9 weeks out from my second Ironman race, I’m starting to get
concerned about AFTER the race. Will I get depressed? What will I do with my
extra time? Will I be happy with my performance? Will I still have the love of
the sport?
I have struggled with training, scolded myself for missing a
workout or cutting it short, guilted myself about being selfish. Through it
all, I have been able to continue to lose weight, volunteer at the elementary
school, keep the house somewhat clean, and prepare healthy meals for my family.
There is said to be a standard dynamic for multi-time
Ironman athletes. Wherein the first race, training is on par with the schedule
and race goals are met. The second time, athletes are slack with the
plan and often do not reach their race goals. A sort of over-confidence takes
over and a decline in performance results. The third time, after a
disappointing 2nd race, the athlete sticks to the plan and
reaches/exceeds race goals.
Having this information, I am trying to make a conscious
effort to stay focused, to follow the plan, and to put in the work so that I
can reach my race goals. I’ve announced that I want to finish while the sun is
still up which indicates a finish during the 13th hour. To do this, I
have to take at least 49 minutes off my previous time. I plan to save some
minutes on transition and jog more of the run. In the end, win or lose I will
never regret working hard, making sacrifices, being disciplined or focusing too
much…when I become and IRONMAN!
