Why the return? - well I'm back training to get fitter than ever with some challenging goals for 2017 and this blog will help me be accountable as much as a review and helpful at times to any readers.
I've actually had a winter base this year, all be it at lower volumes than I'd have liked but I have some base fitness at least.
So, on to my goals and efforts to get fitter than before.
Goal 1 - Sub 9 Ironman
Having raced 2 x Ironman's before (9:45 at Ironman Mallorca'14) and 9:19 (Roth'16) the natural progression is to put some hard work in, get fitter and reach the sub 9 goal.
I feel it's within my reach and having had both ironman marathons turn into shuffle/jog/walks due to cramping, this is the obvious area to address to get good improvements alone.
I know I can swim and bike faster also so whilst Run is the priority, other areas continue to be improved upon also.
I cramped around the 20km mark in both marathons and this is likely a combination of run strength/fitness combined with salts/hydration mistakes.
From talking to Martin Muldoon after Roth, as he came flying past me at the 18km mark and onto a low 3/sub 3 marathon it was clear I had not taken anywhere near enough salt tablets or solution to compensate for sweat loss. I'm on to the solutions for this and training with products to be updated in a future post.
Goal 2 - Qualify for Kona, Ironman World Championship
This has been in my mind but not a top priority in recent years. I've watched the race since I got into triathlon in awe and tracked many an athlete from home. It kinda leads in to Goal 1 in that if this is achieved then my other goals will be close also. It's time to get myself to the Big Island.
Goal 3 - Podium at IM/IM70.3 Race
Again, similar goals in that if one is achieved the others may be close, but I simply want one of those plastic trophies.
So one goal leads to another effectively, and so my focus is clear on Ironman distance and clear on the areas I can improve to achieve this.
Which race?
Ironman Texas, 22nd April.
It's a fast course but with some challenging heat/humidity to deal with likely.
This is fine, it suits me better to have an early season race and if I'm going to get to Kona I may as well try do it in weather somewhat similar at least!
On to next update soon.