington Blog: Powder to Trackset Convert<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: CabinBold, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 31px; line-height: 34px; text-transform: uppercase;"><a href="http://www.mountwashington.ca/blog-gillian.html" style="-webkit-transition-delay: initial; -webkit-transition-duration: 0.2s; -webkit-transition-property: color; -webkit-transition-timing-function: linear; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #2358a6; font-size: 31px; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; visibility: visible;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 31px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 0.7; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">GILLIAN</span> BLOG</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"></span><br />
<div class="article-header" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="module-title" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;">
<div class="module-title2" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div class="module-title3" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div>
Original Link found @ <a href="http://www.mountwashington.ca/blog-gillian.html">http://www.mountwashington.ca/blog-gillian.html</a></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="clear" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; display: block; float: none; font-size: 0px; height: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; visibility: hidden; width: 0px;">
</div>
</div>
<h3 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: CabinBold, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 23px; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: inherit; line-height: 1.1em; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 15px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; visibility: visible;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 23px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">A</span> POWDER TO TRACKSET CONVERT</h3>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
I am thrilled to come back to Mt Washington in my second committed year of XC skiing. I've been on this hill for more than 20 years. When I grew up, we were a downhill family, and the only time I got near the XC skiers was when we were allowed to get one of the giant cinnamon buns in the old nordic lodge. Those people had skinny skis, weird clothes, and dorky boots. (Although now looking back, rear entry Nordica boots don't look so hot either).</div>
<img alt="Mount Washington Blog Post" class="mw-image floatleft" src="http://www.mountwashington.ca/images/bloggers/gillian-skiing.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 0px 0px 5px 1px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 0px 0px 5px 1px; float: left; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 15px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" width="585" /><br />
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
After entering the world of professional triathlon, I was committed to year round training no matter what the conditions. Downhill days were fun & great for leg strength, but I needed some more aerobic training. I snowshoe ran, and that was great, but SO many people were skiing out of the Raven Lodge. I started to get suspicious. They looked like they were having fun. I had endurance sport mentors tell me that I should really learn to XC ski. Finally curiosity got the better of me.<br />
<br /></div>
<img alt="Mount Washington Blog Post" class="mw-image floatleft" smartload="3" src="http://www.mountwashington.ca/images/bloggers/gillian-photo.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 0px 0px 5px 1px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 0px 0px 5px 1px; float: left; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 15px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" width="225" /><img alt="Mount Washington Blog Post" class="mw-image floatright" src="http://www.mountwashington.ca/images/bloggers/albert-edward.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 0px 0px 5px 1px; background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.496094) 0px 0px 5px 1px; float: right; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 15px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" width="225" /><br />
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Starting with classic skiing first, I got the hang of stop, start, glide, and falling down. This was great - so close to running but on skis! The ability to get some the most gorgeous panoramic views of the mountain and the satisfaction that you worked hard to get there. Experienced skiers & friends John & Chris, continued to nudge me toward trying skate skiing. "You'll like it" they said.</div>
<h3 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: CabinBold, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 23px; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: inherit; line-height: 1.1em; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 15px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; visibility: visible;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 23px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">THEY</span> WERE WRONG.</h3>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
I LOVED it. I'm pretty tuned into my 3 sports of triathlon: swim, bike, run. I'm convinced skate skiing is the combination of all 3 at once. Plus, people twice my age are totally gassing me with their speed and efficiency on the trails. Everyone around the lodge is so unbelievably healthy and friendly (and hungry!). XC skiing is about as hunger inducing/calorie burning as any sport can get. It flattens you. In a good way.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
I was shocked skiing on a Saturday mid season when the lodge was surrounded with kids, teenagers, adults and experienced, long time XC die-hards (I've seen a guy in jeans….how in the world?). So many people getting out, and enjoying a huge piece of the mountain I didn't get to learn about until I was 30. But I'm there now and I'm making up for it!</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Triathlon is a tough sport, especially when your favourite race is the Ironman, somewhere between 9-10 hrs long (or the tune of 140.6 miles, or if you like eh, 225km). You get beat up. You use a lot of the same muscles. XC skiing is the best remedy for building much needed core strength in the off & pre-season. And it's humbling (see: getting thrashed by 60 year olds), which is always good for ego checks.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
I was skiing into April this past year in short sleeved shirts & run tights, and almost 2 weeks later, was into my debut race as a pro in St George Utah, where I finished 4th. Can't argue with that. It's something I think more multisport athletes should tap into if they really want an advantage over their competition. And at over 5200 ft above sea level, while it isn't considered 'high altitude' of 8000 ft, it's getting up there, which can only serve as benefit to the athlete.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
So you'll see me out there on the tracks, as much as I can be this winter, while I train to build my heart, lungs, and legs in the off season. When I'm not skiing, I'll be eating in the lodge, so come and say hi!</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Feel free to give me half of your sandwich :)</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-62413446246801442942012-12-16T12:16:00.001-08:002012-12-16T12:16:37.649-08:00Bikram Hot Yoga, or "It stinks in here"Ah, hot yoga. For years, it's evaded me. I have done yoga in my past, (as in a decade ago on the other side of the country), but I had not been able to walk in and sign up, even though it has been across the street from me for the last 5 or so years. <br />
<br />
Winter comes, and I begrudge my inability to stay warm while running. Yes, I have appropriate clothing. Short runs I can manage, but trying to train for spring marathons in the winter became the (almost) death of me. Some of you may have heard me complain about body temperature before, but if you haven't, my routine body temp, weather it be long run or ride, is often checked in at somewhere around 33-34 degrees Celcius. I thought it was wrong, but after 3 years of taking temps after coming back inside, I'm consistently cold. It also ties in with a consistency of symptoms such as: slurred speech, uncoordinated movements, and some confusion as to what I'm supposed to do next (aka, "stunned bunny" syndrome). <br />
<br />
So, I did what any grumpy runner would do a few years ago, and take up swimming in spite of my total lack of skills & affinity for sucking in pool water into my lungs. Although it feels like trading aquatic environment for aquatic environment at first, at least the temperature is consistent, and there is both sauna & hot tubs should I just get too cold. So, if you know anything about my recent years in athletics, you'll know that fighting through learning to swim worked out well for me (see this post: <a href="http://rundriven.blogspot.ca/2012/09/ironman-canada-2012-race-report-or.html">http://rundriven.blogspot.ca/2012/09/ironman-canada-2012-race-report-or.html</a>). <br />
<br />
I have swimming as a weapon against bone chilling hypothermia inducing Vancouver winter training. But....I like new challenges. And we had a Bikram Yoga 20 pass card. And it's across the street from my house.<br />
<br />
I fretted about joining up. I'll fully admit I have a complex about being good at sports. I said I would do it in October. Halloween came and went, I continued to envy those who floated in and out of the yoga studio. But then I was had a major hitch in running. As in, I couldn't do it without a great deal of pain. Did I have a hip stress fracture? Who's to say. They say elite athletes often catastrophize the first stage of injury, so either I had a stress fracture or a sore hip. In either case, the treatment was the same. Stop loading the hip. Stop running. Drastic times call for drastic measures.<br />
<br />
I went to my very first hot yoga. I read through the postures (I certainly didn't attempt them), I read through what you needed, what might happen, why you shouldn't leave even if every fibre of your being in is escape mode, and what not to eat before you go. I had great fears of doing things wrong, getting singled out, making other people annoyed. So, I packed up my mat, a few towels & water bottles, and donned my only pair of spandex shorts (circa 2002? - 'spandex' literally loosely defined as I had a different body type playing varsity soccer - about 20-25lbs more muscle) and least destroyed sports bra. <br />
<br />
I'll tell you about my first visit, and then my general impressions after being a seasoned veteran of 5 sessions completed to date.<br />
<br />
I walked in, I think totally overwhelmed to the point I didn't even smell the stink that is the studio, just wanting to find a place for my mat. Phew, accomplished, up at the front, between two ladies going some super intense staring at themselves in the mirror, but whatever, I'm quite over mirrors so they can have at it. Some people actually look dead, they are just lying there and I can't see them breathing. No body talks to each other. I'm blissfully warm and about to exercise so I could care less about the fact Mr. Headband at the back is currently attempting to dislocate his hip.<br />
<br />
The teacher comes in, and then asks who is new. Nightmare #1: being singled out. Boom. She reads everyone's names. She finally comes to my name, I put up my hand (this is like the first day of that camp you didn't want to go to), and she says 'Welcome' and then continues to tell me I'm really in the wrong spot (up at the front in the only space I could find - so really how was that wrong?), and would someone change with me (so I could be in the 2nd row to see others). Slightly annoyed very skinny blond (and therefore bendy - I think that's key to their success - no muscles to get in the way) reluctantly nods and moves her mat forward. (Note: she looks annoyed all class. Note #2: I see her again in class later and she always looks that way). As she and I switch, the teacher (or I maybe might call her the 'boss of you'), states "we'll just all wait while GILLIAN switches places"....."no rush" (which always means hurry up). My only saving grace is that my face (and most others) are already red hot and no one can see my embarrassment. And yes, I'm embarrassed by simple things, but I had really hyped myself up before coming into this class about being singled out. And it all happened. Nothing to lose now.<br />
<br />
Now, the rest of class is interesting enough, but if you've done it, you know how things go. I managed to do very well for my first class, completing the whole series (like hell I was going to not complete everything in a competitive manner after getting picked on by people who think I'm new and feeble. The one benefit about winning Ironman Canada, is that multiple times in my life (and many different scenarios), I just harden my resolve to do anything by saying "I won Ironman. Of course I can do this", and, superpowers appear. <br />
<br />
What I really want to get across to you, is what constantly entertains me (in my 5 visits) to Bikram Yoga. I think you're supposed to be more inner peace-y and more tuned into yourself. No way, I am looking at YOU, and you, and you. I am that person. Now, in no way am I trying to compete with the very well written and humorous, "<a href="http://www.craigslist.org/about/best/sea/2597736393.html">Yoga Mat for Sale. Used Once.</a>" but you may see some of the similarities.<br />
<br />
Chronologically, class often goes like this. I'm going to do a point for every degree Celsius I think it is in there. <br />
<br />
1. Walk into studio. Sometimes I feel the receptionists smiles are evil. The smiles whisper, "you are screwed". <br />
<br />
2. Get changed and sit in hallway with very scantily clad people who suck their stomach in hard enough to crack a nut on. It's pretty obvious. I stick my stomach out as a protest.<br />
<br />
3. The studio. The smell. It's just bad. It's my soccer bag from university, minus the grass smell. <br />
<br />
4. Devise plan when finding space in room. Up by the mirrors is possible, for those who like staring contests with themselves. I now just settle in at the back of the room. Low on the mirrors, high on the entertainment. Hot as all get out.<br />
<br />
5. Look at some people look like they may have fainted and are sleeping it off. Good luck getting up buddy.<br />
<br />
6. Watch those that can bend in spectacular fashion do postures that aren't Bikram related. In general , these people are show offs.<br />
<br />
7. Listen to cans crack open. First I think, who drinks beer at hot yoga? Then I realize it's coconut water....of course.<br />
<br />
8. There is no talking, but it's unwritten. So the new person talks, and they get a "SSSH" very loudly. They get such a loud "ssh" because these guys do breathing exercises for breakfast.<br />
<br />
9. Boss comes in, announces who's new. Makes them put their hands up. I am so happy to never put my hand up again. They tell them just relax and do the best they can during the class. That attitude will change once they get their nama-chakra-yogi headpiece microphone on. "LOCK YOUR KNEES!"<br />
<br />
10. The first breathing exercise. Thankfully, a friend, Brendan, warned me about this. I didn't know what was going to happen but he warned me I'd think it's nuts. I do. Thank you Brendan. I think it serves to hypoventilate you so you get dizzy and follow all of the bosses instructions even though under normal circumstances, you wouldn't. Yogi Tricksters.<br />
<br />
11. Sweat starts to roll off you at about minute 4. I mean roll, not drip. Ike & Tina 'Rolling like a River' sweat. You become a human fountain. I often look around to notice that many girls haven't dripped a drop. And they have pretty shorts & sports bras, and I'm looking more like Mia Hamm (although, who would complain?). I have more in common with the dude beside me that keeps smelling his armpit than I do with the girls, but I persevere (I will later buy yoga shorts, damned if I'm not in the club).<br />
<br />
12. I commonly feel like I'm nanoseconds away from fainting, and somehow hyperventilating myself combats this problem. I watch someone go down, and I feel better about myself. I remain standing.<br />
<br />
13. Until the day I actually see the lights go dim and I have to sit down. I'm angry. So I stand back up, I lift my foot up to my costume (what a WORD), and I promptly sit back down. I refuse to lay down, and then look at the man beside me peacefully laying down in savasanah.<br />
<br />
14. That man later gets berated for lazily 'sleeping' through class. Sucker. <br />
<br />
15. In wind-releasing pose, someone always releases as such. It never gets old.<br />
<br />
16. I always get a kick out of the phrase "the shaking is good". It means you're on the verge of failure, really. So, verge of failure is good. Actually, that really sums up the whole class. In a good way. I'm not always sarcastic, you know.<br />
<br />
17. Tattoos. I don't have one, and that puts me in the minority. Wonder if I should Sharpie my calf next time. Something with 'peace', 'breathe', 'angel', or swirlies seems to make you better.<br />
<br />
18. Speaking of tattoos. I sometimes spot the iconic Ironman Canada tattoo. It then becomes very evident we're in the same stretching circle. As in, we can't. We're just doing this so we don't have to run outside today.<br />
<br />
19. You're not supposed to fidget in class. Have an itch, stinging sweat in your eyes, shorts half way up your a.....too bad, it's staying like that 'til the end of class.<br />
<br />
20. They tell you to bring water then they won't let you drink it for at least 20 min. I can handle it from a lot of time spent dropping my water and waiting with desert-mouth to get more. But a lot of people in the class can't, as most people have water bottles attached to their hands these days. Reach for it and the boss will see, and ask you to put it down. Desperate looks ensue.<br />
<br />
21. The river of sweat soon becomes an actual puddle on your towel/mat. Such that at a certain point in class, whenever you lie down for your 30 seconds of relief from spine cramping exercises, you make that squishy "I just sat in my own diaper" sound. But you don't care. Class can be that difficult.<br />
<br />
22. You know you're getting pro at Bikrams when you start to complain that the room is too cold. I'm already there - by class 4 I wondered why I wasn't hotter. This was confirmed by tattooed girl veterans in the longest-shower-line-up-I've-ever-been-in-my-life later. I didn't even care I was standing on a public floor in bare feet. I was just hanging on to the sink counter holding myself up. Based on how often I go to the pool, these girls probably have to worry more about me than I do of them. <br />
<br />
23. I realize this is a gold mine for any man wishing to meet a beautiful woman in bare minimum spandex. I also realize that the situation doesn't really work the other way around.<br />
<br />
24. For example, I really got a kick out of Mr. Hipster Coconut water, who, wore his (some may call 'budgie smugglers') (but I will call 'booty shorts') <i>pants, </i>who I don't think started the class with hipster Derek Cardigan classes, but somehow ended with them on. What? Where'd you hide those? Oh, never mind. Based on the bare essentials (pun intended) you are allowed to bring in, I know the answer. I'm surprised your banana hammock isn't plaid. And ironic.<br />
<br />
25. Bonus: no one is allowed their iphones in the studio. I think I might be the only one who wears a watch. I sometimes wonder if it's contraband.<br />
<br />
26. It's chic to wear your towel around your neck like a scarf when you walk in if you are one of the coolest girls. I'm not that attached to my towel. I know what I do to it during class. "Squish".<br />
<br />
27. Some bosses like the phrase, "It's supposed to hurt like hell". Now I start questioning whether this was a good replacement for a queried stress fracture.<br />
<br />
28. I also get a little internal haha smug grin when they say that, because really, this is nothing in comparison to Ironman. Que the "I won Ironman" ego.<br />
<br />
29. A new girl comes in wearing full pants. Oh no. I want to tell her to save herself but we're not allowed to talk. This is part of the rationale I think, so we can't warn anyone. <br />
<br />
30. In my first class, which thankfully had a lot of new people (albeit all young very pretty university girls with gorgeous yoga clothes - seriously!? they hadn't even tried it yet and they were dressed - I would later put in 3 sessions before I 'earned' my yoga shorts), also had some new people that got up to leave the room. The boss then says "My friend, are you ok? Don't go" (my friend doesn't talk b/c they are on the verge of dropping like a fainting goat), "You should stay and work out your issues" (door opens, slams, person bolts). I don't think calling someone your 'friend' makes them feel better. Again, yogi trickery.<br />
<br />
31. One day someone leaves, the instructor follows them out. There's silence and then the instructor yells for some help. Calmly, she returns to class (I should mention we're holding the lunge pose with arms overhead for extra long and I am resenting the girl that probably just fainted and likely smucked her face on the warm cement corridor), and we're all supposed to pretend like that didn't happen. It's like a human sacrifice to the yoga gods. Well, the Bikram gods, anyways.<br />
<br />
32. One of my favourite phrases of the instructors is "throat choke". As if it wasn't hard enough already, they often remind us to choke our own throats. Slippery slope yogis, slippery slope.<br />
<br />
33. You try holding onto your leg whilst sweating profusely, balance on one leg, extend the other over your head and bring your head to your knee. We're bad ass. We're better than anyone NOT doing yoga right now. Dehydration is kicking in.<br />
<br />
34. The you fall over, narrowing missing your coconut water neighbour.<br />
<br />
35. Then coconut water guy actually kicks his coconut water over splashing me generously with his precious water. Eff u coconut water man, and p.s. you smell worse than me. I want to take his Derek Cardigan glasses and break them. <br />
<br />
36. I wonder if yoga will help me with stress management after all.<br />
<br />
37. "Other way, 3rd row blue headband" (note: she doesn't call me 'friend'). I regret wearing a blue headband immediately. But if I don't, my contacts will float OUT of my eyes with all the sweat that runs into them when I turn upside down. I also notice no one else is wearing headbands. Hmm. This is why.<br />
<br />
38. As previously alluded to, I am so put off with the smell of the guy beside me. God, guys stink, I should never sit beside guys in class (except that it makes me feel superior in the flexibility department). Then I realize, it's not the guy that stinks. The horror. The truth.<br />
<br />
39. At one point my legs are shaking so badly people must think I am totally out of control of my body. Who's to say they're wrong? But I kind of enjoy the thrill of 'verge of failure'.<br />
<br />
40. Dehydration leads to a myriad of things, including delusions of grandeur. This is again, I think, the key to success in hot yoga. Fake it 'til you make it, or until you hallucinate that you're totally making it.<br />
<br />
41. The final savasanah. As I recall in other classes, this was a reflective and restorative posture, that we spent 5-15 min in (sometimes longer), and practiced absolute stillness. The instructor turns off the lights (and maybe turns down the heat?), mixing fresh air with smelly air and once again reminding me that it smells bad in here. Then there is about 30 seconds of quiet, then people begin rifling for the door. At first I wondered why. Then I found out it's for shower time. See shower comment previously.<br />
<br />
42. Line up for shower with huge line of 'fresh' girls. Listen to them ooze on about how hard it was. Seriously, their hair is dry. This is my key indicator. My hair is wetter than when I go swimming. I have a hard time keeping my balance. They are making "like, totally" wild gestures with their hands. I almost fall over putting on underwear and most certainly cannot pull up my pants standing up. I leave with a sense of lightness. I have after all, lost 8 lbs of water weight. The smell is better at the front. I can't wait to go back.<br />
<br />
That's it. My summary of my Bikram hot yoga experiences for my 'experienced' status of 5 classes. It may sound like I'm complaining at times, but I'm not. I really like it. I really like the challenge of something new, something that is hard, something that has the element of surprise to it. I may fall over at any minute, I may all of a sudden lock into a sense of stability like a rock. I see the metaphor to it all, but I won't bore you with the philosphy. I think you know it too.<br />
<br />
And it's warm. So I'm hypo-hydrated, hyperventilated, but at least I'm not hypothermic. And that was all I asked for. The rest of it is a bonus.<br />
<br />
Namaste, my 'friends'. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-57410965075471092152012-12-04T20:40:00.000-08:002012-12-04T20:40:03.617-08:00Powered By Chocolate Milk<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cTNg649x5RU/UL1MwleG2AI/AAAAAAAABAQ/my9JaMol1OM/s1600/523629_10151136335202734_139220736_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cTNg649x5RU/UL1MwleG2AI/AAAAAAAABAQ/my9JaMol1OM/s400/523629_10151136335202734_139220736_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
I had a super opportunity to do a video filming session for Powered By Chocolate Milk as one of their Ambassadors! Take a look if you haven't seen it already!<br />
<u><b><br /></b></u>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b>Powered By Chocolate Milk - Ambassador Gillian Clayton</b></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/qpymPGtFhQ0?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
A little history on Powered By Chocolate Milk (PBCM) if I haven't caught you up to speed by now. I feel really lucky to have come across such a great organization of happy, positive people! They've chosen ambassadors from all corners of sport and support them like rockstars in their endeavours. It's really neat to see. It's something I like being a part of.<br />
<br />
Milk for me is a staple for me. I'd tell you how much milk I drink on a regular basis in training, but you'd think I was lying. So let's just say 'lots'. You could ask my brother for collateral, as I think he can drink as much as me when he wants to. I'm surprised we never teamed up to go into dairy farming. But we're still young, so let's not limit ourselves.<br />
<br />
PBCM says it best, and I'm borrowing a cool page from their website (<a href="http://www.poweredbychocolatemilk.com/">www.poweredbychocolatemilk.com</a>) to get you some info on chocolate milk. It's a no brainer for me, as I have been a milk kid from the early 80's onward and it continues to be an integral part of my recovery (and often, happiness, especially when mixed with chocolate :)<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"></span><br />
<h1 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 28px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
About Chocolate Milk</h1>
<h2 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 8px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 4px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
Why drink chocolate milk as your post sport recovery drink?</h2>
Recent studies suggest that drinking chocolate milk 15-30 minutes after vigorous activity can help to speed up recovery and recharge your body, making your next workout better.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; line-height: 0; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial;"><img alt="CSF Members Drinking Chocolate Milk" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-912" height="250" src="http://www.poweredbychocolatemilk.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/csf-group-drinking-chocolate-milk.jpg" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-size: 12px; line-height: 0; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" title="CSF Members Drinking Chocolate Milk" width="520" /></span></span><br />
<h2 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 8px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 4px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
Did You Know…</h2>
Recent studies show that chocolate milk helps you recover from exhaustive bouts of exercise. Chocolate milk has an ideal balance of protein and carbohydrate, which helps refuel and rebuild tired muscles for the next workout.1<br />
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #aa703d; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 20px; padding-top: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 215px;">
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: white; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
Research shows that a beverage containing both carbohydrate and protein, such as chocolate milk, can be more effective at increasing next-workout performance than a conventional carbohydrate- only sport beverage.<sup style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; bottom: 3px; font-size: 7.5pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline;">1,2,3</sup> Chocolate milk is an excellent source of protein, which is especially important for recovery if you plan to work out again within the next 24 hours. Protein helps enhance recovery by repairing damaged muscle tissue and promoting muscle growth.</div>
</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #573019; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 20px; padding-top: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 215px;">
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: white; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
During a strenuous workout, your body uses carbohydrate stores, called glycogen, in your muscles for energy. As glycogen becomes depleted, so does your ability to perform at your peak. Chocolate milk, an excellent source of carbohydrates, can help replenish those stores quickly after a workout. The faster these stores are replenished after exercise, ideally within 15-30 minutes, the better you can perform at your next workout.</div>
</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; color: #666666; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #ec8343; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 20px; padding-top: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 215px;">
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: white; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
Chocolate milk can help with hydration. It is 90% water and has a great complement of electrolytes, including potassium and sodium. It has also been shown to be an effective rehydration aid—better than sports drinks—following exercise.<sup style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; bottom: 3px; font-size: 7.5pt; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline;">4</sup></div>
</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #61aee1; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 20px; padding-right: 20px; padding-top: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 215px;">
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: white; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
Chocolate milk is an important source of B vitamins, including niacin and riboflavin, which are necessary to convert food to the energy needed by exercising muscle. Chocolate milk also contains vitamin B12, which helps to keep red blood cells healthy and able to deliver oxygen to tired muscles.</div>
</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; color: #666666; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<h2 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 8px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 4px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /><br />For more information, check out the studies below</h2>
<ol style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-size: 9pt; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 26px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cccccc; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: decimal; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 8px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://www.milknewsroom.com/downloads/stager_chocmilk_study.pdf" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #5e9aec; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Karp JR, et. al. 2006. Chocolate milk as a post-exercise recovery aid. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism. 16(1): 78-91.</a></li>
<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cccccc; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: decimal; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 8px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://www.hawaii.edu/hivandaids/Effects%20of%20Recovery%20Beverages%20on%20Glycogen%20Restoration%20and%20Endurance%20Exercise%20Performance.pdf" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #5e9aec; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Williams MB, et. al. 2003. Effects of recovery beverages on glycogen restoration and endurance exercise performance. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. 17(1): 12-19.</a></li>
<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cccccc; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: decimal; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 8px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://faculty.css.edu/tboone2/asep/Niles1Col.PDF" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #5e9aec; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Niles ES, et. al. 2001. Carbohydrate-protein drink improves time to exhaustion after recovery from endurance exercise. Journal of Exercise Physiology Online. 4(1): 45-52.</a></li>
<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cccccc; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: decimal; margin-bottom: 4px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 8px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 5px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/full/85/4/1031" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #5e9aec; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">Wilkinson SB, et. al. 2007. Consumption of fluid skim milk promotes greater muscle protein accretion after resistance exercise than does consumption of an isonitrogenous and isoenergetic soy-protein beverage. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 85(4):1031-1040.</a></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cccccc;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w5B6w14Jkdc/ULuiFK9Z9oI/AAAAAAAAA_s/tvjiScU_0c0/s1600/pbcm.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w5B6w14Jkdc/ULuiFK9Z9oI/AAAAAAAAA_s/tvjiScU_0c0/s1600/pbcm.png" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">Powered by Chocolate Milk's (PCBM) <a href="http://www.poweredbychocolatemilk.com/ambassadors/">Ambassador Program</a>, which is what I am a part of, and where I've met some really cool people along the way - both athletes of the program and the staff involved in keeping the PCBM machine running smoothly!</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div>
Do you use chocolate milk for your post-workout recovery and want to talk about it? Contactsocial@poweredbychocolatemilk.com or send us a tweet <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/pbchocolatemilk">@pbchocolatemilk</a> for more information.<br />
<br />
<br />
You can find Powered by Chocolate Milk online at their website, facebook, or twitter! Links are below - go check them out!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">Online at: <a href="http://www.poweredbychocolatemilk.com/">Powered By Chocolate Milk</a></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://twitter.com/pbchocolatemilk">Follow us on Twitter</a> </span></span><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pbchocolatemilk">Like us on Facebook</a><br />
<br />
Thanks Powered By Chocolate Milk for all your support. Can't wait to get skiing this winter so I can up my chocolate milk intake :)<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"></span><br />
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-62842199075449083462012-11-04T07:57:00.001-08:002012-11-04T10:09:35.195-08:00Goodlife Victoria Marathon 2012 Race Report, or, the "I have a good life 2012 rest report"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgjBai6RYHw/UJaLi0toVsI/AAAAAAAAA-c/Ghq1jIqSoxw/s1600/IMG_1581_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgjBai6RYHw/UJaLi0toVsI/AAAAAAAAA-c/Ghq1jIqSoxw/s400/IMG_1581_2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
So, I've been lazy on the writing - but it reflects how I've been going about everything lately - taking my time, finally slowing down. Giving my body & brain a break.<br />
<br />
A few things have passed by since I last wrote. Let me touch on the one competitive thing I did - the <a href="http://www.runvictoriamarathon.com/">Goodlife Victoria Marathon</a> on Thanksgiving weekend.<br />
<br />
What a day - absolutely perfect weather and great friends to run with. Did I have a perfect race? Nope :) I knew going into this race that psychologically I was on low stock. I had just enough to get me through to a PB, but couldn't reach beyond that, as there was nothing there. No big deal. I ran to my fitness & used whatever I had left over in 'tough girl' stock. That got me to a 2:53:41. 4th place. Juuuuust out of the money. But 3 faster girls were definitely more deserving. Good on those gals. I did receive 3rd place prizing as this race also served as the BC Marathon Championships. Thanks to <a href="http://www.bcathletics.org/">BC Athletics</a>! It pays to be a member :)<br />
<br />
The best thing about the race? I was given a brand new pair of <a href="http://www.newbalance.com/New-Balance-1400/WR1400,default,pd.html">New Balance 1400's</a>. And where did those come from? <a href="http://www.ladysport.ca/">Ladysport</a>. What a treat! After going through pair # 4 of my 1400s during the tri season, they were looking a bit thrashed and a little....well....let's just say it. Stinky.<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v-TG9oXtUIQ/UJRgwIF6K4I/AAAAAAAAA8o/-RmkUzgME9o/s1600/DSC04173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v-TG9oXtUIQ/UJRgwIF6K4I/AAAAAAAAA8o/-RmkUzgME9o/s320/DSC04173.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">freshest on top. pair #4 too dirty to be let in living room.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I love these shoes and wear them into the ground b/c I want to keep wearing them forever (and ever!). So, luckily for me, owner Phil Moore at LadySport came to the rescue in delivering a brand new pair into my hands. And I didn't even have to take the 'normal' shoes laces out of them for elastic tri dork laces. Real laces - what a luxury! A huge thank you to Ladysport for connecting me to New Balance & ensuring my feet will be wrapped up in their favourite outerwear.<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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GvqVbx-xqLM/UJRgJl9EF9I/AAAAAAAAA8g/CDyrWKUw4YE/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-11-02+at+5.06.16+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="165" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GvqVbx-xqLM/UJRgJl9EF9I/AAAAAAAAA8g/CDyrWKUw4YE/s320/Screen+shot+2012-11-02+at+5.06.16+PM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">so fresh and so clean</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
So even though I was trying for slightly faster than achieved times on marathon Sunday, my feet where treated to the luxury of springy, fast new shoes. Any runner knows how great that feels. In the same vein, I was able to pop into LadySport as a guest speaker before one of their Monday run clinics after the marathon to say thank you to Ladysport and chat a bit about my experiences over the last year in triathlon - fun! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Mostly I think I told stories about crazy triathlon experiences (ie. Ironman St George), and how things can come good in the end if you stick with it (ie. Ironman Canada), but also to let people know that I think inspiration is most directly sourced from those right around you. I used to be in total shock if someone was a 'pro' and very intimidated, but now I'm realizing that there really is no difference, at least not in the way I thought there was, and that it's nice to see what these people do day to day, in workouts, or in their rest & recreation time. I never thought I would be at this level of athletics, but I always dreamed of getting there. <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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XqF3Rhiq79s/UJaPTFBPByI/AAAAAAAAA_I/SrgZ_kOR58w/s1600/firsttriathlon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XqF3Rhiq79s/UJaPTFBPByI/AAAAAAAAA_I/SrgZ_kOR58w/s320/firsttriathlon.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">first triathlon completed. i wouldn't have done it unless my friend Blair had suffered along with me. did the osooyos 1/2 in just under 6 hrs! and was still almost last out of the water :) blair suffered a little longer.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
One of my missions now is to help people bridge the gap - so, if you have questions about moving up in the sporting world, I'm your gal to ask (ah, please no questions about archery or water polo though...). And chances are, you already know what you would need to do to get there, you just need someone to bounce questions off to find about the confidence & psychological gap - which can be the hardest of all, I think.<br />
<br />
Back to the newsy catch up. I ran a little ditty of a marathon. And I beat Carl again. Sorry Carl. Oh and Chris. I beat Chris too. What I love about the marathon, Ironman, endurance sports, is that what works out on paper is not an accurate predictor of the outcome. The longer the race, the more variables, and the longer time out there for something to go nut-bar. <br />
<br />
In fact, my race went out with me struggling with feeling comfortable at 18km (you cannot be struggling at this point - the body just does not hold out for you), and having to drop off pace and watch the boys run away from me. Insert sad face here. But, I had a race for myself to figure out, so, after about 5km of feeling a bit 'off', I started to come back to form (not really sure what my pace was but I did notice nothing was in the 3:5x market), and start knocking off some girls. All 2 of them. But wait, just wait.....<br />
<br />
One of them was a Kenyan.<br />
<br />
Add that to the 'things that lift your spirits' list. Especially when you lost your friends and you're hoping your recently sprained ankle that now feels super wobbly is going to stay glued together like the kindergarten popsicle & wood glue project that it is. <br />
<br />
So I passed a Kenyan, stayed upright, and then, I found my friends! Woah, wait, that's actually not a great thing (for my friends - who are boys). I saw a very familiar singlet up ahead - grey. Chris. Slowing down but moving forward. Honestly, no lies here, I really like passing guys, so, this was a qualifying pass. Then I saw the most familiar singlet of all - black. Carl. Carl, you'll read this, and enough time has now passed for me to say, as much as I was sad for you that you suffered in the end of the race, I was delighted to pass you in those last kilometres. Now, I wish you hadn't actually been standing, cramp/stretching and actually shouting out something that sounded like maybe it would not be for your children's ears, but, I'll take an ugly 'you got chicked' moment, because in the end, getting chicked is getting chicked.<br />
<br />
Plus, I was wearing said "<a href="http://www.chicked.com/">You Got Chicked</a>" <a href="http://www.chicked.com/womens-products/nike-tank-top/">singlet</a> & <a href="http://www.chicked.com/womens-products/nike-skirt/">running skirt</a>, and <a href="http://www.compressport.ca/">Compressport</a> pink socks. Score one for the girls.<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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m-a2zsLyuM8/UJXewY39u6I/AAAAAAAAA9M/11Y1LaBxoZY/s1600/IMG_5172.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="237" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m-a2zsLyuM8/UJXewY39u6I/AAAAAAAAA9M/11Y1LaBxoZY/s400/IMG_5172.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">chicks. dig it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Enough of this. So, that was the marathon, and the icing on the cake of a high I really hadn't come down from yet after Ironman Canada. Plus it was Thanksgiving, & that meant I got to spend time with family & friends, and...eat! <br />
<br />
So as I've mentioned previously, I've raced a lot through the year, and a few things have caught up to me. I'm fortunate enough to have a few injuries and fatigue come at the most perfect moment of the year - the off-season. It never fails to amaze me the amount of fatigue athletes can carry through the season, and how long it can take to get back to feeling strong. And I wasn't really even injured (well, I could make a short list...but nothing serious). But I did turn out everything I had to give between my toes (yes, some of them are black) to the hair on my head (I did manage to rip out a chunk attached to an aero helmet), and everything in between in 2012. <br />
<br />
I'm perfectly content with my efforts. It's a nice feeling. And I think it's that feeling that has allowed me to finally step back and say, "ok, it's ok to stop". Now the whole point of saying it's ok to finally fully allow myself to stop, I only do because I know I want to come back faster, stronger, and fiercely focused. If I wasn't wanting to come back with great ambitions, I wouldn't worry about disciplining myself now to hold myself back and begin a new building process.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p-BSoSoZxVk/UJaOBD9YAhI/AAAAAAAAA_A/AsvLcbMgsPY/s1600/IMG_1613_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p-BSoSoZxVk/UJaOBD9YAhI/AAAAAAAAA_A/AsvLcbMgsPY/s320/IMG_1613_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And what has happened since giving my body a break? Everything hurts <i>more.</i> That has been a little scary, for lack of a better word, at first. But it points me down a path of very straightforward explanations and answers. Strength. Stability. Form. Power. Energy. No point in moving forward until I have built a solid platform to move forward from. As tempting as it is to roll on from one race to another in hopes of finding that perfect performance, that perfect moment, I now think it's time to see the perfection in building a stronger body, the perfection in sleep, the perfection in exercising to technique.<br />
<br />
That's my upcoming job for the next little while. But in the meantime, no one says you can't drink some chocolate milk and ride your bike in the sunshine. And I did just that - with <a href="http://www.poweredbychocolatemilk.com/">Powered By Chocolate Milk</a>! And I won't spoil the surprise - you'll just have wait and see what I'm talking about :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y4pcJF37MXc/UJXsW7zDDtI/AAAAAAAAA9w/dUNeJ43Qrd0/s1600/pbcm.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y4pcJF37MXc/UJXsW7zDDtI/AAAAAAAAA9w/dUNeJ43Qrd0/s1600/pbcm.png" /></a></div>
<br />
That's all for now. An update, a surprise to come, some reflections on resting. Not bad to sum up October. <br />
<br />
All I need now is some snow and a pair of skis.....<br />
<br />
Don't forget to turn back your clocks - the one time in the year people actually may get enough sleep! Maybe try turning back your bedtime for a couple of months and see how happy that makes you :)<br />
<br />
gillian</div>
gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-697344756241627782012-10-14T11:59:00.001-07:002012-10-14T11:59:46.846-07:00Kona Thoughts in a Conch ShellWell, another Kona in the books. I did some hard core couch spectating yesterday and it's left me more tired than I thought it would. And sore! How can anyone sit around on their butt most of the day? Yeowch!<br />
<br />
I have had a few weeks of the written word, and I have still to put up a few bloggo's into the blogosphere, but I feel inspired to write today. And it's pouring rain out too. So a wonderful time to procrastinate a 'jog' in the fog/rain/puddles/wind/grey/muck/leaves/dirt. <br />
<br />
It was so interesting for me, to watch the ongoings of the Ironman World Championship all day - these are things you don't get to see when you're in the race. And things you don't really appreciate about the course until you've actually done it - the video footage now makes much more sense than it previously did (yes, I have watched multiple Kona's on the interweb). So it was a treat to watch and armchair spectate - I now have more respect for those that come to watch us compete! And we weren't even in 100F weather (although I would have loved to be.....would trade that for the previously mentioned weather system above).<br />
<br />
But these are my own ramblings and likely not super interesting to you. Well, what the heck, I'm going to ramble a bit more anyways. I've not been overly supratentorial lately, likely due to me recovering brain cells over the past 6 weeks. Oh wait, I don't think you can actually get those back. Oh darn.<br />
<br />
One of the things that struck me about the women's race (besides the top 5 women being scary tough kick ass women) is that in the top 10 women, a 46 year old with a smile on her face, and a new mom came across the line. For me, this was heartwarming. It means life outside triathlon is possible, it made me feel like there is less of a rush, to surge to the top, to take your time and become better with age and experience. In reflecting on my past year, things went by quickly, and it at times felt like a vice grip having to get better all the time, that only steps forward counted, that steps backward were a waste of time or worse, a fault. At times my year also felt so wonderful that I almost couldn't handle it all too, so, there was a balance. I'd like to think most of the time was spent in the middle ground, which is made up of good solid training without much psychological complication.<br />
<br />
Flash forward to yesterday. I am <i>tired</i> from a year of busy and successful racing. I am an athlete who does well regardless of conditions. I do <i>well</i> because I want to. I want to do it because I love it. I define what racing 'well' means for me, you can define it for yourself however you want. I had just raced in the Goodlife Victoria Marathon (race report to come) last weekend and had fun and ran hard, and did well. But the end of the triathlon season still lingered in my mind and my ability to 'race' was compromised. But doing 'well' and 'racing' are really different things. This is all mental. I'll explain.<br />
<br />
To get performances out of your body that go above and beyond what you ever thought was capable takes one simple thing. A positive mind. I don't think it is much more complicated than that. To remain positive while you are in a great deal of pain, when you are scared, when you don't know what to do. So, a positive mind (yes, this needs to be trained, no, it's not a genetic hand-me-down) is your platform, really it is the equivalent to the body you have been training all these months. I would say even more important that your nuts and bolts.<br />
<br />
Now what you probably think I'm going to write is that I had a semi-positive mind, and then I wasn't quite confident in myself to get up there and run with the top girls. Nope. Guess again. I was quietly confident and positive with myself. I had a race plan and had to readjust part way through, but didn't panic. I missed my goal time by minutes but didn't really mind, I did <i>well</i> given the conditions. And I was happy with it all. It still felt like I won the race coming across the line, and I think that speaks volumes to how much my win at Ironman Canada has affected me - it is becoming more and more firmly lodged in my brain as part of my psyche (It probably helps that Steve King was the announcer for the Goodlife Victoria Marathon!). It is becoming quite a powerful weapon in my psychological toolkit. That is quite cool.<br />
<br />
So how does this tie into watching yesterday's race? I knew in last week's marathon that I only had my physiological strength to go on. I have given all I had to give for this year's intense efforts, I don't think there are easy words to put to it, but that mental 'thing' is taking a rest in me. Watching these women gut it out on the pavement of the race, that 'thing' for them is well and lively and completely intact, regardless of whether they've come 1st or 10th. It was amazing to watch. Sure physiologically they are very impressive creatures, but they are roughly the same (maybe apart from leg length - wowza) - it is the brain that separates them. So you have to bring that 'thing' to the race, and it is your responsibility to get that 'thing' to the line, and that is where I see the greatest challenge of all in Ironman, keeping the balance that gets you to be your 'best' when it counts.<br />
<br />
For me personally, I think it is easy to get sucked up in a rush of success. It feels good to win, and I think it is very easy to get pulled away from what you 'need' in development to what you (or others) 'want' in development. So in looking at someone like the men's winner, Pete Jacobs, who declared 8 years prior that he would win the World Championship, I'm willing to bet he's put a pretty good plan in place to get what he 'needed', and not always what he 'wanted'. I think similar reports have come out from the famous Brett Sutton, to get his olympic champion athlete to stick to the plan regardless of desire or distaste. But you all know this already - so my point being, it is hard to say 'no' to the flash of being at the top when you have the chance to be there. <br />
<br />
I will openly admit that I have fears in stating that I just want to train. I want to improve, and not let racing and that culture of winning, get in my way. I think it is a bit of a red herring, to worry about racing and winning or losing too much, and I think this is something that many, many people are guilty of. I think this holds a lot of people back in their dreams and goals. But racing and winning is so paramount in the culture of athletics, I think, to a fault. This might seem somewhat ironic considering all the praise I've given to the winners of the race, but it's not a black and white issue. Everyone will find their own way through life, but as you may remember from high school, times can be tough when making your own decisions. <br />
<br />
I won a big race, and 6 weeks later, I'm still feeling like I am winning the same race as I cross a finish line. And there are even 'bigger' races than the one I won. So I'm wondering if something is lost in the shuffle if you just bang out a race and move onto the next, without fulling appreciating what you've done? And you don't have to win either, because I think people will bang out a crappy race only to try to forget about it and move onto the next. Big mistake in my mind, but that's just me. I think people need to spend more time appreciating what they do instead of just 'doing it' and hurrying along to the next thing. You are spending SO much of your life and resources into training for this one thing and then you whisk it away for the good or the bad too soon? I think life is too short for that. <br />
<br />
So if you have just raced Kona, a race that many people dream of racing, my stern advice to you is to really think about the day you had, to appreciate it for everything that it gave you, and you gave to it. Being one who has raced at this race, I know the extent of your life's resources that are invested in such a thing. Be true to yourself and those around you and honestly evaluate what this experience has meant to you. Take your time. Let it sink in. It has surprised me how long things take to come to the surface.<br />
<br />
For me, looking down a road where I feel I have potential, I am heartened to see that I can formulate a plan where life exists with flexibility and balance, that it is those that truly stick to their guns that come out on top. That you can do it your way, and make your dream come true. I don't think this is the same in all sports, and I feel very lucky to be part of a sport where I have freedom to be me. It is exciting.<br />
<br />
Those are my Kona thoughts in a conch shell. Did I miss being there? Yes, absolutely, was it the right time for me to be there. No, absolutely not. Unless it was a papaya eating championship :)<br />
<br />
So, now it's time to run. In the cold, wet, purposelessly and as slowly as my brain or body needs to. I will admit it is a bit odd not to have a target on the wall right now, but I think it is ever important to be in a new space to become a better athlete. <br />
<br />
Happy training, and if you're in Vancouver, I feel your soggy laundry piled up pain :)<br />
xo<br />
g<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-78701351144119119572012-09-14T10:39:00.001-07:002012-09-14T10:45:48.009-07:00The RBC Whistler Gran Fondo, or, "Chicked on a bike"What a day!<br />
<br />
I was lucky enough to participate in the <a href="http://www.rbcgranfondowhistler.com/">Royal Bank of Canada's Whistler Gran Fondo</a> this past Saturday! A huge thank you to RBC for making this possible! As I've mentioned before, good things come in 3's, and this was the year's 3rd running of the "big bike". So, I wanted to highlight my 3 favourite things about this year's event. <br />
<br />
<u><b>Prima Luce</b></u><br />
<br />
It's not a race. It's an <i>event</i>. I was so happy about this. I've had my fair share of racing this summer and it does, undoubtably, take it's toll on your psyche. Your psyche affects your physiology, and mine was in definite need of rest time. But that's not to say that a girl can't hop on her bike (yes, tri bike, sorry roadies but I was too lazy to switch my pedals & saddle over to the roadster) and ride to Whistler for fun!<br />
I have never ridden my bike up to Whistler because I think there is a high degree of risk riding on those roads, and as beautiful as it is, I have decided against biking to Whistler. So given the opportunity to ride on a protected course up to Whistler on a sunny Saturday was a dream event! After <i>racing</i> at <a href="http://rundriven.blogspot.ca/2012/09/ironman-canada-2012-race-report-or.html">Ironman Canada</a>, I was ready to just <i>ride</i>. <br />
I love the start of these events - go to any other 'race' and someone is always going fast from the gun, cannon, bull horn, you name it. In these events, the de rigueur is to nice out comfortably & at a friendly pace - what a nice way to start :) Now, that sort of flies out the window once cyclists triple jacked on caffiene all hit the Upper Levels and start mash hammering & passing from both left and right sides, but, until that point it's lovely. You cycle over the Lions' Gate bridge with the sun rising and mountains ahead of you and life just seems like a dream. It had to have been one of the best mornings I've spent outside all year. Simply fantastic.<br />
Being a <i>ride </i>and not a race, it's likely the only event where I'll cycle behind Simon Whitfield. So, again, if that doesn't sell you on doing this ride, what will? (Editors note: I cycled behind him <i>until</i> Furry Creek Hill, then I promptly lost touch :)<br />
<br />
<u><b>Doppio Puntare</b></u><br />
<br />
This is a great event for anyone to do. If the 122km scares you, it shouldn't. If the mass starts spook you a bit, fair game - but there is plenty of opportunity to start at the back and take your time, and work your way through (and you get a great draft!). All you need is a bike that works, or works most of the time (there were lots of riders participating as Tech Support on course - as there were for Medical as well - props to the organizers for having riders in touch on the course!). And of course, should you need it, there were plenty of ambulancias out on course as well. Thanks guys!<br />
There are beautiful aid stations with clean (yes, clean!) portapotties (a friend of mine even got an award for 'pee of the day' - which he did in a portapotty - but received a free cycling cap for his efforts - awesome!). I even got off my bike to pee, which was a total luxury (for me and others near me) so too bad I missed out on the 'prizing'. The aid stations are beautiful - full of fruit and Honey Stinger WAFFLES and all things sugary and good. I found myself hungry at aid station #2 and delightfully pulled over and stocked up on yummy treats - then ate said yummy treats whilst enjoying the view - things I don't get to do in an Ironman event. I was a very happy girl!<br />
But back to my point - you can do this event. The organizers make it possible. This is not a hard core die hard hammer til you drop or die event. This is civilized. This is pleasant. To me, this event was truly luxurious in it's layout. So, is it worth the cost of $200 odd dollars for a little bike ride? I'd say it's a must do event one time in your life, and most certainly you'll forget about the cost once you've participated and enjoyed your life to the fullest that day. No price point on that, I don't think.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Terza volta e un fascino</b></u><br />
<br />
I got to wear this...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2H_pztS2_LQ/UFNoa1XBS1I/AAAAAAAAA7E/E9cYNLutMLI/s1600/IMG_5131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2H_pztS2_LQ/UFNoa1XBS1I/AAAAAAAAA7E/E9cYNLutMLI/s640/IMG_5131.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.chicked.com/">You Just Got Chicked</a>, one of my lovely sponsors, as released a <a href="http://www.chicked.com/womens-products/chicked-cycling-kit/">sweet cycling kit </a> that I was lucky enough to get my hands on for the RBC Whistler Gran Fondo! What a treat! I've been able to bust out my You Just Got Chicked gear for running and tri events, but not yet for cycling, so I was super excited to get this gear on and get my tuckus in motion and pass some boys out there.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It never fails! "AH, I just got chicked AGAIN" - it's my favourite phrase to hear as I smile and slice past boys on course. It's a great way to make riding fun (for more than just the rider, I swear - I'm pretty sure the guys love it). In fact, "I LOVE being chicked" was another hilarity someone shouted out as I zipped past. I also have to say, some guys say nothing, and that is pretty satisfying too :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So ladies - I really think you should call up the Chicked girls and order this kit! The more Chicked girls out there the better - and what wouldn't be sweeter than a pace line of You Just Got Chicked cycling kits?? Um, nothing :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy riding everyone - fall is coming - although luckily in Vancouver we appear to be getting a second shot at summer - just with a crisp morning and evening - not too shabby! Enjoy the outdoor rides before indoor training season is upon us.</div>
<br />
Bicicletta, l'amore!<br />
<br />
<br />gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-49416733215688397292012-09-07T10:24:00.003-07:002012-09-11T21:35:27.688-07:00Ironman Canada 2012 Race Report, or "Falling from Cloud 9"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LEmtBWaeVtk/UEj3vbAN-gI/AAAAAAAAA4E/vWLXTyH_CsE/s1600/557422_10151162675647608_323669732_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LEmtBWaeVtk/UEj3vbAN-gI/AAAAAAAAA4E/vWLXTyH_CsE/s400/557422_10151162675647608_323669732_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.davidmccolm.com/">David McColm Photography</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<u><br /></u>
<u>Ironman Canada 2012 Race Report</u><br />
<br />
What I am supposed to say?<br />
<br />
I'm incredibly happy. I'm still taking it all in. I've been waking up each day and at some point in the morning, realizing I won Ironman Canada. Woah...<br />
<br />
Suffice to say, I think I'm still in shock over it all. I've actually been quite overwhelmed with the attention and the outpouring of positivity and support and all the kind words. It's a lot, all at once, and certainly more than I ever imagined it would be.<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gSJf6UloDR8/UEogPNwgpdI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/nCG50QzwnT4/s1600/387054_10152048653080447_1919410544_n-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gSJf6UloDR8/UEogPNwgpdI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/nCG50QzwnT4/s400/387054_10152048653080447_1919410544_n-1.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">All I ever imagined, in my visualization before the race, was how to get to the finish line first. After that, my thought process had stopped. So this is all new territory to me.</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I am at a bit of a loss for words on how I feel about myself and this accomplishment (me at a loss for words is a weird thing), so if you're interested, I'll tell you a little bit about my race. That I understand to a T.<br />
<br />
And yes, I just referenced <a href="http://soundowl.com/track/40vs/katy-perry-wide-awake-wwwdopinmn">Katy Perry</a> in my report title. When you have a song in your head for 9 hours, it becomes quite near & dear.<br />
<br />
<u>Pre-race, or "I'm home":</u><br />
<br />
I'm wonderfully supported by a local resident, Ann, in Penticton. I've been able to stay with her for the last 3 years, for my first Ironman, my 2nd IMC and successful attempt to get to Kona, and my 3rd as a 1st year professional - and win! So I must thank her for being my perpetual homestay and family friend - it's such a comfort to have a 'home' up there.<br />
<br />
I finished up work & drove up with family on Thursday afternoon, and it's always magical to drive over the highway pass and start descending down toward the lake - it shimmers and huge boulders of mountains rise up against it. It is the first time my heart did a big 'ka-thump'. We're here. It's race time.<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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Js22bTCFkU/UEobxRK_nHI/AAAAAAAAA4o/eVo3QLEtnpI/s1600/223835_460686540637937_2133949874_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Js22bTCFkU/UEobxRK_nHI/AAAAAAAAA4o/eVo3QLEtnpI/s400/223835_460686540637937_2133949874_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.davidmccolm.com/">David McColm Photography</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I always do the same pre-race workouts, swim at the same times, bike to the same places, run the same hill near our house. It's a ritual. After travelling a lot this year and racing a whole bunch of new races, I'm so comforted to have familiar routines. <br />
<br />
The unfamiliar? Finding a tiny nail lodged in my not flat tire 2 days out from the race. So off to the <a href="http://www.bikebarn.ca/">Bike Barn</a>, a likely pilgrimage for so many triathletes pre-race, but I had never been (I was hoping for a <a href="http://jeffsymonds.blogspot.ca/">Jeff Symonds</a> "Rhymes with Diamonds" sighting but I didn't see him - oh well :) Maybe he's too rich & famous to work anymore?). They are just another testament to the greatness of the community of Penticton - ready to help, happy and smiling. So, a new tire & tube, and I was a much happier girl - thanks Bike Barn!<br />
<br />
So I have a functioning bike. I have a pair of shoes. And those are really the only pieces of triathlon equipment I own. I was very fortunate to borrow a wetsuit for this race from my friend <a href="http://jillcostantino.blogspot.ca/">Jill</a> who was super kind to lend me her wetsuit for the race (she took pity on me as I was a bit suspicious of the usefulness of my old (like, OLD) wetsuit that had a certain number of large-ish holes in it). So thank you Jill! And, as always, I am in a timeshare situation with a borrowed helmet from my friend Carolyn, who is the owner of the aero-helmet, but I use it most of the time. So thank you Carolyn, a terrific friend and lover of cats, who did a super job of cheering for me on Sunday! So I have the gear...it really does take a community to raise a child....or to equip a triathlete. Or sponsors :)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b>The race, or "Full gas"</b></u></div>
<u><br /></u>
<u><b>The swim, or "It was long....right?"</b></u><br />
<br />
Without a bit by bit bore you to tears breakdown, here are my thoughts in chronological order.<br />
<br />
"Holy crap, I'm standing beside Lisa Bentley"......"Oh, she's doing the relay, thank god".<br />
<br />
As a group of us girls are chatting, one woman asks "Do we even get a countdown"?....2 seconds later...HORN!<br />
<br />
(Me, to myself)<br />
<br />
"Swim hard, don't be scared"<br />
<br />
"Yes, there is a gap forming and you are behind it. Keep swimming hard, hold on"<br />
<br />
"All alone at 1/4 through the race. Ok. Empty your head. Negativity is useless. Keep swimming hard"<br />
<br />
"You have arms & legs, use them"<br />
<br />
"How far ahead am I from the helicopter overhead?" (signaling age grouper chase pack)<br />
<br />
"Hmmm....waves. These don't have a thing on Ironman St George - hahaha!"<br />
<br />
"Bacon....I smell bacon"<br />
<br />
"Ooh, the buoy is that way"<br />
<br />
"This woman in the pink cap is kicking my ass" (age groupers start 15 min back of the pro start - it's <a href="http://www.teamemc.com/">Susan Williams</a>, Athens Olympic Bronze medallist...oook then)<br />
<br />
"My arms feel like bacon"<br />
<br />
"I am done - and that was not a fast swim - this race is going to be tough"<br />
<br />
<u><b>The bike, or "Gabe kicks ass"</b></u><br />
<u><br /></u>
<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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_N_oMICWGMc/UEocUtrHjwI/AAAAAAAAA4w/N4fjTKjfH3I/s1600/484566_460686593971265_1393577328_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_N_oMICWGMc/UEocUtrHjwI/AAAAAAAAA4w/N4fjTKjfH3I/s400/484566_460686593971265_1393577328_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.davidmccolm.com/">David McColm Photography</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I have no other option on the bike than to cycle hard from the time I jump on my bike. My bike's name is <a href="http://rundriven.blogspot.ca/2012/06/gabe.html">Gabe</a>, and being on my bike holds a special place in my heart. I also know it's time to thrash myself on this thing, because it is my only option to get back in contention. But I can't panic. I just start flying.<br />
<br />
And flying is relative, but I am pushing as hard as I can (everything your coach told you not to do, likely). I actually am breathing incredibly hard, my legs are sort of solid cement things, I'm quite cold (it was cool that morning and I'm not a super warm person), and my helmet is semi-stuck on my hair braid in an awkward way. There is a camera in my face and I don't think I shy away from farmer blowing my nose. Classy. We'll see if that makes the cut.<br />
<br />
I pray for no tacks on the road, and once I'm through that section I breathe a sigh of relief. A frozen cold hyperventilating state is not a good state to change a tire. I am expecting more guys to be catching up to me but really, very few appear. A huge change from the massive packs of people that accompanied the ride out to Osoyoos last year. Something that likely interfered with the Carl Hansen vs. Gillian Clayton battle, and caused a crash on his end. Boo. But that's all part of the race. Nothing is exceptional and anything can happen. I think that if you know that, and it doesn't phase you, you are bound for success. (Carl finished a very successful debut IM in 10:04. I did however, thrash his time :) Sorry Carl, but <a href="http://www.chicked.com/">you.got.chicked</a> :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBOFYBg3TaU/UEosh-PVYVI/AAAAAAAAA6M/FRYuu4--_0k/s1600/CKDroundSticker.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBOFYBg3TaU/UEosh-PVYVI/AAAAAAAAA6M/FRYuu4--_0k/s200/CKDroundSticker.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
After that, all I do is work hard, I just pretend like there is no marathon and there is nothing to save. I start catching up to the other pro women by Richter's Pass and breathe a sign of relief. I'm back in this. But there is no time to relax because the gap to the front is huge. Someone shouts 13 min, someone shouts 15. Who knows, it's big, and there are good bikers at the front.<br />
<br />
There were a group of kids with Mom out on course (I didn't know them) but they were one of my best cheerers on the bike course. "Way to go, <a href="http://www.compressport.ca/estore/compressport-calf/10-compressport-r2-racerecovery.html">PINK SOCKS</a>" - was their cheer. I am a sucker for kids! I waved and smiled every time I could. There are farmers that come down to the side of the road with their families who watch and wave. It's so great...not to mention the hundreds of crazy fans that are out on the side of the hot hot road screaming and you and cheering you on. It's the best bike course I've ever ridden. Probably always will be.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BWwN6Ak8B4w/UEohKJOHgWI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/Hm9k7L_ZIM0/s1600/IMG_4873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BWwN6Ak8B4w/UEohKJOHgWI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/Hm9k7L_ZIM0/s400/IMG_4873.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The rest of the bike is a blur. My job is simple. Eat, drink, hurt legs. I feel as if I might fall off my bike going up around Yellow Lake. Thankfully there is a camera right there filming me dragging my carcass up the hill. It almost feels as if there is nothing between my hip socket and my knee joint, and poignantly pointed out by a man of the side of the road, I needed to "just sit and keep spinning". Perhaps he knew if I stood up at that point I'd fall over and he'd have to deal with me. (See #11 on the <a href="http://blog.rateyourburn.com/blog/post/2012/08/19/20-types-of-athletes-you-ll-see-at-an-ironman-race-from-a-first-time-spectator-1.aspx">'20 types of athletes you'll see at an Ironman race</a>')<br />
<br />
Unfortunately for me on the way into town, the cramp brigade starts. I have had minor leg cramps before but nothing too serious. As I'm biking along, I mostly just ignore because I know that when I get off and start running they'll be gone. For sure. All of a sudden I'm in T2 and three of us are in there together - what?? <br />
<br />
<b><u>The run, or "Chariots of (my legs are on) fire"</u></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KAVboL2wnjY/UEoaY4ImtTI/AAAAAAAAA4g/X8rg73tIf7g/s1600/imcrun2012+151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KAVboL2wnjY/UEoaY4ImtTI/AAAAAAAAA4g/X8rg73tIf7g/s400/imcrun2012+151.jpg" width="266" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KAVboL2wnjY/UEoaY4ImtTI/AAAAAAAAA4g/X8rg73tIf7g/s1600/imcrun2012+151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
Alrighty, what would a race report be without a little nitty gritty? This run wasn't short on drama.<br />
<br />
Steve King announces on us exiting T2 that there places 2nd through 6th are within 4 minutes of each other. First place is more than 18 minutes ahead. This, is exciting.<br />
<br />
One mile out. "I feel great". One mile and 1/4 out. "Oh....no". Stopped dead in my tracks. Bent over. Full leg cramp. Complete inability to run. There are 3 girls coming within a minute behind me. There is a camera in my face, if I'm lucky filming these super awkward stretch manoeuvres while I am hoping to release the spasm. I am pretending to be a physio and not an athlete. Nothing is releasing. Girls are coming. I am trying not to freak out.<br />
<br />
My heart is sinking. I'm not sure I can even walk. A friend shouts encouragement as he runs by. In my mind, there is no other option than to run on extremely uncomfortable legs. So I get going. It's a shuffle, but it's forward momentum. I just want to race. I just want to be in this. I know who I'm racing, I know the numbers, I just have to get my run back up to speed and then have to react to what needs to be done. 42.2 kilometres gives me time.<br />
<br />
I run up Main St - people are crazy cheering for everyone! It is so uplifting - and thankfully, distracting me from my awkward running form. I see my friends & family and it's a real comfort. They're there for me. They are what matters. I am going to do this. All along in my triathlon career, I have always relied on the run. This time, it's my new challenge. I catch up to my friend, Chris, who is so supportive and happy to see me back even though I'm slowly running by him. It was great not to be alone out there in that moment. You're never the best judge of yourself when you are under stress and a reassuring few words were so helpful. Thanks Chris!<br />
<br />
Finally by OK park I'm back into a rolling & steady running form. I am in a weird scenario though, where I can run and keep cadence high, but I can't push much with my legs or the flickers of cramps come back. So, momentum needs to be my friend. My form might actually be legal in race walking - but it's coming back to me.<br />
<br />
Eventually I'm relaxed on Eastside road. I am into 3rd, with a lead biker in front, and for what seems like endless (maybe 10) kilometres I run exactly the same splits behind Janelle Morrison. She looks fantastic - so great it's scary. I'm not sure how I'm going to do this, but it's the marathon, so you have time to think. And I think it's time to wait this out, to be more patient with myself than I have to be with my competitors, and believe in my legs, and more importantly, believe that I will do whatever it takes to win. And yes, the ice went in my pants. And no, I didn't suck the sponges.<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nLw2klWoT6A/UFAQbd9m4NI/AAAAAAAAA6o/JOs4J0krhAI/s1600/381071_359895200755462_728399821_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nLw2klWoT6A/UFAQbd9m4NI/AAAAAAAAA6o/JOs4J0krhAI/s400/381071_359895200755462_728399821_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.321photos.ca/">321 Photos by Mark Bates</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
At the turnaround, there are 3 of us (1st through 3rd) within maybe 25 metres of each other? Okanagan Falls turnaround point was an exciting place to be on race day! All of a sudden there is a car in front of me. What? Oh, it says 'Lead Female'. This is surreal. And girls were driving it - awesome!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U2OOuCbhJgk/UEodaVrALZI/AAAAAAAAA44/yRfASGMs098/s1600/IMG_4934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U2OOuCbhJgk/UEodaVrALZI/AAAAAAAAA44/yRfASGMs098/s400/IMG_4934.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I won't go on to describe searing pain and brutal mental toughness from here on, because from here, everything just became very quiet (not literally - people were cheering like crazy for a chick behind a car!) but in my mind, it was simplified. Time to push. I wasn't scared. I was confident, but it's a hard thing to accept. I'm in 1st place with 21.1kms to go. Usually I get to this point on the run and think, "you're a runner, you can do this", but today I was thinking, "you are a triathlete, and you can do this". It's a small switch, but a powerful one. I've raced in races before where I look at the lead females coming through and they don't look like beautiful runners, but they are going fast and they are winning. So previously as a runner with a triathlon complex, I both judged and was jealous of their position, their abilities. And today I was realizing, it doesn't matter if you're pretty. You're winning.<br />
<br />
Pretty doesn't win races. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OxwDBHfWvo0/UEok9yGb9AI/AAAAAAAAA5w/vaG8q31juEE/s1600/IMG_4941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OxwDBHfWvo0/UEok9yGb9AI/AAAAAAAAA5w/vaG8q31juEE/s400/IMG_4941.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
(Editors note: although pretty doesn't win races, I do think pretty can win hearts :) which I believe I make up for in the outfit department - so a huge thanks to <a href="http://www.aquadivaswimwear.com.au/">Aquadiva Swimwear</a> and <a href="http://www.compressport.ca/">Compressport Canada </a>for the keeping me in outrageous pink and green apparel!)<br />
<br />
By the time I got up the slow grade hill and into Penticton city, people started to say, "You're going to WIN an IRONMAN". Woah. That was a scary thought to take in, and I really couldn't. My job is run to the line, but then more and more people, people I know - looked maybe a bit shocked but so happy to see me as the person running behind the 'lead female' Subaru. Did things hurt? Probably, could I pay attention to them? Nope. The crowd is going nuts. I just keep eating ice chips, throwing the odd cola cup generally onto my face and probably not much in my mouth, and running on. I'm reminded to enjoy this, and I'm starting to let a little of that in. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmMvpynBSUU/UEojs7q57mI/AAAAAAAAA5o/8SxJpdSyJes/s1600/imcrun2012+504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmMvpynBSUU/UEojs7q57mI/AAAAAAAAA5o/8SxJpdSyJes/s320/imcrun2012+504.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
You turn onto Lakeshore Drive. The crowd is deafening. I really like this section of the course, but today, I am in LOVE with it. Everyone is so happy! Kids are high fiving! A smile is starting to come out on my face, and I couldn't stop it even if I wanted to. And through the noise I finally start to hear Steve King's voice. This getting hard even to write!<br />
<br />
The last minute is not something that I can really put into words. It is an experience that I will have for my entire life. Some days are hard work, hard luck, hardness of yourself upon yourself. A lot of people have said to me, "it must justify all the hard work". I realized when they said that I had no feelings of satisfaction in that sense. I like the hard work. That is why I do what I do, why I train like I train. I love it. So to me, winning this race was the proverbial icing on the cake. It transcends justification or reward. It goes beyond that, and I don't have a word for it. So you'll have to take my other 'words' for it. <br />
<br />
It's simply the best feeling a girl could ask for.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vYt0sb7DoRU/UEofGC1m17I/AAAAAAAAA5I/q8C2GDT6LQg/s1600/A1Qu8xFCUAAuB2W.jpg-large.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vYt0sb7DoRU/UEofGC1m17I/AAAAAAAAA5I/q8C2GDT6LQg/s400/A1Qu8xFCUAAuB2W.jpg-large.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
And that's that.<br />
<br />
A huge thank you to the people closest to me in my life, because you are the reason I have been able to push my limits way beyond what I thought possible. Life doesn't always go according to plans, and I'm sure glad that I somehow got mixed up in triathlon and have had the support ever since to go out and learn so much about myself I never thought possible. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yh06IChCmzo/UEoiBDMtOCI/AAAAAAAAA5g/m7-hapT7rLI/s1600/IMG_4979.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yh06IChCmzo/UEoiBDMtOCI/AAAAAAAAA5g/m7-hapT7rLI/s400/IMG_4979.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Thank you for reading this and to all of those who have supported me along the way, big hugs and many thank you's!<br />
<br />
What a day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LE6ohkZw6Vw/UEoehnwa6wI/AAAAAAAAA5A/T6JH6eLA8j4/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-08-28+at+7.25.58+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LE6ohkZw6Vw/UEoehnwa6wI/AAAAAAAAA5A/T6JH6eLA8j4/s400/Screen+shot+2012-08-28+at+7.25.58+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And a thank you to my sponsors for this race~<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.aquadivaswimwear.com.au/">Aquadiva Swimwear</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.compressport.ca/">Compressport Canada</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.pacificmultisport.ca/">Pacific Multisport</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.chicked.com/">You Got Chicked</a><br />
<a href="http://www.themassagetherapyclinic.ca/"><br /></a>
<a href="http://www.themassagetherapyclinic.ca/">The Massage Therapy Clinic at the UBC Aquatic Centre</a><br />
<br />
The coaches - Jerry & Jeremy<br />
<br />
Swim help (I need lots) - Nathan<br />
<br />
Wetsuit - Jill<br />
<br />
Helmet - The Catlady<br />
<br />
Everything else - Shawn<br />
<br />gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-85741624443924340322012-08-31T08:48:00.000-07:002012-08-31T08:48:01.423-07:00Speech, Speech!<br />
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Some of you have asked to read what I wrote for my speech for Ironman Canada 2012. So here it is. I think I stuck mostly to the script as I was talking, but as I was up on stage in front of quite a few people, I was nervous and undoubtably rambled a bit, but this was my message for the day.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> __________________________________________________</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Times; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">IRONMAN CANADA 2012 VICTORY SPEECH</span></div>
<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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c1Jxjq7eqxY/UEDbFg8AURI/AAAAAAAAA3o/iYb3vezUm5c/s1600/206027_460686607304597_1447774937_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c1Jxjq7eqxY/UEDbFg8AURI/AAAAAAAAA3o/iYb3vezUm5c/s400/206027_460686607304597_1447774937_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photography by <a href="http://www.davidmccolm.com/">david mccolm</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Times; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Thank you! Thank you to everyone involved in yesterday's race. Thank you to my friends and family and everyone that has supported me leading up to this event. Wow!</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Thank you and congratulations to my inspiring competitors up on stage with me today - I couldn't have worked this hard without them pushing me all the way - so to everyone up here, a huge thanks to you.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And whatever they are putting in the water in Denver, they should probably keep on doing it. A very special congratulations to your 2012 women’s amateur champion, Kendra Lee. I was the amateur women’s champion last year, and although I was quite pleased to have finished 5<sup>th</sup> overall fastest time in 2011, this lady has certainly blown it out of the water this year with your overall women’s fastest time. So, congratulations Kendra on your amazing race yesterday. </span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Yesterday was the first day I felt I accomplished what it meant to be a triathlete. This is my 3<sup>rd</sup> year in the sport so the learning curve has been steep. I still don’t know where you buy salt pills and I refuse to have a bike computer. In previous races, I have muddled through swims and cruised through bikes, all to end up very fresh on the run course. As I learned more about what I could do, and what was expected of top level athletes in this sport, I realized that it is a push from start to finish in this race called triathlon. I had tried in races past but often fell short of what I wanted, which, was to give the race everything I had. </span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Knowing I was far behind the swim pack and all on my own, my brain had a lot of chatter, and some of it negative. I learned to swim just over 3 years ago, and yesterday was the first day I was able to push all through 3.8kms of swim and I have never been more proud for doing so. I have to say though, to the people who were cooking bacon on their houseboats out there, that was a small bit of torture. And I’m a vegetarian. I'm not sure we want to back on the water next year or not.....maybe we do :)</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The bike course is ravishingly beautiful and just as ravishingly tough. Whatever you give with your legs on this course, also seems to be taken away from them somewhere between the Yellow Lake climb and that sweet moment you know you’re in for the big descent. Again, my only goal was to push from the minute I got on my bike, and man, is that tough. I have never focused so much on keeping my legs going around in a circle. At times, I was not convinced that I would make it up those last few hills because my legs now felt like some type of swiss cheese / cement hybrid variety.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The run is always my favourite but as I said I usually arrive feeling fresh and full of hope. I made it out the first mile and then promptly came to a dead halt. The dreaded multi muscle full leg cramp. And then it started to dawn on me, this is what it means to be a triathlete. This is one continuum of 3 different events that really are just one event. So I stood there, bent over, stretching, thinking I might not even be able to finish this race. My favourite race. I had to finish. So, I started moving forward, as many of you did yesterday, in the best way I could, but certainly not in the way I had planned. I ran on eggshells for 40 kms, worried that one misstep would snap my legs in some Cirque du Soliel maneuver and have me rolling into the ditch on Eastside road.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But I made it. And I made it because of the support of dedicated roadside fans, other racers, total strangers, and my friends and family. People who are racing and suffering that still manage to scream encouragement at me as I go by - I am in awe of these people. What you said meant the world to me. </span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">There is no better finish line than the finish ‘lap’ along Lakeshore Drive in Penticton. I have raced in Hawaii and although it was wonderful, there is nothing like coming home to Penticton, and hearing Steve King’s voice on the microphone, calling you in.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And I am very proud to say I have finally figured out what it means to be a triathlete, and thankfully it feels pretty wonderful, because it is balancing out how not wonderful my body feels right now.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So Penticton, I thank you, as I have just been given one of the happiest moments of my life. You are a gem and will always be. </span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Thank you and congratulations to all competitors, volunteers and community supporters of this year’s 2012 Ironman Canada.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> ______________________________________________________</span></div>
gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-60072902115221752812012-08-29T16:52:00.003-07:002012-08-29T18:10:39.484-07:00Ladies and gentlemen, hold your horses!I just wanted to say a race report is coming and thanks very much for your patience! I've been completely overwhelmed by all the support and congratulations and will happily get down to writing my Ironman Canada race recap on the weekend! You can take a peek at a pre-race interview here:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QufjUS_oKqg&feature=autoplay&list=UUHfQ233uYya-6mXexXA5TtA&playnext=1">Pre race Ironman Canada interview with Shaw TV</a><br />
<br />
And a quick video race recap here:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G0bW_lxPcws&list=UUHfQ233uYya-6mXexXA5TtA&index=1&feature=plcp">Ironman Canada 2012 Wrap video</a><br />
<br />
Stay tuned!<br />
<br />gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-62816396053674398242012-08-16T21:35:00.001-07:002012-08-17T15:07:24.889-07:0038 things you should know about Ironman CanadaWhy 38 reasons? Well, I'm number 38 this year, so it just seemed like the right thing to do!<br />
<br />
1. Ironically, I think it was 38 C last year. It also hailed for 38 minutes the year before. Be prepared to not be prepared for weather.<br />
<br />
2. The swim is straight and easy. The water is warm. There are two huge targets to swim to, one mountain on the out, one solitary tall hotel on the return.<br />
<br />
3. There may be scuba divers in the water around the big buoy turns - they're friendly and might be waving. Do not freak out these are nice people :)<br />
<br />
4. Rumours are true - tacks are often thrown out on course in the morning in the section after Maclean Creek hill to the highway stretch to Oosoyos. I saw a lot of age groupers with flats in this section last year, but not as much the year before, so it can vary. This is really unfortunate but try to stick to some heads up riding and scan the road for debris and avoid it. You shouldn't have your head down into MC Hammertime yet anyways. This is one of the most beautiful sections of the course.<br />
<br />
5. You need to feed yourself on the hills of the bike course. Don't wait to eat because the hills can go on for much longer than a food/drink interval should be. <br />
<br />
6. This out-and-back section that you do in Cawston is not the mind f#%^ everyone says it is. It's actually a lovely place to cycle, and you get to make some turns, which is nice after riding straight for most of the course. You get to stretch out a bit, grab your special needs, and break up the last section of the course.<br />
<br />
7. There will be a guy with a 'smile if you peed your pants today' sign. Always smile :)<br />
<br />
8. Get excited for the climb up to Yellow Lake. People surround you both sides Tour de France style. It is such a boost. Smile and show your thanks for all these awesome friends and family of Ironman Canada. They love to make people happy!<br />
<br />
9. The last 20k of the ride is all essentially downhill. If you need anything nutrition wise, make sure you know where the last aid station is before the descent. After that you're on your own, and I think the last 20k is a good place to get in an extra gel, and some extra fluids.<br />
<br />
10. The race has wetsuit strippers and transition at IMC is one of the most simple, straightforward, and comfortable transitions I've seen. Take a walk through with one of the volunteers and ask them how it works, they're always happy to help.<br />
<br />
11. Please wear sunscreen for this race. It is often full sun all day and there is almost no shade on this course for the entire day. There have always been sunscreen smotherers out of T1 in my experience. Just shout for sunscreen and they'll come slathering :)<br />
<br />
12. If you get a chance to meet the announcer, Steve King. Say hi. He is a fantastically devoted person to our sport and unbelievably positive and a true force of endurance on race day. He is the first voice you'll hear on race morning and also your last as you cross the line. His voice is a total comfort to me during race day.<br />
<br />
13. The run has a great combo of flats and climbs. The middle 'half' of the race is quite technical (in other words, hilly), but it gives you little goals to get up and over, and I think that helps. Your last 10k is basically a gentle uphill for about half of it and then downhill all the way to the end.<br />
<br />
14. There have been some complaints that the back half of the run course is quiet. It's true, it is. But it's a good time for you to just focus on what you're doing and keep up the pace. If you're working hard, you won't be able to do much sightseeing for fans anyways. But don't worry, you'll get a great boost at the OK falls turnaround - plus your special needs bag - and lots of cheers!<br />
<br />
15. There is one exception out on the 'quiet' part of the run course - for anyone who raced last year they may remember the very attractive dancing girls on the boat? Simply awesome! I think a few guys were tempted to jump into the lake and go party with the girls, but I have to say, their spirit was contagious and we all loved it. Hope you're there this year ladies!! And maybe you can bring some dancing men as well :) Just sayin'....<br />
<br />
16. If it's hot (it likely will be), I have 6 words of advice: "The ice goes in your pants".<br />
<br />
17. If you're thristy (likely you will be), I have another 4 words of advice: "Don't suck the sponges".<br />
<br />
18. Thinking back to the bike, don't get caught up in racing towards Osooyos (the start of the first climb - Richters' Pass). People tend to derby right out of the gate and guaranteed you will be saying hello to these people before they ever get to Keremeos. (the 2/3 mark).<br />
<br />
19. Wave at the kids. There are kids all over this course cheering you on. If they are looking for high fives, give 'em some. It's a long day and they are out there hoping to make your day better. It is worth the extra 3 steps to the side. And it's a good stretch for your pecs. The kids will go crazy!<br />
<br />
20. The creativity that goes into the signs people will hold up on the run course are priceless. Make sure you take a look.<br />
<br />
21. Go to the carbo dinner. The food is good, there is lots of it, they manage the line ups very well, and it is so inspiring to listen to Steve King talk about the history of the race. Watch out for the Dickheads. You'll see what I mean.<br />
<br />
22. If you didn't already know, this is the 30th anniversary of Ironman Canada and this is a big deal to the community that has supported it for 30 years. It really is the community that makes this race. It's their land, their water, their hands holding the cups of ice for you. I feel honoured to be a part of it. I hope you do too.<br />
<br />
23. If you see a tall bald guy with #745 on his bib, I'm really, really trying to beat him this year. I want a fair race, but I wouldn't be adverse to you stealing his ice cups. His name is Carl. He is my Ironman nemesis.<br />
<br />
24. Be an honest racer. Don't draft. Even if you see other people doing it. Don't do it. Stay true to everything you trained for for the past year.<br />
<br />
25. If you swim 1:05 or faster, please start as close to the front as you can take. I was around a 1:05 swimmer last year and I made the mistake of starting in the middle. I swam into slower people in front of me, and then got swam over (yes, literally) by people charging up from behind. Bad scene. I just needed to be more confident and stand up front. <br />
<br />
26. If you are slower or nervous, start on the sides. There is lots of room out there to escape and take a breather if you need. I am still uncomfortable in the water at times and a 'pro', so don't beat yourself up about feeling nervous about this swim. It's ok. You'll be ok too. And you'll get a a rip roaring draft to suck you all the way around the course - you will do great! Just be nice to your neighbours and they will likely be nice to you too. And if you get bonked, laugh and roll on. My best races have started with a punch to the face. <br />
<br />
27. This is a hot and hilly course, usually with lots of wind. So you will get sucked dry of fluids pretty quickly because sweat will evaporate quickly. Drink early and as often as you need, and like I said, you will have to drink on some uphills and some downs. <br />
<br />
28. Other people in the race are always ready to share a few words of commiseration with you when you need it the most. Encourage them and they'll do the same. You can get pretty self involved when you're hurting and focusing on yourself. There have been a few guys out there who have made me break out into laughter and for me, it totally helps 'reset' a runner ticker of sometimes negative thoughts.<br />
<br />
29. You have to run past the finish line before you run to it! Some people hate it - I love it! The road is packed full of cheer-ers, the lake is right there, it's maybe the best finish line I've run across. And Steve King will be there, calling you home. <br />
<br />
30. You're going to do better than you think you will. This course is tough, but even more so, it's rewarding. Ironman is so much more mental than physical, and this course is a gift to you in the spirit department.<br />
<br />
31. The descents down the backsides of the climbs are fast, but they are also straight and safe. Give your fellow bikers a little extra space when you're zooming along at 80km/h. You don't want to be surprised by a rogue bottle launch. Oh, and don't be the dork that passed me on the right hand side last year.<br />
<br />
32. This year I am putting an emergency pair of cut off tube socks that might double as arm warmers in my special needs bag for situations like said hail storm in point #1.<br />
<br />
33. Penticton is home to the best peaches I have ever tasted in my life. Buy a whole box. I am generally fuelled by race day by about 10 lbs of peaches.<br />
<br />
34. Same goes for the wine - a little wine tasting before your race is not going to throw you off your game. It's a lovely way to relax and spend time with the people that support you. You should perhaps consider buying them a bottle of wine :) or two :)<br />
<br />
35. There are some serious downhill sections on the run. Don't brake, just lean forward, look downhill, and spin your legs quickly down the hills, it will be good for your cadence & will wake your legs up a bit.<br />
<br />
36. If you like solid food in your special needs bag, pack a couple completely different options, you never know what you might want. And put a CO2 cartridge and a tube in there too, just in case.<br />
<br />
37. Once you reach the Cherry Lane Shopping centre area of the run home, it's time to give it everything you've got. I don't know how far it is, maybe 5km, maybe less, but it's time to push.<br />
<br />
38. Have fun. This will be one of the greatest races you'll ever do. There will be patches where you'll feel desperate, a bit raw, maybe frustrated, but you'll make it through. When I did my first Ironman, which was IMC, by the time I hit the end of the lake section of the run I teared up a bit, because I knew the race was coming to an end. I didn't want it to be over, after dreaming about it for a year. But then, when I stepped over the finish line, I was proud to stop and smile and throw my arms over the army of catchers at the finish line. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have. After going to Kona last year, if you gave me the choice of one one Ironman to pick between the two, it would be Ironman Canada. <br />
<br />
It will always be Ironman Canada.<br />
<br />
I can't wait to race at home :)<br />
<br />
xo<br />
gillian<br />
<br />gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7364806110310764684.post-64423836258406714072012-07-18T14:25:00.003-07:002012-07-18T14:25:55.530-07:001/2 + 70.3 = Racing is training, or "The Pert Plus: Vancouver 1/2 Iron Lake Stevens 70.3 Race Report"Please, you know why Pert Plus. <br />
<br />
Firstly, it's a 2-in-1.<br />
Secondly, it was promoted by Curt Harnett. Any excuse to write about Curt Harnett I will take in a heartbeat.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0H6p2-s68QU/UAY603Y43DI/AAAAAAAAA2w/jJz3hYG0Vq8/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-07-17+at+9.24.52+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="393" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0H6p2-s68QU/UAY603Y43DI/AAAAAAAAA2w/jJz3hYG0Vq8/s400/Screen+shot+2012-07-17+at+9.24.52+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Oh my. I just went there. Anyways, back to me.<br />
<br />
4 weeks.<br />
3 races.<br />
2 more big races to go.<br />
1 day until I leave the country.<br />
<br />
And not surprisingly, I'm feeling a little tired.<br />
<br />
But in race reports, as I try to be in actual racing, I am tenacious, and I can't let 2 races go by without reports! The horror! <br />
<br />
This is a 2 part-er. Part I: Subaru Vancouver 1/2 Iron and Part II: Ironman Lake Stevens 70.3.<br />
<br />
The common thread to both of them is that these were both races that I decided on jumping into even though they weren't part of my original plan. Sometimes you can plan like crazy and nothing will go your way. Sometimes you open up and try something new and it works out beautifully.<br />
<br />
I believe Lake Stevens 70.3 is officially my 10th triathlon. For me, in the 3 years I have been doing triathlon, I maybe managed 3 or 4 triathlons a year. That was a max for me, that required a lot of preparation in both physical and mental capacities, and recovery took it's sweet time as well. The learning curve has been steep and it takes a toll. I think the reason I was able to do well last year was not because I trained hard, but I had lots of recovery time. Now that I am no longer terrified of doing a triathlon (that went away somewhere around #5), I'm finding that it is possible to pop into a race and have fun doing it, regardless of the result.<br />
<br />
It really helps when the results are good though. So, without adieu.<br />
<br />
(There are photos but I have no time to upload them - sooo look forward to those sometime in August! Oh the suspense...I know :)<br />
<u><br /></u><br />
<u>Subaru Vancouver 1/2 Ironman Race Report:</u><br />
<br />
Very important to note if you didn't already know. This was a rematch race against my friend Carl. I beat him last year. But this guy has been training, I think in secret, around Pacific Spirit Park at some ninja time under cover and maybe under an assumed name. <br />
<br />
Wow ok back to my race - this was a whole 9 days ago now - and feels like a long time too. <br />
<br />
The long and short is that this race is great. I hop on my Nishiki Rally at 5am and zip over to Jericho, my home beach. I am #8, which is also my birthday. Bonus bonus.<br />
<br />
I get to do a mass run in start for the ocean swim, and almost think it's fun until I start hyperventilating and am constantly worried about getting sunk by some middle age man on 6am red bulls.<br />
<br />
I did the swim in ~30 min. This for me is great. But as usual, I am last off the pro racks. I'm actually getting used to the sight of it, and whereas it might get a few people down, it just makes me want to chase. It's always easy to find your bike when it's the only one....<br />
<br />
My plan for this race was to bike hard. I'm always learning that I can do something better than I thought I could. In this instance it was biking. So I biked my little legs into the ground - and I went as fast as I ever have. But man, biking hard is HARD! Hope my quad & hamzillas grew a little bigger for my efforts that day. I biked 2:24 (I think, going from memory). Carl biked 6 min faster. The death of me...<br />
<br />
The bonus of biking hard - it really made the run feel easy. I thought I would actually fall over all wobbly legged like the fainting goats, but alas - I could run - and it felt great! I ran a 1:20:something for 20km, mostly on gravel or trail - so I was pretty happy with that!<br />
<br />
But I had been passed by Carl on the bike, at a devastating pace - and I knew he would have to have some type of spectacular man-cramp for me to pass him. So I tried, but I fell 3 minutes short of absolute glory. <br />
<br />
I did, however, win the women's race! I have never won a triathlon race before - so this was quite fun :) I was up against some great ladies who did not just a 1/2 Ironman 2 weeks ago (as I had) but a Full Ironman. Amazing! Can't say I would have had the guts to race 2 weeks later.<br />
<br />
So surrounded by friends and family and new faces to meet and greet, the Vancouver 1/2 was a great race - the race directors and sponsors did a great job to put this race together, help it run smoothly, and make it fun!<br />
<br />
Now...the week after looks like this. "KEEP GOING you are not done yet". Off to the pool. Workouts are slow and I hope the lifeguards aren't wondering what happened to this girl who was swimming fast last week. I get short of breath going up stairs. Commuting on my Nishiki is a workout. And I'm going to go race again in 6 more days. And cue the next...<br />
<u><br /></u><br />
<u>Ironman Lake Stevens 70.3 Race Report</u><br />
<u><br /></u><br />
Whewf. Here we go again. Do a swim workout on Friday before leaving where my arms may actually fall off and I can't feel my fingers (oxygen debt, or maybe hysteria). Confidence, ironically, is untouched. I just feel tired. Start eating like a fat kid at the food court, hoping that will help. I am not scared of racing. Racing is like training now, just doing all the workouts in one fell swoop rather than spacing them out. In fact, I have no time to get nervous. Miranda Carfrae is racing, and that is exciting! <br />
<br />
So luckily for us, Lake Stevens is about 2ish hours away, and seeing as we are proud Westfalia owners, naturally we sleep in our car for this event. Night one is Marysville Walmart (they actually do want you to camp there - we are not hippie poacher campers (usually)). When I have time I will show you the sweet picture of the 'Whisper Chipper' we slept beside. That wasn't creepy at all....<br />
<br />
Crazy thunder and lightning accompanied us all the way down on our drive. Hmm. Surely it wouldn't be bad weather for the race seeing as the forecast was golden all weekend. (Haha - suckers). We check out Lake Stevens, a cute little Pacific Northwest town, and I am reassured by the swim temp in the lake - gorgeous - and then I wonder if it will be wetsuit cut off temp. Don't mind either way, as my wetsuit still has holes in it and I haven't got a new one yet. Maybe non wetsuit is better for me at this point?<br />
<br />
Fast forward to race day (after night #2 in the van with a reasonably bad sleep - but aren't they all pre-race?). I wake up to dry skies, but I don't see any stars. Hm. Then as we are readying to get wetsuits on, little sprinkles come down. Hmm again. Our westy is parked right at transition (so convenient), so I get dressed in there. Down to the race start, mill about with nervous people, stare at the looming grey skies, and focus on working on another swim start practice. Aka, practice not freaking out. I actually like swimming, but haven't yet gotten used to the start - it just induces some massive adrenaline spike in my body and it's hard to settle in after that - the 2nd half of all of my swim are so enjoyable and fun - the first half is a total battle. That is why although I'm not the world's fastest swimmer, I totally favour a long course. More time to swim after the race start freak out period.<br />
<br />
This swim is great and as you likely know, a white cable runs the course under the buoys so you don't ever have to lift you head to sight, should you chose not to. The water was lovely warm, and as calm as any water I've been in this year. Clouds also meant no glare - so, hooray for clouds (for now). Out of the water last (no biggie) but much closer to my competition than the last few times I've raced (yes!).<br />
<br />
Everyone wants to know about this bike - it really is beautiful - even in the mist and rain, and then driving rain, for a while, I was enjoying the serene beauty of the course. I love hills (the uphills) so I was also a big fan of this course. Now, the fact it was raining and I got increasingly cold and then decided above all else that I would brake down ALL the hills and stay safe, loosing likely a great deal of speed - not as great, but, I would have rather lost 3 minutes there than end my season somewhere on the pavement in Washington state. And hydration? Heck, just open your mouth and fait accompli :) I had visions of the turkeys that drown themselves by tilting their head back and drinking until they drown. I am thankfully, at the very least, smarter than a turkey.<br />
<br />
Due to the technicalities of the downhill and the rain on course, I witnessed some pretty big risk taking by the AG men that had passed me (pros had a staggered headstart). I had to do some pretty fancy bike manoeuvring while descending down a windy right hand turn, to not crash into the man that was sliding 20+m on his backside with his bike over his head. Ouch. The sign did say "Caution"......but to be fair, sometimes you couldn't judge just how slow you needed to go in order not to crash. I had one near miss on an off-banked turn in the first 20 miles and from there on in, I knew this was no joke. Slow down or crash was basically your choice. I caught up to Beth Walsh and it was nice to have some company out there, even though we both had faster and slower sections, it's just nice to not be alone. In the rain. When you're cold. And for me, tired.<br />
<br />
As the phrase goes, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all". So this was a quiet ride for me. All I could say to myself in my head was "you are always rewarded for hard work". That is a given. And it's true. No matter, what, in some shape or form, you are always rewarded for hard work.<br />
<br />
As expected, frozen solid feet and hands coming off the bike made for a slow transition and I sat down to brush off whatever could have been on my feet from the T2 run. I wouldn't know - I couldn't feel them. So up and running I felt better - I knew I would warm up and I knew I liked running. As we had been together for the past hour or so, Beth was right with me and we took off together - so nice to have someone fast to run with and push you - and share the same desire to run people down. So, off we went!<br />
<br />
Racing for me, takes a lot of patience. So, a lot of biding your time while trying to click off 6:30 miles was the name of the game. I liked that as I started my first loop, men's Pro Tim O'Donnell was going onto his second. So I got to run right behind him and actually stayed with him for a good section (maybe 2 miles? maybe less, maybe I was hallucinating :), but that was a good indicator to me that I was running ok). I like the run course, and especially like the 2nd section out and back up Lakeshore Drive as it's pretty and I am always a fan of running hills - up or down!<br />
<br />
I had bridged up to 5th place by about mile 8 I think. Then at the bottom of the Lakeshore hill, I knew I was about 5 min back of 4th. Hmmph. To make up 5 minutes in 3 miles is no easy task. I am running against pro ladies who know how to run. All the same, I plugged away anyways to see what I could do. There are always bonks. There are always cramps. Bathroom disasters? A few good pukes could slow someone down by 3 minutes. So anything can happen. So you just keep going.<br />
<br />
Then I was at the turn around and saw how close the #6 girl (Beth) still was. Rats. So I did all I could to push up the hill (I consider going uphill at 6:30pace a 'push' at the end of a 1/2 IM). Then I continued to run scared on the downhill. And around the corner. And up the ramp. Then I shoulder checked and almost fell down. But I finished 5th. And boy, was I glad to be done.<br />
<br />
This was not pretty, nor easy, but it was great in it's own way. I was glad to be reassured after finishing that this wasn't the easiest day on the circuit and that I wasn't the only one that was ready to whine and complain a little :) I did feel for new friends I have met that had crashed (poor Jared!) and people that stayed upright but froze in the rain just as I did and looked just as cold as me at the finish line (Donovan). <br />
<br />
So, 2 races in 2 weeks is a bit tiring - but doable. I don't know how some of these people do 2 Ironman's in 2 weeks though - nutso! (I mean that in the nicest way). But I was happy with the result, considering I really wasn't planning on doing either, and came out with great experience from both. (and finally made double digits in triathlon races completed!)<br />
<br />
Now (literally almost now) it's off to Spain for the ITU Long Distance World Championship Elite race. We'll be travelling from Barcelona, Southern France and Northern Spain to Vitoria for the race on July 29. Then for fun we'll pop over to watch some Olympics in London - why not :) We're very excited and although my life really seems like a vacation (well, some days...) most of the time, it really is fun to be going on a big time vacation!<br />
<br />
So without adieu, I really must get my butt in gear and get going.<br />
<br />
A big thanks to so many who have supported me through these last few races, including Aquadiva Swimwear, Compressport Canada, Pacific Multisport, GOTRIbal, You Got Chicked, The Massage Therapy Clinic at UBC Aquatic Centre, H20 Audio, Nathan Skirrow for the swim coaching, and coaches Jerry and Jeremy of VanRunning! You're all great!<br />
<br />
Ok - ole!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />gillian claytonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06811478795951989684noreply@blogger.com2