• the new Race Trainer Pro is a terrific new product
• I love the NY Giants!
• VO2 max tests serve a purpose, and can be a strong motivator
• protein’s a really good thing; but, good to know carbo loading’s still cool
• I can get goosebumps watching a beautiful runner at max speed on a treadmill (thanks, Kim & Gwen!)

But, the overriding thought, emotion – whatever you call it – is the love and respect of triathletes for each other, and those who pursue and achieve great challenges.  None are more pronounced than the wisdom and inspiration shared by Dick Hoyt during our very special dinner at The Meadowlands Stadium.  No words can describe the impact this individual had upon all those present, listening to the pure & unconditional love that drives him to achieve unbelievable feats with his incredible son, Rick.  I’m not sure there was a dry eye, nor an unmoved person, in the audience.

Well, this past Wednesday, we were blessed to host Sister for a book talk she was doing that evening in Boulder.  Spending just that afternoon and evening with her further inflated my admiration for this amazing lady.  Within 30 minutes of arriving at my home, a videographer was at the house, ready to spend the next 2 hours with Sister, filming for an upcoming running documentary.  After a 15 minute “break,” we needed to rush off to KGNU, Boulder’s public radio station, for a taping of “Book Talk.”  We left there immediately for dinner; and, then, her evening talk at the Boulder Book Store.

The pace left me tired; but, not Sister Madonna.  While many, many 80 year olds are in assisted living or even nursing home situations, this triathlete is as vibrant as, well, this 55 year-old!  She’s sharp, her hearing is perfect, and she operates at a feverish pitch … always.

The talk at the book store was standing room only.  The store said it was the best attendance for a book talk in quite a long while.  People loved it, and a great many stood in line to have Sister autograph her book, and just to meet her.

Sister Madonna Speaking at the Boulder Book Store

On a personal note, my latest venture is titled “Life Endurance.”  The genesis of it, and its meaning, is focusing upon those things that allow us to live long, joyful, happy & healthy lives.  Sister Madonna Buder may become the “poster person” for Life Endurance.

Introducing Sister to the Audience (Timex is in the house) - photo by Warren Schuckies

Well, with that as inspiration, I didn’t quite start at the very back of Ironman Arizona Sunday (November 21); but, did manage to begin the bike leg almost last.  Yes, in what I call “Amani Toomering,” I then proceeded to pass 1,173 other Ironman competitors – nearly half the field – on the bike alone.  I continued my passing frenzy in the first 3 miles of the run, only to succumb to the pain felt in my quads with every step, slowing down; and, ultimately, just passing 40 more people, for a total of 1,233 people passed in the Ironman.  Now, mind you, these are all Ironman finishers!  In addition, I went from 68th place in my age group after the swim to 16th at the finish.

Yes, Amani passed roughly 64.5% of the NYC competitors, and I only passed 55.5% of the Ironman field; but, hey, I didn’t have Timex Multisport Team stud and coach, Chris Thomas, coaching me.  Maybe next year.  The interesting things you see (and most of you miss) when you swim in the back of the pack is how many times these crazy backstrokers hit you in the head when they pass you; or, how those breast-strokers are constantly stopping in front of you, only to do that hard breast-stroke kick just when you are within range.

I will say it was really cool having 11 volunteers all to myself, taking off my wetsuit; and, finding my transition bag and bike was a breeze.  And, yes, it is motivating and somewhat fun to cruise past so many other cyclists; but, Jodee, my wife, had to wake me up last night, as I was shouting “on your left” over and over in my sleep.

One Moment Not Saying "On Your Left" (Credit: Paul Phillips, as seen on Triathlete Mag's Photo Gallery)

Just six weeks after doing Kona, I did make the trip to Tempe for IMAZ.  I did this race 2 years ago, and had a respectable 11:24.  This year, with my legs feeling a bit “lava-laden” after the bike, I finished an hour slower; but, hey … the season is over – yeah!

And, what a season it was.  We started with a 50K run way back in January, and completed two 70.3′s, another non-WTC half, a couple of half-marathons, a few other shorter run races, and two Ironmans.  And, now, just 48 hours later, I can’t help but think about next year.  Right now, I’m thinking of some different goals: NYC Marathon for one, maybe the Trans Rockies Run solo, and an ultra run or two.  Maybe focus on triathlon half the year, and run the second half.

And, yes, maybe a swim lesson or 2. 

Finally – in the spirit of Thanksgiving – the thanks that are so well deserved for all the support given in 2010 to enable me to do so much: first & foremost, Timex- it is such an honor and privilege to represent such a quality company, fully committed to its athletes and to the sport of triathlon; PowerBar – my first year on PowerBar’s Team Elite, and ever so thankful; K-Swiss for their awesome running shoes, for their friendship and support of triathlon; Sugoi, Orbea, and Shimano – you help make all of the Timex athletes faster and … better looking (which means a lot to triathletes!); Rudy Project - great eyewear and helmets; and, finally, my friends at Aqua Sphere – great stuff (it ain’t your fault … my swimming). 

Thanks to all of my friends in Boulder (and elsewhere) - amateurs like me, and all the pros – for your encouragement; Simon Lessing and Darren DeReuck (Boulder Coaching), who took me on in May, and got me as fit as I have been in many, many years; Brain & Elliot (my 2 sons) for their unconditional love and support, and leading their lives the right way; and, finally, the biggest thanks to Jodee and Jackpot for being there always, and allowing me to pursue my passion each and everyday … they put up with a lot!  Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

This is not a race report.  My race?  Well, it was OK.  I went into it tired, not rested, and had a flat day from the get go.  But, hey, it’s Kona – the Hawaii Ironman – no way can you feel badly about the privilege of riding the Queen K, running Alii, and sharing the stage with the greatest triathletes in the world (along with the “other” greatest over at ITU).  It was, of course, awesome and, well, magical.

I’m currently working on a book that talks about “the other stuff” in being a successful triathlete: rest, recovery, nutrition, balance, etc … everything besides swim-bike-run.  Well, this brief blog is about “the other stuff” that I did – and loved – in Kona this year.

THE TEAM – And I thought it was cool being with 7 teammates in Lubbock in June – and it was.  But, 15+ in Kona … are you kidding me?  No question – that was the best part of my Kona experience in 2010.  From seeing Stu virtually every day at Dig Me Beach, on Alii, or on the Queen K (we were out there quite early, 2 weeks early for me); to the group of us walking beside the team car in the Ironman Parade, handing out and tossing all kinds of cool Timex schwag; to Doug being – well, Doug – in setting our bikes up perfectly; all being together at the finish line till midnight; and our special team brunch the day after the race … it was all incredibly special … and “family-like.”

Team ... Pre-Parade

MEDIA – I love writing, and I love being connected to the sport through writing.  So, despite trying to lay low and “just” be an athlete during race week, I still wrote two major pieces for ironman.com that week.  The most fun one was on Lava Java, and how Normann Stadler is largely credited with its amazing popularity.  Once he started hanging out there several years ago, before it was the place to be seen, people started flocking in, and the staff couldn’t keep up with the sudden crowds.  Normann actually went in back and helped wash dishes!  Legend, fairy tale?  I think not.

With Jeff Fischer, Lava Java Owner

PUBLIC SPEAKING – I am a true fan of the sport, and have enormous respect for those who commit their lives to being the best in triathlon (I also admire anyone who balances “life” with triathlon).  Therefore, it was my pleasure to be the Moderator for two pro panels, organized by K-Swiss (great shoes!).  Both were a blast.  From Mirinda (Rinny) Carfrae to Chris Lieto, Julie Dibens, Terenzo Bozzone, and about 10 others, each and every athlete were loose, engaged with the audience, and a delight to be with.

With Andreas Raelert & Dirk Boeckel at K-Swiss (Timex Hat)

FOOD & FUN – After so many trips to Kona, I really have this food & fun thing nailed, I think.  From “Macadamia-Crusted Mahi Mahi” at the Kona Inn, to the fresh fruit (almost) daily at the local farmers market and, ultimately, at the always wild industry party following the Awards Ceremony.  One added special feature for me this year was the PowerBar Breakfast for their Team Elite.  This was my first year on the team, and what a reward, sharing breakfast with what seemed like 100 other PB athletes and PB staff.  It was wonderful!

Man, I love Kona – the entire experience.  It is such an exhibition of the best of our sport, and the best of our lifestyle.  It always me proud to be part of that family of athletes and people; but, this year was extra special, being part of the incredible Timex Multisport Team.  Mucho thanks to Tristan, Keith, Doug, all the temmates in Kona and back at home cheering; my friends at K-Swiss and Powerbar; the folks at Orbea, whose Ordu rode beautifully; and WTC for providing such a magnificent stage to perform and play upon.

Still Feeling Good At This Point (photo credit: Warren Schuckies)

For another story and version of my Kona experience, please visit www.ironman.com, where the story should post on November 18.  Now … off to Tempe, to end the season.

Now, no offense to Highlands Ranch – where a fantastic contingency of top age group triathletes (including our very own Tim Hola and Trista) live – but, well, Boulder is Boulder – home to Chrissie and Crowie, and dozens of other top professional triathletes, most of whom are getting ready for Kona, as well.

Ready To Leave For The Ride

It took some effort, but I finally convinced k2 to “try out” Boulder for a weekend, and I think he got a great taste today.  We left my house at 6:45 AM to go meet a group for the Saturday AM long ride including 7-time Ironman New Zealand Champion, Jo Lawn; Aussie Stephen Hackett; Swiss star Mathias Hecht; and, oh yes, none other than Craig Alexander.  Most of the group was going to do be doing some hill repeats and, then, some motopacing; but, Mathias and k2 both had long rides planned; so, they took off together.  Their ride took them through some of the more spectacular routes in and around Boulder, including Big Thompson Canyon, Estes Park, Peak to Peak Hwy., and back home through Ward and Lefthand Canyon … 100 miles of major climbing, descents, and serious altitude (between 5,430 and 9,500 feet).

Me? I said goodbye to the group, went out on my own, and did a solid 90-miler with 3 hours of it at moderate to strong pace.  Great ride!

Needless to say, k2 was a bit tired upon returning home; and, after the “biggest Subway sandwich I’ve ever had,” he retired to a one-hour nap.   Upon arising, and looking like he just woke up after a late night out, k2 went to the famous Flatiron Athletic Club to get in a swim, where he met and swam next to none other than “The Man” himself, Dave Scott.  This set up the evening perfectly, as Jodee and I had already eaten our dinner of salmon, fresh veggies, and seasoned potatos; but, saved k2′s plate for when he got back. 

With dinner in hand, and with my dessert in hand, k2 and I shared my bed, and we watched “Iron War” – the greatest Ironman ever – the 1989 epic battle between Dave Scott and Mark Allen.  k2 had never seen the race before, and you could tell it truly inpsired him.  Watching Allen and Scott run 6-minute miles, side-by-side, for 24+ miles will do that to you!

Captivated By Iron War

k2 is one fine young man (he turns 24 today – Sunday, Sept. 5), and it is a pleasure to host him, even if just for a few days.  This is certainly one of the great things about the Timex Multisport Team – the feeling of family.   Some 12-15 “family members” are each getting ready to hit the Big Island in October … watch out for this super sweet, soft-spoken gentleman from Estonia – he certainly has a big future ahead.

I raced the Utah Half (a half-ironman race) in Provo on Saturday morning, and immediately left, drove 7.5 hours to Denver, and caught the last 1.5 hours of the Green Day concert  Jodee and I were so looking forward to.  A classic 21 hour day!

The race went great.  Becasue I left so quickly, I did not know until Sunday afternoon that I actually won my age group (thanks to my Timex teammate, Trista Francis!).  This was my third race in 3 weeks, and all have been solid performances.  The 5:51 Pearl St. Mile was big.  A 1:35 half-marathon on trail last weekend, following a big bike the day before was big (and good enough for 3rd); but, Saturday’s “victory” is really big for me mentally.

I really focused on racing – concentrating, not waving to people, not thanking every single volunteer out there (though, I still did a lot of that), and staying focused.  This is why I chose a smaller, non-Boulder area race, where no one would know me.  It worked.  After an “OK” swim (the course was notably long, per the swim director, and clear by the times; plus a very long run to the TA and timing mat), my bike (2:39) and run (1:48) were solid.  I was comfortable throughout, hydrated and fueled well (thanks PowerBar), and my equipment was excellent.  My Orbea Ordu gave its usual awesome performance; but, the best surprise – equipment wise – were my new K-Swiss Blade-Light Runs.  I have honestly never run in a better fitting, lightweight (especially for my size 13!) shoe that felt fantastic throughout, sockless.

I also used my Timex Global Trainerfor the race – mainly to keep me “honest” on the bike … and it did.  I routinely checked my pace to be sure I was working hard enough; and, a couple of times it, indeed, served to wake me up.  This certainly allowed me to hit my average speed of 21.13 MPH for the 56 miles.  I felt great and ran 7:30′s for the first few miles – easily – but, one bathroom stop, and a wrong turn on the run (my fault) cost me at least 2-3 minutes.  I also had a minor side stitch a few times that caused me to be a bit more conservative.  Overall, great race, though … and a win for this old guy!

The picture here shows some new friends I met the day before and at the race – a wonderful father-son team.  The father successfully did IM St. George this spring, and this was his son’s first half.  He did great.  They loved the Timex Ford Flex … and were “rewarded” for their spirit by getting a couple of cool Timex t-shirts.  Good people!

So, this was Saturday, Part 1 – 4 AM to 1 PM.  Part 2 consisted of an immediate 7.5 hour drive to Denver to meet Jodee (who got their by bus and light rail) to see Green Day in concert.  I got there one hour into the show, but still caught their last 1.5 hours. They are absolutely one of our favorite bands, and the show exceeded our expectations.  Simply amazing!  Even though my legs were screaming, and we stood for the show, it was well worth the pain.  Got home at 12:15 – got to bed at 1 … 21 hours after waking for the half.  Good prep for Ironman!

Green Day at Night

Now , before you question doing trackwork as part of one’s Ironman prep, let me point out that several pretty good Ironman competitors share the track on the same Tuesday morning that our group works out, including one Chrissie Wellington.  Right up to 2 weeks before she set her amazing record in Germany, she was out there, banging off quarters, 800′s, etc.

So, it was with a bit of new found confidence that I entered the Pearl Street Mile last Thursday evening (8/12).  I actually used to own the race, before selling it to Ironman last year; so, it was pretty cool to be on the other side of the fence for it.  I loved it!

Anyway, the week before the race, we had 2 sets of moderate to high intensity runs of 20 minutes each, followed by a 5 minute all out run (this was on trails).  My final 5′ was at 6:18 pace, and Darren pronounced me ready to run a 5:55, based on that.  I though “cool.”  5:55 at 55 years old!  Now, for the weird/karma part – I went to pick up my race number the day before (I had pre-registered) … yep, #555.  It was now a done deal.

My warm-up had my heart rate elevated quite high as I was waiting for the starting gun (that was the plan – no time to build in the first 1/4); and, right before the gun, Steve Jones – the former world marathon record holder (1984 – 2:07) – was right behind me, and pulled my shorts down, as a bit of levity.  Just as I pulled them back up, we were off!  My heart rate pegged immediately, and I never once looked down at my Timex Global Trainer.  I just ran all out for exactly … 5:51 – I was wasted and ecstatic.  Mission accomplished.

To be clear, most of our track sessions are like 8 X 800′s, or 6 X 1600 at this point; but, with a 20 minute warm-up and 10 minute cooldown, they are pretty solid speed-endurance combos.  It certainly helped me hit my goal last week; now, here’s hoping it will help me sustain 26 of those miles even 2-3 minutes slower on The Big Island come October!

OK, the race: Buffalo Springs Ironman 70.3.  Hot, hilly, tough day, tough course; but not tough enough to keep Chris Thomas from being the overall Age Group Champion … “allowing” Tim Hola and Denny Meeker to take 1st and 2nd in the 35-39 AG.  Amazing performances by these guys!  Chris nailed his Kona ticket, while Hola’s already in, and Meeker is sitting out Kona this year (onto Roth in 3 weeks),

Not to be outdone, though, was Cindi Bannick, winning the 30-34 AG, and punching her Kona ticket – Cindi looked spectacular out there today.

On the pro side, it was a very competitive field, with Andrew Hodges finishing 13th (and getting a pro Clearwater slot), Alex McDonald 19th, and Laura Tingle 12th. 

Me?  Very happy with a 13th place in my AG, just a minute off from my time here 2 years ago, and felt solid and strong all day – particularly pleased after just 6 weeks of serious training, after 6 months of just staying fit.  I had a great time out there – smiling and thanking every volunteer I could; and my nutrition plan was perfect, thanks to my PowerBar products.  My Orbea Ordu ran flawlessly – I lovethat machine!  And, the 10 hour drive down here was smooth as Tim Hola’s looks, thanks to our very own Timex Multisport Ford Flex.  We even got to use the amazinghands-free feature when we parallel parked the night before the race at our pre-race dinner.  The Flex rocks!

But, unequivocally, the highlight of the weekend and race experience for me was going out on the run, and seeing each and every one of my teammates heading to the finish, kitted out in our awesome Sugoi apparel.  We all recognize each other, cheer each other on, and the camaraderie is seen by all.  It speaks volumes for our key sponsor – Timex … and, believe me, we were visible!

Lots of pictures were taken post-race and at the awards, and I’ll let others post those.  I just want to publicly thank my teammates at the Lubbock race for their sweet and sincere support.

First, a word about WRC.  The Manager and Co-Owner of this huge store is none other than former Team 7-11 rider and 1984 Olympic Bronze Medalist, Ron Kiefel.  It was an honor to meet Ron, and see some of his memorabilia, including bikes he had ridden in some of the Classics back in the day.

The big Grand Opening Event featured 2X Ironman World Champion, Craig Alexander, and I had the opportunity to be the MC for the evening.  The event drew close to 150 people to the store, where they had a chance to listen to a little “discussion” between Craig and I, followed by a Q & A, and then pictures and autographs with the Champion.  “Crowie” (Craig’s popular nickname) is simply one classy, soft-spoken, and thoughtful individual.  We talked about family (he and Neri have 2 young children), nutrition, watts in Kona (279-281 average typically … for 112 miles), and his thoughts on Macca (“I let my racing do the talking”).  It was simply a wonderful evening.

In addition to Crowie’s appearance, many great companies had tables and displays set up, including some of our favorites: Timex (of course), Orbea, Aqua Sphere, and Shimano.  We also had the amazing Timex Multisport Team’s Ford Flex on hand.  Everywhere it goes, it grabs attention.  All and all, a great evening!

Next up: Saturday morning found five members of the Timex Multisport Team making their way to WRC to do a group ride, mainly with Team Transplant, an organization of folks helping those in need of – or who have had – organ transplants.  One of the riders who joined us has had a double lung transplant – and, he was awesome in the ride!  Trista Francis, Tim Hola, Erin Kummer, Brian Schaning and I spent the morning talking cycling, the new Timex Global Trainer (soon-to-be-released), and showed off our Ford Flex team vehicles.  We even did a demonstration of its incredible hands-free parallel parking, which drew lots of amazement from the crowd.  Once again, another fun and energetic day on the road with Team Timex.

Big thanks to the wonderful folks at Wheat Ridge Cyclery, which is located a few miles west of Denver, east of Golden, and 30 minutes from Boulder.  We know their new Multisport Department will do great!  Also, big thanks to my teammates – Brian, Erin, Tim, and Trista – for taking a precious Saturday morning out of their normal training schedule to be with all of these wonderful folks.

have fun out there … and be safe!  barry.

Q & A Discussion

Craig With Aspiring Triathletes

Saturday Morning Group Ride

Inspiration?  Meet Stu – the guy who was just recognized for swimming – ready? – 17,000,000 (that’s 17 million) meters!  For we Americans, that’s 18,530,000 yards!!!

Here is the story that just got posted on www.ntnews.com.au.  I’m sure Stu is too humble to post this himself (OK, maybe not; but, I thought it is certainly blog and newsworthy!)  By the way, doesn’t Stu look great in his Sugoi Timex kit, and his new Timex Global Trainer?  Love you, man!!!

March 30th, 2010

 

A DARWIN man is back in town after swimming almost halfway around the world.

Triathlete and Iron Man Stu Fitch, 56, was honoured by Masters Swimming Australia for becoming the first member of the 15 million metres club.

It’s a milestone he passed several years ago – he is now closing in on 18 million metres.

And that’s just the swims he has recorded in his log – there are many open water swims not included, plus an estimated 5 million before he started counting in 1991.

“At the peak of my training I was doing a million metres every nine months,” he said.

“Somebody’s got to catch me and overtake me, by virtue of the fact my distance accumulation has slowed down.”

A member of the Darwin Stingers swimming club, Fitch said he was happy to be back in Darwin for a break.

“I think Nightcliff is the most beautiful pool in Australia,” he said.

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