I get by with a little help from friends.

No joke, this was the most challenging mental day I've had in awhile, perhaps all of training.  I literally thought I was going to throw up.  That's twice this weekend, haven't really had this feeling until this weekend.  And I felt that way for a good few miles.  It was hot, real hot - 90-94 hott.  It was sunny, limited shade on the second half of the ride.  I was exhausted, so fatigued.  My legs felt ok, not too painful or sore.  But my body was beat.  My legs were done about 10 miles to go.  My butt...well it hurt all day and I am chaffed in places that are no fun.  And now 3 ice baths in a week, not too shabby. 

I almost started to cry at one point, which sounds so silly.  I wanted to give up with 40 miles to go.  But I kept pedaling, kept telling myself other people are fighting cancer and horrible diseases.  That this will be over soon.  That this is what distiguishes you as a future Ironman. 

Had fabulous company, thank goodness.  I needed it bad today.  Training partner of course Doreen, and Dave an excellent cyclist and TNT friend.  On many hills, he preached "every hill has a rhythm, every hill has a pace, now TAKE IT!"  His enthusiam was not completely contagious unfortunately, but was definitely inspiring and motivational at times I needed it.  "Relax your upper body, the power comes from your legs."  "Increase your cadence, downshift, use your aerobars."  "You missed the turn!"  And then there is always the way too personal talks of where you are in pain/chaffed/showing of body parts.  You definitely lose inhibitions in triathlon training.  The little mantras are helpful, more than you think, and important to remember from here on out to race day.  I'm thankful for having heard them, for having a coach today.  I always love riding with so many of my cycling friends.  I love learning.  I am lucky to have them, and they make it so much more enjoyable.

While I was struggling, my partner had a fabulous day and was thrilled her first century was a great one.  We even saw a fellow Placid friend for a few miles, it is nice to commiserate with others going through the same struggles. 

So at mile 60 on the verge of tears, I made a choice.  Dave told me when I thought I was going to ralph that persevering through the heat and pain and continuing on is what makes you an Ironman.  It's how you survive the 17 grueling hours.  It's what makes you standout as a person, and challenges you to be strong in ways you didn't think you could.  To push your body to it's limits. 

This was by far the most challenging training weekend I've done.  And I feel pretty damn accomplished.  18 miles and 100 miles.  Both alone I consider admirable and amazing for anyone.  And that takes nothing away from any shorter distances, all of which are respectable.  I always try to respect any training and race, all can be challenging to different people. 

I am exhausted, and just need to keep this up a little longer.  While this may have been the first time I felt intimidated by making the bike cutoff for Placid, everyone is right that I was on tired legs and will have a nice taper to prepare for race day. 

In the words of my friend giving advice for the big day, race your own race and pace yourself.  I sound like a broken record, but trust the plan.  And don't forget to smile and enjoy it because that is why I do this stuff.  For the love of the game.

And the great friendships and challenges that come with the territory.  Now, time for sleep and some recovery!