First du in awhile

[spindizzy]

Did 2 duathlons in 2006, injured in 2007, and just completed first du since Sept 2006.

Prior to this race was a high school reunion that I had also committed myself to. So from Thursday to Saturday, I accumulated serious car kms. Like about 1100. Not the best planning! And although I tried to maintian some semblence of nutrition..it's just not like being at home.

Anyway, woke up this morning. Cloudy, freaking windy and raining. I don't think the wind has stopped in about 3 weeks here. Had breakfast, packed up the car and headed out to venue (an hour away..ya, more kms!) This was a sprint du. 4/24/4.(kms) Run course relatively flat ( 1 small hill) and a few minor rollers. Bike route alternated hilly and rolling, constantly. What made this so challenging was the wind, 30 km/hr from the NW (along with some rain, some hail) and wind gusts up to 46km/hr. Of course the first 15 kms were either into the wind or the wind accompanied us as a crosswind.There were many times I though I was going to get blown off the bike and road.

Managed to finish, 5/7 in my age group (50-54, 1:44), though I am not thrilled with my time. Also, my transition times were brutal.

What I did learn is that I need to work on transitions. Can't do anything about the weather - coping with that is developing mental toughness. Traipsing around the province and nutrition probably had a hand in that result as well. Next one is June 1st.

[Tri Girl]

Sounds like it was a tough day weather wise. You still did well. Good job!
I've decided that some days are just not my day to race. I did my first du in almost a year yesterday and it didn't turn out pretty. I had my first DNF after my HR wouldn't settle below 180. I just threw in the towel because I didn't want to trash myself. At least you finished.
Again, great job. First one out of the way for the season. June 1st will be here before you know it and you'll smoke it out there next time!