The following was posted on both sites on the 12th July 2010.
There is so much going on at the moment that it is inperative that I take the opportunity to review my training. The build up to the London Triathlon is picking up pace and, like many of the other competitors, I am having to balance family, work, and the many disciplines to compete, not only in the London Tri but also the Europe135, London Duathlon and 7oaks Tri. Not an easy task to achieve. However, when did that last stop me?
On the swim front, I have taken lessons from Clive Alderson at the Tri20 centre in Reading. Clive is a seasoned competitor and came top of his age class for the UK in 2009. So with a serious pedigree, it was gratifying to realise very quickly that he’s also an extremely patient bloke! Technique was explained and followed up with a practical session. The end result is that I am feeling more comfortable in the open water and am drinking less lake, which is a big plus!!! In fact the other day, I made it all the way round; a distance 750 metres!!! Not bad at all… Now, to do that twice.
The running has taken a back seat for the last month. Working on my swim has taken up the free time where I could have had a long run in the mornings. As for cycling? Well I have an offer to be put through my paces by Edward. For all his denial that he couldn’t run as far, be as fit etc…I believe that Edward is lulling me into a false sense of security. A good friend is one that will put you through physical hell…and you can still have a beer after! I’m looking forward to the challenge. This combined with the swimming and cycling plus a new weight workout, I should be getting there.
On the subject of which, cycling has been a large part of my training in the past. I used to ride 50 miles a day, Monday to Friday and have only just now found out that it’s really good for Parkinson’s sufferers. Personally, I believe that exercise or cardiovascular exercise, to be precise, is beneficial for fighting Parkinson’s disease. Now you know why I keep pushing myself!!
Well here’s the stop press, I needed a bike for the London Tri. So, who should rock up with the offer of a loan bike but The Big Adventure Store, Swindon. Thanks guys!!! A fully carbon Cube bike too! Wow! I will let you know how it shapes up.
Plans for the Europe135 in September are moving forward. With my appeal for someone equally insane not realising the response I had hoped for, I was feeling a little worried about tackling the Bavarian Alps on my own at night. In fact, i was at a bit of a loss and wondering what I was going to do, when Rich (the Nagger) proposed to be my point man on the night stages! Of course, I accepted at once. Adding to this the news that John Saunders (driver, organiser, adventurer…) is on the support crew too! I am almost set. Thanks guys! Top gents the pair of them!!!! Now just looking for a third… Know anyone?
Lastly, i’ve just been interviewed by Triathlete’s World. The article should be out in a month or two and I’ll let you know when. Was quite surprised at getting the call. I hope it turns out ok.
Until next update. Keep moving!!!