Question:

<snip I’m glad I wasn’t the only one.  I was 30 minutes slower than last year, although my swim time was almost the same and the bike was a few minutes faster.  The gulf was amazingly calm and clear.  It was nice to be able to see so far out in front so navigating was not much of a problem.  Caught myself watching the schools of baitfish on a couple occasions….  I didn’t think there was much of a headwind on the way out, but i agree whatever wind there was seemed to strengthen and swing around for the second half of the bike.  I thought the run was absolutely brutal. Just a wonderful race though.  Also looking forward to next year. Regards,  JJB

Response:

Tom  wrote And yet it was nice and flat on race day. Cool, eh?

A little break near shore, slight swells after that. Great for drafting! Didn’t happen to me that day, but I have had a remora (sp?) attach to me during a training swim in the Gulf. Rather disconcerting, wondering what kind of creature he’d been riding on just prior to hitching with me!

In the past I have almost been nailed in the face by a big Jelly Fish there. I keep an eye out. And yesterday morning at 5 am, the temp was 57 with a lower humidity!

Like Atlanta, if you don’t like the weather, wait an hour. The best swim conditions I’ve ever seen in the Gulf! Only problem was I kept sightseeing during the swim and forgetting I was in a race. This is probably not all bad though, as I needed to save up for that brutal run.

I dislike being able to see the bottom. Even as a lifeguard many years ago, I just dislike deep water. Hey Tim, did you get passed by any pelotons? Happened to me on three occasions, though one of them might have just been people caught in a clump by improper passing/blocking. Charlie, if you happen to be watching this thread, how do you figure out who to penalize in a situation like that? At least one of the groups that passed me was followed within a minute or so by an official’s motorcycle, so I suspect they all got it.

The only pelotons I saw were behind me. I  think it was more of a very crowded course at that point than drafting. Like the Baby Boomers coming through the population. At least in this race they can just write down numbers as opposed to pulling one or two out of the pack and doing that stand-down thing. Of course I feel they should write down the numbers, drive off and come back a minute later and write the numbers down again, then again! The first half of the race I am passing constantly and quickly, so I basically get a draft for 5-15 seconds behind the hundreds of people I pass.  Getting started in a very late wave has some advantages if you work them. Tim

Response:

this was my 9th year straight to finish the gulf coast triathlon.it was also my slowest time ever by 6 minutes, and i do believe it was the hottest too,  Did it seem like there was a head wind on the bike in both directions?i pushed it on the first part of the bike thinking i would have a tail wind on the way back but it seems like the wind changed when i turned around..i really lost it on the last half of the bike,,   i had steped on a piece of wood in the sand when i was running to the swim start before the start of the race i knew it hurt but i didnt realize how bad until i started the run..with the heat and the sore foot and the bad bike ride,,i just gave in and walked,most of the run,i walked through the aid stations and a lot between them.all i was wanting to do was finish..i was 50 minutes slower then last year and 6 minutes slower then my worst time ever..But this is still my favorite race and im already looking forward to doing it again next year.. Have a great day good training  Tri-Man

Response:

For the 8th year I have been there, another great race put on! For me it turned out as everything that could, did go wrong. -Pulled out race wheels a few days before race, and found two alloy nipples had popped during winter storage. Had to go with DA back-ups. -Sinus infection and serious congestion refused to go away. Not only was it going to hurt my race, but GF did not find it very sexy during our trip to Florida. Drip, drip. -Got sunburned the day before the race ‘boogie boarding.’ Rookie move, but this was not serious race for me this year. Caught some great waves! -Somebody picked up my googles from swim stuff in transition area. Had to run down beach to hotel to get spare pair. 1 1/2 mile quick warmup in sand! -During warmups had 12-18 inch fish bumping me. I swam away twice, only to have him reappear. I put my head underwater and looked closely at him. Black tips on fins, and broad flat nose!!! Maybe……. I was rushing out of water, and laughing at the same time. -Screwed up nutrition, another rookie mistake. -Blew on bike at mile 45. Had little old ladies passing me coming in. -They said 102 on run. Hotter than 2000! Was doing aid station intervals with friend from Team in Training. Met some cool people. Learned new way to do aid station intervals- walk between stations, and then run through the stations, grab what you need, down it quickly, and then start walking again! ; ) -Did my slowest half EVER! -Friend’s 7 year old girl and mother were in bathroom during race. Girl asked Mom why people write things on the walls! Mom said that they should not. Girl asked Mom what D-a-n-i-e-l spelled-since that is a little long for her. Mom said "Daniel." Girl said, "Fuck Daniel," knowing Mom would be proud of her reading skills! True! Damn if I did not still have a blast! Incredible volunteers! Good shirt this year! Water was sooooo clear! Saw Charlie writing numbers down! Anyone know if the girl who went down is okay? She looked to be out cold when I passed her, but many people were tending to her. Tim

Response:

For the 8th year I have been there, another great race put on! For me it turned out as everything that could, did go wrong. -Pulled out race wheels a few days before race, and found two alloy nipples had popped during winter storage. Had to go with DA back-ups. -Sinus infection and serious congestion refused to go away. Not only was it going to hurt my race, but GF did not find it very sexy during our trip to Florida. Drip, drip. -Got sunburned the day before the race ‘boogie boarding.’ Rookie move, but this was not serious race for me this year. Caught some great waves!

And yet it was nice and flat on race day. Cool, eh? -Somebody picked up my googles from swim stuff in transition area. Had to run down beach to hotel to get spare pair. 1 1/2 mile quick warmup in sand! -During warmups had 12-18 inch fish bumping me. I swam away twice, only to have him reappear. I put my head underwater and looked closely at him. Black tips on fins, and broad flat nose!!! Maybe……. I was rushing out of water, and laughing at the same time.

Didn’t happen to me that day, but I have had a remora (sp?) attach to me during a training swim in the Gulf. Rather disconcerting, wondering what kind of creature he’d been riding on just prior to hitching with me! -Screwed up nutrition, another rookie mistake. -Blew on bike at mile 45. Had little old ladies passing me coming in. -They said 102 on run. Hotter than 2000! Was doing aid station intervals with friend from Team in Training. Met some cool people. Learned new way to do aid station intervals- walk between stations, and then run through the stations, grab what you need, down it quickly, and then start walking again! ; )

And yesterday morning at 5 am, the temp was 57 with a lower humidity! -Did my slowest half EVER!

Ditto. -Friend’s 7 year old girl and mother were in bathroom during race. Girl asked Mom why people write things on the walls! Mom said that they should not. Girl asked Mom what D-a-n-i-e-l spelled-since that is a little long for her. Mom said "Daniel." Girl said, "Fuck Daniel," knowing Mom would be proud of her reading skills! True! Damn if I did not still have a blast! Incredible volunteers! Good shirt this year! Water was sooooo clear!

The best swim conditions I’ve ever seen in the Gulf! Only problem was I kept sightseeing during the swim and forgetting I was in a race. This is probably not all bad though, as I needed to save up for that brutal run. Saw Charlie writing numbers down! Anyone know if the girl who went down is okay? She looked to be out cold when I passed her, but many people were tending to her.

I rode by within a minute or two of her going down (I think) there were about 4 people tending to her at that point and I heard one say "She hasn’t moved since I got here". A friend who came by later saw them loading her in the ambulance on a backboard. This may have just been a precaution. I too, would like to know if she’s OK. It would have been easy to go down on that road, it’s in rough shape. Tim

Hey Tim, did you get passed by any pelotons? Happened to me on three occasions, though one of them might have just been people caught in a clump by improper passing/blocking. Charlie, if you happen to be watching this thread, how do you figure out who to penalize in a situation like that? At least one of the groups that passed me was followed within a minute or so by an official’s motorcycle, so I suspect they all got it.

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Question:

Where do you fly into and what’s a ballpark figure on airfare?  I must be insane for even considering it. Dan

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Fly in to Auckland, then it’s about a 4 hour drive to Taupo.  You have to fly out of LAX and that was about $1,300, plus whatever it is to get to LAX. Or maybe $1,100.  I don’t remember as I bought 3 tickets, but it was worth every penny.  I’ll be back in 2002, if not sooner. clm in sf – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Organization: Argonne National Laboratory Newsgroups: rec.sport.triathlon Where do you fly into and what’s a ballpark figure on airfare?  I must be insane for even considering it. Dan

Response:

Where do you fly into and what’s a ballpark figure on airfare?  I must be insane for even considering it. Dan

Be prepared to spend at least $1000 on airfare, no matter where you are. If you are vigilant on checking the online travel sites from week to week approaching that date, you’re bound to catch on a discount and not pay much above $1000. Catching a discount in 1999, I paid only about $1050 round trip for a ticket from the East Coast of the US to NZ. As for where you fly into? You’ll have to fly to Auckland and then drive 3 hours to Taupo (or 2 hours to Rotorua in case they move it there). Except for local traffic around the airport, you’ll find driving to the destination a breeze.                           |26      | IMC’96: 10:36:37          |   Fe   |   IMC’99: 10:45:03          |        |                  "THE BEST ELEMENT OF RACING"

Response:

It’s not moving tho Rotorua (thank goodness). NEW OWNER CONFIRMS TAUPO BASE FOR IRONMAN NEW ZEALAND TRIATHLON By IM New Zealand for Ironmanlive.com on Mon, Apr 9th 2001 (4:12 PM). Ironman New Zealand Triathlon, the country

Question:

I have accepted a job in Chicago and will begin October 4.  Is anyone familiar with any triathlon clubs or masters swim clubs that I could contact?  Any information would be helpful.  Thanks! -Andy

Response:

I have accepted a job in Chicago and will begin October 4.  Is anyone familiar with any triathlon clubs or masters swim clubs that I could contact?  Any information would be helpful.  Thanks! -Andy

The ironic thing is that in the city with the "world’s largest" triathlon there is currently no tri club.  Fleet Feet, a local running store has reportedly made an attempt to revive the Chicago Triathlon Club but Im not sure how far along they are. As far as master classes go I have found it to be pretty hit and miss.  I think the Evanston YMCA has a fairly well established masters program and I would also check into the situation at the New City YMCA.   td

Response:

I have accepted a job in Chicago and will begin October 4.  Is anyone familiar with any triathlon clubs or masters swim clubs that I could contact?  Any information would be helpful.  Thanks! -Andy

Which part of Chicago?  There is a tri club out of Elgin at Mission Bay but the Chicago tri club is defunct <sp?.  If you are in the city, there is a masters club at the New City YMCA or there is a decent one affiliated with Northwestern University in which the college coaches run the workouts. Good Luck Steve Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

Andy– The previous post was correct.

Question:

Hi all,     Only 10 days till the Columbia Triathlon. Does anyone know of the water temps so far? I have bad memories of 2 years ago with a bad case of hypothermia from the swim. Also Temps and CURRENTS for the Eagleman course. I don’t want to swim 2 miles again like last year because of the current.     Thanks,         S. Zachary

Response:

I will try to check the temp tomorrow during lunch, but expect it to be on the cold side, not much to warm it up yet, but should be warmer than two years ago. Bruce Platt – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all,    Only 10 days till the Columbia Triathlon. Does anyone know of the water temps so far? I have bad memories of 2 years ago with a bad case of hypothermia from the swim. Also Temps and CURRENTS for the Eagleman course. I don’t want to swim 2 miles again like last year because of the current.    Thanks,        S. Zachary

Response:

The automated weather buoy at Thomas Point Lighthouse on the Chesapeake Bay is reporting a water temperature of 61.5 degrees. The Choptank River should be within a couple of degrees of that. If you want to see for yourself the URL is: http://www.nws.fsu.edu/B/buoy?station=TPLM2#table — |Jeffrey Davis                             |  Phone 410) 309-8306 | |GTE Internetworking                       |  Fax   410) 309-8315 | |9810 Patuxent Woods Drive                 |                        |

Response:

The Choptank is a wide, shallow estuary.  It is usually much warmer than the bay, and even warmer than nearby rivers like the Tred Avon where the race first started. (Oxford) I am the first guy to complain about cold water, but I don’t think Cambridge will be a problem.  It will be a nice wetsuit swim. Ray Plotecia Male Amateur, 50-54 Ruxton, MD – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The automated weather buoy at Thomas Point Lighthouse on the Chesapeake Bay is reporting a water temperature of 61.5 degrees. The Choptank River should be within a couple of degrees of that. If you want to see for yourself the URL is: http://www.nws.fsu.edu/B/buoy?station=TPLM2#table — |Jeffrey Davis                             |  Phone 410) 309-8306 | |GTE Internetworking                       |  Fax   410) 309-8315 | |9810 Patuxent Woods Drive                 |                        |

Response:

Question:

Wobbet: I think the main thing to consider in training for the longer distance events is to know that you are able to do those distances.  In other words, you should be able to do any section of those longer races during training.  The only way to do that is really just to spend the time to do so.  In my first year of doing tris, I’ve been able to initially do a sprint triathlon to olympic distance and even a 1/2 ironman without much trouble.  I personally just increased my distance from the sprint early in the season to the 1/2 IM and did a lot of olympic distance races before and after.  One thing you touched upon is wanting to know what it takes to finish (and not perform).  I think for the longer races, especially the 1/2 IM, that it is part psychological.  You need to believe that you can do the distance and you need to train your mind/body to do so.  Everybody has their own formula for getting ready, and there are some plans available that you can get.  It might take some experimentation, but you are probably the best judge of how you feel. As for a tri specific bike, I did fine this whole year (sprint to 1/2 IM) on a road bike (Trek 5200) with no problems.  My legs did feel kind of funky after the biking portion, but that wore off after a little bit in the run.  If you have the money, plan to stay doing tris for a while, want a new toy, etc., then by all means, consider buying a tri-specific bike. Hope that helps. That’s my two cents.  If you need any other info, let me know. Kendall – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – i have been doing one sprint tri a year for the past four years and have finally decided to upgrade my efforts. my goals for the next few years are as follows: 1999 – 2-4 olympic distance + my annual sprint 2000 – 2-4 olympic, 1 1/2 IM, + sprint after i finish the 1/2 IM my wife i will decide whether or not i have the time and the motivation to train for a full IM in 2001. my first questions about gearing up for this are: 1) how much time is needed to train in order to finish the olympic distance and still feel good physically. i am not going for a top finish, probably about 3-3.5 hours. 2) same question for the 1/2 IM. desired finish time in the 6-6.5 hour range. i am a decent swimmer (can swim 2:00/100m for a decent period of time), not spectacular rider (18-20 mph during tri on flat course), not spectacular runner (8:30/mile on a dedicated 10k). i am planning on improving my times, but want an idea of what it takes to finish, not to perform. my second question is – i will be doing a majority of my riding with some non-tri friends and i am planning on sticking with my road bike and aero bars for riding the tris for a good while. but, i have thought about buying a tri bike for the future. at what threshold (number of races, number of races at what distance, coolness of buying a new toy, etc.) should i start to seriously consider a tri specific bike? thanks, wobbet

Response:

i have been doing one sprint tri a year for the past four years and have finally decided to upgrade my efforts. my goals for the next few years are as follows: 1999 – 2-4 olympic distance + my annual sprint 2000 – 2-4 olympic, 1 1/2 IM, + sprint after i finish the 1/2 IM my wife i will decide whether or not i have the time and the motivation to train for a full IM in 2001. my first questions about gearing up for this are: 1) how much time is needed to train in order to finish the olympic distance and still feel good physically. i am not going for a top finish, probably about 3-3.5 hours. 2) same question for the 1/2 IM. desired finish time in the 6-6.5 hour range. i am a decent swimmer (can swim 2:00/100m for a decent period of time), not spectacular rider (18-20 mph during tri on flat course), not spectacular runner (8:30/mile on a dedicated 10k). i am planning on improving my times, but want an idea of what it takes to finish, not to perform. my second question is – i will be doing a majority of my riding with some non-tri friends and i am planning on sticking with my road bike and aero bars for riding the tris for a good while. but, i have thought about buying a tri bike for the future. at what threshold (number of races, number of races at what distance, coolness of buying a new toy, etc.) should i start to seriously consider a tri specific bike? thanks, wobbet

Response:

Question:

snip Also, numerous mentions of shaving legs and other body parts.  Does this have to do with cutting down on drag, chafing, or what?   Body shaving is a carry-over from competetive swimming and is supposed to reduce drag and give the swimmer a better feel for the water.

That must be fun!  I kinda picture some sort of body shaving parties happening.  After all, you can’t reach _everywhere_ on your body–at least I don’t think I could. Wouldn’t a full body swimsuit like those worn at the Olympics be a lot less hassle?  I’ve already gone to a full torso suit for other reasons… Thanx…PSB.

Response:

…are the ones not asked! I’ve seen several references to something called the Clydesdale class. Is this a sort of horsy reference to larger sized people running tri’s?

Yup. Over 200 pounds for men, and I think 150 pounds for women. Also, numerous mentions of shaving legs and other body parts.  Does this have to do with cutting down on drag, chafing, or what?

Leg-shaving is a carryover from bike racing. There’s all sorts of folklore about why they do it, but the ony one that rings true with me is the improved massage surface. Swimmers shave down before a race to improve the feel of the water. Rick Denney Take what you want and leave the rest.

Response:

Well at least there’s _someone_ else that gives honest replies. I don’t regularly fall off of my bike, at least I haven’t yet, so there goes that justification. Also, my swim speed is hampered by far greater things than hair on my legs, so that one’s out too. I’m not a leg model or anything like that, no justification there either. Why then? Looks great, my athlete peers all do it too, feels great, and it identifies me as an athlete (or wierdo, or both) to others. HOWEVER, my new girlfriend just cannot get used to me having shaved legs. I don’t think it’s a deal breaker for her, but if she asked me to stop it would be for me. Schwing – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Shaving…  I love this thread.  It is almost as good as religion.  :-) Everyone has their opinion about the reasons to shave.  Some are pseudo scientific, some are anecdotal. I shave because my legs look great without hair, and massages are better too. That is the ONLY reason that you need.  No speculation on speed increases, hygiene, healing, etc.  =:-o Let the shaving flames begin. John Welch

Response:

That must be fun!  I kinda picture some sort of body shaving parties happening.  After all, you can’t reach _everywhere_ on your body–at least I don’t think I could. Wouldn’t a full body swimsuit like those worn at the Olympics be a lot less hassle?  I’ve already gone to a full torso suit for other reasons…

Image is a big one when it comes to people shaving legs. Honestly, I shave because I had some *pretty good* comments from the female population on my shaved legs and I would like to see that continue <g.                           |26      | IMC’96: 10:36:37          |   Fe   |   IMC’97: 10:42:53          |        |                  "THE BEST ELEMENT OF RACING"

Response:

…are the ones not asked! I’ve seen several references to something called the Clydesdale class. Is this a sort of horsy reference to larger sized people running tri’s? Also, numerous mentions of shaving legs and other body parts.  Does this have to do with cutting down on drag, chafing, or what? still working at it… Thanx…PSB.

Response:

Yesss! Another chance to start up the shaving thread Clydesdale AFAIK is for athletes over 200 lbs (????) I don’t think it exists here in Europe, we’re all so svelte Shaving? Everyone else does it and it looks cool. — Phil Squire Went for it in Roth 98. 11:29:42 http://w1.116.telia.com/~u11602093/NEW/homepage.htm ICQ 11599162 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – …are the ones not asked! I’ve seen several references to something called the Clydesdale class. Is this a sort of horsy reference to larger sized people running tri’s? Also, numerous mentions of shaving legs and other body parts.  Does this have to do with cutting down on drag, chafing, or what? still working at it… Thanx…PSB.

Response:

Paul S. Brandreth  says… …are the ones not asked! I’ve seen several references to something called the Clydesdale class. Is this a sort of horsy reference to larger sized people running tri’s?

Its a special division for the larger person.  At the Noosa triathlon you have to weigh more than 90kg to enter the division. (Which is a pain because I weigh 87 and I just can’t seem to put on the extra 3kg regardless of how much pizza I eat) Also, numerous mentions of shaving legs and other body parts.  Does this have to do with cutting down on drag, chafing, or what?

It generally cuts down on any infection from road rash (Rash caused by slideing you skin across a road at high speeds as you fall off your bike).  If you don’t fall off your bike you probably don’t need to do it. still working at it…

Isn’t everybody? Thanx…PSB.

– If swimming is so good for the figure, explain whales Simon Haigh Illawarra Triathlon Club – Australia http://members.xoom.com/ajsimon/index.htm   <—- New web site      

Response:

http://www.teamclydesdale.com/

Response:

snip Also, numerous mentions of shaving legs and other body parts.  Does this have to do with cutting down on drag, chafing, or what?

  Body shaving is a carry-over from competetive swimming and is supposed to reduce drag and give the swimmer a better feel for the water.

Response:

Shaving…  I love this thread.  It is almost as good as religion.  :-)   Everyone has their opinion about the reasons to shave.  Some are pseudo scientific, some are anecdotal.   I shave because my legs look great without hair, and massages are better too. That is the ONLY reason that you need.  No speculation on speed increases, hygiene, healing, etc.  =:-o Let the shaving flames begin. John Welch

Response:

Question:

did a lousy time, (finished in the last 25%, where last year I would have been in the top 30% os so…) and felt like crap afterwards. I had planned to try my first longer race , (750/20/5) in a few weeks time, but now I just feel like giving the whole thing up!

That is quite a decision based on one race performance. If we all gave up just because we had a bad race there would be no triathletes at all. If your life seems too full to train for tris, maybe you should give up teaching the aerobics classes to have that time for your training. You are just in a slump. Big deal. It happens. Ken

Response:

I’m an Aussie Tri geek looking for some advice. I’m in about my 3rd season of doing little races, (300/8/2 or a little longer…) I have a full time job, a 20 month old baby, and I teach 7 Aerobics classes a week.

Wow. I’m impressed. What a schedule. Too bad you can’t compete in this venue. I try to squeeze in what training I can, but more or less I race for the fun of it.

This attitude is important if this is the way you *really* feel A few days ago, I completed my first "Double- Super-Sprint", 300/8/2/300/8/2… It was a lot harder than I expected, I did a lousy time, (finished in the last 25%, where last year I would have been in the top 30% os so…) and felt like crap afterwards.

OK. What did you do to prepare for the race. How many hours/day/week do you work on tri-specific exercises? Looks like a lot of mini-brick workouts to me. With these distances I think your training might need to be pretty specific for you to perform well and finish the race with a smile on your face. If your goal is a top % finish, then feeling like crap afterwards is sometimes the price you pay. Depends on what you really want. I had planned to try my first longer race , (750/20/5) in a few weeks time, but now I just feel like giving the whole thing up! I know I’m probably not doing enough in training,

Don’t give up! It takes a while to learn this game. What are you doing in training? Given your schedule, it’s gotta be fun for you too. I use my training to give the brain a break. Fitness and triathlon are just nice benefits. Attitude is key. Jeff.

Response:

I’m an Aussie Tri geek looking for some advice. I’m in about my 3rd season of doing little races, (300/8/2 or a little longer…) I have a full time job, a 20 month old baby, and I teach 7 Aerobics classes a week. I try to squeeze in what training I can, but more or less I race for the fun of it.

1)  You are amazing. 2)  Keep your last 7 words above in your mind at all times.  They run headlong into your subsequent words, "I did a lousy time…and felt like crap afterwards."  If you are doing the race for fun, what difference does your time make?  Then you also talk about "I’m not achieving my full potential."  Really sounds like you just need to get your priorities settled. My $.02:  Don’t do "Double Super-Sprints".  The entire purpose of such an event is to "see who can go the fastest!"  Such races are all about speed, not about the fun of participating and finishing.  The focus on speed puts a lot of pressure on you to "perform", not participate and enjoy.  Who needs that pressure?  Certainly not you, you have an extremely full (and obviously fulfilling) life already.   Do regular sprint-distance events (the 750/20/5 you spoke of sounds great) and don’t put any pressure on yourself.  Do it to finish, to enjoy the thrill of completing the distance.  If that is not enough to satisfy your competitive urges, then it sounds like you might want to make some choices about exchanging some of those aerobic classes you’re teaching for a few extra tri-specific workouts. Good luck! Tri-Baby                                      _                                   –    o      ’             –  __o       –    </_  `     ‘         –    <         – __/    /o_         – (()) (())        -  / "REAL Triathletes don’t draft." *** Ironman Canada 1997 – 13:04:09 *** http://www-leland.stanford.edu/~brooksie        

Response:

No pearls of wisdom, but here’s my .02 for you… Don’t judge your potential from your experience with a Double Super-Sprint. IMHO these things are designed with one thing in mind, to make you feel like crap (especially the second swim!) and are not directly comparable. Stick with the "traditional" format races for the time being, as they are easier to design/schedule your training program around. Hope that helps — but don’t give up!! — MB. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m an Aussie Tri geek looking for some advice. I’m in about my 3rd season of doing little races, (300/8/2 or a little longer…) I have a full time job, a 20 month old baby, and I teach 7 Aerobics classes a week. I try to squeeze in what training I can, but more or less I race for the fun of it. A few days ago, I completed my first "Double- Super-Sprint", 300/8/2/300/8/2… It was a lot harder than I expected, I did a lousy time, (finished in the last 25%, where last year I would have been in the top 30% os so…) and felt like crap afterwards. I had planned to try my first longer race , (750/20/5) in a few weeks time, but now I just feel like giving the whole thing up! I know I’m probably not doing enough in training, but I don’t feel like doing it if I know I’m not achieving my full potential. Obviously, I’m in a bit of a mess! Does anybody have any pearls of wisdom for me??  THANKS!!!

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I’m an Aussie Tri geek looking for some advice. I’m in about my 3rd season of doing little races, (300/8/2 or a little longer…) I have a full time job, a 20 month old baby, and I teach 7 Aerobics classes a week. I try to squeeze in what training I can, but more or less I race for the fun of it. A few days ago, I completed my first "Double- Super-Sprint", 300/8/2/300/8/2… It was a lot harder than I expected, I did a lousy time, (finished in the last 25%, where last year I would have been in the top 30% os so…) and felt like crap afterwards. I had planned to try my first longer race , (750/20/5) in a few weeks time, but now I just feel like giving the whole thing up! I know I’m probably not doing enough in training, but I don’t feel like doing it if I know I’m not achieving my full potential. Obviously, I’m in a bit of a mess! Does anybody have any pearls of wisdom for me??  THANKS!!!

Let’s just say I know how you feel. My daughter is seven weeks old. 1997-98 was to be my third season of racing – the one where I finally determined to overcome my fear of open water swimming.  With all the stuff I’ve been through in the last eight months – new job, move to Sydney from Canberra (with four months apart from my then-pregnant girlfriend and weekly Sydney-Canberra commutes on the weekend), *really* hopeless training over winter with the associated weight gain (7-8kg), low-level injury (slight achilles tendonitis) related to training with the extra weight. I’ve never raced anything longer than a 750/20/5 (Canberra Saucony race 1997) and rarely finish higher than 1/3 of the way down the field (and likely never will).  My swimming leaves a *great deal* to be desired and I have my doubts that I will be really ready for my only tri of the season (Sri Chinmoy Sprint on Feb 21).  I *do* intend to try to complete the PowerMan Australia (8/60/8) at Bowral on March 8 – at least there’s no swim! My training currently is not great, but is improving.  I’m finding it hard to swim (simply because I’m a crappy swimmer) and hard to run (‘cos the tendonitis hurts) but not having too much of a problem with the bike work. Fitting this in around what I see as my responsibilities to the baby and Alli (my partner) in terms of trying to take a load off once I finish work in the evenings is pretty tough (I tend to use my guilt over not caring for the baby as an excuse not to train despite the fact that Alli gets on my case about training and the fat I’ve gained). I guess what I’m trying to say is I know how you feel and know where you’re coming from in terms of the low motivation.  All I can say is keep at it – even in a small way.  I’ve resigned myself to the fact that I’m going to have a low-key, low-achieving season, but that I *really* need to boost my training attitude regardless in order to have a worthwhile winter and 1998-99 season. Good Luck! Steve PS Call or e-mail me anytime for some motivation.  Hopefully I’ll motivate myself in the process. |                Stephen "Trib" Collins               | |      Website Analyst/Programmer – Tech Pacific      | |    55 Mentmore Avenue ROSEBERY NSW 2018 Australia   | | Ph +61 2 93816618 Fx +61 2 99186699 Cel 0418 251865 | | Do a Tri, try a Du!  o    The best view of one’s    | |             __o     <|   soul is from beyond the   | |           _ < _    _     edge, looking back…    | | __^o_    (_)/ (_)    /       DRAFTING SUCKS!        |

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but now I just feel like giving the whole thing up! I know I’m probably not doing enough in training, but I don’t feel like doing it if I know I’m not achieving my full potentia

Don’t sweat one race,, it gets to all of us,, I had a rather disappoint year once,, but I just liked doing tri’s and the people doing tri’s so I hung in.. I work nights 10 hrs and have two very active and busy daughters to watch, plus a house to take care of.. here’s a couple of tips that worked for me.    Try for quality workouts not to worry so much about distances and quotas.. a hard workout gets you more than several easy ones. Rest.. yea you need it and deserve it. Working out when you’re exhausted is a waste of time. Eat well,,even when you run around a lot. Get a running stroller and spend time with your child..Kids love it !!  And mostly,, go on with life,, you have the rest of your life to race. Me personally,, I plan to be the best 100 yr. old there is..Maybe some of my competition will drop out by then.. Al Kormesser ps.. Good Luck and Have fun !

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I’m an Aussie Tri geek looking for some advice. I’m in about my 3rd season of doing little races, (300/8/2 or a little longer…) I have a full time job, a 20 month old baby, and I teach 7 Aerobics classes a week. I try to squeeze in what training I can, but more or less I race for the fun of it. A few days ago, I completed my first "Double- Super-Sprint", 300/8/2/300/8/2… It was a lot harder than I expected, I did a lousy time, (finished in the last 25%, where last year I would have been in the top 30% os so…) and felt like crap afterwards. I had planned to try my first longer race , (750/20/5) in a few weeks time, but now I just feel like giving the whole thing up! I know I’m probably not doing enough in training, but I don’t feel like doing it if I know I’m not achieving my full potential. Obviously, I’m in a bit of a mess! Does anybody have any pearls of wisdom for me??  THANKS!!!

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No pearls of wisdom here, but hopefully some helpful feedback. First off, keep up the great work! Remember that you do these things for "the fun of it".  The fact that you are able to even complete a race with such a hectic schedule and so many responsibilities is an accomplishment in itself. I don’t know from experience, but many of my friends have told me that training is a completely different experience once there are children in the picture. I personally can’t even imagine how that’s possible.  I admire anyone that is able to work, raise a child, and find _any_ time to train, whether it’s triathlon or some other sport. On another note, we all have bad races once in a while.  In fact, for some of us its an ongoing thing .  Going through the process of having a bad race, sulking over it a while, analyzing it, and finally laying out a plan to assure that the same mishap doesn’t happen again, for me, is all part of the sport. Perhaps you do need more training, maybe with all your commitments you should lower your expectations a little, possibly establish a reward system, read some motivational sayings, etc., etc.  My point is that there are so many different aspects to doing triathlons and motivation, and athletics in general, that focusing on one small race isn’t worth the concern.  Instead look at the big picture:  your reasons for doing triathlons. I believe that everyone, sooner or later, goes through a race during which they have to think to themselves:  "Why am I doing this? I know that I have, in fact there was a race I can remember where I asked myself this and I couldn’t answer the question.  That was a horrible day, but I finished and it helped with my motivation in the future.  After that race I was able to refocus on what was important to me and my experiences have all been positive in the post-disaster race time period. It sounds as though this may have been that sort of race for you.  The fact that you finished speaks volumes about your character.  You want to do this, not to race against other, or perhaps even against the clock.  You must enjoy the satisfaction that is derived simply from finishing.  Remember this, it will help to keep the other things in perspective. I just think that sometimes we forget how much dedication it actually takes to do this activity.  Not just in training physically, but mentally, especially with all the other commitments that we have.  Don’t forget that, rejoice in it, use it as an additional boost. Well, enough of my ramblings, I hope this is of some help to you and anyone else who is reading it. I would also like to get some good therapy out of this myself. I would like to hear others opinions on motivation, and the like. Specifically: How many of you have asked yourself during a race:  "Why am I doing this?" How many times (in the past couple of years)? What did you answer (if you could)? Did you finish the race? Thanks in advance for any input. Jeff Larson University of Wisconsin-Madison Triathlon Team says… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I’m an Aussie Tri geek looking for some advice. I’m in about my 3rd season of doing little races, (300/8/2 or a little longer…) I have a full time job, a 20 month old baby, and I teach 7 Aerobics classes a week. I try to squeeze in what training I can, but more or less I race for the fun of it. A few days ago, I completed my first "Double- Super-Sprint", 300/8/2/300/8/2… It was a lot harder than I expected, I did a lousy time, (finished in the last 25%, where last year I would have been in the top 30% os so…) and felt like crap afterwards. I had planned to try my first longer race , (750/20/5) in a few weeks time, but now I just feel like giving the whole thing up! I know I’m probably not doing enough in training, but I don’t feel like doing it if I know I’m not achieving my full potential. Obviously, I’m in a bit of a mess! Does anybody have any pearls of wisdom for me??  THANKS!!!

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Question:

Down 18.5 lbs. on calorie controlled, low-fat eating plan.

Congratulations!   — So Write Web Design — High-quality low-cost web design! http://sowrite.simplenet.com

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Now, I need to rename EXERCISE.  I thought of Activity Plan, but that implies I’m going to be -active-.   Any ideas on what to call exercise so I can think about it as fun

Well, how about thinking of the alternative? Imagine how you would feel about it if you were unable to exercise. It’s amazing how your perspective changes when you are blocked from doing something.  I have a form of arthritis that is usually (and currently) in remission but rears it’s ugly head on occasion, making it difficult for me to walk, let along exercise. Having had this experience, when I’m able, I consider exercise a PRIVILEGE. Lucky to be stepping sprightly, Ebba

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Now, I need to rename EXERCISE.  I thought of Activity Plan, but that implies I’m going to be -active-.   Any ideas on what to call exercise so I can think about it as a fun

thing? I don’t have a name for it, but I have worked hard to consider it a reward.  Eg.,  "when I finish this database upgrade, I will be able to exercise."  OR, "If I leave my office by 4:00, I’ll be able to cycle an extra hour."  It has taken a lot of self-persuasion, but now it *almost* replaces food as a reward.

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Hi – it’s the Calorie Counter again.   One thing that helps me stay with my diet is that I don’t call it a diet anymore.  I have an Eating Plan.  This change may seem silly, but the way we think about things, and label things, affects how we behave.  If I am at a family potluck and say -no thanks, I’m on a DIET- I get responses like, -which one This time?- and -you can have a little of this- and so on.  But when I say, -I am following an Eating Plan prescribed by my Dr. – then I don’t get any flak. Can’t argue with the doctor! Now, I need to rename EXERCISE.  I thought of Activity Plan, but that implies I’m going to be -active-.  Given the option, I’m as inactive as possible.  I really don’t like to exercise.  Never have.  I make myself use my Cardioglide at home and walk during my break at work, but I can’t get enthused. Any ideas on what to call exercise so I can think about it as a fun thing? Down 18.5 lbs. on calorie controlled, low-fat eating plan. Judy Schroeder

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Runner’s World has the following 10-week program which was designed to take non-runners and get them running 30 minutes in 10 weeks.  Actually, it was designed to get them ready to run the 3.5-mile Chemical Bank Corporate Challenge. From the Runners’ World web site (www.runnersworld.com): Before you start with this schedule, get your legs ready with eight days of walking:  walk for 20 minutes a day for the first four days, then increase to 30 minutes a day for four more days.  Now you’re ready to begin with week 1. Each week of the program, do your run/walk workouts on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, and taken Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday off. 10-WEEK TRAINING PLAN Week 1:  Run 2 minutes, walk 4 minutes.  Repeat 5 times. Week 2:  Run 3 minutes, walk 3 minutes.  Repeat 5 times. Week 3:  Run 5 minutes, walk 2.5 minutes.  Repeat 4 times. Week 4:  Run 7 minutes, walk 3 minutes.  Repeat 3 times. Week 5:  Run 8 minutes, walk 2 minutes.  Repeat 3 times. Week 6:  Run 9 minutes, walk 2 minutes.  Repeat twice, then run 8. Week 7:  Run 9 munites, walk 1 minute.  Repeat 3 times. Week 8:  Run 13 minutes, walk 2 minutes.  Repeat twice. Week 9:  Run 14 minutes, walk 1 minute.  Repeat twice. Week 10:  Run 30 minutes. Note:  After completing week 9, if you feel tired, repeat this week of training before moving on to week 10. There is a great deal of information at this site for beginning (and accomplished) runners.  I’d encourage anyone interested in running to check it out. Debbie Iowa City, Iowa

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I would love to do a 5k i have about 40 lbs to lose.. How did you start off? and how much did you lose, or do you have to lose? I would love to just start off running, but dont want to kill myself.. How did you do your training?

I started with walking.  Working my way up to 60 minutes. Then I would walk for 15 minutes (warm-up) and start into a light jog – first time was just 5 minutes.  Back to walking to finish the 60 minutes. Gradually I increased that 5 min jog up to a 30 minute jog (walk 15 min, jog 30 min, walk 15 min).  At this point you can easily do a 5K "race" at your own pace.  5K is 3.1 miles. At a 10 min per mile pace jog you will finish in just over 30 min. For some people this will take a few weeks, for others it may take a few months to work up to this point and your first "event". Now you are ready to work on "pace".  Go find a track at a school, mark out a mile (usually 4 laps).  Warm up and then jog a mile at a comfortable pace.  How long did it take?  Next time see if you can do it a little faster.  Then figure out your goal pace for the mile – at that pace how long does it take to jog just once around the track?  Now you can "train" for speed. Twice a week go to the track: walk 1 lap, jog 1 lap at goal pace, walk 1 lap, etc.  Total jog 1 mile, total walk 1 mile.  This is your "high intensity" day.  Other days you can do your "long" jog as before, going for endurance (you’ve already worked up to 30 minutes).   If you are training now for a 10K, continue with your 30 min jogs twice a week, and your speed training twice a week.  Then one day (I do mine on Sunday mornings), go for a "long" jog.  How far or how long can you go at a moderate to slow pace without stopping? When you can go for 4-5 miles then you know your body is ready to tackle a 10K (6.2 miles). Good luck. (posted and emailed) We can never be too rich nor too FIT!         mouse   ’squeak’        (hl brewer, RD)

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somehow seems to take all the pain out…… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Any ideas on what to call exercise so I can think about it as a fun thing? That’s a hard one. How about a body toning plan? body sculpting plan? body firming? strengthening? Ah, how about a gravity reversion plan? Down 18.5 lbs. on calorie controlled, low-fat eating plan. Congrats! Keep up the good work! Micki — SeeBelow – candr

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I don’t know if this makes exercise sound like fun, exactly, but I noticed a big attitude change when I set the goal of participating in a 5K race. As soon as I did that, I was in "training," not just exercising.  (By the way, my goal was simply to finish the race by walking/speedwalking.  And I did it!)  You could be training for a specific event like I did, or some goal you set for yourself.  Being "in training" could apply to your eating plan, too.

Awesome idea!!  That is the attitude I have taken with my "walking/jogging". I find a future "race" and set my sites on completing the course.  Now days I am setting time goals as well as just finishing the event.  Next up for me will be completing a half marathon in December.  Ultimate goal (if I can do a full marathon) will be a Hawaii Ironman Triathlon…probably in 1999 or 2000.   We can never be too rich nor too FIT!         mouse   ’squeak’        (hl brewer, RD)

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I don’t know if this makes exercise sound like fun, exactly, but I noticed a big attitude change when I set the goal of participating in a 5K race. As soon as I did that, I was in "training," not just exercising.  (By the way, my goal was simply to finish the race by walking/speedwalking.  And I did it!)  You could be training for a specific event like I did, or some goal you set for yourself.  Being "in training" could apply to your eating plan, too.

I would love to do a 5k i have about 40 lbs to lose.. How did you start off? and how much did you lose, or do you have to lose? I would love to just start off running, but dont want to kill myself.. How did you do your training? Anne

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I don’t know if this makes exercise sound like fun, exactly, but I noticed a big attitude change when I set the goal of participating in a 5K race. As soon as I did that, I was in "training," not just exercising.  (By the way, my goal was simply to finish the race by walking/speedwalking.  And I did it!)  You could be training for a specific event like I did, or some goal you set for yourself.  Being "in training" could apply to your eating plan, too. Congratulations on the weight loss! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Any ideas on what to call exercise so I can think about it as a fun thing? Down 18.5 lbs. on calorie controlled, low-fat eating plan.

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Now, I need to rename EXERCISE.  I thought of Activity Plan

How about "time for myself", afterall, your giving to yourself, and its time that you can take to think about all that you have accomplished and all that you still want to accomplish. I also like Oprah and Bob Greene’s idea to take time for yourself first thing in the morning. You don’t have the whole day to dream about excuses, and it boosts your metabolism first thing, and then its done and out of the way, while giving you extra energy for the rest of the day. Enjoy your time to yourself. Another motivator: a friend of mine wen to see Christopher Reeve and a bunch of other motivational speakers. CR was announced that he was cancelling due to pneumonia, he couldn’t even breathe on his own…but he ended up coming out and speaking anyhow, siad he couldn’t let people down. Wow! That makes me roll over and get out of bed. Good Luck! And congratulations on your weight loss!

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Now, I need to rename EXERCISE.  I thought of Activity Plan How about an Energetic Agenda?

Alliteration keeps the tongue in shape. Lee S.

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Now, I need to rename EXERCISE.  I thought of Activity Plan, but that implies I’m going to be -active-.   Any ideas on what to call exercise so I can think about it as a fun

thing? Judy Schroeder

How about an Enegetic Agenda? Congratulations on your wieght loss!   —      Tracey

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somehow seems to take all the pain out…… I’ve often thought of having a T-shirt printed up that reads, "I’m not overweight, just gravity-challenged." Lee S.

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Question:

My M-frames wont stay in place,  I don’t like them at all on the bike. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone have an opinon on which of these sports sunglasses that are most usable for triathlon ?? Expiriences ect. ? Alan Sarup

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My M-frames wont stay in place,  I don’t like them at all on the bike.

I have to report just the opposite!  I took a header into a wooden pole wrecking a Cro-Mo steel racing frame, ripping a rotator cuff, and scuffing a helmet pretty bad and my M’s stayed right in place! Paul "Try-athlete"

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I have two pairs of sub zeros and wear contacts. I have found them (the sub zeros) to work very well in keeping the wind as well as the usual road gunk out of my eyes. Roger

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        I’ve been following this thread and bought a pair of M-frames yesterday. I used them this morning on a sunny run and enjoyed.  Now I have to figure out how to change the lenses so I won’t have a dark lens for tomorrow’s 0630 bike ride.  [They don't have instructions with the packaging and the folks at the store didn't have a clue.] Jim B.

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I agree, they really ought to provide instructions for doing this!  I

hope this description sort of made sense; it’s a lot easier to show someone than to write it up.<< I am on my third "replacement" pair.  I wonder how much "wear and tear" is due to the frame’s inability to take the stress of frequent eyeshield changes(?).  I used to remove the eyeshield for cleaning.  I just leave it in now. robert

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        I’ve been following this thread and bought a pair of M-frames yesterday. I used them this morning on a sunny run and enjoyed.  Now I have to figure out how to change the lenses so I won’t have a dark lens for tomorrow’s 0630 bike ride.  [They don't have instructions with the packaging and the folks at the store didn't have a clue.]

1)  Grasp the center of the frame (the part that sort of comes to a point right between your eyes when you’re wearing them) firmly in one hand.  Now grab the lens immediately above the nosepiece with the other, and pull firmly.  The lense should pop right out. 2)  Insert one end of the replacement lense in its appropriate notch in the frame.  Exert a small amount of pressure on the frame and slip the other end of the lense into its notch.  Now bend the frame slightly in the direction opposite its natural curve, while applying pressure with both thumbs to the center of the lens.  It should pop right into place fairly easily. I agree, they really ought to provide instructions for doing this!  I hope this description sort of made sense; it’s a lot easier to show someone than to write it up. Cheers– Tri-Baby                                      _                                   –    o      ’             –  __o       –    </_  `     ‘         –    <         – __/    /o_         – (()) (())        -  / "REAL Triathletes don’t draft!" http://www-leland.stanford.edu/~brooksie        

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A friend of mine and I had similar experiences with M-Frames.  Two pair I had cracked above the right eye.  Although I got my money back, it obliviously a  flaw in the design. I asked the dealer about it and he told me their was no solution.

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I use the Oakley Sub-Zero Rx w/ prescription lenses and find them much lighter and more comfortable than the Bolle’s I previously used. They are more expensive and slightly more fragile, but they are easier to clean and don’t slip down your nose while riding. If you have a strong corrective prescription like me (-6.00) the Sub-Zero’s are what Oakley recommends. They limit the corrective strength on the M-Frames to somewhere around -4.00 to -4.50. The only thing I would like to see improved is a little more lens area on the outside edge of the Zero’s (for wind protection). Bill

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I have used M frames for over a year in Hawaii, and they seem to work just fine.  They hug the head real well without causing a headache, and are stable during both the bike and the run. Darrell Griffin

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says… I have Mumbo Heaters (the largest lens configuration) and what I love the most about them is their ability to channel the wind away from my eyes. Sub Zeros are light, but they don’t look like they can keep all the wind out.  Anyone with sub0 experience confirm or deny? Paul "Try-athlete"

I’ve tried both too.  The sub-zeros are definitely my favorite on race day due to weight.  I can’t even tell they are there. However I’ve found that not only do they let the wind in, but the coverage they give isn’t terrific either.  Since my brother used to be a manager at a Sunglass Co. store, I’ve become quite anal about quality of lenses and coverage that they give.  I’ve become really spoiled with Revos, but they don’t make an equivalent active-wear glass (besides their lenses are real glass, and that would be bad with a mishap in transition).  I don’t mean to get off the subject too much, but after wearing a lense of Revos’ quality and then comparing it to Oakleys or Bolle (I’ve had both) you can really tell the difference.  Your eyes are much less strained with Revos.  I’d say that on a scale of 1 to 10 Revos are a 10, in my experience Oakleys (M-Frames, Sub Zeros, 0.6s) are about a 7 and Bolles (Micro Edges) are about a 5. My vote for active glasses, therefore goes to the Oakleys.  I also have a pair of 0.6s and LOVE them.  Got them as a gift, and they have amber lenses, but they do come in Oakleys various lenses.  Although they are not exchangeable (like the M-Frame series) they weigh a little more than sub zeros and they cover very well (wind, sun, everything).  I’d have a pair of these in the red/blue iridium too, but after my brother left Sunglass Co., so did my discount. The main thing is comfort and coverage though, go try some on and see what you think.  You’ll probably find that there are some glasses that leave an annoying gap below the lense that you can’t tolerate, especially for the $ you’ll have to shell out to get them.  Go with the ones that cover the best and fit your face well, you’ll be thankful later. Jeff Larson

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Alan: I have been using sub-zero’s for 3 years.  I only have 2 complaints about them.  The first is that they don’t do a good job of blocking wind coming in from the side.  I do a lot of riding in the mountains, and when descending the cold air causes my eyes to tear up.  I ended up buying a pair of Brikos for riding only.  I still use the Oakley’s when racing.  My other complaint is that the nosepiece tends to fall off quite a bit.  You might run into that on the M-frames as well, as I think they are identical.  One of my proudest racing moments was last year at the Colorado West Duathlon when I took off my glasses to wipe my eyes, my nosepiece fell off, and I managed to catch and reattach it without breaking stride, while running at a 6:30 pace . I hope this helps, Chuck Berghoefer

I agree, I prefer the Zero’s to the M-frames.  They are lighter, and they don’t block my view when I’m in the aerobars like the M-frames do. My nose piece came off my zeros in a race while I was biking(hit a large bump) and I caught the nose piece and reattached them while biking. Terry Williams

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Does anyone have an opinon on which of these sports sunglasses that are most usable for triathlon ?? Expiriences ect. ? Alan Sarup

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Does anyone have an opinon on which of these sports sunglasses that are most usable for triathlon ?? Expiriences ect. ? Alan Sarup

I’ve tried them both. The zero/subzer/0.4 etc. line is lighter, but the M frame has a major advantage in that the lens is interchangeable.  The thing that convinced me to prefer the zero line is that some of the models to not have solid plastic across the top of the lens. Therefore, the lens does not obstruct view when down in the aero position.  Try this to see if it is a factor given your face, head, brows, etc. (perhaps i’m a bit neanderthal!) .02 Steve Goff

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Does anyone have an opinon on which of these sports sunglasses that are most usable for triathlon ?? Expiriences ect. ? Alan Sarup

I’ve got ‘em both.  The M-frames are my choice for racing.  The are much less fragile.  The sub-zero’s are nice and light, but the ear pieces are attached to the lens without the benefit of a frame bridge across the top.  This makes it easier to crack the lens.  (Been there/done that.) Augie Calabrese

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I have Mumbo Heaters (the largest lens configuration) and what I love the most about them is their ability to channel the wind away from my eyes. Sub Zeros are light, but they don’t look like they can keep all the wind out.  Anyone with sub0 experience confirm or deny? Paul "Try-athlete"

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Alan: I have been using sub-zero’s for 3 years.  I only have 2 complaints about them.  The first is that they don’t do a good job of blocking wind coming in from the side.  I do a lot of riding in the mountains, and when descending the cold air causes my eyes to tear up.  I ended up buying a pair of Brikos for riding only.  I still use the Oakley’s when racing.  My other complaint is that the nosepiece tends to fall off quite a bit.  You might run into that on the M-frames as well, as I think they are identical.  One of my proudest racing moments was last year at the Colorado West Duathlon when I took off my glasses to wipe my eyes, my nosepiece fell off, and I managed to catch and reattach it without breaking stride, while running at a 6:30 pace . I hope this helps, Chuck Berghoefer

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If you need vision correction: I haven’t seen the Sub-Z’s with the integrated vision correction (eyeglass lenses); I’m not sure the service is offered.  The M-Frames (I have a pair) handle this very nicely.  Other solutions (Bolle for instance) involve a small set of spectacles on the nosepiece, between your eyes and the sunglasses themselves.  I’ve never tried this, but it also has it’s pluses. With "Bolle-esque" solution, you can update your prescription without tossing the eyeshield.  With Oakley, you’re screwed; you replace the eye shield everytime your prescription changes.  My vision correction is very stable, so it’s not an issue.  for me. The M-Frames are pricey, particularly with a prescription lens, but if you are willing to pay for the conveinience, they are sweet.

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Question:

Can anybody post (or e-mail) a list of triathlons in the UK? What are you fun-triathletes times? Would there be any point for me (UK based and not planning any races abroad) to join the Tri Fed / USA (is there a Tri Fed / UK?) Thanks for the help. Andy.

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<snip I was wondering if the newsgroup would benefit from some postings of people indicating their weekly training mileage for the three activities during the Middle part of the season – post base, no taper.  

As requested… In the middle of the season, I cut out all of my LSD training and train at fairly high intensities providing my body is not getting too tired (monitor your morning resting pulse daily). SWIM —- I’ve cut down from 4 days per week to three days per week in order to handle the increased intensity on the run and the bike. 9,000 yds (or 2,700 – 3,500 yd per hour workout ~1000 warmup and ~2000 intervals) BIKE —- TUES–  1 – 1.5 hr moderate-high intensity (noon)         club time-trial (after work only if I went short & moderate at noon) THURS– bike/run  (18-20 mi time-trial the second half) SAT–  1.5 – 2 hr bike moderate (if not racing) My longest training ride for 40km has been 35 mi for the last two years. However, I live in the mountains so I get a lot of good climbing in– that is why I only gave times instead of distances.  In Florida (pretty flat) my long bike was only 40mi RUN — Mon.  8-9 mi moderate-hard (6:30 / mi pace) Wed.  alt.  1) track intervals (3 mi of intervals (5:00-5:15/mi pace) & 2 mi                                         warm-up/cool-down)             2) 6-8 mi tempo run (5:50-6:00/mi pace) Fri.  7-8 mi moderate (7:00 / mi pace) Running is by far my weakest leg (I’m road kill for most runners within a couple minutes after the bike) so I work on it the most.    W.Patrick Brug, Ph.D.  _-           -_    Los Alamos National Lab -__       __-                                       /    cis:      72410,3372        /  

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I am in the middle stages of training for my second triathalon. Both the Pleasanton Tri-for-Real or the Santa Cruz Triathalon are runners up for the one I’ll actually do.  I am a former competitive swimmer and have a good feel for how to train for the .5 mile – 1 mile swimming range, but I am a little lost on the total weekly distances I should be putting in to have a  good solid base for the 15-25 mile bike and the 10k run.  I was wondering if the newsgroup would benefit from some postings of people indicating their weekly training mileage for the three activities during the Middle part of the season – post base, no taper.   I am particulary interested in training for the above distances but others may be into longer/shorter events.  Some indication of ability would also help compare distances.   TF

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