Preparation and Planning

I have spent the last week or so getting things in order and reassessing my equipment situation for my Ironman journey.  I have had the same triathlon shoes for over ten years so it was time to get a new pair.  I decided to go with the Bont sub-9  mostly for the anatomical forefoot shape and the very short stack height.  Last year I purchased the Bont Vaypor as my road shoe. 

I also have selected QT2 Systems  1-1 Coaching to get me ready for the Ironman journey.  Matt Curbeau a recently turned Triathlon Pro will help me get this 52 year old body to the starting line ready and able. 

I am also in search of a new wheel set that includes a G3 powertap.  I have been searching the Craigslist universe for a reasonably priced set of Zipp 404 or similar clinchers.  There are plenty out there but I have not found the right price.  My goal is to find a wheel set that can also use on my road bike.    

I also have an appointment with Todd Kenyon of TTBIKEFIT in Warren, RI to make sure I get the most out of my riding with a proper fit and comfort on my bike. 

The preparation continues and I look forward to when I can get back outside on my bike.  If you know of any good wheel deals, drop me a note.   

The Journey Begins

“The most gratifying part of your goal isn't always necessarily the finish line, but rather the journey that gets you there. The training, the preparation, and the commitment you make to yourself to go beyond in order to achieve your goal.”

That is my favorite quote when it comes to endurance events or for that matter anything that is worth achieving. The end or finish line is always anti climatic, yet the journey that gets you there is what's fun to me. Last year the goal was a coast to coast bike ride to raise awareness and fundraise for the Wounded Warrior Project. You can review that journey at http://philsepicride.blogspot.com/  This year I want to share with you my journey to complete an Ironman distance race.  

An Ironman distance race has always been on my endurance bucket list so I figured I could take some of the fitness I had left from last years training and apply it to my training for Ironman Lake Placid.  I am still in the early planning stages and will be selecting a coach to help me prepare for the event. Right now I am trying to drop a few winter pounds and build up some endurance before the training starts for real.  I have had some minor lower leg issues that seem to be getting better and I have been able to increase my running.  I have been swimming two times a week and riding my bike indoors occasionally so it time to ramp it up.  

What I hope to accomplish with this blog is detail my journey for anyone who may consider doing an Ironman distance race in the future and learn from my trials and tribulation.  So thanks for stopping by and drop me a comment if you are so inclined.

Phil-