Design
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 12:18 PM
Learn Me on Triathlons

So I'm thinking of getting involved in my first triathlon this Summer. Nothing crazy, just a Sprint. I'm trying to see who here has participated and any sites/articles where I could learn more.

I'm not sure if this is something I want to do long term; but I want to try at least once. For the So Cal guys, any place you recommend for a basic bike & helmet rental?



CN: Need some good references to learn more about this crazy sport. Thanks!!

**DONOTDELETE**
()
02/06/14 01:15 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Fuck swimming.

2000SiRacer
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 01:24 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

 Originally Posted By: swirlyS13drifta
Fuck swimming.



and spandex. and clipped shoes. and $2,000+ bikes. and road running. and $750 reg fees. and…

oh, and IB4Chris

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 01:31 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons



This one only costs about $75. What has me worried is the equipment "rental."

2000SiRacer
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 01:36 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

I'm just a simple man with simple tastes. Training for three sports and buying all the equipment for the bike section only to get out there and compete in silence? Pass and a half, bro.

But some people love that sorta thing - so you do you and report back on how it goes!

EDIT: a couple weeks ago there was an indoor triathlon at the hot springs (pool laps outside, then indoor bike trainer and treadmill) and I had to wait 20 minutes for a treadmill. I may still be bitter.

Euphoricuck
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 01:57 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

just go and do it.
if you suck at swimming you better work on dat

gamby
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 02:12 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

 Originally Posted By: 2000SiRacer
EDIT: a couple weeks ago there was an indoor triathlon at the hot springs (pool laps outside, then indoor bike trainer and treadmill) and I had to wait 20 minutes for a treadmill. I may still be bitter.


I think I'd try that for shits and giggles. \:\)

The equipment part is the appealing part! Life is more interesting with gear!

I'd wonder about the practicality of bike rental, as you'd likely want to be pretty well-acquainted with the characteristics of the bike you're racing on. You'd also need a bike to train on. I dunno...

That said--ib4 Mr. Mom.

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 02:22 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

For a Sprint I'd probably train at the gym. I've done bike but I'd probably want to do a couple runs outdoors to see how it compares to the stationary. It's in July. Wouldn't go for time; just finish and see if I like it.

Indoor sounds like fun too.

2000SiRacer
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 02:28 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

 Originally Posted By: g@mby
 Originally Posted By: 2000SiRacer
EDIT: a couple weeks ago there was an indoor triathlon at the hot springs (pool laps outside, then indoor bike trainer and treadmill) and I had to wait 20 minutes for a treadmill. I may still be bitter.


I think I'd try that for shits and giggles. \:\)

The equipment part is the appealing part! Life is more interesting with gear!

I'd wonder about the practicality of bike rental, as you'd likely want to be pretty well-acquainted with the characteristics of the bike you're racing on. You'd also need a bike to train on. I dunno...

That said--ib4 Mr. Mom.


False! The almost complete lack of gear in ultras is very appealing to me. I saw how the whole "spend more money, get better results" thing works in photography and avoid biking largely for the similarities there.

Euphoricuck
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 02:56 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

well you can do it without getting caught up in the consumerism aspect.

a moron noob who drops 10k on a bike could do the exact same thing on a used $500 bike or entry 1k bike. (or if lucky borrow from a friend)

2000SiRacer
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 03:04 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

 Originally Posted By: Euphoric
well you can do it without getting caught up in the consumerism aspect.


True, but I know myself well enough to know that wouldn't work. If I could spend lots of money for better performance at races now I 100% would. I love that I don't even have the option \:D

gamby
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 03:34 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

 Originally Posted By: 2000SiRacer
 Originally Posted By: g@mby
 Originally Posted By: 2000SiRacer
EDIT: a couple weeks ago there was an indoor triathlon at the hot springs (pool laps outside, then indoor bike trainer and treadmill) and I had to wait 20 minutes for a treadmill. I may still be bitter.


I think I'd try that for shits and giggles. \:\)

The equipment part is the appealing part! Life is more interesting with gear!

I'd wonder about the practicality of bike rental, as you'd likely want to be pretty well-acquainted with the characteristics of the bike you're racing on. You'd also need a bike to train on. I dunno...

That said--ib4 Mr. Mom.


False! The almost complete lack of gear in ultras is very appealing to me. I saw how the whole "spend more money, get better results" thing works in photography and avoid biking largely for the similarities there.


For me, bikes are like cars in terms of being able to mod/fuck around with them. Thus the appeal to me. Plus, I'm a 100% better bike mechanic than I am a car mechanic.

That said, I probably only have $2k into my "main" bike (never mind the three others ) I agree with Euphoric tho--a decent road bike can be had on CL for $500. Then you could train on it and get used being on it.

I think my hangup in this is you not getting miles/experience in on the bike you'll be racing on. I'm very much in tune with everything my bike does.

That said, Mr. Mom did an Ironman while training on a trainer for the bike leg (granted, it was still on his bike).

The buy-in is pricey, but then you'd have the gear for when you (inevitably) get into the sport. \:\)

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 03:48 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

You guys suck. This whole modding thing seems addictive. I have a family to support dammit!!

Sir Ironpool
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 04:02 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

You should totally do it Kent! Which race are you thinking of doing?

For your first sprint you can get away with any kind of bike really. Mountain bike, old road bike, hell, even a beach cruiser. \:D The distance is short enough that you can get to through it without anything too fast or expensive. If you find you like the sport, then you can tumble headlong into the abyss.

Since most of our races down here have swims in the ocean, you'll want to practice that for sure. You can rent a wetsuit from several different local tri shops, or you can buy a brand new Xterra for $150 (its what I have and have used for all my races.) If it happens to be in a pool (like Race on the Base or the Carson Tri, then you can skip all that.

Let me know what race it is and I can give you more specific advice.

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 04:22 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Chris - It's Solana Beach. They even have a duathlon if I want to skip the beach swim.
http://www.kozevents.com/Triathlons/Solana_Beach_Triathlon.htm

Wife's friend is trying to recruit me. And I'm dead serious about it... providing it doesn't break the bank.

**DONOTDELETE**
()
02/06/14 04:34 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

 Originally Posted By: 2000SiRacer
 Originally Posted By: Euphoric
well you can do it without getting caught up in the consumerism aspect.


True, but I know myself well enough to know that wouldn't work. If I could spend lots of money for the sameperformance at races now I 100% would. I love that I don't even have the option \:D


Fixed for me.
I manage restraint on boarding(barely), I've pretty much given up on biking because I know I'll go ape shit on it. I'll rent a nice mtn bike 2-3 times a year, and ride my 20 yo mtn bike for commuting, it's enough for me.

though if I had the time to learn to swim for shit I'd still love to do a tri, maybe that'll be my goal by 40.

Sir Ironpool
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 05:20 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

 Originally Posted By: Design
Chris - It's Solana Beach. They even have a duathlon if I want to skip the beach swim.
http://www.kozevents.com/Triathlons/Solana_Beach_Triathlon.htm

Wife's friend is trying to recruit me. And I'm dead serious about it... providing it doesn't break the bank.

I've heard that's a great race.

Id ask around and see if anyone you know has a road bike roughly your size, or even a hard tail mountain bike with slick tires on it that you can borrow. Obviously you'll want to get some training in on a bike, so if you can find a way to buy something affordable (even used on CL) you'll be better off. A road bike would be ideal since you can use that on family bike rides and stuff.


How strong of a swimmer are you? Youll need to get comfortable swimming in the ocean. We have a great protected spot in Belmont Shore Id be happy to take you for a swim.

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 05:59 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Sounds good Chris. I'm 100% focused on marathon right now. Time frees up in late March. Assuming I don't kill myself, I'd love to check it out.

Also, I haven't forgotten about the running group. Got cleared from the wife but we are booked the next two weeks. Check in soon.

2000SiRacer
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 06:44 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

 Originally Posted By: Design
You guys suck. This whole modding thing seems addictive. I have a family to support dammit!!


Welcome to the tri world.

gamby
(Post Master Supreme)
02/06/14 08:28 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

 Originally Posted By: Design
You guys suck. This whole modding thing seems addictive. I have a family to support dammit!!


Modding bikes can sometimes make meth seem like a couple of NoDoz in comparison!

Roxanne
(Post Master Supreme)
02/09/14 07:53 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

 Originally Posted By: 2000SiRacer
 Originally Posted By: Design
You guys suck. This whole modding thing seems addictive. I have a family to support dammit!!


Welcome to the tri world.




This. Please tell me you're over 6'4".... I'll sell you all my gear. \:\)

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
06/02/14 02:02 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

So I thought I'd use this thread instead to update progress in the hopes this becomes valuable to others wanting to get into the sport. Will eventually update the OP as well.

Did my first "brick" this Friday with a 3 mile run, followed by a 1/2 mile swim. Things went OK but got Swimmer's Ear over the weekend. \:\(

Going to try these out and see how things go:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EN0T630/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3A8PCJZXU0KW8

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
06/02/14 02:12 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

yea I hear those work. It's totally a personal/individual thing tho. Been swimming all my life and I've never had a prob, no ear drops/nada. Don't even have surfers ear [knocks on wood]

the organizers of the last tri I went to recommended those. If you need them you know.

also no idea on necessary brick frequency but I think one a week is plenty? /noclue

I was just doing bike/run, although once in a while after a surf I'll do a 'swim'/run.

I think the swim/bike transition experience is less of a big deal. 1-2 minutes in you should be good [unless you froze/went pre-hypothermic or something]. the bike/run ones suck.

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
06/02/14 02:17 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

A friend recommended spending a couple days a week doing a bike/run brick when time permits. I may try tonight at the gym to see how things go.

As I mentioned in the cardio thread I'm nursing a mild case of ITBS. I've heard excessive biking can aggravate this condition.

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
06/02/14 06:59 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

I have my next sprint tri on 6/28. Just sharing ;\)
Hoping to be slightly better than mid-pack in my age group although 50th percentile would be ok too. Hopefully not quite as many people sail by me on the run as last time. That was embarassing \:\(

Supposedly the pleasanton one is a little more competitive than the last one I did.

*I now have aerobars. Comeatmebro.jpg
*the zipp wheels I was looking at purchasing fell through [101s, alloy] \:\(
**there goes another 0.3 mph

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
06/18/14 11:41 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

At the gym I have been focusing on bike/run bricks. But my challenge is setting the resistance on the bike to a level that would be consistent outdoors.

Costco has Diamond Back aluminum road bikes for around $170. Seriously considering picking one up for multi-purpose stuff. And if I hate it I think I would have 30-60 days to return. We'll see...

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
06/18/14 11:56 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Huh worst case throw it on CL

I'm like $2k deep on my bike already and still slow lol

$900 ~11 vintage CAAD 10 roadbike w/105 stuff
$700 zipp 404 carbon clinchers (09 )
$45 aerobars
Tires/tubes/other bullshit/tuneup

Fortunately I don't feel the need for any more bike parts now. I figure I got off easy lol

Also re:bricks, I'm still not so sure that you need to do them so frequently. Practicing bricks is just to get your body used to the wobbly feeling coming off the bike and into the run. Once a week seems plenty. The run works your run conditioning, the bike your bike, etc. I readily admit I have no idea what I'm doing, but it sounds like your just extending your workouts with a brick, maybe just run longer on the run or bike more on the bike w/o everything being a brick

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
06/20/14 11:21 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

I do 1-2 bricks a week. Nothing huge; just trying to condition myself between the bike and run.

I really want to buy a bike on CL. But with 0 riding experience I admit I'm completely lost.

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
06/28/14 02:32 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

So it looks like I'll be able to ride with a couple guys from work next month. But it's mountain biking.

Also managed to squeeze out a 2 mile morning run, followed by a 4 mile night run + 3/4 mile swim. Didn't feel fatigued; and feeling pretty good today. Might kick up the distance next week.

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
07/12/14 10:11 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Two firsts this week.

Did a nice bike climb with the guys from work. First time on a bike in over a decade. Kicked my @ss lol.

And thanks to Ironmom I did my first long ocean swim in a tri wetsuit. Definitely much different from the pool.

Question, how do you guys look ahead while swimming? I found myself straining my neck trying to look above water. Any tips?

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
07/13/14 09:19 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

YMMV I've picked the number 10 as the magic number of strokes I take before taking a peek to stay on course. Around a buoy I go heads up elbows out here (just for 30s or so)
Whatever works for you. I like to know exactly where everybody is around the buoys and also that I take the shortest route possible. This is where the younger people bunch up and clog it up usually

With the little 'peeks' every 10 strokes I'm just sighting a landmark not trying to do anything but verify I'm on course. If you miss a couple attempts in a row no big deal

lessthanmike
(Major Member)
07/15/14 09:12 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Sighting is a little tricky everyone is different...I do the alligator sighting. Lift your head just enough to get your eyes out of the water, any more than that and your lower body will start to drop. I primarily breath to the left so just when my left arm starts to come out of the water I look straight for a second then turn grab a breath and go back to normal. 10-12 strokes do it again.

Sir Ironpool
(Post Master Supreme)
07/15/14 11:32 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

I do more of a lunge up and forward when I sight. Kind of do a power stroke when I do it get a little extra boost. Like my fellow tattooed triathlete said, it's all personal preference.

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
07/24/14 11:50 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Tried out some of the suggestions here over the weekend and it went much better. Thanks guys!

On a bit of a downer, I went mtn biking with some friends. Totally ate it on a downhill. Took a good thwack to the sternum. Knees and elbows got scuffed up pretty good. Right kneecap is a little tender.

Triathlon is this weekend. Plan to take it REALLY easy.

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
07/24/14 12:39 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Which one u doing? And good luck!

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
07/24/14 03:47 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Solana Beach. Salt water swim is going to be painful!

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
07/24/14 03:59 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Distances

Sprint Triathlon (14yrs & older): 1/4 mile swim - 9 mile bike - 3 mile run


This one? Don't be a pussy! ;\)

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
07/24/14 05:19 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Yep. \:\(

Friend of mine recruited me back in January. Going to approach this like I did running:
- Enjoyed the Sprint? Sign up for Olympic.
- Survived Olympic? Go half Ironman.

And so on...

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
07/24/14 05:31 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

yea I'm doing an international in Sept/santa cruz which I'm sure will kick my ass.

Considering entering the lottery for the Vineman or Wildflower 1/2 irons in '15 heh. [both up here in CA]

I'm sure I would do horribly. Yea--let me get on that 1/2 marathon after I just biked 56 miles in aero position.. \:\|

But I imagine I will try to standardize on the international. It's the one tri that has the most significant 'swim' component as a % of time--at least that's my theory. Plus doesn't require that much training to be somewhat competent in [at least compared to the 1/2s, I guess].

I'm only 2-sprints in so we're basically at the same level of incompetence

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
07/26/14 07:27 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Went out for a swim and a short run today. Chest felt SORE. Looks like I'm going to limp through the tri tomorrow and just focus on finishing. Good news is I'm guaranteed to PR should I sign up for another. \:\(

Also, I'm sure you'd do fine in any distance with enough training. It's surprising what the body is capable of doing.

Sir Ironpool
(Post Master Supreme)
07/28/14 12:27 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Looks like Kent had a great first Tri today! Hoping he posts up his race report soon. Good job buddy!

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
07/28/14 07:42 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

CN: I survived.

I took it REALLY easy on the course knowing I had an injury on the mend. Still hurt like hell on the swim and run. Things I learned:

- Scope out the entry and exit points for the swim, bike and run. Repeatedly. I missed the swim-to-bike entrance despite bright orange cones directing me there. Went through bike entry which screwed up times for transition and bike lol.
- Use lots and lots of body glide on the neck, wrists and ankles.
- Bring extra water to wash down feet after swim. And hand towels for face and feet.
- On bike, stay off center divider area where sharp objects accumulate.
- Bring pack big enough for tri grear and plastic bags for wet stuff.

Despite limping through the race, I ended up placing 455 of 620. Stats:
- 500m Swim: 10:39
- Transition 1: ~7:00
- 9 mi bike: ~32:00
- Transition 2: ~3:00
- 5k run: 26:58
- Total: 1:19:13

Today I am totally incapacitated in the upper body. Hurts to do even the most basic tasks. Been stretching which has helped. Will do hot tub later tonight.

I had thought about sitting this one out. Glad I didn't. I learned so much and really enjoyed the whole experience. My race schedule is pretty full through January. Thinking about doing another tri early next year.

And Chris, yes I blame you for getting me hooked.

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
07/28/14 09:32 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Good job dude! Looks like you are doing fine on the run after all that. Good work!

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
07/28/14 10:43 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Thanks man. I really wanted to run all-out. But felt some unusual pain/pressure on the sternum. Somehow I think this is part of a grand design to lure me back.

gamby
(Post Master Supreme)
07/29/14 12:23 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Sorry it beat you to fuck, but awesome that you went through with it.

lessthanmike
(Major Member)
07/29/14 06:24 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Nice Job!!!

Try to go for an easy swim today it will help loosen everything up.

I also did a sprint on Sunday....I haven't done a sprint in over a year, I've been focusing on longer races. I forgot how much they hurt.

500m swim--13:09 (sun was brutal couldn't sight for anything)
T1--2:29
12.9mi bike--33:09
T2--1:34
5k Run--23:04
Final 1:13:17


I could have pushed a little bit more on bike, but I was afraid of burning out on the run.

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
07/29/14 06:33 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

sick, 23.38 mph bike split :bow:, and 7m26s mile pace on the 5k right? wewt great job! [are my #'s right?]

lessthanmike
(Major Member)
07/29/14 06:48 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Thanks man!! Yeah your number a pretty close.

http://results.chronotrack.com/event/results/event/event-9777?entryID=9931166

If you click the timing tab it will show my splits

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
07/30/14 11:25 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Nice work dude.

No upper body exercise for me - doc's orders. Apparently my kidneys are working overtime at the moment. I should get cleared this weekend.

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
11/02/14 09:17 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

11/1/14 catalina tri results:
12/25 in age group (woo midpacker--goal was to hit the median/age group and I guess this result basically defines it for the race heh. Well I guess take 12+13 and find the midpoint as a simple check)

Overall 82/217

Swim 0.5m/880y 10:49/1:13 per 100y, 24/217 place
Bike 12.8 miles/1500 vertical feet to climb/rainy sketchy descent
51:03, 10.9 mph avg, 71/217
Run: 5k with a grade 3/4 climb, 400' vert
25:16, 8:09 pace, 107/217

6:51 net in transitions (I didn't wear a wetsuit so I basically sucked it there)
Couldn't get my watch to come out of sleep mode lol so it wasn't on strava and didn't happen.

So not much has changed I guess in my first year of tris I still have a good swim leg although this has been my.favorite. fish everywhere, clear warm water, and I settled into a nice pace that didn't burn me.for the rest of the day. Went hard as I felt I could on the bike and was about
average there with my peers, and tried not to cry too much on the run (below average on that leg)

No GPS watch for pacing and therefore no hrm data, just feels. Probably a good thing...I'm sure I redlined those climbs and didn't want to know about it

edit: man, I dont have another tri to look forward to until April/2015, darnit. Oh well: plenty of time to get fatter! \:D

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
11/03/14 02:14 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Your time has vastly improved on the run - especially after what looked like a grueling bike portion. Nice work!

I don't think I have another Tri in my house of cards until after LA Marathon. But with a few other friends joining in, I'm really looking forward to late Spring/early Summer.

Sir Ironpool
(Post Master Supreme)
11/03/14 03:42 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Solid work!

**DONOTDELETE**
()
11/03/14 03:54 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Nice time man, that 5km would be fine even as a stand-alone. Especially after the other events.

Keep running until your next one!

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
04/17/15 02:42 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

next up: HMB international tri on 4/19 [2-days from now, sunday]

I've done soooo little biking YTD that I feel woefully prepared on that leg. [strava data says 300 miles haha] Been keeping up with the swimming tho.

ended up bailing on that Santa Cruz international distance tri last september on family obligations so this is still my first of this distance since the 90s heh

got some time goals that I will keep to myself. I secretly think I can run that 10k pretty hard if I chill on the bike segment

http://www.halfmoonbaytri.com/

based on advice from another thread, I think I'll just try to have fun. Anything I come up with will be a PR [at least from this century, hehe]

Hopefully I can stay out of the redline shenanigans at the front of the swim wave and just cruise.

Sir Ironpool
(Post Master Supreme)
04/17/15 04:23 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Good luck man!

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
04/19/15 01:12 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

27:04 swim-1500m [included ~0.3 miles of barefot yogging through the parking lol as part of the swim time,but I'll be honest, I mailed it in here and just decided to cruise. Was too damn cold, I didn't feel right, air temp was in the low 50s, water about 56, and I didnt get any sleep last night is probably why]
rank: 14/50

7:07 T1 lol [getting worse? I got dizzy and fell over taking off my wetsuit fwiw]
rank: 33/50 [I beat some people here? haha]

Bike: 1:15:51 \:o [19.65 mph avg, 484' total elevation]
rank: 23/50

T2: 9:12. I literally couldnt find my shoes. Dont want to talk about it
rank: 50/50 [next slowest guy was 4 minutes faster. YESSSS]

Run: 51:20 /10k, a new PR for me \:D [8:16/mile pace]
rank: 30/50

overall: captain mid-packer, 2:50:36 w/ 16:19 in transitions /#nailed_it

overall: stoked just to finish, mad I mailed it in on the swim [wasnt feeling right, did a bunch of breast-stroking, didnt feel right at all. sigh]. But stoked on the bike/run performances. Shocked I was that fast on the bike [fast for me, honestly, in training I never practice this distance but I should]

overall: 27/50 in age group, with some astonishingly shitty transitions. My swim should be much better than this, too. I really wanted to get into the top 50 percentile tho \:\(



^so accessorized
I totally wiped my feet on that guy's towel to my right

goals for my next one [pleasanton, 9 weeks out]
olympic distance again, slightly hill-ier

swim: 24:xx [just cruising pace] -->3-ish minutes faster
T1: should be down around 3-4 mins--3-ish minutes faster [no wetsuit]
bike: 1:14:xx [screw it, I'm going for 20.xx mph, dont care]-->1 min faster [about 1k more elevation tho, dont care]
T2: 2 mins is plenty of time to get in/out-->7 mins faster
run: 51:00 is fine assuming I've revved up all that stuff above [it's much hillier also] call it a push.

net: 2:36:00 or so goal.
Which is in scratching distance of an arbitrary goal I imagined last year: 2:30:00 in an olympic tri. Of course this year I was hoping to simply mid-pack but looks like I can set my sites a hair higher.
Happy to see such a rapid progression in my run. Kind of sad to see myself so so far from my PRs long ago in the swim [1500m I could go 20:xx any day of the week lol, but in a pool ofc, oh well that guy is long-gong hehe]



- 6 minutes [age waves] and 16 minutes in transition #nailedit #stolenfinishphoto

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
04/20/15 12:11 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Nice job man. Solid times.

gamby
(Post Master Supreme)
04/23/15 02:11 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

I'd say that was a pretty badass performance. Ripped the swim.

I guess you just need to up your transition game. \:\)

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
06/23/15 04:08 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

got my next oly tri on sunday, I am excite and tapering. not jogging but practicing transitions for the first time in my life this week. no wetsuit so that should help.

hopefully my knee is healed already but I'm only going to test it with a 2 mile brick workout or 2 this week [update: tested it tuesday and knee still hurts a bit post workout. contemplating either cancelling it or stepping down to the sprint distance or simply aborting the run leg on the olympic if it starts to hurt like an injury \:\| ]

hope to average 20.0 mph on the bike again. I will allow myself to dip my HR into the 140s to get there \:D

here's one of my strava e-buddies previewing the course this past weekend [~800' of elevation, he avg'd 21.0 on it just in a practice, heh, he is a podium threat in his age group]
https://www.strava.com/activities/159600110

shows a ~84* predicted high for sunday, I guess it will be upper 70s at the finish... doesn't sound too bad

can't decide a strategy for this one , maybe just good transitions and no breast-stroking on the swim

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
06/29/15 01:39 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

update: how to mail it in on the run

ingredients: get passed by various 50/60-something year old women on the bike climb, and rage after them and then set a TT PR and relentlessly chase 20.0 mph avg over the course giving no fucks to the headwinds on the back leg. Pay no mind to the people more fit than you that you are passing. Also ignore that you've been in heart rate zone 4 for over an hour straight. Don't worry that you've never trained to run after an effort like that. It will all just work itself out on the run...right? Which is hilly, a trail, and has some nice 30-40' climbs all over the place.

overall: 2:45:49, 25/52 in age group [yay, midpacker, crossed the 50th percentile :o], a PR in spite of the run hehe [2nd time at this distance tho]

swim: 27:27 17/52 1:49/100m pace hehe [they fucked up the waves, so the first 3 all went like on top of eachother, it was a clusterfuck] never seen a more crowded first-turn buoy. Whatever, I was just cruising. Determined to not give any fucks about swimming fast today

T1: 38/52 3:12, no wetsuit, 4 minutes faster than my last one [wetsuit there tho]

bike: 18/52 1:13:45 w/723' climbing, 20.4 mph avg y0
https://www.strava.com/activities/335002894

T2: 31/52 1:50 [like 7 minutes faster than last time heh]

run: 39/52 58:38 9:21/pace aka #NAILED_IT. so_much_walking_up_the_hills \:\|

oh well a PR. Guess I learned something: I cant run fast after blitzing myself on the bike, regardless of how relaxed I go on the swim. Also tough to compare a flat course 10k with a non-flat trail 10k

I thought I was capable of going 2:35:xx or so here. Apparently not \:D

Sir Ironpool
(Post Master Supreme)
06/29/15 11:43 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Nice job dude...isn't it so much nicer not to have to fuck with a wetsuit? \:\) and that was actually a decent run after going all out on the bike...nothing to be ashamed of there. Sometimes it feels good to just say fuckit and push the pace where you want to, not where it makes sense.

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
06/30/15 01:31 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Nice job man.

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
09/13/15 12:04 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

9/10/15
Pacific Grove Olympic Triathlon
#8/36 in age group
#102/501 overall

been nursing a head cold/sore throat and Friday I contemplated just not going at all. Rallied on OTC drugs and decongestent(s) and anything else I could find in the medicine cabinet and gave it a whirl

was a 3-shit morning for me, so I was nervous/excited

still on my caad-10 w/zip 404 wheels as I havent had time on my cervelo P2c yet to be comfortable

also the announcer said I was the only one to do the swim (501 participants?) w/o a wetsuit. It was only 61*F. pansies

27:35 1500m swim split [typical for me, atypical for me is being completely stopped at least 3 times in the kelp lol]
#6/36 AG

T1: 3:07, kinda slow for no wetsuit lol

1:16:39 bike split, I was mostly worried about not repeating my last oly tri mistake of having nothing left for the run, plus I was doubly scared being sick that I might end up pulling off the run course. course says 19.4 mph avg strava had me at 20.1 mph for the bike course I know which one I'm taking [the dismount in front of the timing pad and walk across was a super long distance...]
8 hairpin turns [180* switchbacks] tho made it hard to really keep up to speed.
#7/36 AG
T2: 2:21, kinda avg for me

52:42 10k run. ah yes, 8:29 pace. Had a bit of a cry on mile 3 or so and was hitting nearly 9:00 pace or worse at times. Pulled it back down around 8:15 last couple miles. I'm sure being sick didn't help. I'm pretty happy this is around my personal best [only a minute over] even tho sick
#21/35

net:
2:42:24

PR by slightly over 3 minutes. I'll take it. Only passed by 3 people on the run in my AG [and yes, one of them was like less than half a mile to go but he was running a 7:15 pace heh I tried to hang but couldnt]

Sir Ironpool
(Post Master Supreme)
09/13/15 02:07 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Nice job dude! That's a solid performance right there.

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
09/14/15 10:34 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Nice job!

stickaz_old
(Post Master Supreme)
04/12/16 07:47 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

woo tri season starts for me on sunday. so excite. back to HMB and doing the sprint for a shameless podium attempt

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
04/17/16 11:17 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

shameless podium attempt complete! got 3rd/27 in AG and a sick 3rd place AG medal

not bad for a day I wanted to quit after the swim lol. Really bad swim, hyperventilated again and was doing backstroke after the first buoy. Used my couple-year old [5?] XL wetsuit from my more-fat days and it was kinda ballooning on my arms and stuff and I was getting flushed constantly it was kinda like not wearing a wetsuit in the ~55* water. sucked is what I'm trying to say.

oh well after fighting with my wetsuit , being dizzy, barely getting it off finally and super sandy and that awesome 0.5 mile transition run that counts as your swim time I had an ok race on the bike and run.

Sad about my sad swim leg, but happy with how the rest of the race turned out for me and I cant be unhappy about sneaking into my first AG podium in a tri.

bike link: https://www.strava.com/activities/548896854
[21.5 mph avg/11.1 miles, included me being pretty darn slow trying to get my feet in the shoes during the bike leg as I tried the run-barefoot-through-transition-with-shoes-clipped-on-bike technique and it was fairly fail lol. Although I was going about 20 mph while putting my shoes on when I did finally so how bad could that be heh

run link: https://www.strava.com/activities/548899512
avg'd 7:12/mi pace for 2.9m per strava. once again they fail to properly measure a 5k imho

results:
swim 8/27 15:37, a solid 3 minutes 27 seconds than the exact course 2 yrs ago for me but this time I took my wetsuit off on the beach heh, so it was only a little slower in reality [~60s?]

T1: 1/27, 2:20 OMFG lol. Credit changing the wetsuit on the beach I guess
bike: 2/27 31:36, damn. Is this my strongest leg now lol? about 2 mph faster than 2 yrs ago same course. I'm also on a TT bike w/zipp wheels and a disc-cover rear now tho heh [vs a caad10 on normal wheels] probably a push

T2: 7/27, 2:04, not terrible. It's actually a retarded long way around transition and you have to run the whole lap. Probably comparable to 60s elsewhere

Run: 4/27, 21:26, I calculate this as 7:12 pace per strava or a 22:22 equivalent 5k if they could ever put the turnaround cone at the right place , I cant be mad at handling this pace either after wanting to quit from hyperventilating on the sad little sprint swim course. A bit over 5 minutes faster than 2 yrs ago

1:13:04
3/27 in AG
#30/270 overall
only chicked 4 times

/trigger warning my HR was only 147 on the run so I had some reserve but I didn't spot anyone with my AG range on their calf so I didn't push it. I was actually psyching myself up to sprint if some douche in my AG went by me, but I didnt slow the steady pace I was holding. On the bike I only averaged 140 so I was apparently treating this as a training run lol. Well in truth I was trying to recover from a seriously bad swim and my repeated inability to remove my wetsuit.

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
04/18/16 02:24 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Nice job man. Those are some solid times!

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
05/01/16 11:48 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons




Sew finished Wildflower long course this weekend. I should jump to the end as any good story should.
My goals were: finish, get flashed [the more the merrier], break 6 hours, sub 3H bike [if not sub 2:48 aka >20.0 mph], sub 2H run, and an easy/mellow swim towards the front of my swim wave, Finish, not crash, and not have a horrible swim again like my last one.

So Yes, Fuck yes, Fuck no, Hell no, LOL, Yes, Yes, No--crashed, and hell yes

Got flashed w/boobs. Many times, it was glorious. At first when I went through the mile 4 aid station and the co-eds were still in bikinis I was kinda dissapoint.jpg

But from then on it was fantastic. My favorite is when I met a course-new-best friend [we were both on our last of last legs and dying basically to hold 9:00/mi pace] so we were running side by side for a few miles trying to pull eachother along and chatting about shit and here she comes running through the campground the other way directly towards us and splits the middle between us in full view of the glory.

This scene was repeated at least 4 more times lol with one or more variables changed but always a fantastic set of \(\.\)\(\.\)

The swim was awesome/easy/cake, I came in at 34:xx, #10/56 in AG and was super rested and not even worried. I went at my patented 'workout warmdown pace' and un-surprisingly it didnt let me down. Spent some time between the buoys and so I did a couple hundred extra yards [got yelled at by kayakers alot] so rather than going straight down the clockwise side of the buoys I kept veering into the middle [I blame the dudes I was drafting really heh]

On the bike. Oh the bike. What I learned. I got my crash out of the way early--right out of transition. Yea I was that guy. A gust of wind grabbed the nylon divider thingy on the 'chute' and grabbed one of my aerobars. Went down in a pile. Awesome. I somehow stepped over the bike and didnt actually hit the ground just kinda slid and went to get my bike. It fucked up my tool/pump combo thing on the back but other than making it look stupid didnt have any negative effects.

I knew the bike was going to suck when I left the campground around mile 3 and headed out on the 56 mile loop around the lake. I was in full aero/tuck on the aerobars and making 11 mph. Yup. Didnt get much better the first 13 miles or so--we had a solid ~20 mph headwind w/occasional gusts to 30 and it didnt really help that I made the strategic erroneous decision to run my disc cover rear wheel. Handling was a handful all day and I was always scared. Worst was when a semi passed me the other way and I got whipped sideways about 3-4' before I could correct it--I was sure that I was going down.

I was monitoring my HR and I hit as high as 171 on nasty grade [~1400' in 1.5 miles]---whoops. Other than that I basically stuck to plan [135-140] which in hindsight was too aggressive for my fitness level /hindsight.

Anyways lots of words on the bike course--it sucked, I got owned, and Wildflower humbled my ass [~3500' climb, 20-30 mph winds all day, and my stupid ass with the disc cover], I came in at 3:22:39 , #25/56 [16.5 mph avg lol cry]. Dont know what to say: I was fairly confident I could hold 20.0 mph on a flat-ish course at my fitness level. Looking at strava I avg'd 230w for 3.5 hours so apparently I just didn't adjust for how hard this course is relative to a flat-ish one. Anyways whatever I finished.

My bike buffet was [2] cliff blox [400 calories total], [2] 24 oz gatorade bottles [400 calories] and 2 12 oz powerade bottles on course [200 more calories]. Yum. Also grabbed [2] straight water bottles--I did a good job hydrating/eating I believe.

Getting off the bike my legs were supper rubbery, worse than any test brick workout I've ever tried. Whoops. I knew I was in for some trouble...

My right quad on the left side of my knee was cramping a bit post bike, and my left hamstring was as well within the first mile or 2 on the run. Somehow I was ok and was going like 9:00/mi pace which seemed reasonable [consistent with my 2H half goal, lol!]

Then the climbs on the trail run started. Mother fuck. I crumbled. I kinda knew a game plan would be to walk some of these but I had no idea I'd basically have to walk them all. I threw some running here and there but the trail run completely owned me. The climbs themselves were only about 200', 400' there, aka no big deal. I could have hammered this course if I was fresh or something but I was just crushed. Walked and kept walking and was looking at my HR when walking and it was barely recovering to get under 140.

Managed to squeak in some low 10:00 miles on some of the trail, but basically it was just a sufferfest. We left the trail for the last 2.5 miles or so but the climbs continued but it was much easier. Finished off with like a climbing 9:30/mi, a flat-ish 9:00 mile [got my final boob flash here, very memorable haha], and the last downhill mile I went like 7:45 or so and easily could have gone faster but my hamstring was twinging on my left even worse now descending and I had to chop my stride and slow down basically so as not to hit the pavement in a heap.

run: [half marathon] 2:12:nn, #31/56

overall: #22/56, 6:19:nn

So cliff notes: finished my first half ironman, it was hard as fuck. I thought I would come in here and hit all these time goals I had. LOLOL. I was particularly humbled on the bike. I thought I was fast now lol

edit:
here's where I collapsed on the run lol [mile 5], I just had nothing. Also my HR spiked into the 170s there so it's not like I wasn't trying. Add a pair of 9:15/miles at the front of this for the run up the beach that was really kinda part of T1 [~200' climb], I felt like I handled that pretty solid [avgd 148-150 HR], not too fast, not trying to blow it before I got on the bike. Also running that part was mostly sandy beach lol

Sir Ironpool
(Post Master Supreme)
05/02/16 12:26 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Damn..sounds miserable! Great job toughing it out though. I've been there (IM Louisville and Tahoe come to mind) where you know you should be able to go faster but it just ain't happening.
The wind would be the nail in the coffin for me. I fucking hate the wind and it demoralizes me like no other.
Anyways, great job. Just finishing a 1/2 is a huge accomplishment.

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
05/02/16 10:49 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Got a half in the books... good work!! Very respectable time regardless of the elements. Seemed like it was both awesome and horrible at the same time. \:D

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
05/02/16 12:42 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

thanks guys. 48 hours later I guess I've calmed down. It was pretty bad though.

I probably had a decent race given my fitness levels and some HR metrics I was tracking [I hit 191 HR somewhere so possibly my HR is higher than I think it is but I doubt it I probably just was de-fib'ing out on the climb on mile 5 lol not joking]

I'm disappointed primarily on the bike performance tbh. I know runs suck for me and I'm always going to have a shit show it seems on the run relative to my peers BUT WTF BRO, 16.5 MPH?? BRO DID U MTBIKE IT???
https://www.strava.com/activities/562756544
[missed first 13 miles due to user error/not switching watch post transition--spoiler alert I was slow as fuck there too!]

Then again, I was basically riding around at 2.5w/KG net [3.0 on most of the strava segments tho including the climbs--I coasted most of the downhills and was doing upper 30s/low 40s all over the place and was pushing skin graft territory in the gusts and chopped asphalt surface with my disc wheel on the back so I just relaxed there] which is basically all I've got at my fitness level/biking experience for an effort this long/to stay aerobic. That's me I guess. On some courses w/flat winds this will produce a 20.0+ mph bike split [seriously], just not this one. I guess 25/56 isn't terribad in my AG as the rule of thumb in these things is people tend to be fast bikers/leave it on the bike course if not a little of both. I probably fell victim to that too but I'm glad when I was glancing at my watch for pacing I was ignoring mph and just looking at HR [only checking every couples miles, dont be triggered :D]

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
06/08/16 12:53 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

First Oly Tri of the season this weekend [pacific grove]

last year I went 2:42:nn after nearly aborting the event due to being quite sick the day before, but decided to tough it out anyways

just writing my goals down to see how far/close I come to these:

1]swim 26:00 [last year 27:35, I can do 22:nn in a LCM pool without killing myself so hopefully this pace is about right]. Also I previewed the area a couple weeks ago and the kelp is way down [urchin problem] so I doubt I'll be getting stuck/stopped completely 2x on the ocean swim and untangling myself.

1a] T1: 3:00, will be hard as I'll have a wetsuit on this year for the speed boost

2] bike: 1:10:00, or 21.3 mph avg. Last year on this flat course I went only 1:16:nn, but I was trying not to puke/sick. My PR on a 40KTT in a tri is 1:12:nn from last year but that was a hilly course and I've switched to a TT bike and a disc cover rear. I actually want a 1:09:nn pretty badly. Willing to sacrifice a bit of my run to get there.

2b] T2: 2:00, should do better but whatev, all the best transistion spots are always taken by the time I get there at like 5:45a

3] run: 48:00, last year I went 52:nn but I was mostly trying not to die, the cold I had the day before was coming home. This is only averaging 7:45/mi on a flat course which I shouldnt have any problems with I'm hoping even possibly I might be able to pull some time out of this [46:nn on a perfect day?]

all together: 2:29:00, which gives me ~60s to get under my actual long-term goal of breaking 2:30:00 to get to semi-official try-hard oly tri results/hobby triathlete which is probably similar to my <20:00 5K run goal or to continue to be able to break 1:00 in a 100m free /hobby swimmer

hopefully my mental math wont let me down as I'm a pretty good pace slave to break a certain time goal. Eg if I'm projecting a 2:29:45 finish with a 47:00 10K run or something I'll just modify my pace to 7:30/mi and see what happens. The real risk there is just a mental math failure and of course an actual bonk. But I figure a 10/10ths effort is around a 46:00 which I'll reserve for some jackass in my AG that decides to pass me from miles 3+ \:D

I don't expect to get anywhere near an AG placing with a 2:29:nn effort though, just racing the clock. And/or someone in my AG that attempts to pass me on the run past mile 3 even if I'm on my projected pace to hit 2:29:nn

/novel //rambling ///excite ////TMI

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
06/12/16 12:09 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

welp did it today, cant decide if I'm stoked or dissapoint. Missed the 2:30 goal by a solid chunk, and my bike leg sucked. Run leg wasnt much better. I kinda un-corked the swim a little not sure if thats related to the strugglez on the day. Day before and day of the race I wasnt feeling super energetic, and I didnt taper even a little for the race.

results:
2:36:nn
24:low swim [11:mid first lap, I noticed the split and decided to back off 2nd lap]: 3:low improvement
T1: 3:mid, only :30s slower than last year and it included a wetsuit swap this time
1:15:nn bike, :1:00 faster than last year. But I'm on a TT bike and disc cover rear this time, and wasn't sick. Very disappointed in this split. Sigh.
2:low T2 [: same as last year/push]
50:mid run, 2:00 faster than last year. I noticed my 2:30:00 goal was out the window right around lap 2 on the bike, so I decided I wasn't going to be killing myself today

5-ish mins faster than last year is an OK improvement but kind of a push. I guess I'm happy about being 3rd out of the water in my wave, but the rest was kinda meh. I just noticed my power was fading throughout the bike course. First lap I easily held on to a 1:08--1:09 bike split goal, and then was only a little under that lap 2, lap 3 and lap 4 I significantly slowed---wondering what that was all about. I guess it just wasnt my day. Maybe a sleep/nutrition/feeding on the bike thing. Maybe I swam a bit too fast. I'm kind of at a loss.

Got some work to do to figure out the bike leg I guess. I think I have some dangling bike fit issues to work through. My seat came loose again after lap 1 which sucks because then I have to use my arms to force myself back on the seat to balance it and cant just simply crank so power drops. Man that would suck if that was my whole problem the entire time... I'm struggling to push myself back on the seat to keep it ~flat [balances on a bolt/hinge], that bolt came just a little loose [grr should have locktite'd it].

Anyways got another oly tri in 2 weeks. I'll have the seat perfect for that one at least loctite

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
06/13/16 01:01 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

alright slightly less mad at myself 2 days later:

revised goal for Pleasanton [dream of sub 2:30:00 on this hilly-ish/hot course seem unreasonable in my current state of fitness] but I'll look at 2:34:00 pretty closely when I start the run and hope for the best.

things to do differently this time:
a) locktite seat bolt. JFC
b) install the 2nd rear bottle cage [only have one in frame], gives me a place to put the 'empty' second bottle as I am cheap and dont want to throw mine away so it makes juggling the empty unnecessarily entertaining by not having a free empty slot behind me. oops lol. So I have 1 in frame and 2 behind me, but only use 2 slots /details
c) bring your GD bike pump. This time I borrowed a guys chinese floorpump and I must have pumped it to 140 PSI on my front [~110 indicated] as because after the race when my bike had been sunning for say 2 hours and I was walking it back to the car it had a blowout lol. which brings me to my next point...
d)bring your patch/tube/tire tools you dumbfuck. I got lucky this time
e)practice biking at LEAST a couple times on your TT bike to make sure your bike is on point. Since this was a flat course it didnt matter that my rear derailleur was kinda flaky jumping around between a couple mid-cassette. In my next one its going to get a workout up and down the gears.
f)decide by thursday if I'm going to taper/have an easy workout. I think having a hard thursday double workout hurt me a bit sat on race day

goal:
swim 25:00
T1 3:00
bike 1:12:00 [being conservative here, 1:14:nn last year]
T2 1:30
run :52:00 [hot and hilly, plus I'm sad and slow lol, plus I HATE this run course, I went 58:nn last year doe lol]

2:33:30

so in shouting distance of sub 2:30:00
I don't think I'm fit enough to pull that all out on the run so if I had to do a sub 2:30:00 at pleasanton I'd probably have to go like:

24:00 swim
2:30 T1
1:11:00 bike
1:30 T2
51:00 run

so I guess maybe it's possible. But that looks like a 10/10 effort on this course if not 11/10

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
06/13/16 01:39 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Sounds like a sensible goal to me.

If I had to guess, went at it too hard on the swim or didn't fuel enough.

silentfurymm
(Post Master Sr)
08/13/16 01:27 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Trying this tri thing this year as well. Just a Sprint, so its not overly daunting. Another Koz event, the Mission Beach Sprint in October. Have one other guy from the ship, possibly two who will be there as well. I will be the slow one, but still fun to encourage / rip on each other.

Now that deployment is over I can finally actually run outside, and I forgot how easy the treadmill is lol legs hurt. Also got to get the bike down, not going to buy a used road bike. Just going to gut it out on the hybrid.

DalM3
(Sr Member)
08/14/16 01:27 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

I gave up running as my sole source of fitness activity as the miles were killing me, started tri's last year with a mini sprint. First off, I couldn't swim. I could float, maybe swim 20 yds. 8 weeks training in the pool got me into my first open water swim. Let me tell you it was the most embarrassing thing ever, totally panicked, was asked several times if I needed help out of the water. It was only 200 yards but eventually I got to the end, 10 minutes later.

A year later, I've completed 4 sprints. 1st one was this past May in Auburn CA. 500 yrd swim, followed by 2 w/ .5 mile swims and wrapped up yesterday with a .75 mi swim. I still can't swim very well, still intimidated by the water. My plan was to complete sprints this year, intl's next year, and then year 2 IM short course. If I can get registered for Vineman 70.3 next year, i'll do it. I did an open water clinic last month and swam 1600yds. Took 40 mins but I know the base it there. Just need help with form and breathing. I'm still a 2 stroke unilateral breather. That saying about teaching an old dog new tricks has a lot of traction here.

This swimming thing was really tearing me up. I almost bailed on the Auburn tri, was still scared shitless in the open water. Auburn had a training day with an open water outfit lending a hand. Their coached signaled me out right out of the gate. Spent 10 minutes with me and something clicked, got me over the anxiety. The open water swimming whisperers.

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
08/15/16 11:43 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

sweet! I'm probably doing vineman 70.3 next year [July IIRC]
IIRC vineman sells out in like :13s and the only sure way in is via a club--so find a local tri club, sign up for it [probably ~$100] and they'll give you a code to get in early at vineman. unfortunately its probably the only way...

the wildflower 70.3 doesnt sell out anywhere near like that tho, it's april and worth the trip IMO. Warning on the bike course: its rough as fuck. Also on the run: miles 4-7, dont get down on yourself for the thoughts/bad moments/walking you end up doing in that area.

regarding the 'breathe every 2 strokes' thing, I've always understood in ANY race over 200m, that the fastest method is breathing every other stroke--period/the end.

I know tri-dorks try to go every 4 [or 6, or GASP 8] for some unknown reason but it doesnt help IMO.

Your body is an aerobic /oxygen pump. Quick efficient every-other stroke breathing is the way to go in any full aerobic race [>200m]. My $0.01

I know some people feel strongly about this topic but take a look at any race over 200m and count the breathing!

one example: Ledecky 800m WR--> the patented loping/late breath method of every-other-stroke breathing
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x30w0dd?GK_FACEBOOK_OG_HTML5=1

DalM3
(Sr Member)
08/15/16 10:01 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

I've spent hours watching her and Sun Yang videos. I've found there are so many nuances to swimming, I learn something new and forget the last 3 things I picked up. Thank god for wetsuits. I do have a swim coach, he's called me a challenge. I do belong to a small tri club, our better swimmers breathe bilaterally, every 3rd stroke.

3 in our group did Vineman this year, 1 of them did both courses. They told me getting into the 70.3 would be difficult, 2018 is my goal anyway if I don't make it next year. I read your Wildflower report.....good stuff.

Sir Ironpool
(Post Master Supreme)
08/16/16 12:20 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Never swam bilaterally...and Ive got a 1:06 Ironman swim PR. Go with what's comfortable. On easy swims (endurance) Im a 4 stroke swimmer, but any kind of mass start or hard effort means 2 stroke breathing.

Best of luck and have fun!

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
08/18/16 04:36 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

found a good article on "every other stroke" recommendation

--> https://swimswam.com/5-tips-for-breathin...of-5-olympians/

the last couple times I did a pool 1500m/1650y TT I ended up in the 22:nn range without killing myself. Like once even I had no idea the race was over heh [counting 1650y in a 25y pool is basically impossible imo] Been thinking about adding a workout/week in to speed up a bit but I dunno/I seem fast enough for my goals. Would rather increase sprint speed which at this point I guess is mostly in the weight room heh.

silentfurymm
(Post Master Sr)
10/01/16 03:37 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Tomorrow morning, just picked up my stuff. Hope i don't drown, never did get in a pool

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
10/03/16 12:03 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

how'd it go?

silentfurymm
(Post Master Sr)
10/04/16 12:06 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

I finished, but my time makes me sad. 1hr 30 min flat. The two biggest things that cost me 10 minutes where my really long time of 7min!!! in the first transition and that I overtightened my front wheel when I got it out of the car.

The transition was because I insisted on putting on compression socks after the swim. I have been dealing with tightness in my calf for the last two months and I didnt want it to stop me that morning. I made it through the run just fine, but I could have been four min faster without those socks.

My wheel kept squeaking on the course and I thought the disc was crooked or something, but I my average speed seemed normal to me, even though the course was utterly flat compared to my training route (7ft elevation gain that morning as opposed to my normal 650ft). Once was the race was over I tried spinning the wheel and realized it would only go one turn before stopping. Basically I had the front brake dragging my the whole time.

The swim was ok, I was worried in the first 100 meters because I was really cold and I had to take several side strokes to get my breath, but then I warmed up and it was fine.

I will do another one next year for sure. I had fun and it kept me motivated. I will get a used road bike, and rethink the transition.

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
10/04/16 12:58 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

sweet! sounds good man

Sir Ironpool
(Post Master Supreme)
10/04/16 03:54 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Nice job man! What I liked about triathlon was that there was always something to learn or work on from race to race. Tip: just wear the compression sleeves during the swim. ;\)

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
10/04/16 04:10 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

for me lately it's always a push-pull thing where a 'good' leg in one discipline always seems to come at the cost of another.

or at least for me, violating the '...race only begins on the run' rule comes with consequences

also: not every day is PR day. I keep trying to remember that

like pulling 2-3 minutes out of the oly distance swim leg because why not kinda backfires haha. attach an eager bike-leg to that and the run is going to suck really bad and likely involve walking through water stops and stuff

DalM3
(Sr Member)
10/10/16 12:52 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

5th sprint of the year completed today, .5/15/3. Personally, it felt good to finish with the little training I did leading up to it. I swam 3 times a week, but did about a weeks worth of bike and run spread over the last month. My left knee has been bothering me. Overall, I sucked though. I swam like shit, and my transition times were a joke. This was my first river swim, upstream w/ a strong current. There was a moment of water clarity where I could see straight down. It was as each stroke only moved me 1/2 a foot. Killed it on the bike though, it was 3 5 mile loops. Avg'd almost 21 on the first 2 laps. Blew my load to early and the third lap suffered. Avg finish was 20 on my 58cm Spec Roubaix. I knew better than to go that fast, but that grove feels so good when you're in it. The run was all about those 9 min miles.

My goal for next year is just learn how to swim. All I'm asking for is a measly 2min/100 time. My lack of swim skill is definitely effecting the run/bike. I'm so discouraged by it, i'm not running/riding as much as I should.

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
10/29/16 02:00 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

I'm hovering over the signup for IM Santa Rosa 70.3, $340 and will fill/close this weekend

Ugh can't decide. Mainly because I'm not confident I will be able to run on my questionable hip that far next year. Ugh, I guess I can pay for the injury insurance , didn't see a pre-existing condition clause for that lol (but they carefully constructed a pregnancy pre existing condition exclusion)

Edit: signed up lol

DalM3
(Sr Member)
11/01/16 11:27 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

I'm disappointed, Santa Rosa in May isn't going to work for me. I wanted to rest my knees and get in some PT between now and January. I figured on a solid 6 months training with an Oly or two leading up to July would be perfect. I'll most likely knock out 3-4 Olys instead. Santa Cruz is still in consideration, but I've never swam in the ocean. It took me 40 years to learn how to swim, I'm not going to get all cocky now and jump in with the sharks(well maybe, never ever thought I was going to learn how to swim)

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
11/02/16 01:30 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Cool my schedule for next years tri season is complete now

April: half moon bay, oly
May: Santa Rosa 70.3
June: Pleasanton sprint (I hate this course so much)

Which gives me a solid chunk of time to look at CIM as a Boston qualifier in December if everything goes smoothly and I don't become disabled from my hip thing..

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
04/24/17 06:41 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

my HMB tri sucked lol

37:nn swim (!!! I go 22:30 or so in a pool for 1500m, and went 24:nn a couple times last summer, heck in HMB 2 years ago I went 27:04 in my surfing wetsuit not even trying and that also included the jog up the beach quite a ways)

1:14:nn 40k bike split, 19.95mph not terrible I guess for 15 mph winds on course. 136 avg HR means I was awfully relaxed lol. 600' of climbing

50:nn 10k, 143 avg HR, wasnt working too hard I guess. Not supremely interested in suffering given what disaster I saw on my watch after the swim leg.

I'm pretty sure the course was longer than 1500m [my half iron (1.2 miles) swim time last year was 32:00, which corresponds to a 1500m of around 25:00. The far end buoys had blown off course overnight so they reset them in the morning and they just kept going further and further out lol. Not a big deal, but depressing I guess when we basically benchmark ourselves against set distances. This one was probably closer to 1900-2000 yards vs 1600 yards

snuck into the top 20% overall, was top third in my AG, and chicked 20 times lol

In spite of me not working very hard during the race, I was completely *ucked afterwards so I dunno. I'm sore af today still [day after], not sure what to think other than I'm fairly fucked for my 70.3 in 3 weeks lol

I'm annoyed that this is 13 minutes slower than my oly tri PR last summer primarily, and also annoyed that [2] years ago on this exact course I was only 1.5 minutes slower with the worst transitions I've ever done [16 minutes total!], here I had a 4:00 T1 and a 2:00 T2, and say I went 5:00 on the walk/jog to T1 from swim exit--- that's still 5 minutes in transitions less than 2 years ago.

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
04/25/17 12:06 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Nice work dude. Seems all that running has worked against you to some degree.

You reminded me I need to sign up for another Tri this summer. They have a cheap one at Camp Pendleton that's a lot of fun.

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
09/27/17 12:53 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

So I thought I'd update this post and mention that I went and completed the Semper Tri at Pendelton this past weekend. Borrowed a hybrid bike from my brother (around 30-40 lbs). Fun little race but a little longer than advertised.

800 M swim, 18 mile bike, and 3 mile run. Around 2:09:xx Definitely getting killed on the bike. But the good news is that I inherited one from a friend after the race (at no cost to me). Fuji Carbon frame and fork. That's about all I know.

I now seem to lack excuses to suck at tri's.

schtickaz.ai
(Post Master Supreme)
09/30/17 08:18 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Cool, I love the mtbers you see on course sometimes! Hehe

Sir Ironpool
(Post Master Supreme)
10/01/17 05:43 PM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

Nice job Kent!
I just picked up my sister in laws bike to use at Arizona 70.3 in a few weeks. It’s got a cute color scheme. I don’t plan on riding it more than once just to adjust the seat. Should be a shit show.

Design
(Post Master Supreme)
10/02/17 12:33 AM
Re: Learn Me on Triathlons

That's cool you can borrow a road bike from the family. Regardless, should be a fun time. \:D

Starting to learn a little more about these type of bikes. Turns out I need clip shoes. Who knew?