windymillar's posterous http://windymillar.posterous.com Most recent posts at windymillar's posterous posterous.com Sun, 25 Mar 2012 13:01:51 -0700 4-3-2! http://windymillar.posterous.com/4-3-2 http://windymillar.posterous.com/4-3-2 I haven't blogged in ages. Haven't felt the need, I guess; nothing to tell. This weekend though, I did my first race this year. My last race was Kilbroney cyclocross back in early December. Then I injured my back. The Belfast Off Road Duathlon is something I've done before. It's a fun race so I thought I'd give it a go again, on my cyclocross bike. The night before, quite frankly, I couldn't be arsed. I felt okay on race day, though, so I registered. Mine was the only 'cross bike in transition, until Roger Aiken arrived. Roger is THE name in cyclocross here. He's an amazing cyclist. Anyway, the first run... Nothing interesting to report. I thought I was fairly close to the back and I now know that I was 4th female after the run. It was tough enough and, to be honest, I was glad to get on the bike. I passed a few people and then, towards the end of the first lap, my mate Lance (not Armstrong) informed me that I was third. I was finding it tough (the 'I hope I puncture' thought had entered my mind) but that gave me a boost. Then I saw a girl in front of me. That meant 2nd place was in sight. I'd decided I'd tail her for a while, which I did. But then I realised that I'd have to put some distance between us as she's obviously a faster runner than me. So I did just that. I passed lots of people on the hills. I like hills! Four laps and I was tired, though. I had no idea where that girl I passed was but Lance confirmed on the 3rd (I think) lap that I was definitely in 2nd place. Coming into transition, I was really tired. I knew there wasn't much left in the tank but only 2k to go. A few people passed me on the run and with about 600m to go, I had to walk. My psyche was really pissed off at that, REALLY. It was screaming at me to go on but physically, I just couldn't. Walked/ran for a bit then the finish line came into sight. Ran (jogged) the last 400m. When I crossed the finish line, I threw myself to the ground. I just couldn't stand up. It was a much hotter day than I expected and I think that was definitely a factor. I had no water on the course with me, as my cx bike doesn't have bottle cages. After a quick catch up with some friends and a couple of chats with people about my bike, it was time for prize giving. 2nd place, and £30 of vouchers for Podium Sport. That'll go towards some new trainers (after my podiatrist visit!). I was on a bit of a downer for a while there. I've had stuff going on and this new job and the travel have meant that I've been unable to train as much as I'd like. Now I definitely have a renewed sense of purpose. I'm still questioning whether or not I want to do the half ironman in June but today confirmed that I am a cyclist. Being on my bike makes me happy and that's just fine by me! Next week, I'm supposed to be doing my first road race. I say 'supposed', because I'm petrified, so we'll see! In the meantime...happy Lisa! Ps. Thanks, coach.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:18:35 -0700 1961 http://windymillar.posterous.com/1961 http://windymillar.posterous.com/1961

P166 P168 P170 P172 P174 P176 P178 P179
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I always knew my uncle Mark cycled a bit. It was only recently that I learned that he cycled a LOT.

He held the 25 and 50 mile records in his club (St. Gabriel's CC*) and won 'best all rounder' at the club awards in 1961.

I thought I'd share some photos of him back in the day.

*As far as I know, St. Gabriel's later became Phoenix Cycling Club.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Tue, 27 Sep 2011 01:48:43 -0700 3 Peaks Cyclocross 2011 http://windymillar.posterous.com/3-peaks-cyclocross-2011 http://windymillar.posterous.com/3-peaks-cyclocross-2011 This is going to be a long blog post, written while the event is fresh in my mind. I want to read it again next year to remind myself of where I can improve. Because there will be another 3 Peaks, provided I get an entry.

I've been cycling since January last year. I bought a cyclocross bike in January this year and did one race on it before the season ended. I'm saying this because I often need to remind myself of how new I am to this sport. I'm still a complete novice. Sometimes I forget this and beat myself up over not being quick enough or brave enough, or whatever.

The race was preceded by several sleepless nights and on race morning, I was the most nervous I've ever been. In the car in the way there I wanted to cry. I often feel sick before a race but the wanting to cry, that was a new one. I was completely overcome with emotions that I can't even put into words. This race was well and truly under my skin.

My friend who calls me Courtney was there to marshall but also acted as my support crew - bike mechanic, chauffeur, official photographer, moral support etc. His role turned out to be more vital than I realised at the time.

The first road section to Ingleborough was fine. I had worried that I would be dropped here but I fell in with a little group and we headed off road. As soon as we hit the cattle bars at the first off road section, we were off the bikes. It was perfectly rideable. Someone was calling out for a chain link so I'm assuming this is what caused the back up. On to the farm land and back on the bike. Some riding, some running, some walking. The ground was soggy and muddy, with around 500 odd bikes already having been through it. Ahead, Simon Fell was shrouded in mist, so I didn't get to see it from afar. I could only appreciate the steepness once I was up there. I knew from photos that it was steep but nothing, NOTHING can prepare you for it. Maybe it was best that I couldn't see it! I got chatting to another rider. He had done Ironman UK in 2009 and maintained that 3 Peaks is harder. We carried on to the summit of Ingleborough, where visiblity was poor. I had my only fall of the day there, when I got stuck in a boggy section. Nice soft landing! The descent to Cold Cotes should have been faster. It was muddy and sticky. At one point I was in a low gear, pushing down hill! Anyway, made it to the next checkpoint. First hill done.

The road to Chapel le Dale, where my friend was marshalling, seemed to be never ending. I was alone, pushing into the wind but was feeling good. As time went on, I worried that I wouldn't make the cut off of 12 noon. Eventually, I spotted him and asked if I'd made it. Only just - the time on his watch was 11:58. Time to crack on and get up Whernside. When I got down to the little drinks station I was told to dismount as it's footpath. What?! As soon as I got round the bend I got on the bike for as long as I could, then started making my way up the seemingly endless stone steps. On the way up I got talking to a rider who had travelled from Holland to take part. I laughed when he said "This is not cyclocross, this is hell". He had been training on sand dunes. Not quite the same. The Whernside descent had been worrying me. On the first section of slabs, I just took it easy and went on foot. Once they levelled out, I got on the bike. I managed to ride much more than I thought I would. Straight on to Ribblehead and the next checkpoint.

As I arrived, the marshalls informed me and another girl that if we wanted to make the Pen y Ghent cut off time we'd have to ride for our lives. It's a little bit of a blur but I vaguely remember being told we had ten minutes to do seven miles. That was it. Race over. As I emerged from the checkpoint, I spotted my friend, who informed me that I had slightly longer (and he didn't think it was as long as seven miles) but that I still needed to go for it. We headed off to shouts of "dig deep, girls" and got on with it. My "team car" pulled up along side me shortly afterwards for a pep talk. I'm finding it difficult to put into words how I was feeling at that point. The plan was to use this road section to eat and drink in preparation for Pen y Ghent, but there was no time. The road had a few hills and it was windy. Above all, I was tired. So much going through my mind. Do I hammer it to PyG, just give it 100% and risk having nothing left in the already almost empty tank? Do I bother? I mean, what was the point if I wasn't going to make the cut off? Next minute, a car pulled along side me. The driver shouted something. I have no idea what. He stuck his hazard lights on and drove slowly in front of us for a while. I think that girl was behind me. He was trying to tow us home.

No time to think of much but getting there. Not even when my brakes failed going downhill behind a bus. I came damn close to a serious crash there but I didn't give it a second thought. I had a job to do! I rode that bike like never before. I wasn't going particularly fast but I was going as fast as my body would let me. I kept repeating to myself, "you will not give up, you will not give up". Eventually, Horton was in sight. The driver of the car that had been helping out shouted that we'd made it and my friend ran across the road and gave me the thumbs up. It turns out he'd had a word with the PyG marshall. He'd said that the commissaire had agreed at the last checkpoint that he could allow a few extra minutes because of this year's tough conditions. He'd informed the marshall that there were a few riders a couple of miles out. We arrived at about 2:06 and were allowed up that lane. I could have cried tears of delight. Until I saw Pen y Ghent. 

I had given everything I had on that road sprint. I was hungry and thirsty and there was nothing left to give. A very small part of me wished I hadn't made the cut off. But I was heading up and there was no way I was going to turn back. The slog began. I rode a small section then walked. I tried to force an energy bar and some water down me, but it was difficult to eat. I was on and off the bike until the section that required me to shoulder it. Around half way up, I ran out of water. The only thing that kept me going were the shouts of encouragement from the riders making their way down. Near the top, a kind man offered me some of his water. I started telling him how much his kindness meant to me and how it was the best water I've ever tasted. I think I was slightly delirious! Made it to the checkpoint and began my descent. I walked the steepest section and remounted as soon as I could. I really surprised myself that I rode most of it. When I got near the bottom, that girl I'd been with from Ribblehead had punctured. I wanted to help her but she assured me everything was under control and insisted that I just get back to the finish line.

Getting on to that final road section was the most amazing feeling and when I could see Helwith Bridge it really hit home that I'd done it. I crossed the finish line after 6 hours and 27 minutes of the hardest work I've ever done. Much, much slower than I would have liked but honestly, I didn't care. I was just so grateful that I made it to that final checkpoint and up Pen y Ghent.

I was part of the most iconic cyclocross race in the world and I will never forget that day. Still, I'm flooded with emotion. This thing has got under my skin and I only hope that I'm given the opportunity to take part again next year.

As usual, I didn't get here on my own. I need to thank lots of people. There's all the Twitter people, in particular, Greg, for lots of advice and answering all my stupid questions and Alan, who very kindly gave me detailed notes on the route - this helped a huge amount. A local cyclocross legend and 3 Peaks competitor, Fred MacSorley, for advice and guidance. My friend I've never met, Martin, for answering all my questions and generally being really supportive. Stephen, who took me out with him to show me the ropes! He told me I couldn't descend for shit and he was right. He taught me some valuable lessons, all of which came in handy on the day.

Finally, my friend who calls me Courtney - thanks for all the practical stuff, like fixing my bike and being my chauffeur. Most of all, thanks for believing in me completely, again. For giving me unconditional support and for helping me to believe in myself again. You did so much more on that day that you will ever realise. Thank you.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Sun, 18 Sep 2011 09:24:55 -0700 Cyclocross and Elephant Poo http://windymillar.posterous.com/cyclocross-and-elephant-poo http://windymillar.posterous.com/cyclocross-and-elephant-poo This weekend was all about cyclocross. On Saturday, I attended an excellent cyclocross training day in Lurgan Park, which was the venue for the nationals in January. It started with a classroom style talk from Fred McSorley, a local 'cross legend. He has been described to me by many people as 'the gentleman of cycling' and I now know why. He has done 3 Peaks several times and was only too willing to give me lots of very valuable advice. After the talk, Fred and another local cyclocross legend, Roger Aiken, took us outside for some practical work. We covered sprint starts, mounts and dismounts, lifting and carrying, jumping obstacles, cornering and even bunnyhops, although I'll stick to lifting my bike over the jumps for now! We learned how to shoulder the bike correctly, which is a great help for 3 Peaks. I was scolded on Twitter just last week for being a 'dangler'!

On Sunday I headed to the Belfast hills. The plan was to do two hours but in the end I only did one. Maybe it was me being a wuss, but I decided that with one week to go, it would be more beneficial to start easing up on my legs at this point.

Image

The climb up to Divis mountain started on a stoney path. As I wasn't quite sure where the path would take me, I headed for the most direct route to the top, the fields. The photo really doesn't give any clue as to the steepness of the climb. It was about 25%, according to the Garmin, and about as close to Simon Fell as I reckon I'll get without having to travel for miles. I'm expecting Simon Fell to be much, much worse but at least I'll have some small idea of what to expect. It was very boggy and for much of it, I was ankle deep in water or mud. Thankfully, I managed to avoid the cow pats which were so enormous that they looked like elephant droppings! The calves were tightening with every step so I need to work on stretching them out as much as I can. Next, I went back and climbed that stoney path, so I could descend it. It wasn't anything like I'm going to encounter next week but any descending is experience for this rookie!

I'm a little bit disappointed that I haven't done more Peaks specific training but it has been difficult to find the time lately. Fitness wise, I should be fine. My strategy will be to ride what I can and walk/run the rest. So, this time next week, it'll be all over. Just some bar tape to go on the bike, then it'll be packed away for the flight. I'm already thinking about next year's training and I haven't even done the event yet. This thing has become addictive before I even start!

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Mon, 22 Aug 2011 11:33:00 -0700 Groomsport Half Ireman 2011 http://windymillar.posterous.com/groomsport-half-ireman-2011 http://windymillar.posterous.com/groomsport-half-ireman-2011

I went into this season planning to do Groomsport Half Ireman. I had a think about what I would be able to manage, training wise, and then decided against it. It was always there in the back of my mind, though. Approaching my A race of the season (Causeway Coast Olympic in June), I started to think about Groomsport again. Not long after Causeway, I decided to register for both it and 3 Peaks Cyclocross, in September.

I had around two months to make the jump from Olympic to middle distance. Up until June, the most I'd run was about 8 miles. Austin has been coaching me since early last year but given the big increases I wanted to make in a short space of time and due to the fact that cyclocross was now in the mix, Greg got involved.

In the week leading up to the race, I wasn't particularly confident. There were aches and pains and sleepless nights. I never doubted that I'd finish. I'm very stubborn and determined (my parents call me their bulldog!). I just had no idea how long it would take me. The running at the end of a 56 mile bike ride is completely new territory for me. Especially given that I only had one half marathon under my belt. The night before the race, my legs ached. I was worried.

On race day, however, I felt great. I met up with Austin and Greg, who were also racing. It was great to hang out with them - really put the nerves at ease. It was also great to see my sister, her husband and kids and one of my best friends with her kids and Mum before the race. That gave me a real boost.

The swim: After a brief warm up, we were off. Immediately we hit the water, my goggles fogged up. I couldn't see a thing. I could feel feet in front of me though, so it wasn't too bad. After a while, when the field started to spread out, I had to roll on to my back to clear the lenses but they just fogged up again. This resulted in me going off course onto some rocks. On the second lap, the same thing happened. I had to be directed by the folk in kayaks. It was fine though. I didn't let it bother me. The whole swim felt pretty easy, despite doing a little sick in the water! Swim time: 00:45:31.

The bike: It took me a good 8 or 10 miles to get my heart rate down to a decent level. I was very conscious that I needed to keep it down so I wouldn't mess up the run. It's a nice course. A few rolling hills, nothing too challenging.  On the first lap, the girl in front of me was almost hit by a car trying to overtake her when it wasn't safe to do so. The second lap was memorable for the torrential downpour and being instructed to ride on the footpath for about 100m due to a parade (Orangemen, I think) in Donaghadee. Another downpour in lap three and the wind had picked up quite a bit in places. The last 10 miles were very tough and I honestly wondered if I had anything left for the run. Bike time: 03:29:51 (16.6mph average - the course was slightly long, at 58 miles).

The run: I was thrilled to see that my sister and her family were still there and were ready to cheer me on. That gave me such an enormous boost. My first couple of miles felt really strong. The course is largely off road - a mixture of grass, rocks, sand, gravel. Somewhere around the half way point, Greg passed me. He gave me words of advice and encouragement, which were much appreciated. I was still feeling pretty strong but once I hit the off road section in the second lap, I started to feel tired. Around mile 10, I was finding it really tough going. My pace went from around 9:30, in the first few miles to 11:30. I wanted to stop, to lie on the pavement and cry for my Mummy!! But... I thought of the people who have shown great belief in me. I told myself that I'd managed to run for 10 miles and wasn't to start walking now. Before I knew it, the village was in sight. There were other athletes and spectators shouting encouragement and my finish was strong. Total run: 02:14:11 (10:14 pace). Considering this is only my second time running this distance, I'm delighted!

Total finish time: 06:35:16. This is a good hour faster than I believed I could do!

So many people to thank, as usual. Austin and Greg for coaching me. Khara and Sally for nutrition advice. Khara was kind enough to take the time to give me a three day eating plan, which included race day nutrition. This was spot on and played a huge part in my success on the day. Claire, for being my "virtual" physiotherapist. And my friend who calls me "Courtney", for advice, encouragement and 100% belief in me.

Now? A week off. A week of doing nothing physical and taking the lift in work. Then training for 3 Peaks will begin!

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Mon, 04 Jul 2011 06:43:00 -0700 A Life Less Ordinary http://windymillar.posterous.com/a-life-less-ordinary http://windymillar.posterous.com/a-life-less-ordinary

Growing up, I always felt a little bit different. I can't really describe how but I was always just a wee bit different. The clothes I wore, the friends I had, the things that made me tick. This never bothered me. I didn't mind that I was never going to be friends with the popular crowd or that I wasn't following the trends that everyone else was. It made me 'me'. My ex would say that this is what he loved most about me - apparently I'm not like most other girls and this is the 'me' that he fell for.

When I got married (far too young), I stopped, to a certain extent, being 'me'. From very early on, I felt ordinary and over the course of the next twelve years I was made to feel more and more ordinary. I hadn't felt like myself in a long time, so long that I began to forget who I was. My family noticed this but they never really said anything. I can understand why they didn't. In the months since the marriage breakup, the old Lisa has come back. I no longer feel so ordinary. I feel like 'me' again.

In the past week, I've signed up to some races and in the last 24 hours, I've started to question the reason for entering these very tough races. Maybe it's a mid life crisis. Or maybe, and I think this is the real reason, it's that I'm just punching twelve years of ordinary in the face. A week ago my Mum almost died. Maybe that's another reason. Maybe I feel the need to do this crazy list of things before it's too late. I think it's mostly about punching ordinary in the face, though. 

The races I've entered are Groomsport Half Ireman in about seven weeks time and 3 Peaks Cyclocross at the end of September. Both will be tough, very tough. I am under no illusions whatsoever. But I need to do them. Maybe next year I'll have a much more sensible season but for now, I just need to feel like 'me' again. If a little mid thirties rebellion is what it takes, then so be it.

 

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Mon, 20 Jun 2011 07:01:00 -0700 Causeway Coast Triathlon 2011 http://windymillar.posterous.com/causeway-coast-triathlon-2011 http://windymillar.posterous.com/causeway-coast-triathlon-2011

I had written this whole post about the race, analysing every little bit. I read it back and thought, "this is boring, who's going to want to read this?". Instead, I'm just  going to write down all the good bits and bad bits.

Good bits

I really enjoyed the swim. Nowhere near as daunting as I thought it would be.

The bike was challenging. I wouldn't call it hilly. Austin describes it better - "bumpy as f*ck". It was fast in places and exposed, windy and slow in places. A lot of fun.

The run was hard but fun. 

Getting to hang out with Austin before the race - this helped with my nerves and then meeting him on the run (going in the opposite direction), exchanging a high five and shouting, "up the hoods".

The marshalls. We were told to write our names on out race numbers. Everywhere there was a marshall, they were shouting "go on, Lisa", "keep 'er lit there, Lisa". These people don't know me from Adam but it felt like they did!

The organisation was second to none. We got a great goody bag, complete with a technical jacket (which the organiser said looked too big for me and swapped it with his!). The "after party" was one heck of a spread. There was enough food to feed an army! The atmosphere was also great, with Peter Jack being on fine form, as usual.

The other athletes were amazing. I got chatting to so many and everyone was lovely.

Winning my age group and being presented with some cash! This was totally unexpected, so I'm glad I stayed for the prize giving. 

Bad bits

None. Genuinely no complaints. I loved every minute of it. Of course I learned some lessons and would do some things differently next time but this is positive. 

My first Olympic distance triathlon was everything and more I could have hoped for. I knew there was no way I'd finish sub three hours. The conditions were favourable, though and I finished in 2:47:04 with splits of:

Swim: 00:30:48

T1: 00:03:26

Bike: 01:18:37

T2: 00:01:02

Run: 00:53:12

As usual, I didn't get here on my own. There are some Twitter people that I need to thank individually.

Austin (@austinslide), my coach. Once again, he got my training plan spot on. This isn't his job, but he's really bloody good at this stuff and I am so appreciative of the time he spends with me.

For some great swim advice, complete with virtual cheerleading, Donna (@Donna_De), Khara (@kharamills) and Matt (@m_j_fisher).

For the diet and nutrition side of things, Christine (@HolisticGuru) and Sally (@Sall_y).

For a mixture of all of the above, Greg (@billyfishWORC).

For being the most awesome person on the planet, sharing the same brain as me and believing in me completely, Amy (@2for1).

There are lots of other people whom I pester for advice, too many to mention but if you're one of them, THANK YOU! Thanks also for all the messages of support. I also ran a wee "competition" on Twitter. I picked up a prize for the person who came closest to predicting my time. The winner was Vince (@TTcenzo), who predicted 2:48, asked me not to cock it up and requested whiskey. Your prize will be posted soon!

In terms of the real life people who got me here, thank you to Mum and Dad and Emma and Nicola and Michael for minding the kids so that I can train and race. Thanks to Dad for being my lucky mascot and official photographer, again. 

Image

So, I'm not taking much of a break. I don't want any post race blues setting in. Next up is my first half marathon, which I entered today. It's on 17th July, so a lot of work to do between now and then. It's on a tough, hilly course so it will be a challenge.

Onwards...

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Sun, 22 May 2011 10:17:00 -0700 It's Windy, Millar http://windymillar.posterous.com/its-windy-millar http://windymillar.posterous.com/its-windy-millar

Today was a bit of prep for my A race, which is in a month's time. It's my first Olympic distance tri. It's in Portrush and part of it is along Whiterocks beach, which is, without doubt, my favourite place on earth.

That feeling in your chest when you can't catch a breath because you've been crying...that's the only way I can describe the feeling I had today when I went in to the Atlantic Ocean for a swim. Worse still, that's what it felt like before I'd even gone under the water. I'm not sure what it was. Maybe the temperature, maybe my nerves or maybe a combination of both. When I got into the water I just stood there for a few minutes. I couldn't bring myself to go under. The waves were just so big and they were coming in fast. I was scared.

When I did start swimming, I did so with my head out of the water. I only went under as the waves were hitting me. I swam out a bit, then across.Those waves were huge. They would crash into me and knock me all over the place. I lasted for 3 (THREE) minutes before I had to get out. Dad was waiting on the beach for me. I felt so deflated. How on earth am I going to swim 1,500m in THIS? That's all I could think. My ears were hurting like hell, like they do when I'm in a plane. Again, that may have been the temperature, I'm not sure.

I knew I had to get back in.Second time round I didn't have that feeling in my chest, so maybe it was the temperature. So I know now that a warm up is COMPULSORY on race day. I swam some more, with my head above water, below the water, breaststroke, just whatever I could do to build my confidence back up again. Then I swam parallel with the shore again and those waves started bashing me about. The ride back to shore was rough, too. When I caught a good wave (the kind that's perfect for surfing) it was great. I could feel it push me along and so knew exactly when to breath and when to go under and ride it. The other waves were horrible - the ones that break against your head - trying to judge when to take a breath as they're approaching was difficult.

As I got out of the water, I was really shaken and dizzy. Dad was standing right in front of me and as much as I tried to walk straight at him, I couldn't. I was all over the show! He wouldn't let me go back in for more, so I went back to the car and got my running kit on. The last mile and a half of the run is along this beach. So that's where I was going to run. Running on the sand was fine, as I kept close to the water line but that wind was horrendous. I was running a twelve minute mile at one point and my heart rate was 173bpm (it should be under 140 at that sort of pace). I was literally being sandblasted! It was good to do though, and I even ran through the town and found the B&B I'm staying in the night before the race. It looks lovely and overlooks the start/finish line on the beach.

So, today could have been worse. It was all good experience and confirmed, once again, that this rookie still has a lot to learn. Dad took this shot of me as we arrived. I was checking out the waves and wondering if I should just head back to the car!

 
Lisa

 

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Tue, 10 May 2011 08:17:00 -0700 Bike Porn http://windymillar.posterous.com/bike-porn http://windymillar.posterous.com/bike-porn

Several years ago, my Mum was diagnosed with a rare auto-immune disease. Wegeners Granulomatosis has changed her life, and not in a good way. I'll not go into the detail, but suffice to say, her health could be a whole lot better.

Sometimes she sees doctors who don't understand her illness but, luckily, her team of doctors in Musgrave Park Hospital is fantastic. As well as this, she has recently become involved with a local support group for people with vasculitis and related illnesses, of which WG is one. This group is new and doesn't have much in the way of funds. That's where you and I come in!

Now. If you don't know or remember the story about THAT photo, I'm not going to tell it again.

Image

After seeing it, my friend Lauren Rutherford (www.laurenphotoblog.com) suggested we recreate said image. And that's just what we did.

But I'm not letting just anyone see it. If you want to see it, you must donate to the support group. It works like this - you donate, I send you a link to the photo. This is for charity, so don't abuse my trust and do anything untoward with the photo, please. Don't copy it, or forward it on to anyone.

Because they're just starting, they're not yet a registered charity so I can't set up a Just Giving page. Instead, you can donate by sending the money to me through Paypal (lisa201275@hotmail.com). Hopefully you trust me enough to know that I'm going to give every penny to a worthy cause. Now, dig deep!

Many thanks!

Ps. This is a bit like Fight Club and I KNOW y'all know the first rule of Fight Club. So, sshhhhhh.

Pps. All donations are strictly confidential!!

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Mon, 09 May 2011 08:13:18 -0700 Pu-Push it REAL Good http://windymillar.posterous.com/pu-push-it-real-good http://windymillar.posterous.com/pu-push-it-real-good This past few weeks (it's seven now, actually) have been challenging.
I found out that I can be a good single Mum and that I'm a much
happier person now. It has been tough, though. Emotionally, it has
been quite draining. It's been physically tough also, as I've been
doing a lot. Training hasn't taken a back seat, though. I've stuck at
it. Obviously, I need to be more flexible and have relied a lot on my
family for help (particularly during school holidays) but I'm pleased
with what I've put in.

Going into Roe Valley Sprint Triathlon, I wasn't too confident. Not
sure why, really. Probably more to do with the swim than anything
else. All I can manage in terms of swim training these days is 45
minutes a week. I wasn't all that bothered about the race on the way
there. Then a song came on my iPod. Salt 'n' Peppa, Push It. I'm not
even ashamed to say that! It cheered me up a bit and I decided that's
what I needed to do in the race. Just push it!

When I arrived, it was pretty windy. That and the exposed, hilly bike
course meant I could kiss goodbye to a PB. I knew I'd beat my PB for
this course though - it, this time last year, was my first ever
triathlon. I finished in 1:39:59. So, the race:

Swim:
I let everyone else in the lane place themselves. I went last. The
first thing I noticed was drag! This is the first time I've worn my
tri top and shorts and there was a lot of drag, compared to my suit. I
was lapped after about 500m. Confidence took a bit of a battering. I
won't lie, at one point it did enter my mind to get out of the pool
early and just get on the bike. I knew I'd be DQd but I wasn't that
bothered. Then, I had a word with myself when I realised how lame I
was being. Ended up coming out of the pool second last, so not all
bad. Time: 17:45. Better than this race last year but almost a minute
slower than Lisburn.

Bike:
I knew I'd catch many of the swimmers on the bike. I did just that.
Passed about a dozen of them, from memory. The out leg was tough and
felt slow. I thought the wind was going to knock me off once or twice.
The return leg was much faster. Time: 40:31. Not my fastest over this
distance but I'm pleased with it, given the conditions.

Run:
As I entered transition, the infamous Peter Jack decided to give the
spectators a live commentary on what "competitor number 24, Lisa
Millar" was up to. "Left shoe off, left sock on...etc." This
distracted me a little and I forgot to lift a gel. I had one before
the half way point on the bike and had planned to have another as soon
as I started the run rather than my usual 5-10 minutes before start of
it. I missed that little boost but had to get on with it.

Not much to say about the run. I just ran, as fast as I could. I
realised at the start of the run that I could be on for a sub 1:30
finish. Then, at the half way point, I realised I might, just might,
beat my Lisburn time. THEN, with about 200m to go, I realised I was
going to smash my Lisburn time so I just kept on running as fast as my
little legs would carry me. I had a dreadful stitch and was actually
making these weird grunting noises! Crossed the line as happy as a
happy thing! Time: 23:34.

The published times only included T1 (0:54, which is MUCH faster than
last year). Not sure what happened there.

After my race, I got to watch some of my friends, Gary, Craig and
David. Everyone raced well and it was great to get to cheer them on.

I learned lots from this race and it was lots of fun. It's great to do
another race where I feel like a RUNNER, not just a cyclist who has to
try to run at the end. The extra running I've been doing is really
starting to pay dividends. I also learned that I SUCK at nutrition. I
had had far too little to eat before the race and too little
afterwards. For the rest of the day I felt very sick, with a dreadful
headache.

Usually I'm average on the swim, good on the bike and the run drags me
way down the rankings. In my age group I was 7th in the swim, 4th on
the bike and 4th on the run. This is a considerable improvement.
Overall, I was 5th in my AG, with a total time of 1:22:42.

Once again, huge thanks to Austin for all his help. His plan has been
spot on, as usual. He said he'd make me a better runner and he did!

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Tue, 03 May 2011 13:58:00 -0700 Triathletes: I need your help! http://windymillar.posterous.com/triathletes-i-need-your-help http://windymillar.posterous.com/triathletes-i-need-your-help

First tri of the season is coming up this weekend. I'm worried about the swim. My swim training has really suffered since my "circumstances" changed. I'm hoping for GREAT things on the run and there should also be a significant improvement on the bike for that course.

In my last race, the Mid Ulster Duathlon, I definitely could have done better on the bike and I feel that it was my inexperience that let me down. The race director went into great detail about drafting when briefing us. I can't remember the exact rule and I don't have time to look it up, but let's say, for the sake of argument, it's this:

You must not be within 10 metres of the bike in front, unless you are making a move to overtake that bike. If you are overtaking, you must do so within 15 seconds.

Here are my issues:

I don't carry a tape measure. Maybe it's because I'm a girl and we have no spatial awareness but when I'm hammering it on the bike I don't know what 10 metres, or whatever, looks like.

Secondly, when someone overtakes me, THEN decides to have a wee drink, what do I do? Do I hold back, reduce my nice, steady pace? Do I push to overtake, even if I'm not sure I can do it within the allowed 15 seconds? This happened at my last race. I girl pushed to overtake me then took a drink, started looking around her. I held back for a while but then made it around her. Or when I'm just gaining on someone fairly steadily, but I'm not going to make it in 15 seconds. What do I do then?!

Am I thinking about this too much? Do the draft busters recognise that some of us are very inexperienced and will they cut us some slack?

 

 

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Tue, 12 Apr 2011 13:43:00 -0700 Score, settled. http://windymillar.posterous.com/score-settled http://windymillar.posterous.com/score-settled

My first multi-sport race was the Mid Ulster Duathlon in April 2010. What a tough race. For months afterwards, I complained about it and about duathlons and how much I hate them. Then I did a little off road du and started to think maybe they aren't so bad. 

When deciding on this year's race calendar the Mid Ulster Du was a must, for several reasons. It would be the first direct comparison I could make. I had done races of similar distance last year, but on very different courses. I wanted to be able to compare my fitness and mental strength accurately. Also, I had a score to settle. Okay, I finished it last year but, in a way, it beat me. 

In the lead up to the race, I was fairly confident. I'd had a great brick session a couple of weeks before. Inwardly, I'd set an unofficial target time of 1:20 (last year I finished in 1:30:34). I'd thought about my strategy and discussed it with my coach. My thinking was that I'd do the first run at a pace of about 10:00min/mile then go steady on the bike and just give whatever was left in the tank for the second run. Austin agreed that this was a good idea. However, as I've said before, he knows me well! He probably knew I wouldn't do this. So, the strategy changed. 

New strategy: 10:00 min/mile for run #1. Treat the bike leg as a TT. Hammer it on the second run, just go as fast as possible. 

On the day I felt good. No major nerves. In terms of weather, it was the nicest day of the year so far. The field was still very strong but there were lots more women. It was a lot less intimidating this year. 

After the briefing, we made our way to the start and we were off. The first run was faster than planned. I was conscious that my pace was around 8:30/mile but I felt comfortable, even with the hills. 

It was so nice to get back into transition with other bikes there. Last year, mine was the only one! After gawking at someone putting overshoes on over her cycling shoes (why, just why?), I changed my shoes and away I went. I quickly caught and passed a few people on the bike. I played cat and mouse with Miss Overshoes and another guy but lost them both on the hills. The bike felt good but I could have pushed it more. I need to work on my biking - judging distance and whether or not I'm drafting. I found myself holding back on several occasions because I didn't feel I could overtake within the 15 seconds allowed. I'm sure this will come with experience. 

Run Bike
See the full gallery on Posterous

Going into the second run I felt great. Mentally, I felt very strong, a total contrast to last year. Within the first half mile I thought my calves were going to explode but this quickly settled down. I was conscious that my pace was fast (for me) so I just kept the strategy in mind and gave it everything. The last 800m or so was difficult. I remembered last year when Austin told me "if you can talk to me, you're not going fast enough". There's no way I could have strung two words together this year! I just kept on giving it everything I had. Towards the end I thought I might actually hit my target of 1:20:00. Imagine my joy when I was even quicker than that!

Final time: 1:16:59. 

Score well and truly settled. One very happy Lisa. 

Ps. I never told him this but I did wonder how the hell coach's plan of me sticking to 11min/miles in training would help me. I did no speed work. Just zone 1 & 2 base training. To pull 8-8:30 minute miles out of the bag is an awesome feeling. For the first time ever, I feel like a runner!

 

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Fri, 08 Apr 2011 03:32:39 -0700 Then and Now http://windymillar.posterous.com/then-and-now http://windymillar.posterous.com/then-and-now Right before my first ever multi-sport race last year, I looked like this:

Image

It was a really tough race, both mentally and physically.

I'm about to do that same race again, tomorrow. This time round, I look like this:

Photo

I'm so looking forward to the Mid Ulster Duathlon (never thought I'd say that). It will tell me exactly how much my fitness and mental strength has developed since last season. It'll also be interesting to see how much of a difference the two stone weight loss makes.

Being realistic, I'll probably come last again. It's just that sort of race. The field last year was very strong and was made up of seasoned triathletes. This doesn't bother me. I'm not racing anyone but myself. I'm doing it purely to achieve the goal I've set for myself. That goal is to settle the score, race well and finish strong.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Sun, 03 Apr 2011 10:57:00 -0700 The Cornmill - Attempt #2 http://windymillar.posterous.com/the-cornmill-attempt-2 http://windymillar.posterous.com/the-cornmill-attempt-2

Four weeks ago I attempted to climb this little hill and failed.

Today, Mothers' Day, I knew I was heading out on the bike for a couple of hours when the kids were out with their Dad. As I was leaving the house I received some news I wasn't prepared for. This put me in lousy form.

I had toyed with a few different routes and when I left the house I had no idea where I was headed. I decided at the last minute to go towards Anahilt, with the half-assed idea of possibly tackling The Cornmill again. As I approached the area, I really wasn't in the mood but with about half a mile to go, I gave myself a good talking to and took a HTFU pill, so to speak.

Once the hill was in sight, I shouted at it. Yes. I shouted. At a hill. I put the boot down and climbed that son of a bitch. As I reached the top, I shouted at it again. I shouted, "F*ck you, Cornmill", (Mum, if you're reading this, sorry!). That hill is like a metaphor for what's going on in my life at the minute. There's no way it was going to beat me again. No. Way.

Cornmill 1 - Lisa 1

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Sat, 26 Mar 2011 12:36:47 -0700 The Next Chapter http://windymillar.posterous.com/the-next-chapter http://windymillar.posterous.com/the-next-chapter My last couple of blog posts were gloomy. I was gloomy.

After over twelve years of marriage, I'm about to start a new chapter of my life.

This challenge will be my biggest yet and I must not fail.

I hope to be able to continue with most of my training and races. Obviously though, triathlon and cyclocross have moved way down on the list of important stuff. I have a great support system and together, we'll make this work. If I can do all the races I'd hoped to, great. If I can't, no sweat. Life just gets in the way sometimes. Life is more important.

In my first week of going it alone I've managed all the training sessions I'd hoped for. Tomorrow, I'm doing my first brick of the year. With meticulous planning, I don't see why I can't train as much (if not, more) than before.

Outlook: positive.

Ps. I'm still astounded by the messages of support from all the folk on Twitter. Thank you all so much. Really, it's been a huge help to me.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Fri, 18 Mar 2011 18:24:08 -0700 C'est la vie http://windymillar.posterous.com/cest-la-vie http://windymillar.posterous.com/cest-la-vie I fear that the great season I planned is all but over before it has begun. Real life went and got in the way. I'll do what I can. I'm not going to beat myself up over it. Some things are just out of our control...

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Mon, 14 Mar 2011 11:46:02 -0700 Where did all the love go? http://windymillar.posterous.com/where-did-all-the-love-go http://windymillar.posterous.com/where-did-all-the-love-go You are not a professional athlete.
Triathlon is not your source of income.
It's your hobby.
It's something you do for *fun.*
To make you healthy.
To allow your mind and body to be healthier.
Getting stressed over your training is making your hobby more like work.
Making yourself *physically* sick because of your training is gonna take ALL the fun out of it.
You dont HAVE to train.
You dont even NEED to train.
You do it for fun.
Because you choose to do it.
Every session should be a choice.. and a choice that you make in a positive manner.
If you miss a session.. you miss a session. You should never let this bother you.

These are the words of my (awesome) coach at the start of this week, a recovery week.

The last couple of weeks have probably been my worst training weeks ever. Heading into a new cycle (my cycles are three weeks), I had a tummy bug. Two enforced rest days. At the start of the second week, I was in Manchester. I'd hoped to be able to get a little bit of training done when I was away. That didn't happen. Two more unplanned rest days. Then towards the end of that week, all motivation left my body. I had a turbo trainer session from hell. Physically, it was easy. Because I didn't really try all that hard - because I had zero motivation. Mentally, it killed me. Then, I was due to do my longest run of the year so far. I had to stop three times to vomit. I'm still not sure what was wrong with me. My long ride on Sunday was tough to start, but I eventually settled into it.

In those two weeks, I did just short of 100 miles on the bike and ran around 18 miles. I didn't swim. By my standards, this isn't particularly bad but I was supposed to do more running than that. I really beat myself up about missing those runs. I always beat myself up about missing training sessions. I suppose a big part of it is that training is probably the one thing in my life that I have complete control over. Or at least I thought I did! When I miss a session, I lose control of the one thing that I think I have control over!

This isn't really a blog post with a purpose. I just wanted to write it down so I can remind myself now and again of what is written above. My recovery week has been changed. It now consists of walking, paddling, pootling and having fun. Having discussed things with coach, it seems there's a good possibility that I've been over training, running faster than he said I should, cycling harder than my plan told me to. I have all but two of the symptoms of over training syndrome.

My first race of the season is in less than a month and I don't know how prepared I am. Physically, I know I'm capable. Mentally, I'm a mess.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Sun, 06 Mar 2011 02:46:28 -0800 The Cornmill - Attempt #1 http://windymillar.posterous.com/the-cornmill-attempt-1 http://windymillar.posterous.com/the-cornmill-attempt-1 The guys in the cycling club had told me about this hill, 'The Cornmill'. It's in Annahilt, not too far from home. They went on about it like it's Everest so, of course, I had to see what all the fuss was about. Here's a YouTube video of it:

Doesn't look that bad, does it?

When I eventually found it, I gasped! It was STEEP (the Garmin said 28%). I was excited (yes, hills do that to me). I had been a little hesitant earlier in the ride, mainly because my back has been playing up. It does that every now and again. By the time I got there though, I was itching to climb it. I got into a fairly low gear early on as I didn't want to break my chain half way up. I was going well but as I neared the top it just wasn't happening. The road was muddy and my back wheel just kept spinning. Maybe I was in too low a gear. I'm just not experienced enough yet to know if that's why or not. I managed to unclip and get off, in a very civilised manner, then push the bike up the hill. So, I tried it and failed. I KNOW I can do it though, so I'll be back soon when, hopefully, the road won't be so muddy. A great ride over all, 32 miles; 2,277ft of climbing. I know that's not a lot but at this stage of the year, I'm very happy with that. For now, it's Cornmill 1 - Lisa 0. I love having a score to settle!

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Thu, 03 Mar 2011 08:11:04 -0800 Rookie Wisdom http://windymillar.posterous.com/rookie-wisdom http://windymillar.posterous.com/rookie-wisdom I'm a total rookie when it comes to all things sports related. I'm no expert but if people ask me for advice, I'm only too happy to share my experiences. I have probably been too quick to listen to the advice of those I perceive to be more experienced and knowledgeable than me and take that advice as gospel. Now, I have a 'bank' of just a few people who I trust to give me the right advice so these, really, are the people I listen to. I've been thinking a lot about some things I've learned from the people I do trust and also just through my own experiences over the last year. I thought I'd share these. I'm not trying to tell anyone how to train because I'm by no means qualified up do so. I'm just going to share some things I've learned.
*Mental Toughness*

This area has been a steep learning curve for me. If I'm honest, when I started training, the idea of having to build mental as well as physical strength didn't even enter my mind. The races and training I've done have all helped to build this. I do believe, however, that mental toughness goes beyond being able to train and race when the going is tough. For example, back at the start of the year, after my huge plans to complete a 70.3 in 2011, I announced I wasn't going to do it. Mentally, that was a TOUGH decision to make and was made harder by the fact that I'd told all my Twitter friends I was going to do it. I know it was completely the right decision. Every race I'm doing this year is for me and me alone (except Race for Life - see blog post 'Emma'). Something else I did, which I believe has helped me mentally, was to stop telling everyone about my training. My Buckeye account used to be linked to Twitter. Back when I blogged about no longer wanting go compare myself to others, I removed this link. Anyone who wants to can view my training (if you want, I'll send you a link) but I choose not to post every workout. Nor do I view other people's workouts when they're posted on Twitter. I believe I now train for me and me alone. I don't compare myself to anyone.
*Rest and Recovery*

Proper rest and recovery are as important as training. It's as simple as that. I'm still learning here. It's hard to go out and just take it easy. I can do it better than I did last year but I still need to improve in this area.
*Nutrition*

It wasn't until I had my consultation with HolidticGuru that I realised just what a difference good nutrition can make. Of course, I knew it's important to have a good diet but until I'd put it into practice, then come off the wagon, then put it back into practice again I didn't realise just how much of a difference it can make. I'm progressing nicely here and am around 3lbs from the target weight I set myself, having lost around 30lbs since this time last year.


*Motivation and Commitment*

These both come as I continue to set goals for myself. Without these goals, my bike would probably be gathering dust and I'd be a couple of stone heavier than I am now. I believe the difference between 'training' and 'exercising' is the goal at the end. When I exercised in the past, there were no goals set for me. Now, I'm training to achieve each goal, be it to compete in a race or just complete a personal goal (my main non-race goal this year is to do my first century ride in July). Training suits my competitive nature.
I've had a total blast over the last year or so. I honestly can't think of a single training session that I haven't enjoyed. Yes, I've complained about a few recent swim sessions. I've probably been down after a bad run or two but right now, at this moment in time, I look back and think every one of them was great. Everyone has bad training sessions. It's what you do with them that turns them around into positive experiences. You look at them, learn from them and figure out what to do better next time.

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar Wed, 16 Feb 2011 01:50:00 -0800 Demons, be gone... http://windymillar.posterous.com/demons-be-gone http://windymillar.posterous.com/demons-be-gone

I like swimming, I do. I have always enjoyed my Monday and Wednesday night swim sessions. I would go swimming and do laps. Occasionally I would do some drills or sprints but mostly I would just do laps.

Around October last year, I decided to join the Tuesday night masters' class. They have a slow lane and I'm in it. The first few classes were really great. Then I got sick, had a bit of an injury and was just too scared to go back! I hadn't done any form of swimming for about a month and was concerned that I wouldn't be able to keep up. When my first training plan arrived, there was one extra run and one less swim a week - masters' would be my only swim session each week.

So I had to go back. The first sesstion was great. I sat out a couple of 50m sets but felt good, over all. The following week I was sick and since then, I've struggled. My first week back after sickness was really tough. The week after that, I dreaded even going but was glad I did. It wasn't a bad session. Yesterday, I was looking forward to the session but from the minute I got in the water it was tough. Physicall tough, mentally tough.

I was the only person in my lane so coach spent a bit of time with me, looking at my technique. I had mentioned about my kick and the fact that it doesn't seem to give me very much propulsion (my 25m time with and without a pull buoy is roughly the same). The triathletes on Twitter say I don't need to kick much. Coach disagrees (although she would, as she's a swimmer). She had a look at my body position and my kick and said that both are good. She does want me to kick MORE though. Her view is that using my legs more in the pool will make me a better and faster swimmer as well as giving me better over all leg strength for the bike and the run. She seems to think that swimming develops leg muscles that help on the bike but that the converse isn't true. I'm too lazy to research this any further right now. Maybe I will if I get a chance. She did comment that my turns are messy and are costing me time, so I spent some time working on those.

Anyway, back to the toughness. Swimming gets me out of breath. I mean really out of breath. I can do a steady run and not be that out of breath. Mentally, I find the masters' session tough also. Maybe it's because I am (sorry, was, until the new guy started) the slowest in my lane. Maybe it's because there's someone there watching me and timing my laps. Maybe it's just because I'm still not 100% after my recent illness. Maybe it's because it's a Tuesday class - I hate Tuesdays. Maybe it's all of these things. I did consider giving up at one point, masters' that is, not swimming. I though about going back to my own, comfortable little swim sessions where I just do laps. But that's lame and half assed. Nothing about this season is going to be lame or half assed. If I want to get better I need to accept that it's going to tough, physically and mentally. I also need to just HTFU and get on with it.

The plan for now is to work hard at finding my swimming mojo again and to send  these chlorinated demons back from whence they came.

 

p.s. In just under two months I'm hoping to do the Mid Ulster Duathlon. This is the first multi sport race I did. I feel I have a big score to settle there. Mentally and physically, it was the toughest race I've ever done. It was actually on a par with childbirth (in terms of the mental and physical exhaustion), for me. I know that might sound ridiculous but honestly, it was that hard. I can remember it more vividly than any other race I've done and can remember the exact point where I almost cried and gave up. This year I KNOW that physically, I'm a whole lot stronger. It will be interesting to see just how much I've toughened up mentally!

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]]> http://files.posterous.com/user_profile_pics/656692/photo__1_.JPG http://posterous.com/users/3sTvDiZ5VurT windymillar windymillar