However, for whatever reason, I seem to be catching the Half-Ironman (HIM) fever and am giving racing one serious consideration. Here’s why:
- I actually have the time on a weekly basis to put in the training. I think this has got to be the most important, as skimping on training for such a long-distance event would be catastrophic.
- Directly behind in importance is that I have ample time to finish a Beginner Triathlete HIM training plan. Plus, I have two months before I'd need to start that plan, and I will do a couple other event-specific training plans during this time which will help with my base.
- What I also consider to be a boon is that I'm familiar with the course, having done my last tri there. Plus, I'll be able to train on it a few times this summer before the race.
I decided on the longer-distance race (http://theironmountaineer.blogspot.com/2008/08/and-answer-is.html) and I’m so glad I pushed myself to go the longer distance instead of acquiescing to what was clearly the easier route.
Well, after writing this out, it sounds like I’ve already made up my mind. Why do I do this to myself?
18 comments:
A HIM? YESSSSS!! I think you will LOVE the training, I'm so stoked about mine, I can hardly contain myself, so I feel certain YOU will enjoy it!! I was told: if you train for the distance, it can absolutely be done!! Just tell yourself upfront, this is an 'all day workout', I'll finish when I finish, BUT I WILL FINISH!! :)
My plan is the free plan on ontri.com. It's really cool so far, but yes, demanding as all get out. -from what I'm hearing, pretty typical for a HIM plan. :)
ENJOY!! It's going to be an AWESOME journey!!
Go for it! You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain, including some serious bragging rights at the end of the season. You will be "iron" before you know it.
I agree -- GO FOR IT!! ... of course, I don't think you need anyone's convincing -- sounds like you've convinced yourself ;) I am so looking forward to hearing about your training and, of course, the race itself!!
Yahoo! I say go for it, big time. My advice for anyone wanting to do an event like that is, "do you have the time to train?" Sounds like you do, so go for it!
You can totally do this!! Think of how much drive this will give you to get to your IM!!
Wow, I leave for a weekend and comeback and all my tri buddies have gone on the crazy train.
Yes, totally do the HIM, how exciting is that, second season and jumping to the HIM level, it will just make you want the grand daddy of them all next year.
Which HIM are you thinking of?
I would do a HIM over an Olympic distance any day. You have to swim nearly as far anyway and you have much more time to catch up to all those strong swimmers who don't do as well on longer bike and run portions. That's my theory, at least.
Have fun and good luck in training!!
WOW! Thanks for all of the encouragement ya'll! It means a lot!
JD, that's good advice about treating it like an all-day training.
Debbie, I'm definitely working hard to give "iron" the double meaning it deserves.
Thanks, Trish. I think you're right: I've already convinced myself. :)
Shannon, thanks for the affirmation about the time needed. I believe that having the time has got to be the most critical component.
Kelly, you're totally right about this driving me closer to do the IM. Yikes!!! :)
Scott, I'm going to do the Toyota at Deer Creek.
Shirley, I never thought about looking at the swim distance that way, but you're totally right. Might as well go for a HIM title.
I'm totally stoked and, since posting, have officially added the Toyota Challenge HIM to my race schedule on BT.
Thank you guys so much again!
If I can do it - you can (and then some!) Good for you :)
Lora,
Thanks for the info. I hope they reschedule it! I would love to do the Tri for the Cure. I think I have a wedding that day in Charleston. :( Its great to meet another Mountaineer! Keep on training! :)
YEA!!! Hey, did GOTRIbal do this to you :) I am so thrilled for you and can't wait to hear about your training and racing stories on your blog and GOTRIbal!! I am so glad we connected. You are an inspiration. Way to reach for the stars and find what you are really made of...all great stuff!! Kellie
You may borrow my blog header:) I thought it was most perfect. If you got the time to train, you can do a HIM. While I'm totally into the swim thing right now, the bike and run is where it's at anyways. The swim needs to be the most efficient and least draining that you can make it.
WOW... Another West Virginia triathlete? I think that makes two of us. I'm Class of 77 (WVU), nice to make your acquaintance.
Like IronMissy says, do enough to get through the swim and concentrate on the other two disciplines.
Good luck on the training..
Just read your "tri story" in your side bar. Well, I'm not a triathlete, 2008 was a big year for me when I became a marathoner. It's an incredible feeling becoming something you never thought you'd be.
Wow, this is very impressive! What a goal!
Thanks for reading my blog :) Keep us posted... Bikram yoga can help a lot!
Thanks for stopping by my blog! Your first tri last year sounds exactly like mine! I nearly died on swim too. It sure encouraged me to get in the pool more to not have to go through that again! Good luck on your next race!
Thanks for the lovely comment on my new blog! Congratulations on moving up in distance.
That is so cool! I really want to do a HIM - but I am going the slow way :-) Looking forward to following the story of your training!
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