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1.01.2009

What A Year!!

Well. We've got another year is behind us. And what a year it was!

We did a bunch of races. I set new PR's in the 5k, 8k and 13.1 distances. For the first time ever, we placed our training in the hands of a coach. I experienced a good amount of burnout mid-way through the season (but then again, who doesn't?). And I gave 2 valiant first attempts at the half iron distance. One day, I'd even like to return to Kansas to give it another go, and hopefully next time it won't get canceled during the race. But being able to race in the presence of friends at Spirit of Racine 70.3 was a wonderful experience. It was also the year of Mike's Ironman.

But now we're in 2009. The year of *my* Ironman. Oh man, that's both weird--and exciting--to think!! It kind of gives me that ohmygawdwhathaveidone feeling inside. I have no doubt I can do the distance, I just need to make sure I get more than enough time in the saddle before the big day. My biggest fear is not making the bike cutoff. But there is roughly 11 months for me to sort all of that out.

I've been loosely planning all of the races that will come in the upcoming months...rather than do a bunch of smaller races, I think I'm mainly going to focus on a few key races and really hone in on training. So here's what I'm thinking so far...

3.29.09 - Shamrock Shuffle 8k
6.26-28.09 - Wisconsin Brick Adventures
7.12.09 - Danskin Women's Sprint Tri (Redline it)
8.1.09 - Steelhead 70.3
9.xx.09 - Big Shoulders 2.5k open water swim
9.27.09 - Apple Cider Century
11.22.09 - Ironman Arizona

We're also planning on heading north to Madison to volunteer, spectate and cheer on friends during IMoo.

Also up for consideration on my radar...
North Shore Half Marathon (though not sure I really want to have many road races this year)
Enduracamp St. Louis
Tri-Shark Sprint

So while 2008 had a bunch of highs (and lows, too)...I can only imagine all the craziness that'll come up during 2009.

But I hope that everyone had a happy and safe New Year's Eve and that 2009 is a year of exciting new endeavors and many personal accomplishments for each and every one out there!!

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9 Camper Comments:

Blogger Nicole said...

Happy new year. Best of luck in year of the IM.
I also have to say I'm jealous to see the shuffle on your calendar. Wish I could come back to run it.

January 01, 2009 2:54 PM  
Blogger Molly said...

Yes, it is YOUR YEAR - WOOHOO! I think focusing on a few key races is a smart plan. I rode around Phoenix/Scottsdale in the sunshine today and - while it was a nice ride - thought about how much work I have to do to get in good bike shape. But we do have 11 months, which is oodles of time. No reason to be like I was last year - when I wasn't doing IM - and do tons of 50-70 mile rides all winter!

January 01, 2009 3:33 PM  
Blogger lifestudent said...

oh! I forgot to register for the shuffle! Thanks for the reminder :)

January 01, 2009 10:16 PM  
Blogger J~Mom said...

Can't wait to cheer for you this year at IMAZ!!! It's going to be a great year! :>)

January 01, 2009 10:43 PM  
Blogger aham23 said...

the Tri Sharks Sprint is a top notch event by a top notch club. you cant go wrong with it. also, i have heard some nice things about the apple cider. happy new year.

January 02, 2009 9:15 AM  
Blogger TNTcoach Ken said...

Happy 2009 and I can't wait to hear about IM training this year.

January 02, 2009 12:41 PM  
Blogger Nat said...

I love reading your blog. I am excited to read about your adventures to becoming IM!

January 03, 2009 1:37 PM  
Blogger WADDLER26.2 said...

Looks like an awesome 2009!! Enjoy.

January 03, 2009 8:24 PM  
Blogger Sunshine said...

A fine list for the New Year!
May some of your days be as good as Christmas!

January 04, 2009 12:51 PM  

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