Negative Split Racing

Tip of the week: Ruidoso 70.3 on the books! What I learned today. Preparation for elevation paid off. I started hydration and electrolytes a week before and was in the bathroom more than I care to share. It was to the point Rachel asked if I was ok...LOL. My swim the 2 weeks before was just that, a swim. In my wetsuit, I swam nearly 7 minutes faster for about the same distance. The takeaway is form and consistent training in the water. I knew that but good confirmation. Wetsuit kept my legs up. Elevation is no joke. I also knew that going in. It hits everyone in different ways. I did not have any panic in the water but word is there were 80+ swimmers pulled from the water due to breathing type panic. Elevation did not appear to impact my bike like in Boulder. I was good from the start. I had 50 good miles and then the last climb to transition hit. HR crept up and wheels fell off. Still a good ride at 19+ mph avg. Now for the run...OMG! I had a good start but struggled to breath. This is where I felt the altitude the most. I kept my body cool wearing my arm coolers. Never felt hot due to the cooling effect of my tri kit and arm sleeves. Did not see/feel sweat but I know I was because I could taste the salt every time I poured water over me. It was a huge struggle to keep going the way I felt. What kept me going was the mere fact I was still passing people at the pace I was going. Not to mention a huge shout out to Jennifer Daniel that raced the 5150 the day before and came out to cheer me on. Help me keep my mind right. Thank you, Jennifer. I finished! Best surprise of the day was to see Rachel at the finish line with her beautiful smile! She made the trip but it was not easy. She was just resting and gaining strength for the drive home. I did not expect to see her at all on race day at the race venue. It was the best smile of the day! For those that know me expect to hear about the medical tent next. However, no medical tent visit today! It was the day the Lord made for me. I am grateful for the day and the opportunity to race. Last nugget was a 6th place AG finish. Totally unexpected with how I felt I was performing. Thank you, Lord for this day!

Due to uncertainty of weather no OWS tonight.