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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!]]> General http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=73 Thu, 9 Jul 2009 10:34:51 -0400 http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=72
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




]]> General http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=72 Wed, 11 Mar 2009 16:10:48 -0400 http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=71
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]]> General http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=71 Wed, 11 Feb 2009 23:25:06 -0500 http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=70

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]]> General http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=70 Mon, 19 Jan 2009 22:23:28 -0500 http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=69 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.


Leading up to the race I was in a good place. In particular I had a strong feeling of gratitude for the opportunity to race and the support of my friends, family and fellow athletes. The women's cross country team I help coach even prepared an envelope filled with motivational words (including some I had used on them that they enjoyed throwing back in my face!). I was truly fortunate, and I was determined to honour that good fortune with my level best.

My goal was to run to my potential off the bike. These long races are really all about the run, and although 5 previous attempts at the distance had yielded 5 successful finishes, I still hadn't "nailed" one. Those who have been there know what I'm talking about. Things are good for a while, and then something just goes wrong. Something ALWAYS goes wrong.

My something went wrong before the race even started. I snapped the valve extender on my front tire using a borrowed pump in the dark. Tech support was swamped, and I had no spare extender - all that time and energy getting my equipment in order, then this happens. My tire still had maybe 80% pressure in it, so I carefully taped the dangling piece of plastic to the rim, and let go of my attachment to perfection. It was time to take what the day would give.

At 7:12am, with the sun making its presence known on the horizon, the horn sounded.

Swim: 2.4 miles point-to-point in a saltwater channel with an incoming tide. Fast!

The swim was like an amusement park ride. We all knew it would be fast, but when I saw a buoy fly by I thought to myself "I better not hit anything at this speed!" To see what I'm talking about, check out this spectator's video clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PaI40uwFWJo

Drafting was futile, so I lengthened my stroke to take full advantage of the tidal push and enjoyed watching the sun come up. Out of the water, through the showers and over the mat in 50:39 - there is no way I can say PB with a straight face.

T1: 250m run to the changing tent, 100m run through the bike racks. Exciting!

I had stayed up half the night fussing with my wardrobe selection like a teenage girl before the prom. With the bike ride starting at 42F (5C) and finishing at 70F (21C), "what to wear" was a real concern. I took no chances, and donned a dry jersey over my singlet, arm warmers, leg warmers, socks and a skull cap. I had pre-packed gloves and a vest in my jersey pockets, which I would end up using as well. It took me 5:11 to get through transition, and it was worth every second.

Bike: 112 miles on dead flat roads. Cold!

Time to ride!

This ride had scared me for months. Flat sounds easy, but I enjoy climbing and more importantly, the rest you get while descending. To train, I rode both my trainer and the flattest outdoor routes I could find. I also trained my out of the saddle riding technique on flat ground, so I could use it regularly to stay loose. For pacing I used my power tap to help me hold a steady wattage regardless of wind direction, and for nutrition I carried 2 bottles of concentrated Infinit that I mixed with water from the 6 aid stations on the course.

My preparation paid off, and I was able to enjoy a more eventful ride than I expected. I dodged road kill, got chased by a dog, rode through a traffic jam at a small town parade, and put on/took off various clothing on the go. I also peed on the bike successfully for the first time in more than 60 triathlons, which was ironic since it was the one course where it didn't save me any time.

I have yet to finish an Iron-Distance bike course without a bad patch, and this ride was no different. Luckily, my trusty baked potato and some out of saddle riding helped reset my stomach. As my ride neared completion, I was satisfied with my effort and happy with my race selection. The course may be flat, but with a reasonable field size, I witnessed no drafting whatsoever. This was an honest ride for all.

I was also pleasantly surprised to find that the mile markers were off by 5% for most of the ride, and the end came sooner than expected. This was a blessing for me, since accurate knowledge of where I was on the course may have tempted me to throw my pacing out the window and take a shot at a sub 5 hour ride. As it was, I finished in 5:01:59 feeling great.

T2: Very compact, and done in 1:36. Quick!

After riding the last half of the course with nobody in sight, I caught a rider in the final 100m, and passed another competitor in the changing tent, who told me I was now in 2nd place. Holy cow!

Run: 26.2 miles with lots of twists, turns, and BAB's (Big-Ass Bridges). Hot!

The excitement of T2 had me running too fast as usual, but it didn't take long for reality to set in. The weather had gone from cold to hot during the bike ride, so I grabbed my hat and my long sleeve super-light white tech-tee. This was a good move, since there is no shade for the first few miles of the run course as you cross the first two of 6 Big-Ass Bridges. Beware of the BAB's!

I was re-caught in the early going by the rider I passed at the end of the ride. We chatted a bit, but his pace was too hot so I let him go. I wasn't feeling the greatest in the sun, but my running instantly improved in the shade so I knew it was a cooling issue. No problem, I can solve that ¡V each aid station became a cooling station, where I asked the all-too-willing volunteers to drench my long sleeve white shirt with the coldest liquid they had. Worked like a charm!

Halfway through the run.

The run course was interesting, with a good part of it taking place on the swampy shores of Greenfield Lake where I half expected a gator to jump out at me. Outside of the BAB's, the terrain was relatively flat, but with lots of subtle ups and downs which could be used to change muscle groups and squeeze out some free speed here and there. Somewhere in the first lap I re-passed the runner who passed me earlier on.

Unlike open running races where even-pacing yields the best times, the nutritional highs and lows of the Ironman marathon can reward a variable pacing strategy. After easing into the run for 8 miles, I decided to run hard when I felt good, and hang in there when I didn't. The catch? It really, really sucked to hang in there when I didn't, and the first few miles of the second lap were of the truly awful "just give me an excuse to walk" variety.

Nutritional lows in these races have a strong emotional component. It can often feel like the world is going to end. Although it might be compounded by overheating, muscle cramping, GI distress or general fatigue, the sugar low makes things feel far worse than they usually are. Staying positive in these situations is what long course racing is all about, and I had mentally prepared for an ugly patch. I kept shuffling, eating and drinking, and believing. Sure enough, I popped out the other side.

Back in the shade of Greenfield Lake Park, I hit the 20 mile mark and started the countdown to the finish. Over the last BAB and into the last mile, I was still running strong and realized that I was finally having the race I always wanted to have. The feeling of satisfaction was indescribable, and all the sweeter for having taken 6 attempts. I wasn't wearing a watch though so I had no idea of my time.

Finish: 100m of grass with the Battleship USS North Carolina in the background. Awesome!

The glorious finish line!

When the race announcer saw me approaching and said I was finishing in 9:21, I completely lost it. That time was beyond my most optimistic predictions, even considering that fast swim course. I started screaming and pumping my fist in the air. I may have even scared a few small children. My girlfriend, mom and aunt were waiting for me at the finish line and I'm told I may have been a "bit emotional". :)

My time was good enough for second place behind an athlete from Denmark who built a massive lead on the bike course and finished in 8:47. Clearly no contest, but my race was a personal victory just the same. A personal best swim was certain with the tide and a personal best bike ride was probable with the flat course, but a 15+min personal best marathon time of 3:21:47 was a true breakthrough, both physically and mentally. I also set a personal best for recovery, avoiding an IV and eating pizza within 90min of my finish.

Post Mortem: 9:21:09, 2nd Overall, 42min PB. Wow!

Normally I spend time after the race trying to figure out what went wrong. Now I get to struggle with the harder task of figuring out what went right! I probably trained fewer hours overall than I had for previous events, but I was very specific with my preparation leading up to this race. Once race morning hit I trusted my training and made all my decisions with the marathon in mind.

The race itself was incredibly well organized, and had the feel of a mature event. The venues were unique, the course was well marked and fair, and you could tell that the communities of Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach were overwhelmingly supportive. I also have to say that the volunteers were numerous, enthusiastic, and very good at what they did. It still amazes me how they cleared the road for me in that traffic jam at mile 75 - it was like parting the Red Sea!

Huge props to race director Jeremy Davis and Setup Events for hitting a home run in the first year of this event. For those looking for a unique, fast course and a professionally staged, yet less crowded race than the large Ironman branded events, I can enthusiastically recommend Beach 2 Battleship.

Live your dreams!

Mike


Exhausted but happy
]]> General http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=69 Thu, 13 Nov 2008 14:07:09 -0500 http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=68
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
]]> General http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=68 Wed, 14 May 2008 12:04:55 -0400 http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=67

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
]]> General http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=67 Thu, 3 Apr 2008 11:04:38 -0400 http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=66 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.

]]> General http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=66 Thu, 19 Jul 2007 19:50:45 -0400 http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=65 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
]]> General http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=65 Wed, 6 Jun 2007 18:24:38 -0400 http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=64
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



]]> General http://www.mikestriadventure.ca/index.php?itemid=64 Sun, 6 May 2007 18:10:56 -0400