The countdown to Choo continues and I’m now 15 days away. I’ve decided to change clothes for each leg of the race because I can’t quite find a tri kit that doesn’t chafe and that I want to ride 116 miles on a bike in. And yes, as of right this very moment, the Ironman Chattanooga bike course is 116 miles. The Race Director made some changes that made the course safer, unfortunately, it also made the course longer. As we all know, I’m not in love with cycling so I’m being positive about this turn of events. I’m glad the course is safer and I’m getting more for my money. I’ll be looking for the 144.6 mile magnets at the finish line.
I’ve been going over my race plan in my brain and here’s what I’ve come up with so far. This is all subject to change of course and I’m open to suggestions or tips. I can’t do much by way of training at this point so I’m just going to trust in what I have done so far. I feel as though a finish line is in the bag. I heart finish lines.
The Swim
As of right now, I’m not sure what’s going to happen with the race being wetsuit legal. I know the wetsuit is fantastic for a fast swim but I don’t really love wearing one. I’ll be fine either way. Obviously if it is wetsuit legal, I’ll wear it. I’d like to wear a regular suit underneath. Chattanooga is a rolling swim start so Meghan and I have decided to get to transition first thing and then immediately head to line up. I love that Meghan and I are both very in to punctuality and not being concerned with standing around. I’d rather stand around than feel panicked. I have “late anxiety” so this will help curb that and I can just focus on run of the mill race anxiety. Haha.
T1
Change into sports bra, bike jersey of some sort, bike shorts. My Pearl Izumi shorts have served me well on my long rides and I like to think of them as my lucky bike shorts. They may be a tad thin at this point but I don’t think they are at that X-Rated stage yet or I wouldn’t wear them.
The Bike
I plan to bike stupid easy and spin up the hills. I’m going to use descents downhill as active recovery and try very hard not to lose my mind and go bombing down them. I love a downhill. I’ll eat and drink and eat and drink and plan to stop at Special Needs. I’m carrying Herbalife Prolong and Gatorade and water. I drink a lot. Since I am wearing bike shorts I will probably stop to use the potty. As much as I want to pee on the bike, I just don’t think that will be very comfortable in padded shorts. I will eat a combo of Gu brand gels, Bonk Breakers, and Margarita Clif shot bloks (they have extra sodium). This is what I trained with.
T2
I’ll keep on the same sports bra and change into running shorts. I’m wearing my Hoka’s and hope that none of the volunteers have to touch them because they freaking reek. I’ve never had shoes smell this bad. What is up with that? They are currently filled with baking soda stuffed socks to try to help them be less toxic.
The Run
The run has been a question mark for me because as much as I want to run the whole thing, I know that’s not going to happen. So, I’m going to run as much as I can and if I have to walk, I’ll aim for walking aid stations and up big hills. I’ll take what’s on the course and carry Gu brand gels.
I’m getting more and more excited and genuinely feel ready to go. I had a great trainer workout last night and am pumped to finish up my last long-ish ride and run this weekend. I keep thinking about how awesome that finish line is going to be and I cannot wait to spend stupid amounts of money on finisher garb. I really appreciate you all going on this journey with me. The support and encouragement has been incredible. Thank you and have a great weekend!
I should probably make one of these… I mean, I generally have one floating up there with all the other random thoughts but I've yet to put "pen to paper."
As far as running the whole thing, I'm going to Galloway this B to the tune of 4:1's. Here's to hoping for a negative second half!
Sounds like a perfect plan. Going in with loose plan/expectations and prepared to alter as needed. You are soooo ready and you forgot one very important plan detail…"Stay sassy". Don't forget it!!!
You're ready to go! I think the biggest thing will be to take it one step at a time. Slow and steady wins the race 🙂 That finish line is yours!
I am so excited and so proud of you! You have put your heart and soul into this and you are going to dominate and cross that finish line strong!!!
I say this all the time, but you are amazing. I cannot wait to see pictures of you at that finish line. And I can only imagine how you will sleep afterwards, lol. Can't wait to get my supporter shirt from you next week!
You have to do what works best for YOU, and that sounds like a great plan! (Though I have to say, I had zero chaffing in my Coeur kit 🙂
Remember to have fun, smile and keeping moving forward! Never give up! And, soak up the day… it goes by SO fast! 🙂
Sounds like you're ready to go! Just take it one mile at a time, don't let your thoughts get too far ahead. And ENJOY…you only get one *first* IM.
You've got a good plan and are going to rock it. I still can't get over the bike. I just don't even see how it can be legal. You'll need a sticker for your car that says 104.6. Too bad they can't take 4 miles off the run! 🙂 Thinking of you!
I love where your mind is! You're going to have a great race! Although I won't be there, I will be thinking of you and Meghan and cheering you both on!
Rick Stiles
Sounds like you're ready to get it done! I hope you have a great race! I personally cannot imagine doing a tri, let alone an Ironman, so I am in absolute awe.
Lube with every outfit.
good luck!
I know you are going to rock it!
I cant believe it is already here!! Not that I am an expert by any means, but this sounds like a pretty legit plan. I have to ask (and I have never done a race like this, so sorry if it is a total duh question). When you are changing your clothes, do they give you a designated place to do it? I keep imagining open air for all to see. That would totally wig me out
I don't know about you, but I almost always hyperventilate for about 5 minutes when I'm wearing a wet suit in a race. But, what I find helps is warming up with about 5 minutes of swimming around and then running around to warm myself up. Then the water doesn't feel as cold.
Keep up the positive attitude and you'll have a great race!
That sounds perfect to me! FWIW, I always do a complete clothes change in Ironman. It's a long day, you've got the time. I use bib shorts on the bike and a run shirt and run shorts while running. The 10 minute T1 and 6 minute T2 (typically) are well worth it during a 13+ hour day. I wear a speedo under the wetsuit too. it works, and it's fine.
Margarita clif shots?!? I've been out of the game too long. Based on the chafe of your life I assume you'll be researching the perfect tri-kit/bike shorts… #theyshouldsendyoufreeones!