Went out nice and easy but being in the lead pack we all took a wrong turn and added about 1/2 mile to our race. But as someone put it "It was going to be a long day anyway so what does it matter"

Learn the route :0

I really took my time to make sure I was composed before jumping on the bike and to get my adrenalin under control. Mantra - "Pacing Pacing Pacing"

I really enjoyed the course, rolling hills nothing too strenuous with some fast flat and downhill sections. Aid stations were perfectly spaced for me. For some reason I thought I would have more alone time on the bike but there was always someone just in front or just behind. Not drafting - obviously!
I felt great the whole way round and made sure to thank the volunteers and the police as I appsed them. Interestingly every Policeman replied "you're welcome" for some reason that had a very postitve effect on my ride.

Need to review my shoes and pedals I had real "hotspots" on my feet for the last 10 miles or so.

Again took my time to make sure i had everything. I had planned to use aid stations for water only and carry my own gels.

Well it all went wrong from the start. First my gel bottles don't actually stay in my pocket when running! So I ended up carrying them. At about 3/4 mile in my shin really started to hurt, so much so that running was not an option. I had to walk 12.4 miles. I tried to run every so often but the pain was too much so I would go back to walking. After about 11 miles I was emotionally DONE - I just had to HTFU and finish. Little did I know the best was yet to come. At the end of the race is a slip'n'slide that I went on with my 4yo son. It made the pain so worthwhile.

NOT WALK!

I would also like to thank everyone; athletes and volunteers who offered encouragement - it really does help. Thanks!

Sat down with family and friends, including the women's overall winner Sonja Wieck, and talked about what might have been and enjoyed a cold Mix1.


Although I had to wlk the majority of the 13.1 miles I am not disappointed, a little frustrated maybe, but 10 months ago I would never have been near the start line let alone the finish line. All in all a great day and a great event. I will be back!


The slip'n'slide made it for me as well as all the pre-race correspondance from Without Limits.