Getting ready to taper for Louisville...with Watts!

We had a great weekend at the Tour de Thompson 62 mile ride this past weekend.  The weather was perfect for an epic ride around some of the toughest hills in the Canandaigua area, and our group started off at 0800 for a planned 200watt ride.

I tried to settle into my pace early and find a rhythm, and got warmed up before we started the climb westward off of West Lake Road.  The pack had spread out nicely, and it was a ball trying to figure out what a good climbing power would be that would not blow up my legs if the ride were to be 112 miles long.

After several rest stops and chatting with weary participants, the final climb of the day provided a 4 mile shortcut that would eliminate the descent down Gannett Hill.  Not wanting to be short-changed on my entry fee, our pack rode every inch of the "long cut" and found it to be one of the toughest climbs of the day.  For those who have not participated in this ride yet, try to put it on your training calendar for next year.  Think of it as a "Highlander Recon Session"that supports a truly good cause!

It was also nice to reflect on the previous weekend that we spent in Lake Placid cheering on some of our Ironman buddies.  I was shocked by the violence in the swim start, and was inspired by the courage of the participants during the run.  Anyone who completes an Ironman is an elite athlete, but anyone who competes in Placid is truly special.  The course is not one to be trifled with!

Ironman Placid Bike Course Recon

This should be the last high volume week prior to starting my taper for Louisville.  My run volume is slightly lower than expected due to several consecutive cracks during my long runs (and the subsequent attempt to recover).  This week should be a fun one with several days of intense efforts that will serve as fitness markers for Ironman.

We will have a new addition to our Team this week!  The new official bike coach is named "Watts", and will hopefully be at most of the races and training sessions with us.  He is a 7 week old Black Lab that has a sweet little personality.

Many thanks to those who have offered advice and encouragement during this Ironman buildup training cycle. Despite a few injuries and crashes early in the season, it's been a great season, and I truly look forward to the last few weeks before The Big Day (as Mary Eggars would say)!

Watts!