I have been terrible at blogging lately. Mostly because I have been wedding planning (which I am not much better at). But then between running, coaching, working, planning I am just to tired to want to blog. But there are so many events that I want to share- so I am going to try and get back to it. I am going all the way back to the end of January and the Carlsbad Half Marathon.
I have run in the Carlsbad half the previous two years always raising funds for Insulindependence. This year Brennan and I convinced my sister Brooke that she should also run. It would help her have something to focus on and she could also help raise some money. Brooke started off great training with the PEAR Pro, but within a few weeks into her new job life go in the way of training. Going into this half I was determined to stick to my training plan I wanted so badly to beat my previous best time.
My training went surprisingly well. I managed to stay away from any major injuries. Only missing a few training sessions. Brooke on the other hand seemed to miss most of them. But our fundraising was going well. Over the course of a few months Brooke and I managed to raise over a thousand dollars together to help the organization.
Once race weekend was upon us the weather was not that great- cold and rainy. Brooke and Sean stayed over the night before the race since we would be heading out early. With the rain we decided to leave Sean at the apartment. Where he claims I left him with nothing to eat! Turns out Sean does not eat healthy stuff : ). Brennan would leave before us Sunday morning so he could get to the aid station at mile 2 (where all the volunteers where from Insulindependence). This meant that Brooke and I were on our own. There is a reason Brennan and I never race together- it is so that someone is totally focused and there to help the individual racing. With this set up that was not going to be the case.
Brooke and I left with plenty of time to spare. Once we were parked our nerves started to get the best of us- so we got in the bathroom line. Woman seriously take forever! After that we headed to the Insulindependence tent where we would meet up with the other 50+ runners who had raised money as well. We got a group picture. Then we were off to get into the starting area.
All the IN racers
At this point Brooke was really starting to freak out. This is when you look back and think why did I miss those training days. I honestly was thinking the same thing. Her plan was to run 5 minutes walk 1 minute. With a goal to just finish the race. I had a plan to run faster than ever before. As we waited for the race to start I became more and more nervous. Then it was time to go- I told Brooke go get it and see you at the finish. I was OFF!!
Brooke all smiles at aid station #1 ( 2miles in)
My goal was to not go out hard with all the others. I had a plan and was going to stick to it. I had been using heart rate based training and pace over the last few months. But again when race day comes all of a sudden none of that matters. Within a few minutes into the race my heart rate was sky high as in the 190's. But I felt good. At the first aid station I saw my amazing fiance Brennan taking some pictures. I guess I do not stand out in a crowd cause he almost totally missed me had I not yelled at him. I loved seeing him but sad cause it was so early in the race.
Again I was just focused on my plan. Quickly it started to hurt (like any racing). But I just kept going. At the turn around I was looking and looking for Brooke but with thousands of people and no idea what pace she was holding it was worthless. With about 3 miles to go I was really hurting. My heart rate had been up in the 190's for the majority of the race. At this point my legs were heavy and my chest was on fire. When I saw Brennan at 2 miles all I could say was it hurts! He yelled a few positive things and I just kept trucking away. The last mile seemed to drag on and on. When I turned the corner for the finish line I had hardly anything in the tank to speed up. I just wanted to get across so that I could walk.
This is what 195 average heart rate makes you look like
This is what Brooke looked like.. All Smiles!
I finished with a personal best time. It was not the time I was hoping for but better than ever before. Plus I was not injured. I managed to make my way through the crowd to get back to my stuff. I did a bit of stretching and then was trying to decide if I could get to the aid station in time to see Brooke. I called Brennan and he had not seen her yet. I decided not to risk it and to just go stand at the finish. Brennan gave me a heads up when she was at the aid station- he said she was still smiling. Which I thought was a good sign. You can see this video of Brooke finishing her 1st ever half marathon.
I cannot explain how proud I am of Brooke. Not sure if she will ever do another one. But once I got to her all she could say was "I didn't walk, NOT one time." I was not surprised Brooke has the highest pain tolerance of anyone I know. Plus she is competitive! She beat her goal time even!
Slowly the soreness made its way for Brooke. By the time we got to the car she could barely walk. I think the next three days she was in extreme pain but she had run her first half marathon! So way to go Brooke. I could not be more proud of you!!!
Last weekend I ran in the Hot Buttered Rum Run 10K down in Pacific Beach. Brennan and I decided to run in the race after our friend from grad school Megan Miller asked if we wanted to join her. For me personally I am in my 11th week of training for the Carlsbad Half Marathon (click here to donate to Insulindependence who I am racing for in January) and Brennan thought it would be a great test run. It would allow me to go a little bit faster than my half marathon pace, since it was a shorter distance.
Stolen from Megan- Look at the race view!
Deciding that it would be a ton of fun and involve a little rum at the end we figured why not register. Being the normal Team Cassidy we missed the sign up online. Not to worry we headed to Road Runner sports on Saturday to register in person. After registering we spent the rest of the day doing a bit of shopping and our own winter cleaning. The winter cleaning lead to 6 bags of clothes going to good will, 2 bags of trash and finding a ton of mold growing in our apartment. Needless to say an email was sent a bit later that afternoon that we would be chatting Monday morning the minute the office opened. No need to worry- we are moving mid January. If you need my new address please email me or face book me!
After our hectic cleaning spree we would just hangout for the evening. Sunday would not start early like most races getting up at 7- taking our time and leaving the house about 7:45. The race would take place down in Pacific beach at one of the many beautiful resorts. Arriving much to early (like usual for us) we just hung out waiting. We found our friend Megan and then just waited for the race to start.
Before the race with Megan!
As the start time got closer then started getting us into basic corrals by estimated split time. We picked the 2nd fastest corral that would prove to be good and bad. Then the race was on. I felt really great starting out. I was trying not to go out to fast- but I was starting to pass people with Brennan right next to me. Then came a huge problem about a quarter mile into the race there was a turn at this point there was probably only 30 people in front of us- all turned left. So naturally we turned left. Well turns out the biker leading the race did not know what way to go. All of a sudden we are making a loop and behind all the walkers of the race. At this point I was super pissed! I was running well and this was just like turning the ball over on a man up- takes the wind out of your sails.
With the entire group of racers now in front of us Brennan and I were stuck with the task of trying to weave our way through the crowd. The race ran along the bay front on paths for a beautiful view! at this point when you would see a mile marker like Mile 3 my watch was reading 3.60- just knowing that my time was going to be much slower because I ran over an extra half mile. About mile 4.5 on my watch I was starting to feel the whole not warming up thing. I was running at a fast pace for me personally and yet there was Brennan making it look effortless (make note Brennan has not done any serious running since Ironman). With about a mile to go I started to feel better again and had Brennan as my friendly reminder that all would be ok. I was able to pick up the pace and finish with a small smile on my face. Though still upset about the extra distance. I am sure people told the race organizers because very soon there plan was people in the front they were going to deduct 3 minutes. Not sure if that fixes the situation at all but with the correction I was under the 50 minute mark and will smile about that.
Brennan made me take a picture with that Reindeer and him with his Rum!!
Then it was off to the rum. I honestly had no idea what Hot Buttered Rum was and honestly still don't. It was not a bad tasting drink though after a hard run and a cold morning.We spent some time just the three of us chatting and deciding what other races we should do in the future! Have to thank Megan for the invite!!
After the race we rushed home to shower and change. Then it was off to grandpa Vessey's house for the annual Vessey Christmas party. Always a great to spend time with the family. Eat some great Mexican food and have a ton of dessert!
A year in the making:
Ironman what is it you ask. It is 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and a 26.2 mile run. All done in one day back to back. I am proud to say that my fiancé Brennan is an Ironman having completed his first Ironman a few weekends ago.
Just looking at the distance most people would say why you would want to do that. Or if you would have asked my mother race morning like I did. Mom you want to do this? “No these people are all crazy!” Well does it inspire you? “Yes but still think they are all crazy.” Well crazy he may be but it is a world that Brennan & I have joined.
A year ago we drove out to Phoenix Arizona to volunteer at the 2011 Ironman AZ. You can read about how much fun we had at that by reading this blog post. We volunteered because that is the simplest way to actually get a bib for next year. Also genius marketing because they get free labor. After volunteering we got a spot for Brennan. You can also sign up online- that sold out in 1 minute. Selling out that quickly is why we were there in person to sign up (the 19th individual in line).
Ironman Arizona was a year in the making- Brennan’s training started not long after we returned from our trip. It was a long year with many miles logged- not necessarily me logging the miles but many joint efforts. I did do some training with Brennan but I was not up to Ironman status. I can proudly say that I did help in the swimming area.
November 18, 2012 was the day we had waited for. A few days earlier we had made the drive over to Phoenix. The day’s leading up the race were filled with short workouts, bike drop off, bag drops, check in and Brennan being interview by WTC.
Brennan's Interview with World Triathlon Corporation
When the morning had arrived I am not sure who was more nervous me or Brennan. After rising nice and early. I personally did not sleep much. Had quick breakfast- grabbed our prepacked bags and were off. Not to long after leaving the hotel we hit our first road block. The secret parking lot was blocked off. Trying not to let panic sycn in we headed to another location. Again hitting a closed road. At this point Brennan was now freaking out (as was I). It was decided he should just get out and I would meet him at transition. Normally this would be a great plan except this is Ironman not some small race. There are 2,900 competitors and way to many spectators. Brennan would hop out of the car without his phone mistake number 2. I managed to get to a nearby parking lot and walk to the transition area. This is where panic set in!! I would imagine it is much like losing your child in a crowded area. Everyone seems to look like them- you can’t scan fast enough. Everyone is pushing you the crowd is pulling you. Maybe that seems a bit out of a movie- but it was happening to me. The longest 20 minutes of my life. I was in complete panic mode. Then my phone range with a number from Georgia- good news it was Brennan! After our panic of losing each other I found him! He was safe and sound. Turns out he was as worried as me. His next plan to fine me if he could not get a phone- he was just going to start yelling my name! Thankfully that was not needed. Major problem avoided thankfully.
Needing to get away from the massive crowd we headed to a less occupied area to start getting him into his wet suit and prepared for the race. While helping him to get ready I managed to give directions to his parents so they could meet up with us. This is where we encountered our 3rd road block of the morning. Most races I can stand by or near Brennan right up till it starts. Not at Ironman they have all these barriers set up. So I wished him luck and off he went. His parents and I headed a little ways down from the swim start. The swim takes place in Tempe Town Lake and the course runs parallel to shore. We joined the masses to wait! By this point I had managed to also find my mother who had made the 5 hour drive to Arizone to see Brennan compete. My dad was supposed to come as well but had been feeling under the weather. I was about 7 people back from the water and being short gave me a terrible view. But my mom had managed to push her way to the front along with Brennan’s mom Renee. At this point there were just hundreds of green and pink caps floating in the water.
I have swam a few open water races in my lifetime but non with this many people all starting together. This is a massive start meaning every athlete goes at the sound of the cannon. Having talked with Brennan his strategy was to try and start off to the right side (near shore). This way he hoped not to get totally run over and it would give him some space. Being to the point of throwing up I was so nervous the cannon finally sounded. The mass of people was off! All I could do was hold my camera up and watch the small screen. People were just swimming past and all of sudden taking a breath was this younger guy. It was like he made direct eye contact with me through this small space I was looking through. It was BRENNAN!!! I could see was Brennan! In a mass of 2,900 swimmers I had found Brennan. Attempting to explain to my mom and his which person he was did not go well. But I know knew that if I had seen him once I could find him again. The where is waldo had started. I took off running down the shore till where there was no more people. Like everything people are like cattle they don’t venture to far- making so that Jamie would win this round! I found Brennan again and ended up walking the entire 1.1 mile to the turnaround. It was awesome! Turns out Brennan did not agree in that I made him feel like he was going so slow. But I was so excited I had found him and proud because I did not use any of my old coaching signals!
Once he got to the turnaround I headed back to catch up with Brennan’s parents and my mom who I had left in a huge hurry! We headed to where he would start the bike course. Again you play where’s Waldo all day. I basically missed him starting the bike course (woops) so we would wait till he came back. The bike course was 3 loops of about 37 miles. Having managed to get a spot on the curb where we would see Brennan coming into the turn and out of the turn we waited. The exciting part of the day was my boss and a few of Brennan’s co-workers were racing. Between the time we would see Brennan was spent getting food and finding a way to waste time. Every time Brennan would come by we would cheer and cheer. Hoping that I was getting good video and pictures.
After 3 loops on the bike he was headed to his last transition of the day. I managed to see him come by on the bike- I then ran as fast as I could to get on top of this bridge in the hopes I would catch a glimpse of him starting the run. Like usual took a bit of effort but I got there just as he was running out of the tent and was able to yell loud enough for him to hear me. I later found out he did not actually see me but he heard me! From there I was headed to the Insulindependence home base. They had a tent and was located along the run course in a great spot. From this one location we would be able to see Brennan run by about every 4 miles.
Back at the home base I found my mom and Brennan's parents. Again it was time to wait! The run is fun because they are not going so fast that they dont actually see you. The first time we saw Brennan he was looking great. He had a huge smile on his face. Much different then when my boss ran by and pointed at major road rash all down his left side. Turns out he was hit by another cyclists 1 mile into the bike portion of the race!
I love my Ironman
When Brennan neared to pass us for mile 8 he still had a smile. This time as he got closer he was pointing at me.This is not uncommon as Brennan ususally gives me some type of recognition when racing but this was different. He stopped (always makes me nervous) and in front of everyone pulled me in for a kiss. As a person that hates attention a small part of me was freaking out. But at the same time everything else was standing still. Then I realized that he was sweaty and all wet. Not as romantic then! Just like that it was over and he was back to running. There are times I laugh at knowing Brennan so well- because I knew he started running again with the biggest grin. He had just left with about 50 people all of whom we know. All of which were gonna have something to say about that kiss. I knew that in his mind he was just laughing at the mess he had left me in. All the attention I was getting! Gosh was he ever right. I also know that he spent at least 2 miles before planning this kiss and situation. Just laughing about how great it was going to be. Well he was right it was everything he hope for and more that I ever imagined. I was always behind this goal but in that moment everyone else saw how it was our thing, our race and our accomplishment!
After that we would again wait. Triathlon is alot of waiting. The plan was to be able to see Brennan a total of 5 times. After the 5th time we were going to sprint toward the finish line located about a mile away. Also knowing that at the finish line there would be a ton of other people. Getting a good spot was my highest priority! I also knew that it would take time and a stratgy. I will admit by this point in the day I was freaking out. The finish was the most important part and I was not gonna miss it. By the time we arrived at the finish line it was packed with people just like us. Wanting to get a great spot to see there friends, loved ones, co-workers become Ironman. For many people like us it would be our first Ironman finish for other they have been here before.
The finish line is designed with bleachers on both sides and the racers come up the shoot were they are welcomed in by Mike Reily (Voice of Ironman.) Everyone is welcomed what somewhat the same "John Doe you are an Ironman". This is what you wait to hear all day your name and the words "YOU ARE AN IRONMAN." I managed to push our way to about the 3 row back from the wall. My goal was to get right up front. This is another game of waiting and watching. I managed to see my boss become an Ironman for the first time. Then one of Brennan's co-workers Blair- her family had been with us at the IN tent. They are great people. We were all shoved together awaiting her arrival. When Blair came down the shoot she immediately saw her sister and gave her the biggest hug- then her good friend and then a wave and smile to her parents. As she started to take a few steps she must have heard me cause we made direct eye contact. It was a special moment to share in her trium of such an amazing race. Then it was back to waiting.
Then around the corner came my fiance with a huge smile on his face. I of course was trying to get the camera on and just yelling away. At this point I was on my tip toes hanging oer the barricades in order to get it all on film. I was just yelling along with his family. I was holding in tears- my mom was crying. Then he stopped and gave me a great big hug and kiss. I was so proud of him. Words will never do it justice of how I was feeling in that moment. Away he went and shortly after we heard "Brennan Cassidy you are an Ironman!" The video I have makes me lauigh because he runs into the bright ligh and you cant truly see him finish. He did it with two hands raised in the air.
Check out my IRONMAN!!!
I was now the fiance to an Ironman. Next worry was to get out of the crowd and to wear the competitors are pushed into. In this area they can get food, medical attention- finally just sit down. I managed to lose Brennan and my mom but I didn't care- I just wanted to get to Brennan. Getting to the fence I immediately made eye contact with him. The smile on his face was priceless. That smile I have only seen on a few very special occasions. Brennan would come over the fence and give me a big kiss. Then told me he would be out in a few minutes and to meet him at the barrier. I left the fence to go back and find our people. They were all worried wondering how we were going to find them- little did they know its like Brennan and I have spider sense on race day.
Brennan would come out and we would share a special few moments together before everyone else arrived to congratulate him on his major accomplishment.It was so great to see the excitement of his parents and the relief. As this day brings a ton of anxiety to everyone! From there we would head back to the hotel for a shower. Then eat In N Out. I have to say it tastes amazing after such a long day :)
** I asked Brennan after the race about the kissing me at mile 8. He said he couldn’t wait and thought about it for 2 miles. And that he laughed for at least 3 miles after knowing that he had just drawn so much attention to me!
Big thanks to my mom for making the shirts that everyone was wearing and for making the long drive over to be part of our day! Your support leading up to the race. Thanks to Brennan's parents for all your support and for being there for Brennan to witness the milestone they call Ironman.
Congratulations Brennan on becoming an Ironman. Words cannot explain how proud I am of your accomplishment. How proud you made me in all the days leading up to the race. Your desire, determination and hard work prove that anything and everything is possible. Thanks for allowing me to be a small part of the puzzle. You were always my Ironman but now the world knows it as well. To read Brennan's view of race day click here!
Brennan like always has a way to convince me that I can do anything. I guess it is a good thing he believes in me. Well I did it signed up for the Carlsbad Half Marathon taking place in January. I will be raising funds again for Insulindependence prior to race day. However this year I convinced Brooke to also sign up. So the Vessey's are running and raising money.
Brooke and I are both using PEAR Sports Pro to train for the race. It is a 16 week training plan with 4 workouts per week designed by Matt Fitzgerald. It is an awesome tool the PEAR Pro because it is like having a real coach out running with me. Plus at the end you get a workout score so fun comparing with Brooke to see who had the better workout in terms of following the coaching.
Well we are starting our 4th week. So far I have found the training to be kinda fun getting back into the groove. Nice thing is its not overwhelming yet. The distance is not to much and the time based workouts are short. However it is hard to head out for a run early in the morning in the dark cold air. But so far so good- I have not missed a scheduled workout.
Other fun thing about training it you get to explore. I have lived in Solana Beach for over a year now and there is so much still to be discovered. My run always starts on the main drag which crests at the top of this hill and right in front it the beautiful Pacific Ocean. The view is always beautiful in the morning. Then I have started to venture down some of the streets- while doing this I get to see some incredible house and all very different. Fun to just check them all out.
A few weeks ago when I was finishing up a training run in the morning. We had some rain overnight and cooler weather. I then saw a beautiful rainbow. The rainbow was so vibrant with all the colors. California does not get these kind of rainbows. It made me think of all my loved ones who have passed away. I wish I would have had my phone it was beautiful and sitting right over the ocean. Thanks Grandma Vessey, Aunt Mary, Uncle Don, Grandma Wixom and Chuck for making my workout more manageable and put a smile on my face. You guys were just showing me a little piece of heaven.
Hello Beautiful Solana Beach
My boss also mentioned the other day this street that loops up above Solana Beach, Dog Beach and Del Mar. So on my long run Sunday- I decided to check it out. What a view.. No matter how long the run is cant complain when all I see is the Pacific Ocean.
I then spent Sunday just hanging out around with nothing super important to do. So I decided end of October and it was 82 degree's at the beach that I would head down to the beach for some sun. I spent about 4 hours just laying out at the beach enjoying a relaxing day to myself!
I love California!! I love where I live even more.
My view on Sunday!!!
If you would like to make a donation to help Brennan, Brooke or myself raise money for Insulindepdence and see why we are raising money for this great cause please please click on our names below.
Brooke: 1st ever Half Marathon Jamie: 3rd Half Marathon- looking to PR Brennan: 1st ever Ironman (Arizona November 18th)
I competed in my 3rd Olympic Distance race this past
weekend. That makes my total -two races this summer season.Sunday I raced the Chula Vista Challenge Triathlon.I was excited for this race for a few
reasons.One- I have just more experience
on the bike.Two I raced the exact same
course in October as my first ever Olympic Distance Triathlon.Since you are not really able to compare race
times because of the many factors. I was excited to hopefully compare my time at
least a little.
Even though the race is Sunday this one requires you to check
in Saturday as well as drop off your bike and “Transition 2” stuff.Before I headed down to Chula Vista I got in a
nice easy 30 minutes on my bike- just to stretch out the legs.After my quick ride I headed solo to check in.
Normally Brennan does these things with me- however Saturday is when he likes
to get in his long bike ride. I did not want him to feel rushed or not get in
the training he needed- so away I went! After a quick detour (reading the map
and driving- not a great idea) I made it to the Bike shop where check in
was.Since this race is a point to
point meaning you start in one place and end nowhere near there you have to
check your Transition 2 bag (what you will need for the run portion of the
race) off with them.It will then be
waiting for you race day when you get off the bike. I got my number, free tee
shirt, asked a few questions.Not the
most organized event.After getting
checked in and dropping off my T2 bag- I had to head down to the bay where the
swim and transition to the bike would take place.
After driving another few miles and finding the correct area.I found a place to part they were having a
Pow Wow making things more difficult. Brennan asked like a real Pow Wow- yes with individuals with Indian decent.Looked interesting.After parking
I got my bike out and headed to set it up.Once I got my bike set up I wanted to do a quick swim in the bay. The
guy watching the bikes gave me a few pointers to stay out of the way of boats
(always helpful).Then I changed since
the water was so warm I decided against the wet suit.Got in a quick 20 minute open water swim.Even about 100 yards off shore I could have
stood up.It was very shallow was well
as rocky.Remember that I noticed the
rocks on Saturday.
After my quick swim I headed home to relax and finish packing
up.I would head to bed nice and early
since we would be getting up at 4:30 to get down to the start line.My wave was scheduled to go off at
6:58am.After getting up early we made
the 30 mile drive to the race start.I
headed into transition to get everything set up. Well not sure if it was me or
the bike. But when I went to pump up my tires I noticed the tube in my front tires
was all bent.Thus my tire was flat!There was a quick panic. I tried to fix the
problem but I will be honest Brennan is my bike mechanic.I rushed over to the side to tell him. He snuck
into the transition area and in less than 10 minutes had my tire fixed and both
pumped up.Disaster averted. Thank you
Brennan.While he was doing that I got
marked with my number. Set up my water bottles and my transition area.Got my sun block on.Then felt safe enough to leave transition.
I headed to the restroom because like every racer I get nervous.I headed to the lovely long bathroom
line.You could tell we were not in the
best area because there were no stall doors.Needless to say ladies do not really like that.However it also made for some laughs! After
hitting the bathroom I headed over to Brennan.Check out the course- make my last few preparations.With about 15 minutes till go time I wanted
to test out my tri kit make sure it would work for swimming since I was going
without the wetsuit.I headed into the
water. It was nice and warm.No
WETSUIT!Swam about 500 yards or so to
warm up.Then headed to shore to
wait.When I got back I ran into the Maloney
family there youngest son Ryanis part of Insulindependence and I swim with him
once a week.We got a quick
picture.Then it was time to get ready
for what I hoped would be a good quick day. I would line up with woman from 25-40 age group.Seems not a lot of women racing.No worries I headed to the front of the group.The announcer made a point not to run because
of rocks.I laughed thinking this is a
race are you serious?! The bull horn sounded and I was off.I ran from the start got into the water and
tried to find a rhythm.There were two
other woman who went out very fast.They
got away from me a bit after the first buoy.I was feeling pretty good though- quickly gained on the 3 minute group
ahead of me.By the turn around point
the next buoy was directly into the sun.This caused a little trouble for spotting it.Once I rounded that buoy you went parallel to
shore and around one more buoy.Well at
this point my cap was really starting to slide off my head. I just tried to
keep pulling it down.At this point I
had caught another wave from before me.This always annoys me cause they are swimming all over and slow.Making that you have to do a little defensive
swimming.The last buoy was hard to see
and seemed to cause many people an issue.I finally spotted it thanks to a lifeguard.Turn the corner and in I went to shore. With
it being so shallow I did a little dolphininig.Then went for the run.Well those
rocks I found one.Full sprint dead on
the bottom of my foot.At the time I
remember thinking damn that hurt.But whatever!
Into transition.Brennan made fun of me for this last year. My goal was to be fast. Into my socks, shoes, sunglasses, watch, helmet. Quick wipe off the skin and I was off running with my bike.I had a little trouble clipping in. Once into my bike I was off for 24 miles.The races before the first few miles kinda suck.Your not used to being on the bike your heart is racing and your wet!I just wanted to get a rhythm.The first few miles went better than normal.However this course requires you to climb the entire way.My plan was to ride hard and controlled. Making sure to get water and food.As I rode I was not getting passed nearly as often.Though the people that did pass me- makes me think what am I doing so wrong. They make it look easy.
As the ride went it started to get hotter. I just focused on
what Brennan told me.Very few ladies
were passing me which was a huge positive.I also realized that tri shorts are much like swim suits they start to
go bad.FYI they become see through. I
saw a lot of guys butt’s.Needless to
say I didn’t like that but it gave me a good laugh.To those men I hope you get new shorts
asap.Or just another reason to get
better- no butt’s passing me.I had a
close call with a Bee on my shorts at 11 miles.Needless to say I hate Bee’s and am not very good of letting for of the
handle bars.I did get the bee off without
crashing or getting stung.One point for
me!! Once nearing the transition area it
was flat.I pushed hard that last mile
hoping to flush my legs. Not sure it worked. Upon entering the parking lot for transition a guy on a bull
horn is yelling your number.But what I
heard was my amazing fiancé yelling for me! It is what you need after 24 long
miles – hear someone cheering for you.I
was off the bike and running in and a nice kid takes your bike to rack it.
Another kid runs along with you to a chair. Gets your shoes out for you. As I
get all my cycling stuff off he puts it into the bag for you. I was off.Entire change in 21 seconds, down from 42 last
year.Success! Quick transition another yell from Brennan and I was off. It
was already super-hot and I was mad I did not put a water bottle in my
Transition 2 bag.No matter I needed to
get in 6 miles.Very quickly I noticed
my foot was hurting. I thought it was just cramped or something I had totally
forgotten about that rock getting out of the swim. At the first aid station I
learned they had crap cups and I got no water down! Not a good sign.Just tried to focus on running. I ended up
going about the same pace as this guy Ryan.We worked together for the next two miles. I wanted to hold a good pace
and he was at it.Plus suffering is a
little easier with another person.After
two miles into the run he had more to give them me.Then I went back into my mode of focusing
that I was moving toward the finish line. There were a lot of people walking. I was
trying at all cost to avoid that.
At mile 2.5 you enter the Olympic Training Center.Which is pretty cool except it is really
hilly.This course loves themselves some
hills.Many people were walking the
hills- I focused on pumping my arms and moving forward.I took in some chews and headed for the next
water station.At this station I walked
it. Got two cups of water one to drink, one to half drink and poor the rest on
myself.At this point I was sweating out
nasty ocean water and it was burning my eyes.After walking for 5 steps I was back to running.Trying to keep my focused finished the hilly
portion.Walked 5 steps through another
aid station.Then to exit the Olympic
Training Center you have to run up about 25 steps.At this point in the race I was not in the
mood for stairs. I am sure I said something not appropriate for a blog.However it made the guy behind me laugh.
I was out of the Olympic Training center and I had a little
over a mile to go. I was pushing at this point.I was still passing people and so many were walking. I have such a
competitive spirit and no quit attitude thanks to my parents that I knew I
could push through.As I turned for the
finish line which was what seemed like forever away all these people start to
cheer for you.Many saying I was looking
great. I laughed at one woman who told me that said glad you think I look
good.Cause it doesn’t feel good!I felt like I finished strong through the
finisher shot.Again to my amazing fiancé
Brennan cheering.Nothing like having
him great you at the finish.I could see
how proud of me he was and that is priceless.
Overall it was a good race.I bettered my overall time from the previous year by about 10
minutes.I was a little slower in the
swim. My transitions were way faster, my bike much improved by about 10 minutes,
then my run was about a minute and half faster than the previous year. I won my age group! And if you get something
for that I did not!I was the 100th
individual overall and the 18th woman.Not to bad for only my third race.As Brennan reminds me if I stay training (I have
a tendancy to take little vacations!) then I will only get better.
When I got home and my foot was still hurting and I was not
sure why I took off my shoe to find a very dark bruise the shape of a
rock.After 4 days it still hurts!Woops! I guess maybe next time I wont
actually run during a race.Haha who am
I kidding running was totally worth it!
Thanks to Brennan for getting up early- driving all over- cheering for me. Most of all believing that I could be ok at this triathlon thing!
Always fun to give back. Last summer I helped out at the Insulindependence Camp. I was lucky enough to be asked back. Again I ran the swim portion- I guess people think I know what I am talking about. It would consist of one open water swim and two pool training sessions. I would also join the group for a nice ride along the coast over the weekend.
The week was very hectic for Brennan since he works for the organization and they had over 40 members and even more board members in town to take part in the week long learning and training camp. Lucky for me it meant I could watch whatever I wanted on TV. I caught up on a few shows :D
The first training session I put on was at La Jolla cove. A bit nerve raking when you have never seen some of these people swim and you are taking them into the ocean. I should also tell you some of these people had never swum in the Ocean. However it went smooth. Gave them a great speech on land about race day preparation as well as how to sight buoys and all that good stuff. Also warned them about the sting rays that hangout in LA Jolla. Always enter the water shuffling those feet! I think they all enjoyed the swim some going to the quarter mile buoy and others out to the half mile buoy. Was nice because I also got in a nice workout early early before work.
The other two sessions would be held at the JCC much more controlled situation in the pool. Everyone did really well at the first session since it was mostly about getting in some yards. Though having everyone at different levels does make coaching a bit more difficult (even if Brennan was always yelling at me for the next set.. Love you hunny!).
The last swim session of the week I think the group I was working with the triathletes were exhausted they had been at camp almost a week. That morning we had rode from Solana Beach up to Carlsbad and back. Got them lunch and headed to the pool. Once at the pool I could see they were not exactly looking forward to more swimming. I was also supposed to film them yet turns out that camera’s were not charged. Woops! However I got in the water and was able to help with a lot of stroke technique so that was good.
I still need to create a quick sheet of racing tips, and swim skills for the individuals. I should do that soon.
Last weekend I had the privileged of riding in the Tour De
Cure San Diego as a part of the team "Mile 23".This ride is to support the America Diabetes Association.As I am sure you are all
aware diabetes is a part of my life these days and because of it I have met
some amazing people.Last Saturday was
no different I rode in the 30 miler and Brennan rode in the century (100
miles).
As a part of "Mile 23" I got to ride with my
little friend Ryan.Ryan is a part of
Insulindependence (the non-profit Brennan works for & I am a part of the
local committee). I swim with Ryan once a week as he is working on getting into
the sport of triathlon. We also rode with two other individuals that Ryan
knew.All in our group were Type 1
diabetics AKA "Red Riders" except me. The four of us had a great time out on the route.
(Our group before heading out)
With Ryan before the race- notice my Insulindependence kit!!
The route was similar to routes that I have ridden before
with Brennan. It was a fun day and exciting to be a part of something
bigger.For Ryan it was his first time
ever riding on the road.Needless to say
that made me a bit nervous.Ryan is only
13 years old which makes things a bit tricky to be a new rider that has no time
behind the wheel.However even with the
nerves our group did a great job and had no issues. Well except for the fact
that I actually feel at one point. I unclipped and then went to still make it
up the little hill and my shoe clipped back in. I could not get unclipped in
time and down I went.Thankfully not
even a scratch.
(Out on the road)
The ride was great.We held over 13 miles an hour for the 30 miles.I can tell my training is really paying off
because I was able to climb with no issues.Once in a while I ended up leaving our little group by pushing the pace
for myself.It was great to be able to
get up and go fast, with it not really hurting like it used to. I am excited to
ride this weekend to see how hard I can go and for how long.My next race is in just over 2 weeks and that
is only 24 miles.So this 30 miler was a
great little warm up.Especially because
I still get nervous around big groups of riders.
Once we crossed the finish line I waited a bit of time to
see Brennan finish his century ride.Like always he did it and got back looking like he had done little more
than ride through the parking lot.I
think his training is coming along great for his Ironman in November. In all we
both had a great day out riding- as well as being a part of a great cause!
The Carlsbad Half Marathon weekend much like last year was extremely busy. This year was even busier than last year. With Brennan working for Insulindependence we attended more of the events than last year and Saturday I spent playing in the alumni water polo game at San Diego State.
The start to this busy weekend would start as many do. Working late into Friday evening. Coming home and just wanting to relax. Having nothing of importance to accomplish I spent the evening relaxing and catching up on the TV shows I missed during the week.
Saturday I would wake up to cold and rain. Making me think please don’t be like this Sunday!! I headed over to San Diego State and spent the afternoon playing against the current Aztec players. The alumni ended up losing by one goal. But we had a great time. I attempted a shot- it was blocked. Believe I had an assist or two. It is always fun to go back and hangout with old teammates and play a little water polo. Basically my entire class showed up. So all my old roomies. We all subbed in together. I would have to say that we all still have it!!! After the game we would all head to Old Town to have a late lunch. I enjoyed hanging out with my roomies for the afternoon. They would all head out later in the evening. I was not able to join them in that adventure. And I am sure that was an adventure!! From lunch I would head home shower change and head to the Ocean House for the banquet dinner being hosted by Insulindependence for all the fundraisers.
The fundraising dinner was fun! A bit funny because Brennan was in work mode. It was funny to watch him address everyone and basically lead the event. Not that I ever thought he was not capable, I mean I watched him present in grad school almost every week. Just still funny to witness him in such a different atmosphere. He did an amazing job and was able to help the organization raise even more money!! After the dinner it was time to head home and get to bed. With a quick stop over at Grandpa's house to visit with the family. My parents had come down to be a part of the weekend by volunteering at the Insulindependence aid station on race day. I spent some time with them and then headed home.
Sunday morning would come earlier then it should have. Even though the half marathon did not go off till later, we needed to arrive early enough to see off the marathon runners and get a group photo. The day would start even earlier for my parents who had to be at the aid station early. They had to make sure that they had everything set up when the first runner passed by before 7am. Once the marathon runners were off we just hung out for a while. Once it got closer to the start of the half marathon the entire fundraiser group got in for a picture. Brennan and I then headed over to our corral to get the race underway.
I had high hopes for this half marathon. I looked to better my time for last year. I had done a better job with training, however in getting in more training I had also hurt my foot. About two weeks before the race, I had been out on a training run with about 2 miles left of my 12 miles I got a cramp in the bridge of my right foot. I figured it would go away. I finished my run and did my normal ice bath. My foot was really sore. I stretched it and attempted to rest it. I took a few days off in the hopes it would feel better. It felt better, yet was still sore to walk on. My training suffered the last two weeks. With it being so sore I struggled to even be walking normal. Walking to the race corral it was already really hurting.
Before the race.. I think this picture is hilarious. Brennan & I look so funny!
A quick picture with our great friend Blair
However I am a Vessey. I had done the training, I had raised the money, and my parents were going to be at mile 3 and 11. Plus with my new job I did not want to show up to work Monday and say that due to a sore foot I did not race. So I entered corral 2 with Brennan. Very quickly I knew that it would be a tough day. I was able to keep a pretty good pace and went through the cycles of pain. It was great to race along with Brennan. He was supportive the entire race. It was great to see my parents on the way out and back. My mom was handing out water and my dad was picking up cups and coaching runners by. It did help with the pain.
As you can see Brennan just enjoying a nice jog- Me trying not to DIE!
I finished the race with a time of 1 hour and 54 minutes. It was only a few more minutes slower than last year and I was still able to hold a decent pace for being in such pain. I found out that I have a higher pain tolerance than I thought!
Here is the video Brennan took during the race- you can see what we saw for the 13.2 miles! You can also read Brennan's thoughts of the race on his blog at diabeticjock.com
After most of our fellow fundraisers finished up we headed to my grandpa's to head out to lunch. We had a great meal at BJ's together. Also nice to spend time with my parents and grandpa. While at lunch I could feel my foot swelling in my shoe.
Once we headed home I finally got to take off my shoe only to find a very swollen foot- that was already very bruised. After a quick shower I spent some time icing it. Thankfully I have a great friend who is still an athletic trainer at SDSU. She took a look at it Monday. Turned out I had an extremely bad sprain of some muscles. I was put into a boot for the next two week and told not to run for a while.
The picture does not do justice to how much pain I was in. But needless to say in the morning it was not bruised at all!
As of today I ran for about 25 minutes!! Finally getting back into it with no major pain. It can still be a bit sore but nothing like it was before or after the race. I have learned my lesson and if it really hurts I need to just stop! I am also trying to be more careful in my training
Thank you to all the people who donated to my campaign my goal was $125. I raised $314. 30.
My parents
Brennan’s Parents Scott and Renee
Grandpa & Grandma Whitey
Jim & Karen Schneller
Melissa & Matt Johnson
Alex Fillman
Martha Moore
Nate
Bohon Family
Megan Miller
I also want to thank my great friend Melissa Swaffer for signing up to be apart of the fundraiser and also raise about $200 dollars!
All in all another great weekend with Insulindependence! Plus nothing better then running with my amazing Fiancé and having my parents support us!
-1.JPG)
