racing

Sunday was my last long ride before Ironman 70.3 Hawaii, known as Honu. I felt great. Lots of power. Comfortable on the bike. A moment's inattention and suddenly there was a parked car right in front of me. I thought I might hit it. I swerved, congratulating myself for missing it as I whizzed past, only to feel the bike go out from under me. TT bikes do not handle well in the aero position.

It is the eve of the Ironman World Championship in Kona. The last - as far as we know - of the all women’s races. I have my tracker loaded with a few athletes I know, and a few I have yet to meet, and plan to check on them from time to time during my typically busy Saturday. This got me thinking about my challenges for next year, and my past experiences.

Stress overload can drail even the fittest athlete.