Chris Kotte, Triathlete

Tuesday, April 13th

2010-04-14T12:36:00.000-07:00

Bike (1:30hours) - Group bike ride with Tri-Tech. Excellent weather and ride. As usual, it was a bit fast and slow....Feeling good though. Legs were ok, and at no time during the ride was I feeling like I just couldn't go. Legs rebounded well from the run yesterday.

Hard Ass Run

2010-04-13T07:41:00.000-07:00

Run (1hour)

Well...My buddy Jeff took it to me yesterday on what I was anticipating to be a hard run anyway...you see...he is fast...much faster than me! He is also prepping for the Cap City Half...and I am certain he will be well under 1:30.

As for me, I continue to try and keep the legs moving...still in the "training to get in training shape mode"....More on that later...

We left the office and headed out on the Olentangy trail. Right away, I could tell my allergies were going to be rough. I didn't notice them, until a few passes through the lovely pollen in the air. No worries until we hit the Horseshoe (OSU F-ball Stadium)...and this time and after 35 mins of hard running my lower back was having some issues...so I stopped to stretch...seemed to help temporarily.

Anyways all in all it was a HARD run for me. AVG HR 160, MAX 175

Looking forward to the next one with Jeff. It was good to run with someone far faster than I.

Catch up

2010-04-06T19:03:00.000-07:00

Way too long for posting...

Workouts
The 10,000 foot perspective on what I can remember = a few good rides (3 hour, 3 hour, and some inbetween)...a few good runs (2 hours on the trails, several short ones)...only a few swims (3200M, 2000M, and another short one)....some stretching.

Oh...did I mention a kick ass mountain bike ride with my good TN buddy? Good times on the trails, and I was suffering...

Life
All in all, some weeks I am very consistent, other's I struggle. I have excepted the struggle and challenges I have. I never get upset missing a workout...especially when I have kid obligations...in fact...life is too short for those of you that do. I have started to plan things a bit better and I can't wait for the weather to be consistent...Once it turns, I can tell you, we will be hiking, and biking together quite a bit.

I have enjoyed my oldest working out with me (when he isn't suffering from some sort of injury). The latest with that kid is he is growing like a weed and suffering from something called Severs Disease...(heal pain). Learned of a few stretches he can do, but he never complains, and just keeps going back to track practice and soccer...

Well it's finally spring break for the kids...time flies...we have no real plans other than a STRESS free week and simple enjoyment of the "little things".

Time to hit the treadmill.

Tuesday, March 23rd

2010-03-24T06:32:00.000-07:00

Swim (45mins) - Short swim as I didn't have a ton of time. 400 W/U, 2x(400 pull, 200 max, 100 cruise), 6x50's breast/back, 200 CD

Run (basketball run) - Was on the court for at least 1.5hours. Legs were heavy...but good time.

3 days (8 hours) March 20th, 21st, and 22nd

2010-03-23T06:40:00.000-07:00

March 22nd
Run (2 hours) - nice run in the evening on some local trails. Very hilly course and I completed 4 laps. I had to walk up a few hills to keep the HR in check. I don't have my watch handy for splits and HR, but I was at or near 150 the entire duration. I decided to cap it at 155 bpm. I do know my second and third lap was faster than the first. I think I drifted off during the 4th lap as it was a little slow. Legs are heavy from the run.

March 21st
Bike (2.5hours) - group ride from Hoover Dam at a reasonable pace. More of time in the saddle roughly 40 + miles...don't really know. I wore HRM, but didn't track AVG HR as I never started the watch. I did make sure to keep it under 150bpm for the ride. Enjoyable ride with the http://www.tritechmultisport.com group. Will definately do this ride again.

March 20th
Bike (3.5 hours??) - 3.5 hours....sounds about right....EZ ride all under 140 bpm. Rode from Dublin Glacier Ridge and headed towards Marysville with a fellow COTT member. Fortunately we didn't get lost as I have never ridden in this area. Time in the saddle with a small crash on some rail-road tracks....sucks.... Luckily the bike was ok! I only slid a few ft!

Thursday, March 18th

2010-03-18T20:09:00.000-07:00

First off...Happy Birthday to my middle guy! So happy he is healthy and strong...Super strong....seriously...he is strong....

I love how he is giving his best James Dean....Kid loves to act and pose...

Bike - approximately 1:45. Excellent ride today. Pushed quite hard throughout, but didn't get HR above 146. Starting to feel like I am back in a groove, but need to work on the 4th discipline even more - NUTRITION. Quickest way for me to get FAST is to drop weight....

I know I sound like a girl...so what...time to go watch The Proposal with a Michelob Ultra.

Wednesday, March 17th

2010-03-18T06:11:00.000-07:00

Bike (1 hour) - solid hour on the bike. 5 min w/u...elevating HR to 150 and holding steady for next 50 mins. This was a struggle and I tried to keep cadence at or above 90 RPM. Solid workout. HR AVG 148

Run (1 hour) - NO HRM.

Tri Kid

2010-03-17T06:43:00.000-07:00

Catch up post March 12 - 16th

2010-03-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

Friday, March 12th

One of the best workouts all year. My oldest son joined me! It was great to see him smiling and riding with me. He is amazing...no complaining...wining...crying...etc...the kid just works.

Bike (1 hour)

Stairmaster (30mins) - I thought I would have him hurting on the steps....and I did! We cranked it up a notch and the kid was rocking at times on some tough levels....good to see him stick through the pain.

Saturday, March 13th

Run (45mins) - EZ Run on treadmill

Sunday, March 14th

B-day party at Grandma's house! Good times, too much food. That was my workout for the day.

Monday, March 15th

Run (55mins) - kept HR below 141 for the run. HR AVG 138

Tuesday, March 16th

Stairmaster (1 hour) - 10 min W/U. Had my heart rate steady at 150bpm. AVG for the workout was 149.

Basketball (1.5hour) - interval training I guess!

Doesn't Get Any Better!

2010-03-11T17:29:00.000-08:00

2010-03-11T07:46:00.000-08:00

March 10th

Swim (40mins)
Great swim. Felt awesome throughout.
250 W/U
2x300 Pull @90%
3x200 @95%
4x100's @100%
5x50's Fly/Free
100 CD
2200M

Basketball (2hours)
Played bball for 2 hours and felt decent. I consider this a bit of tabata and interval training....Ouch I hurt today. ____________________________________________________________________ March 9th

Bike (1 hour)
Felt decent on the trainer. Time flew by.
5 min W/U
4x10min @145 HR
5 min CD

Basketball (1.5hours)
Easy bball game. I didn't work all that hard.

March 7th and March 8th

2010-03-08T17:19:00.000-08:00

March 8th
Swim (45 mins)
500 W/U Mix
15x100's....holding 1:32's....hurt...felt very slow in the pool....
200 pull
250 CD

Run (45mins)
Easy jog. HR did go above 140bpm. Started off sluggish...but felt very strong toward the end...I was tempted to go faster, but focused on keeping it EZ.

March 7th
Bike (2hours)
Rode outside. Bike felt great...but I didn't. Started out the ride with a small crash...fortunately...didn't do any damage to the bike...minor scrapes to me...kept on going. All my fault as I wasn't paying attention to the road and cars....dumb.

Snowboard (several hours)
Took the two younger boys snowboarding. Tons of fun. I had to pull the little one (Jackson) off the hill. He didn't want to leave. He is my little outdoor companion with no fear and the desire to do more than anyone else. My other son, (Joe) has natural talent, but could care less! He is very funny as he switched back and forth from snowboarding to ski's and still seemed bored. Although, he did enjoy playing in the snow! As a Dad, these are the days I live for. Outdoors and hanging with the kids....lots of fun to come over the years.

March 4th, 5th, and 6th

2010-03-08T07:35:00.000-08:00

March 6th
Run (2 hours)
Treadmill run. Easy surface. 13 miles. No issues, wanted to go faster but kept HR in check. Need to update the playlist on the Ipod...

Swim (1 hour)
Various sets. Roughly 3,000 meters. Felt a bit tired as I swam after the run.

March 5th
Nada

March 4th
Bike (1 hour) - Indoor Ride.
Run (30 min) - Easy Jog

March 3rd - Masters Swim Group

2010-03-03T05:23:00.000-08:00

Swim

I decided to swim this morning with a local Master's group the Columbus Sharks http://www.csmst.org/. Good group, and they had a decent turnout. I am going to target 2 swims with this team each week.

Not having a consistent pool workout lately certainly showed. I was slow, but at least kept it going. This was the workout below:

250 W/U
8x50 drills
1x400 IM
4x125 (Red Zone on turns)
4x200 IM
4x75's (Red Zone on turns)
4x100 IM
16x25's
Total = 3,450 Meters

Basketball (1.5 hours)
My secret tri-training (consider it interval training). Heck I like it. Solid workout.

March 2nd

2010-03-03T05:21:00.000-08:00

Run (60 minutes)
HR AVG = 144
Felt good throughout.

Bike (2hours)
HR AVG = 141
W/U for 10mins. Struggled towards the end. Cadence 90+ throughout. Didn't have power meter attached.

March 1st

2010-03-01T08:22:00.000-08:00

Swim, 2000M
250 WU
10x75's (15 sec rest)
10x50's (back/free)
10x25's (sprint - these hurt...)
250 CD

Run, 45min EZ
Avg HR = 138

Thanksgiving...With My Homeboys...Random Bloggin

2009-11-25T11:22:00.000-08:00

I am looking forward to spending several days with my boys... We are heading south to eat a ton of food (not really CV), relax, play some poker, workout everyday, and spend quality time with the family. I have a lot to be thankful about...I have an awesome support crew extending far and wide. Family, friends, coach, etc. You guys and gal are all awesome!!!!

I have spent quite a bit of time reflecting on the past couple of years. As far as racing, I didn't all last year. No structured training, nothing. I came to realize I miss it. Quite a bit. Perhaps it was a needed break. I left 2007, feeling extremely fit and in the best shape of my life. I had great results in training, made huge gains from placing 4th overall , winning my age-group, to a disaster in Morgantown Half (heart cath), to disaster at Luvall (marathon walk). Thankfully, I am healthy both physically and mentally.

I love this puzzle we call Ironman. You put in so much time and energy into training for a single day that can go well or fall apart. That's the attraction for me. Solving problems and thus....

I have decided to enter another Ironman for next year. I was settled on IMAZ until it sold out in 20 minutes (work did get in the way of registering!!!). So now I am looking at bringing it to Luvall (I have some unfinished business down there) for 2010. I am familiar with the course, have family that lives there (means CHEAP), and was extremely dissapointed in 2007 with my result. Hell, I was dissapointed in a lot of ways in 2007 with all the up and down moments. Motivation is easy. I know I can do well. I know how much fun it is to race when you have people out cheering you on wanting to be there supporting you. I can't freaking wait!!!

On top of IMLOU, I am thinking of racing mostly local events. Nothing solid yet...Im not going over the top. Just a drop in hear and there. I do like the idea of TTT again (camping with kids could be fun if they are up to it), a half-ironman somewhere in between, and certainly the Capital City Half marathon around the corner. My focus right now is on running...and getting the volume back. I need to become light on my feet. So much work to do, but damn it's fun to train with a purpose.

It did take me a while to figure out if I have the mental energy to train long, train hard, be focused, and still be a great dad. What I came to realize was that I like to train and race. I have an awesome coach who can make you really, really fast (it's all relative...for me I seem fast!)I have to be flexible and willing to adapt. Early morning's will be my friend. I will also be on the indoor trainer a ton! As far as the Dad part, I have no doubt about that...

On that note, it's time to bulk up for winter. Turkey, Turkey, Turkey.

Ithaca...A friend sent this to me...Posted on Chrissie's blog as well...I find deep meaning in this...

2009-11-03T06:58:00.001-08:00

When you set out on your journey to Ithaca,
pray that the road is long,
full of adventure, full of knowledge.
The Lestrygonians and the Cyclops,
the angry Poseidon — do not fear them:
You will never find such as these on your path,
if your thoughts remain lofty, if a fine
emotion touches your spirit and your body.
The Lestrygonians and the Cyclops,
the fierce Poseidon you will never encounter,
if you do not carry them within your soul,
if your soul does not set them up before you.

Then pray that the road is long.
That the summer mornings are many,
that you will enter ports seen for the first time
with such pleasure, with such joy!
Stop at Phoenician markets,
and purchase fine merchandise,
mother-of-pearl and corals, amber and ebony,
and pleasurable perfumes of all kinds,
buy as many pleasurable perfumes as you can;
visit hosts of Egyptian cities,
to learn and learn from those who have knowledge.

Always keep Ithaca fixed in your mind.
To arrive there is your ultimate goal.
But do not hurry the voyage at all.
It is better to let it last for long years;
and even to anchor at the isle when you are old,
rich with all that you have gained on the way,
not expecting that Ithaca will offer you riches.

Ithaca has given you the beautiful voyage.
Without her you would never have taken the road.
But she has nothing more to give you.

And if you find her poor, Ithaca has not defrauded you.
With the great wisdom you have gained, with so much experience,
you must surely have understood by then what Ithacas mean.

-K. P. Kavafis (C. P. Cavafy)

Motivation - Courtesy of My Training Partner

2009-11-03T06:02:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, 1 Hour 15min Run

2009-10-29T05:47:00.000-07:00

Run was on treadmill today. I was a bit bored around the 40 min mark...and decided to jsut play around by taking it up a notch. Then another, then another, then another, etc....

There is no doubt I was anearobic before long, but hell, who cares at this point...a run is a run and I felt great.

Sunday, 2 Hour Run to The Horseshoe!

2009-10-26T05:58:00.000-07:00

Another solid run on Sunday late morning/early afternoon. Fall has arrived and I do love running outdoors....

I decided to head from my place to downtown Columbus making my way up to Ohio State. Since moving, this was the first time I headed west out of my place and into the city. Most of the route was along the Columbus Marathon route, but I did venture off hear and there.

I have to say, the location of my new place is awesome. I have so many running options (a trail, city, sidewalks, suburbs, and a huge college). Although there are no mountains or oceans I do have different routes to keep things exciting. I also have good access to an awesome track for future MAF tests and workouts.

Overall, I felt good during the run. Body was a bit beat up later that evening. Although after a few Ciderellas, I was feeling much better!

I need to map it out for distance, but somewhere around 15miles.

1 Hour Run Today

2009-10-23T10:26:00.000-07:00

Felt good. Solid run. No issues. No HRM. Really liking the possibility of IMAZ next November!

Lakes...Boating...Kids...Colorado

2009-08-22T09:51:00.000-07:00

Off to take the boys to go boating and swimming. Last weekend before school starts....and we better hit it hard!

Super excited to watch them tube and possibly start skiing...I know the two bookends will try....but the middle may opt out.....We shall see.

Lots to update, but little time. I had a great time in Colorado and can't wait to put up some pic's, etc. Didn't realize just how tough climbing a 14er would be. It was hard, but thankfully I had awesome support!

More later.

P.S - training is going well. Hopefully I am getting stronger...Diet still needs work and focus, but I know what to do...just need to do IT.

Stumbled upon this today. What a way to start the week!

2009-08-03T08:04:00.000-07:00

Random Quotes

2009-08-03T04:23:00.000-07:00

When work, commitment, and pleasure all become one and you reach that deep well where passion lives, nothing is impossible.

Never give up on something that you can't go a day without thinking about.

Dream what you want to dream, go where you want to go, be what you want to be. Because you have only one life and one chance to do all the things you want to do.

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...it's learning to dance in the rain.

I do it because I can, I can because I want to, I want to because you said I couldn't.

Natchez Trace - Bike Ride

2009-07-24T06:10:00.000-07:00

Well, I had the opportunity to ride the Natchez Trace during a business trip to Nashville. Well, part of it! Natchez Trace is a 444 mile national parkway that runs from Mississippi to Tennessee! No commercial vehicles are allowed, and quite honestly, there were very few cars. Roads were smooth and fast. Folks are spoiled in Nashville. I would love to take this road to Ohio!

I had some appointments during the day so, I knew I was going to be pushing it to get a ride in, but everything worked out...as it always does. The days forecast was rain, rain, and more rain, however those that know me, know that I love crazy weather. In fact, that probably motivated me more than pure sunshine...Anyways. it was pouring when I started the ride, but the rain faded about an hour into the ride. Once the rain stopped, the fog, mist set in and it was a great evening!

Solo ride.....but it was very peaceful and enjoyable nonetheless. My yoga!

Overall, it was about 2.5 hours of rolling hills. Tried to take it easy, but ended up pushing on a few sections.

Pics below. If your in Nashville, I highly recommend this ride. I am thinking some day, I might as well ride the whole darn thing over a Holiday weekend and camp along the way! Anyone up for that?

In route

Loveless Cafe / Motel - Trail begins

Ready to ride

Someone has too much dough!

The Route!

Yours truly!

Almost hit this little guy!
Wild turkey's and deer everywhere! I was slow on the trigger to photo the deer.

Rudy Project - Thank You

2009-07-22T04:06:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to give a quick shout out to the guys at Rudy Project. The new shades are awesome! I have had the opportunity to run long, bike far, and kayak forever with them....Simply put they are perfect...No slipping, sliding on the nose. Very lightweight, and most importantly, all my kids want to wear them....

I only have to remember not to allow my 11 year old to wear them! He likes to loose things, especially sunglasses while he is at the movies...but then again, he must get that quality from his dad...

Thanks again.

My Training Partners

2009-07-15T05:57:00.000-07:00

Vacation! Getting Fat Once Again!

2009-07-11T07:05:00.000-07:00

Loving every minute of my time off! I haven't thought much about working out, but surprisingly I have fit in a few good sessions.

So far, we have enjoyed trips to an amusement park, went boating/tubing, and today we are headed for a kayak adventure. This wasn't a "typical" vacation, but one that has certainly re-charged my batteries, and has been fantastic.

The down side is I have very few pictures, but the upside is, I have a ton of memories.

Off to kayak, and thinking about Rocky Mountain National Park!

Nutrition and Hydration

2009-07-01T05:30:00.000-07:00

If my buddy (you know who you are) is reading this.....Hydrate more pal. You were almost left for the wolves on Sat. You are not a camel!

In all seriousness, good time riding bro.

And Curran - you fall into this category as well. I know you eat, but dude, do you ever drink?

Over my last several workouts, I have been constantly reminded of the need to properly fuel (water and food). Unfortunately for me, I have been one of the worst offenders of not fueling properly lately. I kinda lost some mojoe since my last Ironman and started to slack off...but it's time to do the work on the nutrition front as well.

So I decided to post a few good links on fueling. Stolen from the web!

I will never forget talking with Peter Reid about his determination and focus on training. He was very quick to add that nutrition played a big role to his success and you have to treat it like it's the 4th sport. I tend to listen to folks who are over-achievers and learn from them. Why did I stop???

I can recall several discussions with Chuckie on this very topic. Heck, spend some time on his blog and it won't take long for you to see his Caveman approach and attitude towards fueling. He get's pissed if you don't pace and fuel properly. Anyway, I just needed to refresh my own view towards eating and fueling well as I am looking to start bringing my A game back.

Some bookmarks I keep on hand:

Nutrition Articles
http://chuckiev.blogspot.com/2008/01/nutrition-notes_08.html

http://tritrainingfrenzy.blogspot.com/2007/11/my-thoughts-on-fueling-real-food-for.html

http://www.endurancecorner.com/library/nutrition/sports_nutrition_part4

Common Mistakes
http://www.trifuel.com/triathlon/nutrition/hydration-top-5-mistakes-000701.php

Dangers of Dehydration
http://www.bodyandfitness.com/Information/Fitness/dehydrate.htm

Mountain Biking is Tough

2009-06-29T06:59:00.000-07:00

Met up with a few good buddies and hit the trails for a 2.5 hour ride. Rode hard and became acquainted with the ground quite a few times. So much in fact, I thought about just staying on the ground.

I am still trying to get the hang of it. Much different than road riding and I enjoy it quite a bit even while doing a superman over the bars and sliding 15 feet down the side of the mountain! Yes, sign me up every time!

A few positives, I felt strong and had a ton of energy. I was thinking I would be hurting since I had a long run in the heat on Friday, but overall, legs felt quite good. Super excited to be constantly moving and just enjoying this sport again! Still no pool, need to find it again!

Small Training Update...No Couch Potato

2009-06-17T16:34:00.001-07:00

My training has gotten back on track....well maybe not a fast track, but slowly I have been ramping up the volume and consistency. I am so happy to be training again!

I have been very consistent over the last several weeks. I am getting my run back to a decent length and duration without feeling like crap. Bike has been ok. Still no long rides, but that will come. My swim has been.....well.....lacking. However, I am training a little EVERYDAY!

It helps that I have met a few good training partners and friends. It's been good to be challenged and have something to look forward to each day. I have enjoyed the sunrises and even a few sunsets on the occasional long run. I have also been hitting some trails and that has been great!

Still no races planned for this year (may pop into a sprint or something small key). A few good friends of mine are asking that I enter a 70.3 next year in St. Croix. I am really considering it, and still thinking about what I plan for next year. Perhaps an Ironman, perhaps the Ultraman, perhaps I could become a couch potato or Mr. Potato.

Short update, but heck....my mind is back, my body is feeling good, and I am loving the training!

Today was 1 hour and 45min run. Well, more of a shuffle, walk, run.

Later

Failure Leads To Success

2009-05-22T07:22:00.000-07:00

Why Do Dogs Pee on Fire Hydrants?

2009-05-19T17:24:00.000-07:00

This was the question I was asked by my youngest son today! Kids always amaze me! I wasn't positive on why dogs pee on fire hydrants...but had a good idea....so needless to say it was a bit difficult to answer....

I thought to myself to say...go "Google" it buddy. That statement is sad in more ways than one...but that's another rant on another day..

So, the old man went to trusty "Google". According to Answerbag:

...it's like a tree stump in a city. Dogs normally mark on trees, but cities have few of them so hydrants will do. They would pee on signposts but they are too narrow so they would miss. Hydrants are nice and fat, and just the right size. When they sniff hydrants they gather all kinds of information.... like Pippi the poodle was there that day and she's in heat, or that Boris the wolfhound has a bladder infection or that Max the pit bull had fish for dinner. They sniff dried pee to gather data, the same way we surf the internet to learn about the world.

So, Jackson...there ya go buddy! You made my day with that question!

It's all about the little things in life, and for me, there are three of them! The joy my boys bring to me each and every day is something I will always be grateful for.

Now, I just need to make sure he isn't trying to pee on a fire hydrant...

1:23:43 Run followed by Pushups / Situps

2009-04-28T18:29:00.000-07:00

On the road again, so I decided to start the day with an early morning run. One hour and change later, I felt pretty good. Legs were not turning over very well this morning, but I expect that due to may lack of volume over the last several months.

Weather was great...sunny and 70's..

1:46:54 and Lavaman Triathlon

2009-04-23T19:33:00.000-07:00

Just finished up with a solid run. This was my first lengthy run in quite some time and the legs could feel it. During the run, my right foot kept getting numb. Not sure what the cause is...Looking forward to more consistency and getting back into shape. I was glad I had the proper fuel and even happier when I found another water stop along the way.

____________________________________________

Also, I came across this video of Macca at the Lavaman. This was one of the first triathlon's I ever entered. I have a lot of great memories from the race, but more importantly memories with the family. It was my first trip to the Big Island, and I probably weighed close to 270 or so for the race! I have no idea how I finished, but I do recall getting passed by a 70 year old! I also remember my family cheering me on at the final leg of the beach run. Seems like yesterday..

Spin Class

2009-04-21T19:44:00.000-07:00

Today I had planned on finding some time to do a 2 hour "hard effort" on the bike. I am traveling again this week and as such, I have no bike to ride outside.

Normally, I don't hit the gym for spin classes, but I really needed the extra kick in the tail to make sure I was hitting it hard. Thankfully, the class didn't disappoint (music was awesome as well) and I was able to keep the hard effort going throughout the 2 hours.

Overall, 1 hour hard on stationary bike, followed by 1 hour in the spin class!

Tomorrow, I plan to run long.

Music from the class (what I remember):
Guns n Roses
Metallica
Dave Mathews
Godsmack
Foo Fighters
Train

I Am Above Ground

2009-04-15T07:32:00.000-07:00

Lately with all the press on our economy, jobs, pirates, war, etc. Folks are down. For most of us, there is a lot to be worried about. Whether that's paying your mortgage, watching your retirement dwindle away, your fear of unemployment or you are unemployed, or perhaps you are struggling with personal problems....but I have to say....try to wake up and put things in perspective for a brief moment.

If you are reading this you are "Above Ground". What else can I say?

Do you have shelter?

Do you have food?

Do you have water?

Are you healthy?

Now quit worrying about the things you can't control and go out and get the work done. I now have to take my own advice...or perhaps you should do as I say, not as I do.

Blood Mountain Photographs

2009-04-06T07:30:00.000-07:00

Spectacular view from the top!

Early morning sunshine!

Awesome campsite. Creek flowing on the left.

Thinking about my kids and passing time!

The way up the mountain!

Blood Mountain - Appalachian Trail Hike

2009-03-22T06:32:00.000-07:00

Lately my training has been getting a bit more consistent. I have been working on just steady improvement and consistency and this week I had a good mix of SBR. Since this weekend, I was alone, I set out on a new adventure...begin tackling the Georgia mountains/trails.

On Friday, I decided that I would begin with Blood Mountain. This is part of the Appalachian Trail, and one of the highest points in Georgia. I have access to a ton of great places to hike and they are all close by! I have never been on the Appalachian Trail and decided this was a great place to start. One of my goals this year, is to get in at least 20 long hikes (long is anything over 4 hours for me). These are all done Chuckie style, that is The Caveman Way.

After a quick google of "best places to hike in georgia", I came across Blood Mountain. It's just north of Atlanta and Blood Mountain climbs to 4,446 feet above sea level. As mentioned above it is part of the Appalachian Trail that extends all the way to Main. A little side note, after being out on the trail for a few days, I can only dream of the day my kids and I hike the entire Appalachian Trail....boys...take note! The name Blood Mountain supposedly came from bloody battles (aren't all battles bloody?) between the Creek and the Cherokee Indians. I didn't see any Indians or battles over my 2 days, but I was ready just in case!

After 2 days on the trail, all I have to say is AWESOME! It was exciting to be out in the woods hiking by myself. In fact, I have never really hiked or slept outside alone or without a tent...just a sleeping bad under the stars. Most of the trip was breathtaking with the all scenery (streams, views, cliffs, animals). It was peaceful, amazing, and surreal.

The only time I cowered like a baby was at night when some animal began playing with my head while I was sleeping. I naturally awoke and was ready for a dog-fight or bear-fight, but all in all I think it was a bug or nat. I am big wuss! All the talk of bears and rattlesnakes always puts me on the edge. So that bug was just lucky I didn't knife him! Besides, what are the odds a bear would want to kisss me?

With all of my fear of the dark and bugs, simply looking up in the lit sky was all anyone needed. The sky was clear and I saw more stars than anywhere else I had ever been. I tried snapping a few pics, but they didn't turn out. My campsite was nestled on a little spot near a flowing creek and enclosed by a circle of big trees. So laying on my back looking up, I could see the stars right through a circle of tree tops. It was very cool. I will definitely be back to Blood Mountain again and perhaps for a mini cycling weekend (huge area for cyclists and cycle cabins).

Chuckie - this could be a great place for an EAST COAST camp.......

Total mileage = no idea
Hours spent on trail = no idea

Pictures will be posted soon.

Why I Always Fear The Open Water

2009-03-18T07:19:00.000-07:00

Another Ride and Good Day

2009-03-18T04:07:00.000-07:00

I had to travel today for work and fortunately I was able to meet up with my buddy Scott on the way to Atlanta. Scott hosted me at his casa once again. He lives in what I call paradise. Trails and mountains (the eastern type) are out his front door, he has access to excellent roads with limited cars and of course the weather is usually warm.

With the time change, we both were able to have a full day of work and still get in a decent ride....

Out the door at 6pm and on the mountain for a few hours. I am really starting to like mountain biking. We started out on one tough climb. He kept warning me to take it easy, and I kept thinking this hill has to end sometime. It took us nearly 30 mins to reach the top. As with any hard ride up hill, you know it pays off once you are able to bomb down the descent. I wasn't disappointed on the way down other than the mud in the eyes! Lots of jumps, speed, and yes I am hooked on mountain biking.

All in all, this was another great day. Pic of his bike above (not actually his as I forgot the camera, but similar). I have been borrowing his other Maverick and that bike kick serious butt. I think its been a huge mistake riding it as I know I can't afford it!

So today was 1.5hour run in the early am watching the sunrise, and a 1.5 - 2 hour ride in the PM (we both forgot about time). Caveman ride.

Raccoon Mountain Ride

2009-03-09T16:53:00.000-07:00

I was able to get out for a nice 4 hour ride over the weekend. Typically I am a road guy, but I may have been converted to mountain biking. Holy crap that was fun!

I met a good friend of mine halfway between Atlanta and Knoxville and we hit the trails. I enjoyed every minute of it, except for the huge bonk about 2 hours into it. I only had 1 water bottle, no food, and I was very un-prepared. I kept saying Chuck would be pissed. I remember a ride with him last year when one of the guys got dropped due to a big bonk (started out way too fast, and then couldn't ride hard to get home). Anyway, I wasn't with Chuckie, but thought I may have to spend the night on the trail!

Definitely a ride to remember, and thanks Scott for letting me borrow the bike!

Not my video, but at least some footage. I hope it doesn't make you sick.

Don't Call It A Comback...Yet

2009-02-14T13:44:00.001-08:00

Well....I have decided to take the entire year off from Ironman racing. I do plan to continue to get fit with the help of Chuckie V. Not on a full-time basis though. He has a great plan that anyone can follow...check it out. It's quite simple, but for the time being it will work for me. This is not to say Chuckie and I are parting ways. It's quite the opposite. When I am ready, I know he is there to make me a monster. I have been going through a lot this year both personally and professionally, and I just know that my plate is full. This is not to say, I won't race at all. I may drop in a few here or there.

I have lost a ton of fitness, I haven't been able to focus on swimming, riding, or running consistently and thus I have to let it go. It is a big relief for me. I have focused over the last couple of years on getting fit and I have made tremendous strides from losing over 100 lbs to winning my age-group, and having the confidence that I can show up at races and compete. I am not hanging up the gloves so to speak, but I am taking a breather. I need it. My kids need it.

So my goals for the year are simple. Exercise at least 6 days/week. Eat well. Work on getting light on my feet. Log at least 20 big hikes, some with my boys, and some without. Spend tons of time with my boys. Work on me.

I do plan to enter 2010 in a big way. I have a desire to go to Kona. I have a desire to do well in Ironman. I feel that in order to reach my goals, I need to have a sharp focus and a plan to execute. I know this year, I don't have what it takes and I need to step back and work on other things in my life...and YES...those things are way more important.

I plan to do my best to keep blogging.

Time to go clean, paint, and feed the kids.

Mass Swim Starts! How Much Fun!

2009-01-09T07:13:00.001-08:00

Have you ever ran for 2 days?

2009-01-08T07:02:00.000-08:00

Well, I couldn't sleep much last night. I had missed my early morning workout, and kept thinking I needed to head out on a run. I had a busy day at the office and lots of kid duties in the evening. So I found myself laying in bed thinking about all sorts of things. Most of the time, once i hit the pillow, I crash. This night, I felt like I wouldn't fall asleep for days. So instead of laying there with insomnia, I opted for a run.

Since it was only January 7th, I couldn't really skip a workout, so I went out into the wild! During my late night adventure (or 2 day run), I realized that it was going to be epic. Snow, ice, wind, and lots of crazy wild animals make for an epic adventure in my mind. I call it epic so I sound tough! Anyhow, I think this was the first run in which I began on January 7th and it ended on January 8th. It wasn't really 48 hours, in fact it was only 2 hours, but still covered 2 days in my mind!

All in all, it was nice to be the only one on the road, other than the dead possum, deer, and wild dogs. I look forward to my next great adventure, you know the workouts that you will always remember!

Jim, if your reading, kind of like our rain soaked run in Granville!

Patience....Great Quotes I stole from the Web

2009-01-06T06:25:00.000-08:00

Life requires patience and focus. Ironman training requires patience and focus. It's early in 2009, but a small goal of mine this year is to find more patience.

“Patience is waiting. Not passively waiting. That is laziness. But to keep going when the going is hard and slow - that is patience.”

“Follow your heart, but be quiet for a while first. Ask questions, then feel the answer. Learn to trust your heart.”

“The two most powerful warriors are patience and time.”

“Patience and fortitude conquer all things”

Treadmills

2008-12-17T08:37:00.001-08:00

Well, I am very thankful for having found an awesome steal on a treadmill. I plan to pick it up in the next day or so.

It is a Precor and appears to be used very little. I think this could be the best thing I have purchased in a long time. Most families have probably purchased treadmills and have found out that they become more of a clothes hanger or perhaps the ugliest piece of furniture in their house. For us, I know this baby will be used, used, and used.

I know most folks will say, get out in the crappy weather, run on the road, dirt, etc....Well I will plan on doing that as well. This is just a nice addition for the times when I have to be at home and can't leave the house. For you single folks, pros, or folks without kids, a job, etc just wait. Someday you will understand.

Coming back from an injury (MAF Related)

2008-11-26T08:35:00.000-08:00

I have lost a ton of fitness since IMKY. I knew this was going to happen as I was down and out of it quite a bit.

Prior to Ironman Kentucky, I was swimming, biking, and running on average 20 hours/week, with quite a few bigger weeks (big weekend training...fri, sat, sun). Last year, I did have an initial setback prior to Ironman Lake Placid, and had to cancel the race and take 10 days off. This was from my my Med Express incident (heart cath, asthma). During this injury period, I did loose quite a bit of fitness. Once I became healthy and able to train my initial MAF field tests showed a much slower pace/mile than before my injury. Fortunately with only 10 days off, it didn't take me long to get back to where I left off. I credit this to Chuckie and a few weeks of hitting it pretty good.

After Kentucky, I was down and out of it on a lot of levels. I didn't want to see a pool, bike, or even my Newtons. I hated Ironman, I hated working out, I wasn't eating and quickly dropped a bunch of weight. I had a few people tell me I looked like a cancer patient. I wasn't physically injured, just a combination of burn-out and other things. Well it has taken me a long time to get back into it, but I am happy to say, things are going quite well with training. Im doing the bare minumum, but compared to 3 weeks ago, I am at least able to ENJOY it again. This is KEY.

So fast-forward to my latest MAF test I did. WOW. I was running 10.5-11min miles at my MAF HR. This is an eye-opener. I am not concerned too much about it, as I will get back to it, but I was shocked at how quickly your engine can erode. On the flipside, it was a break that was needed for me.

Happy Turkey Day and Happy Training.

CK

Check out this climb!

2008-11-25T11:22:00.000-08:00

Stolen from KP. Thanks Dude.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82pktbqNJSg

Weekend Ahead

2008-11-21T06:06:00.000-08:00

This picture is a turtle that we shot (not literally) on our trip to the Big Island. The darn thing looks dead. Your not allowed to touch the turtles (protected animals), but this one was alive and well. He is so wiped out from swimming in the rough surf he needed a break. I think at certain times of our life, we can all relate to the turtle.

This weekend should be straight-forward. Clean the house, paint the trim, wax on, wax off, side by side, make sure Xmas lights work, and watch the OSU game. Oh and I guess I will try to squezze in a bit of stress relief:

Friday the plan is to run.
Saturday the plan is to swim and bike.
Sunday the plan is to ride.

Monday the plan is to look back and see if I was able to complete a nice 3 day block.

Cross your fingers!

Oh, and yesterday I did run. I ran very fast. So fast I forgot how far I went, and how long it was. Much like the turtle.

Running away

2008-11-20T05:03:00.000-08:00

From all that cold. It was chilly out yesterday on my run. 6 miles in all.

Jedi Mind Tricks

2008-11-17T18:03:00.001-08:00

Well, training was certainly at a low point since my last post. Not much at all. I am not complaining as at least I have my health.

Thursday, Friday, and Saturday were tough days to get anything in. Lots happening. So I had another setback. 3 days off. Suck, suck, suck.

So I decided on Sunday, I needed to use the force and start playing Jedi mind tricks on myself. With a finger swing in the air, I told myself I need to train. For my sanity if anything else!

Jedi to Chris - "No matter how crappy you feel come Monday, you will train.
Chris to Jedi - "Yes Master, I will train".

Chris to self - "You have gone completely nuts".

Monday - 6miles, weights, and a bit of a ride!!!!

Later.

Let's make it a triple!

2008-11-12T07:36:00.000-08:00

And no, I don't mean a triple with cheese. I am talking about 3 workouts in a day. This is actually quite normal for most, and in fact, it was normal for me last year, just not lately.

Today, that's going to change. I have two down and one to go, later tonight.

Run early - 6 miles (check, done, finished)
Weights - 40 min routine that was killer
Bike? I need to make this happen tonight!

Tuesday

2008-11-11T05:46:00.000-08:00

Well...I did get up...a bit late...so my run suffers...

5 miles...9min mile pace....i am the tortoise! Started the morning off well, with an orange, small coffee (back to decaf), and a slice of wheat toast with honey....yum.

Monday - Sh!t didn't happen today

2008-11-10T22:27:00.000-08:00

No training. Consider this an off-day.

Bad day all around. Can't sleep, probably won't for a while. I hope to get my ass up in the morning.

Saturday Run

2008-11-10T05:29:00.001-08:00

7 Miles. Very slow. Kept HR in check.

Also had a bit of aerobic work in the basement building walls. Fun stuff.

Friday Fun

2008-11-07T06:23:00.000-08:00

Swim - 1500Meters

I didn't forget how to swim...thankfully...

Stroke still needs a ton of work. Arms were fatigued towards the end. It's hard to realize just a short time ago, Chuckie had me swimming 6,000meters on some days. It's still the Off-Season!

A nice 2 workout day....

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Run - 6 miles

Woke up this morning...couldn't sleep much at all.

Headed for the gym and ran for 6 miles on tready. Hoping to flop later this afternoon if all goes well with work.

Took advantage of the weather and hung some Xmas lights....I know it's early, but I was in shorts!

Where did it all go?

2008-11-06T05:51:00.000-08:00

Crap, crap, crap.

I ran today with a HRM. I have lost a lot of fitness. Sh!t.

5 miles. HR was near 170 a few times.

Back to MAF.

Off-Season...The Work Begins Now

2008-11-05T07:07:00.000-08:00

Well....

I have taken a bit of time off. Not exactly by choice, but let's just say, it was needed. After a long season and all the training last year, I have been on a break. I do like triathlons and I know that my kids feel it's a part of who their dad is.

So not sure what my point is, but I do like to swim, bike, and run. I will need to take it slow...and not get too carried away. My close friends say that I am a "Man of Extremes". I can't do anything in moderation. Whether it's ironman, relationships, work, kids, etc. My goals over the next season are simple.

Have FUN and be there for my kids.

I have to fix some medical things (take my daily meds), so I will be able to race all my races and not have to walk. My asthma seemed to rear it's ugly head at the worst times last year...and not during training.

So let me be the first to say...Chris...get your ass up off the floor and take care of yourself.......

I'm off to run....