Lessons Learnt Crossing The Finisher Chute

IMWA 2010 was one of my significant milestones in my personal sporting history. Despite timing-chip issues, I did finish legally and with videotaped evidence this race. My timing-chip stopped registering my running pace after the 20^th mile, which led to many text messages about my racing status. THANK YOU my friends for checking on my health!

Although I did not secure the PBs I wanted, I earned the following lessons:

1)    This being my 10^th Ironman finisher, it was no easier than my first of fifth. I look forward to my next two Ironman races in 2011 (number 11 and 12 sounds very good on the scorecard).

2)    I enjoyed and remembered most details of my run down the finishing chute. I was giving the lovely spectators high-fives and applauding them.

3)    I had a good, strong run equally my best in 2006 (same race).

4)    Immersing myself in the energy of first-time finishers of Ironman. There were more than 400 making their attempt at the 226K-format. Well done, Ironman finishers!

5)    The event is run mostly by volunteers, so thank them whenever we can. It is a shared experience for a very long day, and days of preparation.

6)    I hate to quit; DNF is not computed in my DNA. I’d rather do damage control than take my allotted time, or give up and give in.

7)    This is only a result; we have our good days and better days. This was my good day. I will apply my lessons to my next race, and hopefully, earn my next PB.

Photo-credit: FinisherPix (which reminds me to make my order from them)

My Post-Race Evaluation

With almost a week to settle in from IMWA 2010 (5 December), I penned my evaluation report for my edification. Wayne Kurtz proposes writing your impressions and observations after your race. Do it soon, to keep details vivid and accurate.

What went well?

1)    Focused on my options.

2)    Damage control went as planned.

3)    Managed the controllable factors.

4)    Had a joyful run through finish chute. Mike Riley announced my name while I was acknowledging the spectators and volunteers. A sweet moment!

5)    Safe swim with better glide and cadence.

6)    Stronger off the bike-to-run.

7)    Lucid and focused to acknowledge my experiences, and volunteers and supporters.

What went awry?

1)    Seven bathroom breaks, off the bike. Review my hydration plan.

2)    Check collar/seams of wetsuit. I had significant abrasions on my neck that stung badly when volunteer applied sunscreen on my neck.

3)    Still left out two items: my special needs bag (sausages), and vials of caffeinated gels (almost forgot).

4)    Missed my expected timings.

5)    Swim sighting could be better. Need more power and fitness in my swim.

6)    Sprained wrist (and suspected hairline fracture) affected swim stroke and steadying of aero- position.

7)    Bike handling in windy conditions. I lost too much speed when working against the headwinds, and fatigued.

I started working on some of these factors – mentally, and recently physically – while in my post-race recovery stage. Coach Fox’s advice will be integrated into my next race preparation, as will the information gleaned from my mates who posted PBs that day. Learn and lead.

Recollections Redux Post-Ironman

Congratulations to my ENR/Triathlon Family buddies for completing the Singapore Marathon last Sunday! It was the same day as Ironman Western Australia. 42.195K is a long way to run or walk, I assure you and I was there in spirit as you nursed your battered bodies.

My observations of that day-of-three races (including Phuket half-IM):

1) Although I fell short of my personal expectations, I completed my 10th Ironman (hooray!).
2) I did not receive a finisher timing online, yet I actually crossed the line. Evidence aplenty (I have video, photos and real witnesses) of my 226K event.
3) I did finish this race; and it was not easy despite finishing nine earlier ones. Loved running through the chute - felt like a winner! Thank YOU, Volunteers and Spectators!
4) I enjoyed my day - truly and fully - despite disappointments with my body at some stages.
5) I raced against physical discomfort which was no excuse, but a motivator to complete what I started.
6) Staying focused and being in the moment are crucial to your personal success. Keep your mind on your plan, strategies, tactics and reasons.
7) I did have a strong run - no PB again - yet I can recount every step I took. Bizarre but true.
8) I was very happy to bask in my friends' achievements, because I could share in them. Thanks, buddies!
9) I was thankful for early well wishes and post-race concerned calls. I am truly alright because I am thankful of my friends. I am one lucky person!
10) Cliched as it may sound: The pain is temporary, but the memories are forever!