Saturday, May 17, 2008

GCT - The Run

What can I say about the run? I got off the bike and changed into running clothes. It felt so good to have running shoes on. I left out of transition and felt the usual heavy legs. We ran along the beach area for a while, then started doing turns through neighborhoods. Some of the locals were grilling and having a great time along the course. Some manned their hoses to water us down - their support was awesome.

I found it really difficult to get into the run for the first 6 miles or so - I just couldn't find a comfortable pace, and nothing seemed to be working right. I tried to settle in, and focused on fluids at the aid stations - it was very hot by this time, and there was no shade at all on this course. I also took a Gu at mile 6 which I think helped a lot. The midpoint of the run is a state park on the beach that is desolate, sandy, and hot. Somehow, during the run through this place, I settled in and started feeling better. I picked up my pace and felt like a horse headed for the barn.

Got through the second half much easier than the first. My daughters were waiting for me at the end, and 2 of them ran across the line with me - the other 2 ran across with Lisa. What a relief to be able to stop moving!

In the end, I'm very happy with the Gulf Coast Triathlon. I think the conditions weren't ideal this year, but they weren't ideal for anyone - we're all in the same boat. I was not able to train as much as I wanted to because of our building our house right now, but things will slow down soon as we finish construction.

Watch out, Steelhead.



11 comments:

Kevin said...

Congrats on a great race. It is great your daughters got to run with you at the finish

Stef0115 said...

Woo Hoo! Congratulations!! Great finishing photo!

Michelle said...

Yeah, 'watch out Steelhead'! BTW, love the shirt!

ShirleyPerly said...

Yes, it was very hot out there on the run but that's pretty normal for this race from what I heard. IMFL should be cooler, being in Nov.

Congrats to both of you!!

Anonymous said...

You rock Charlie! You will be so ready for IMFL - you are well on your way!

What a family - great pic!

Tracy

Bolder said...

great race, great report.

well.done.

TJ said...

Yep, the run at Gulf-Roast is always HOT.
Congrats!

Trisaratops said...

Awesome pictures! :)

Great job on the race! Way to go!

Tracy said...

ROCK STARS, you guys all look fantastic and your race report is phenomenal. Talk about a sandbagging when you said you weren't a writer! Really awesome stuff Charlie :)

Steve Stenzel said...

Nice job!! Way to go!!!

SimplyStu said...

I love it! Nice report. Nice new LSU logo as well. Can't wait to see you in Wisconsin.