 "Unless you test yourself, you stagnate. Unless you try to go way beyond what you've been able to do before, you won't develop and grow. When you go for it 100%, when you don't have the fear of 'what if I fail', that's when you learn. That's when you're really living." - Mark Allen |
| The week before the race was perfect. We were based outside of Kailua-Kona and away from the pre-race hype. I spent my time getting my gear ready, checking out the course and doing minimal training. Early to bed and early to rise, an average of nine hours of sleep every night. Race day started right on midnight when I awoke to go to the bathroom. I couldn't get back to sleep but this didn't bother me, I knew that I had plenty of sleep in the bank. I rested and visualised the swim and transitions. Around 3:30 a.m. I checked my e-mail and downloaded the last few good luck messages. Thanks to everyone who sent me a message. Positive thoughts are very important and your e-mails made a difference. A light breakfast, sunscreen on my back and a brand new DeSoto skinsuit. There is something about putting on the skinsuit that just makes me feel fast. Perhaps it is the combination of shaved legs and skin-tight clothing? Anyhow, having raced two IM races in them, I am hooked. Next Page |  Race morning. Feeling ready for action. |