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Thursday, July 09, 2009

After a very successful Spring clinic, we are happy to announce the Discomfort Zone Summer Triathlon Clinic starting July 22. For those who missed the spring session, the Summer Clinic will showcase the same great training locations, fitness and skill building, and fun atmosphere. For those returning, get ready for a whole new set of workouts which will challenge you and take your game to a higher level.

As always, our clinic provides an environment where new athletes can develop the skills and confidence necessary to complete their first triathlon. Additionally, each workout will provide an opportunity for experienced athletes to develop more the more advanced skills and body awareness required to go faster and longer than ever before. With a goal race weekend that includes the Wasaga Beach sprint, the Wasaga Olympic Triathlon, and the Muskoka 70.3 triathlon, clinic participants can choose to target short or long triathlons and get the guidance they need.

Those of you familiar with the clinics won't be surprised by the instructional booklet packed with sport specific skills, technique drills and handy tips and tricks that will increase your enjoyment of the sport and give you a leg up on the competition. However, the advanced sport-specific skills and pacing, nutrition and self-coaching tips provided during this clinic will form the basis of an advanced skills booklet available at the end of the clinic.

Clinic fees are $175, and include both of these great resources as well as 8 two-hour sessions consisting of a short talk about a tri-related topic followed by hands-on technique instruction and a fun, challenging multi-sport workout. Finally, each participant will receive a sharp looking Discomfort Zone water bottle to stay hydrated.

Clinic sessions take place on Wednesday evenings from 6-8pm, and will use a variety of locations throughout the city.

So why don't you join us for this year's clinic, meet some great new people, and discover for yourself what some fun and challenging triathlon training can do for your summer.

For more information, check out the attached poster. Judging by the interest we have received so far from previous clinic participants and new inquiries, these clinic spots are going to go fast. Be sure to reserve your spot by emailing dzmike@gmail.com.

Happy training!

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Dear Fellow Triathletes and Multi-sport enthusiasts,

Mt. Pisgah Summit
One of many great lunch stops
Mt. Mitchell Ascent

I am happy to announce that once again this year we will be hosting a Triathlon Training Camp in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. The last camp was a smashing success and saw each one of our campers set personal bests in one or more aspects of their training. Even better was how much fun we all had and the new friendships that were made.

This year our training camp will take place from April 19-25, 2009 which is a couple of weeks later (and warmer) than last time. The stunning city of Asheville North Carolina has access to some of the best cycling terrain in North America and is within a (long) day's drive of southern Ontario. Asheville also has a very good airport close to where we are staying with 1-stop flights from Toronto and Ottawa.

Campers from last time will remember the great swimming pool and hot tub, the high quality cycling roads, the friendly drivers, the great cafes and restaurants along the way, and the endless running trails starting right at our doorstep. We will be returning to some of the favourite routes and climbs from last year's camp, with a few new surprises.

For the Camp Fee of $775, you receive:

- An opportunity to test (and expand) your limits with like-minded athletes in a stunning environment
- Airport pickup in Asheville
- 7 nights accommodation
- 6 days of swim, bike, run, strength and flexibility training on some of the best terrain in North America
- Sport-specific video analysis (by request)
- Evening discussions on a wide range of multisport topics
- Cool DZ swag including water bottles and cycling socks

To secure your spot or learn more, please contact us at dzmike@gmail.com.

Live your Dreams!

Mike Coughlin




Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Dear Fellow Triathletes and Fitness Enthusiasts:

Following the success of the first 2009 Big Training Day, I am pleased to announce that Discomfort Zone Performance Coaching is offering a second Big Training Day this season. Taking place on Sunday March 8th, this one-day indoor triathlon clinic is a fun, social way to kickstart your training for the year, meet new people, and learn a ton of great skills you can bring to the race course this summer. Additionally, David Bialkowski will be on hand to share his skills and knowledge as a community coach, 20+ year veteran triathlete, and master bike mechanic.

I am also thrilled to announce that this training day is open to both adults and young athletes (aged 10 and up and capable of swimming 100m continuously in a pool). Throughout the day, groups will be separated based on age and ability for skill development, training and games where appropriate.

Details and a tentative itinerary are below. Athletes and parents with questions regarding this training day can contact coach Mike directly at mike@discomfortzone.com.

Live your Dreams!

Mike Coughlin


2009 Discomfort Zone Big Training Day 2

Date: Sunday, March 8th
Time: 7am-3:30pm
Location: Laurentian University Athletic Centre (Ben Avery Building)
Cost: $50 per person, with a $6 discount for OAT members

Tentative Itinerary:
7:00am - Registration
7:30-9:00am - Dryland warmup and Swim Technique Session
9:30-11:30am - Indoor Cycling Session, transition skills and games
11:30am - Lunch and Bike Maintenance Clinic (bring your own tools and tire changing equipment if you have them)
1:45pm - Run Technique Session on the new indoor track, including strength/flexibility exercises and more games
3:30pm - Training Day ends

Monday, January 19, 2009

Dear Fellow Triathletes and Fitness Enthusiasts:


The response to our first notice about the upcoming training day here in Sudbury has been very positive - this event is definitely a go.

Below are the details and a FAQ to address the many questions you had

Date: Saturday, January 24th - THIS SATURDAY
Time: 9am-4:30pm (early arrival possible for those who want to ride longer)
Location: Laurentian University Athletic Centre (Ben Avery Building)
Cost: $50 per person ($6 discount available to OAT members)

Tentative Itinerary:
9:00am - Arrival, registration and bike setup meet at main lobby of Laurentian Athletic Centre
9:45am - Indoor Cycling Session including warmup, specific drills, triathlon specific main set and cool down/stretch
11:45am - Lunch and Triathlon Q&A with Coach Mike (bring your own lunch)
1:00pm - Run Technique Session on the new indoor track, including strength/flexibility exercises and games
3:00pm - Swim Technique Session with more games
4:30pm - Training Day ends

For more information, email coach Mike at mike@discomfortzone.com



Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


1. This event is on JANUARY 24, right?
Yes. Thanks to those of you who caught the typo in the subject line of the previous email (which said July). Obviously there was some dreams of summertime going on when that was written :)

2. Where exactly do we meet?
We will meet outside the Ken Banuk Lounge at the Laurentain Athletic Centre (Ben Avery Building). Best option is to park and bring your bikes in via the back entrance (take Athletic Building Road to the very end past the building and go up the hill on the left - gate should be open.

If you don't know where the building is, here is a map link (you can zoom in for more detail). http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2502701

3. Is this day appropriate for beginners or is it geared towards more experienced athletes?
Both. Although the event lasts all day, the technique focus of the sessions makes it physically achievable for athletes of a wide range of abilities and fitness levels. So long as you can swim 100m (4 lengths of a 25m pool) continuously, cycle for 30-40min at an easy pace on a stationary bike, and run or walk briskly for 20min (separately, not in a row) you will enjoy this experience. If you have injuries or other issues that limit you in one of the sports, there are other ways to be involved too.

For those looking for a significant training effect, there is an opportunity to do that as well, although the focus will still be on technique in all 3 sports (as it should be).

4. Do I need my own bicycle and trainer?
Yes. For those of you with bikes but no trainers, let uus know. No promises, but we might be able to arrange something.

5. Do I bring my own lunch?
Yes. I strongly recommend you bring a lunch as well as several small snacks to enjoy throughout the day. Eating small amounts through the day is the best way to enjoy a long training day, rather than having a large lunch and the resulting full belly. Sports drink also helps with this strategy. Unfortunately there are not any food options in the building outside of vending machines and the University cafeteria (hours unknown) is a 10min walk.

6. How do I register and pay?

Registration will take place from 9-9:30am on Saturday outside the Bahnuk Lounge. For your convenience, an electronic registration form is attached, as the the event waiver. Note that

For payment, we will accept cash and personal cheques made payable to The Discomfort Zone. The cost is $50 ($6 discount available to OAT members).

7. What does it mean to be an OAT member?
OAT is the Ontario Association of Triathletes, with whom this event is sanctioned. Some of you may be members already (if so, please bring your OAT card/number), others of you not. I highly recommend that anyone interested in participating in triathlon here in Ontario join OAT. In addition to voting rights and a great magazine, members enjoy discounts on all OAT events (including this one) and races (most races in Ontario). OAT also actively works to develop the sport province-wide, particularly in terms of youth participation and development and coaching education. For more information, visit www.triathlonontario.com.

8. I have specific triathlon training and racing questions - will there be a chance to ask them?
Yes. During the lunch break there will be an informal Q&A session with coach Mike. We can cover whatever you are interested in, but if you have a specific topic area you would like discussed, email me in advance. So far, topics of interest include

- How do I set goals and plan my season (what races to target, how to prepare, etc.)?
- What should I look for in a bicycle for training and racing?
- How can I fit my training most effectively around family, work and other "real world" obligations?

9. What should I bring?
Cycling gear (bike and trainer, comfortable cycling shorts, jersey and shoes, large towel for under the trainer, small towel for yourself, water/sports drink)
Running gear (running shoes and socks, running shorts and shirt (could use cycling clothes but a change might be nice)
Swimming gear (swim suit, cap and goggles)
Registration form including information on relevant medical conditions
Training fee

and...

A fun, positive attitude!

See you there!

Mike


--
Mike Coughlin
Coach/Mentor
The Discomfort Zone
'Where true potential is discovered'

mike@discomfortzone.com
www.discomfortzone.com

Thursday, November 13, 2008

November 1st 2008, 6:58am.
Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.


We were due to start at 7, but the 400 or so of us standing on the beach weren't going anywhere. It was so dark we could hardly see each other, never mind the buoys. It was also cold - really cold. A quick calculation told me that 40 degrees F is about 4 degrees C. I came down from Canada for this?

Looking east, thoughts of the cold vanished as we were treated to a beautiful Atlantic sunrise. It was athletes-only at the swim start on this isolated tip of land, and a feeling of solidarity and adventure filled the air. Beginners or veterans, we were all first-timers at the inaugural Beach2Battleship Iron Distance Triathlon.


Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Hey Discomfort Zone Tri Team!

With the World Triathlon Championships in Vancouver coming up in a few short weeks, I wanted to provide everyone with a few reminders and resources to help you make the experience as enjoyable as possible. As you complete the final buildup phase of your physical preparation, it is a very good idea to review the technical and logistical aspects of your preparation as well.

Since this is an Olympic year, the World Championships are held earlier than normal. For us, that means this important race is one of the first we will do all season. Therefore, many of the equipment issues that figure themselves out over the course of a normal early season need to be addressed more formally. In particular, it is important to make sure that you have well functioning equipment for the swim and bike.

Wetsuits: It will be a cold swim in Vancouver. Full sleeve wetsuits are recommended. Make sure yours is in good working order.

Bike: If you haven't arranged for a pre-race tune-up, now is the time. Race week in Vancouver will be crazy enough without you having to worry about the mechanical fitness of your bike. Bialkowski Trysport is now accepting bikes for pre-Worlds tuneups, and asks that all bikes be brought in prior to May 22 (next Thursday) - this will give them time to order parts if required. Call David Bialkowski at 705-746-8179 to book a tune-up.

Race Wheels: If you are interested in renting race wheels for this event, Bialkowski Trysport has a limited number available. Call David Bialkowski at 705-746-8179 for details.

Bike Boxes: If you need a bike box to fly your precious bike, Bialkowski Trysport has a limited number available for rent. Call David Bialkowski at 705-746-8179 for details.

Mental Preparation: I find that a great way to feel prepared for a key event is to take a little time each evening to visualize race week and race day. What will the travel be like? Where and what will I eat during race week? How will my pre-race practice sessions go? How will I deal with heat/cold/wind/rain both prior to and during the race? How will I deal with a flat tire during the race?

In addition to benefitting race performance, these visualization exercises can help remind us of things we need to pick up and prepare for the trip, such as nutritional products, bike tools, poor weather clothing and travel arrangements.

Be Prepared!

Mike

Thursday, April 03, 2008


Discomfort Zone 2008 Spring Triathlon Camp
Asheville, North Carolina
April 20-26, 2008


Mt. Pisgah Summitt
Climbing Mt. Mitchell
Lunch Stop

Dear Fellow Triathletes and Multi-sport enthusiasts,

I am happy to announce that once again this year we will be hosting a Triathlon Training Camp in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. Last year's camp was a smashing success and saw each one of our campers set personal bests in one or more aspects of their training. Even better was how much fun we all had and the new friendships that were made.

This year our training camp will take place from April 20-27, 2008. The stunning city of Asheville North Carolina has access to some of the best cycling terrain in North America and is within a (long) day's drive of southern Ontario. Asheville also has a very good airport close to where we are staying with 1-stop flights from Toronto and Ottawa.

Campers from last year will remember the great swimming pool and hot tub, the high quality cycling roads, the friendly drivers, the great cafes and restaurants along the way, and the endless running trails starting right at our doorstep. We will be returning to some of the favourite routes and climbs from last year's camp, and will be adding some new surprises, including a day trip to the final mountain stage of the Tour de Georgia cycling race where we can test our mettle on the famous Brasstown Bald climb before watching the pros do it later in the day.

For the Camp Fee of $695, you receive:
- Airport pickup in Asheville (if required)
- 8 nights accommodation
- 7 full days of swim, bike, run, strength and flexibility training on some of the best
terrain in North America
- Sport-specific video analysis (by request)
- Evening discussions on a wide range of multisport topics
- Discomfort Zone Technical T-shirt
- Discomfort Zone cycling socks

Please forward this information to any athletes you know who might be interested. If you have any questions or would like to reserve a spot, please contact us at mike@discomfortzone.com.


Live your Dreams!


Mike Coughlin

Thursday, July 19, 2007

Discomfort Zone Performance Coaching

Come join the Discomfort Zone Tri Team at Nepahwin Park in Sudbury, Ontario for a Half Ironman race simulation workout this Saturday, July 28. This FREE event is perfect for anyone training for a long endurance event such a Half Ironman or for those just looking to test their strength and endurance. Several distance options exist for athletes of varying abilities to extend their personal limits in a challenging and fun environment.

After the workout, join other participants, volunteers and their families for a Pot Luck BBQ at Coach Mike's house and swap war stories over some well earned food and drinks!

Looking for Volunteers: We are looking for 6-8 volunteers to help staff aid stations during the run portion of this workout. If you or someone you know can help, please let us know!

Details are below. If you are considering coming from out of town to do this workout, a homestay can be arranged. For more information, contact Mike Coughlin at mike@discomfortzone.com

Live your dreams!

Mike

-------
Date: Saturday, July 28
Location: Nepahwin Park off Paris St., Sudbury, Ontario

Schedule: 6:15am – Arrival and race gear setup
7:00am – Swim start
7:45 – All athletes start bike ride together and ride out of town together. Once onto Big Nickel Mine Road, athletes are expected to spread out and ride at least 7m apart like in a triathlon.
10:45-11:00am – Arrival in T2, depart on the run
12:00-12:30pm – Finish at Nepahwin Park, optional post workout dip in the lake
2pm – BBQ at Coach Mike's place, 276 Wilson St. (by the aid station on the run course), phone: 919-7162

Swim Course: The swim is around the first island and back (approximately 2250m, follow link below). If you are still on your way out at 19min, turn around and swim back.

Swim Course: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1150082

Bike Course: The bike course consists of a 65 loop with 3 extension options (follow links below). Riders can choose to ride anywhere from 65-100km and should try to finish between 3:00 and 3:15 ride time, adding or cutting short the optional sections as required. The bike ride is unsupported, meaning you are responsible for your own nutrition and mechanical support.

Bike Course (basic loop): http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1146828
Bike Course (Nortwest Bypass Extension): http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1146848
Bike Course (Long Lake Extension): http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1146878
Bike Course (17-69 Extension): http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1146889

Run Course: The run course is a 4.5km loop with an aid station at each end (follow link below). Gatorade, pepsi and water will be at the aid stations to help simulate the race environment. This is where the result of your pacing and nutrition on the bike will make itself known. Those preparing for a Half Ironman are encouraged to complete 3 laps at goal race pace.

Run Course: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=1146909

BBQ: After the workout is over, all participants, volunteers and their families are invited to a Pot Luck BBQ at Coach Mike's house (276 Wilson St. in LoEllen) where we can share stories from our day. Please RSVP to me at mike@discomfortzone.com or 705-919-7162 if you plan to attend.

Wednesday, June 06, 2007

New DZ Logo

Hey Discomfort Zone Tri Team!

Well the warm weather is here and triathlon season is upon us. Many of us kicked off the official Ontario outdoor triathlon season this weekend in Milton and it was great to see everyone out there laying it all out on the course. Congratulations to DZ athletes Chantal Demers (1st in 25-29 and top female run split including the pros), Melanie Muise (4th in female 25-29), Brad Walker, Patti Socransky and Steve Fessenden for your fine finishes out there. It was great to see our many friends in the Nickel City Tri Club out there as well. Still more of us will be at the Muskoka Triathlon Weekend in Huntsville in 2 weeks which is always a blast. If you are looking for accommodation for that one, see below.

Here's what's new these days at the Discomfort Zone:

DZ Logo:

I am excited to announce a new logo for Discomfort Zone Performance Coaching, which you can see above. I really like how it turned out and I think it does a great job of portraying a fun and free-spirited approach to reaching for our goals.

Uniforms:

Now that the new logo is completed, design-work for the uniforms is underway. I expect to have a final design soon and will be looking to place an order quickly so we can be training and racing in them by July.

The 2007 DZ uniform consists of

Technical T-shirt ~$40 (a cheaper option is also being investigated on this one)
Triathlon Top ~$60
Triathlon Shorts ~$60
Cycling Jersey ~$60
Socks ~$10/pair

* Cycling shorts are also an option for those who are interested.


For anyone who buys the whole uniform, I will throw in a second pair of socks at no charge. Please note that prices are approximate, depend on order size, and do not include tax.

What I need from you guys is

a) what you are interested in purchasing and
b) what your size is for each item - please visit www.suarez.com.co and refer to the technical manual for sizing

I look forward to hearing from you soon!


Muskoka Triathlon Weekend Plans:

Are you as excited about Muskoka as I am? Whether you are doing the sprint on Saturday or the Long Course on Sunday (there will be DZ athletes racing in each), I highly recommend watching (and cheering!) during the other race. If you are still looking for a place to stay, why not join us at the FernGlen Inn? Located a 20min north of Huntsville, this tranquil B&B offers rooms for $100/night including breakfast. It also has an outdoor hot tub! I have stayed there 3 times for Muskoka and really enjoyed it. More information can be found at http://www.ferngleninn.on.ca/. If you decide to book a room, just let Jim or Jackie know that you are with Mike's triathlon group. Oh, and let me know too!

DZ athletes race at Duathlon Worlds:

Our very own Melanie Muise and Steve Fessenden traveled to Gyor Hungary earlier this month to participate in the World Duathlon Championships. Both athletes had great races finishing in in their respective age categories. Melanie even got a mention on the Triathlon Canada website:

"...Another strong category for the Canadian team was in the Women's division (25-29). Melanie Muise, from Sudbury, Ontario finished in 7th in 2:02:58. Isabella Burzak, from Rosemere, Quebec, crossed the line in 10th position in 2:05:57 and Trish Barbero was 16th in 2:14:07..."

Great job to both of you. I hope you enjoyed your trip and had lots of Hungarian food!

2007 DZ Events:

The following is a quick preview of some coming events on the Discomfort Zone calendar. Hope to see you there!

Discomfort Zone Summer Triathlon Clinic: July 4-August 22, 2007

This 8 week clinic is designed for both new and experienced triathletes looking to challenge themselves, learn new skills and have fun!

New this year will be a Long Course stream for experienced athletes looking to do longer events.

Locations (there will be several) and cost TBA. Please email me if you are interested in this clinic or know someone who is.

Timberman Training Weekend: August 4-6, 2007

The long Weekend in August will provide those of us training for longer races at the end of the summera great opportunity to complete our last challenging long workouts. An Ontario-based triathlon camp is in the works for this weekend to give participants an environment to push their personal envelopes.

More information coming soon. Please email me if you are interested in this clinic or know someone who is

2007 Discomfort Zone Triathlon Team Racing Schedule

Here is a list of some the races that myself and the bulk of our team will be at this season:

June 16/17 - Muskoka Triathlon Weekend - www.trisportcanada.com
July 22 - McKellar One Olympic Distance and Sprint Triathlons - www.pstrysport.com
July 29 - Bala Falls Triathlon - www.multisportcanada.com
August 18/19 - Timberman Triathlon Festival - www.timbermantri.com
August 26 - McKellar Two Long Course and Sprint Triathlons - www.pstrysport.com

Let me know if you will be joining us at one of these great events!

Mike

Sunday, May 06, 2007

Just a quick note to let you all know that the Tri Camp I had scheduled for May 18-21 near Huntsville, ON has been postponed due to lack of athlete availability on this weekend.

For those of you keen to enjoy a destination multi-sport camp experience within Ontario, I have earmarked the Long Weekend in August (August 4-6) and am currently hunting for a central Ontario training location and accomodation to suit a group of 12-18 enthusiastic people.

This weekend is well suited for anyone preparing for Timberman or other multisport events towards the end of the summer, as well as people looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy a long weekend in the summertime.

If you like the sound of this training camp opportunity, please email me with your interest at mike@discomfortzone.com so I can plan accordingly.

Live your Dreams!


Mike



Wednesday, February 21, 2007




I thought I would share a recent experience I had which would certainly qualify as being in my "Discomfort Zone". For the past few months, I have decided to put my swimming and cycling training into maintenance mode and to try a run focus block. Focus blocks are a great way to mix up your multi-sport training program and stimulate a significant change in one aspect of your triathlon fitness. In my case, I felt that "becoming a runner" would help boost my leg speed for future triathlons.

Thursday, January 18, 2007

Dear Fellow Triathletes and Fitness Enthusiasts:

I am thrilled to announce the first ever Discomfort Zone Big Training Day. The idea behind this one-day indoor triathlon clinic is to get a group of interested athletes together for a day of swimming, cycling, running and strength/flexibility work in a controlled indoor environment where technique principles can be reviewed and athletes of varying abilities can all get a great workout and socialize at the same time.

The clinic will take place next Sunday, January 28th from 7:30am-4:30pm at the Laurentian University Athletic Building in Sudbury, Ontario and will include the following:


  • Swim technique workout at Laurentian University Pool

  • Indoor Cycling Class (spin bike rentals available if you don't have your own bike and trainer)

  • Yoga for Athletes with Lana Boyuk from OM Yoga Space

  • Lunch including Triathlon Slide Show Presentation and talk

  • Run Technique clinic/workout (indoors)


The cost of this great day of training is incredibly low - $35-$50 depending on whether lunch is provided, with a $10 discount for all Nickel City Tri Team Members, Laurentian Masters Swimming Club Members and Sudbury Rocks!! members, and a $20 discount for my Discomfort Zone coached athletes.

For more information or to register, please contact me at mike@discomfortzone.com. This is going to be fun!

Live your Dreams!

Mike Coughlin

Wednesday, November 01, 2006

Hangin' Loose on the Bike
Running Happy
I made it!

Ford Ironman World Championships
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
August 27, 2006


Kona. Kailua Bay. The Pier. The Queen K. The Natural Energy Lab. Ocean swells. Heat. Humidity. Wind. Alii Drive. Sweet Alii Drive.

These conditions and landmarks have represented the ultimate destination and experience in endurance sport since long before I did my first triathlon 5 years ago. Was it all just hype, or does the Big Island of Hawaii really posess a mysterious energy that can reach into your soul and turn it inside out? Does Madame Pele, Goddess of Fire, truly have the last word on your ability to swim bike and run? There is one way to find out – go there and race the Ironman World Championships in October (and DON’T bring lava rocks back home – Madame Pele will really get you for that one!)

Wednesday, September 06, 2006

Kayaking Howe Sound
On top of the West Lion with Paul

3 years after my first Ironman, I returned to sunny Penticton and the pilgrimage that is Ironman Canada. IMC is a special race, and after experiencing a “unique” staging of the event amidst forest fires in 2003, I was looking forward to going the distance over the original, storied course this year.

I travelled to the race on my own this year, but was far from alone. First off, I had a large support crew pulling for me back home in Sudbury, including local athlete and coach Mike Hay who helped me with my preparation and challenged my perceptions of what was possible, Dave Welsh and his family who kept my body and my spirit in alignment, Kaili Baas who helped me keep my injuries at bay (I am stretching, Kaili – honest!), David Bialkowski and his family who have created a second training base for me in Parry Sound, and countless training partners and members of the Nickel City Tri Team, Sudbury Cycling Club, Laurentian Masters Swim Team, Track North Athletic Club and Sudbury Rocks!! Running Club – even when I was doing my long solo training sessions, it was great to see you out there too. Perhaps most significantly, I was continually inspired the dynamic group of athletes that form my Discomfort Zone Triathlon Team. Watching you progress and meet your own training and racing challenges has given me more energy than you will ever know!

Friday, August 04, 2006

Now, that's better!

The Parry Sound Half Ironman was a “maybe” on my race schedule for 2006. That got upgraded to a “must do” after my mini-meltdown in Peterborough, and I’m glad it did. This was my first experience with the HSBC Triathlon Series directed by John Salt, and it was well organized, safe, and lots of fun. It was also a mere 95 minutes away from Sudbury, which is a welcome change from driving (or flying) long hours to find a good Half Ironman race.

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