Gotta Train Despite Wind and Rain

Weekend Day 1 -Yesterday was supposed to be an open water swim at the lake; however, water temperature drops forced us indoors to do a long swim in the pool. One mile non-stop, no problem right? We started swimming and I was making Phelps' time (okay, not really but what if?). Nevertheless, we had established a very good pace. About 550m into the swim, the first sound of thunder. This resulted in a lifeguard panic of sorts and everyone being cleared out of the pool and off the pool deck. Lifeguards say that a 30-minute break after the sound of thunder is required. This meant that every time they hear thunder, the 30-minute break started over. Long swim day was a bust! I was entirely disappointed...but you can't control the weather.

Weekend Day 2 - Today was a bike/run brick. Weather forecast - no rain, warm temps and 17-19mph winds!!!! Are you kidding me?!? Nine of us riding into and against the wind. Seriously!!! I spent 95% of my time avoiding a draft off the pack. I would either fall back to bike solo or take a pull for the pack. We've heard rumors of the winds in Arizona and today was a really good trial run. Taking a 4-minute pull was a grueling task but it felt good. Following the ride, we ran a mile and a quarter just to feel the transition.

Most importantly today - I began Endurox after the ride (recovery drink) and did a much better job of nutrition on the bike. I took in the bottle per hour and consumed my gel and/or jelly beans every hour. I must admit that today is one of the best days I've had from a recovery sense. It's very odd not to want to take a nap afterwards. I am sitting here typing rather than sleeping. What a great day and again, a great group of ladies (and our token male) today! Excellent day despite the wind.

I can't end this posting without telling you about probably one of the funniest things I have seen in a long time. As any cyclist knows, sometimes you gotta go where you gotta go. Wedged between two real estate signs was a lily-white hiney squatting to pee. "Behind" the behind, a dead deer...where else could you see such a sight. As the cars drove past, these real estate signs miraculously repositioned themselves. Too funny! I love my cycling buddies! :) Anonymity guaranteed!