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Discussion: I finished 5th!
Subject: I finished 5th! By: Shelly R. Written on: 2006-06-26 21:07:30 Message: okay, okay, there were only 5 people doing the type of race I was, but the important thing, my goal was to finish! Yeah for me! I did a swim/bike/swim duathlon (800 yds/15 miles/800 yds) for My Way or the Tri Way, the tri or du where you could choose your order. I started out strong on the swim and didn't really have to pay attention to where the buoys were since I was following the masses. I probably came in in the middle of the pack. As I ran up the beach, I caught my first glimpse of my supporters (my husband and puppy), who were rooting me on. I took a lot of time in my first transition, since the guy next to me and I were gabbing away (it was his first too). Then, on to the 'rolling mountains', which is what I was calling them. It was awesome how people that were blowing past me were so supportive. I love that about triathletes (I think I've only met two grouchy ones). They were cracking jokes, such as asking if there was a bar at the top, encouraging everyone, motivating me to finish in the best time I could. So, at the turn-around, I felt exhilerated! I kept thinking, you made it, you're half way there, you rock! Adrenaline kicked in and I felt like I was flying. I actually caught up to someone, only to realize at the opeining of the park, she wasn't part of the race. T2 was much faster... just had to strip down to my swim suit (did I mention I did two swim legs without a wetsuit). Then, the fun part began. When I was with the crowd, I didn't have to site the buoys, but when I went in for my last leg, I was the only one within 50 ft. I kept popping up to try to site the bouy. I think the lifeguard asked me if I was ok at least 3 or 4 times. At one point, the kayaker had to stop me and point me in the right direction. It was pretty hilarious and now I know what I need to work on... Then, once I turned around the bouy, I guess the kayaker didn't want to take any chances and he floated right next to me so I didn't have to site the beach. I was awesome to have my own personal lead! I ran in and crossed the finish line! I was so exhausted, but still had the adrenaline pumping. There was a glitch in the timing chips, so, there were no awards ceremony. On the way home, I called all my firends and family and told them all about my adventure. I can't wait to go out there again. I'll give myself a few days off and then get back out there to train...got another one in six weeks. Shelly
Subject: RE: I finished 5th! By: Ronald F. Written on: 2006-06-26 21:15:19 Message: Shelly, Glad you had such a good time. Your report has me smiling. I hope that I'm not one of the grouchy ones. Ron
Subject: RE: I finished 5th! By: Shelly R. Written on: 2006-06-26 21:18:01 Message: No way Ron. I don't think you could be grouchy if you tried... thanks for all the support and suggestions. See ya at Chatfield?
Subject: RE: I finished 5th! By: Timarie K. Written on: 2006-06-26 21:38:34 Message: Shelly, you positive attitude is contagious! Congrats. Timarie
Subject: RE: I finished 5th! By: Stacie J. Written on: 2006-06-26 21:57:45 Message: Whoo Hoo Shelly! Congratulations!!!! I'm so happy for you. And I'm proud of you, too! Way to go!
Subject: RE: I finished 5th! By: John P. Written on: 2006-06-27 00:51:17 Message: sounds like you had a blast.
Subject: RE: I finished 5th! By: Shelly R. Written on: 2006-06-27 08:31:48 Message: As I read Jose's (same race), I realized that I was incorrect about a couple of things... first of all, apparently there was an award's ceremony... I didn't stick around cuz I was sooo exhausted, but next race, I'll definitely stay for it and slip of the fingers s/say 14 mile bike ride... thanks all to all your support!
Subject: RE: I finished 5th! By: Jose G. Written on: 2006-06-27 10:40:52 Message: Shelly, You're right to put 'rolling mountains' in apostrophes. Tough as nails going up and thrill ride going down. On the way up I kept telling people to smile cuz it's all about the ride down. I know, I know, adrenaline junkie. Best would have to run into a marg bar at the top but no go, just a turn around sign in the middle of the road. In my opinion, not the best layout for a tri-ride due to steep hill but at least it was straight. Glad to see you tackle the swim twice even sans wetsuit, gutsy! I heard the second time around wasn't so bad since your body was already warmed up. True? The first leg swim was brutal. The awards ceremony was delayed due to the timing chip issues and results are still not posted. Hope they don't lose the data, mega bad karma to the timing company. Doing the Fall Frenzy at the Parker Rec Center?
Subject: RE: I finished 5th! By: Dan W. Written on: 2006-06-27 14:23:14 Message: Great job Shelly! Boy, I wish I could arrange for a personal escort through my next swim... Fifth place is awesome - take it! My only tri to date was a novice (i.e. first-timers) tri and I was the only one in my age group. I'm not too proud to point out I took first place in my age group! Congratulations on a great day!
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