Let the Front Wheel Roll

That was FUN!! I'm just back from my first mountain bike ride on trails in about 6 years. I headed out to Kelso Conservation Area tonight. I took the bike trailer, that has been dragged behind my mountain bike for the last 2 summers, off and loaded up my car and Thule and then off I went. I was wondering how my bike would hold up but was determined to get a ride in. I parked in the upper lot and entered the park and began riding. It didn't take long at all to get my heart rate up as I hit the single track pretty quick. I felt a little awkward on the bike at first and wondered how the ride would evolve.

As I settled into the ride and had the initial excitement wear off, I was very glad to be on the trails again. I loved the challenge of some of the rocks and roots, the smell of the spring forest growing, the tight and twisty turns, the ramps, the pine needles and tough workout that the ride turned into. A few things I didn't enjoy were the descents, the lack of gears working properly on my old bike, the bugs (jeez, please come eat me) and the wear and tear on my wrists and lower back.

Usually I am very skeptical about partaking in events or sports that could hurt me and interrupt my training for triathlon, something that was installed in my head as a club swimming in the '80's. That being said a break from routine, power meters, hr monitors, gps' and drivers was very refreshing and I hope to do it again. I probably should be a little more careful and probably got lucky tonight that I didn't hit the deck.

This was a fun endeavor tonight and I'm glad I did it. As I mentioned early I hope do it again, in fact, I also hope to head back for some trail running too as it is a beautiful spot for that too. I live in a wonderful area for training, many diverse opportunities. I just need to remind myself and take a little extra time and get out there.

Happy Training

First Race of 2009

I had a unique opportunity to be part of Team 7 Systems competing in the Sporting Life 10km. This was my first time doing the event and with over 12000 runners I think the organizers did a great job hosting this race. It is quite the course with almost 7km straight down Yonge St then a few turns that put you at Old Fork York for the finish.

I wasn't sure what to expect from myself since I have been basically running at one speed for the last 4 months as I try to increase my base miles. As usual my competitive side comes out in races and I gave it everything I had. Although it is a net downhill course I found it very difficult to get myself into a rhythm. There were a few slight inclines, flat spots included with all the down hill running. I started in the second corral and I tried to relax off the start for the first 3 kms (11:36) however I think I spent way too much energy going around people, next time I'll be sure to get in the first corral. The next 4 km (16:04) I was very steady and right where I wanted to be. The plan was at 7km, after we turned off Yonge St, was to take it up a level and push to the end with a strong finish. That did not happen as I painfully slugged my way to the line for the last 3 km (12:56). So I crossed the line at 40:33 and my tank on empty. I did not have a 6th gear on this day, could be due to the heavy volume training week that I had leading up to the race or maybe it was the lack of speed work. My guess is a combination of both and also being a little hot out of the gate. Overall, it was my fastest 10km and a good benchmark for my current training.

I enjoyed racing in green for Team 7 Systems and was happy to hear that the two 7 System teams came 1-2 in the Team category with 99 teams entered. Although my race didn't play into the mix for the points, my wife's race time (and personal best 46:47) was an important piece of the winning team. Woo Hoo Mary!

Now that I am fully recovered, run training will be a little different with more speed play to get ready for race season. Next race, Milton Sprint Triathlon, May 31.

Happy Training!

2009 Kelso Open Water Swimming

2009 APPLICATION FORM
KELSO OPEN WATER SWIMMING
Kelso Conservation Area
http://www.hrca.on.ca/ShowCategory.cfm?subCatID=1085

The following explains the times available for swimming, the cost and registration. This swimming opportunity is available and open to anyone and is being hosted by the Milton Triathletes and Mississauga Triathlon Club.

Swim Schedule:
Sunday: 8:30 a.m.-10:00a.m. May 24 – NOTE 1 time only due to Dragon Boat races
Saturdays: 8:30 a.m.-10:00a.m. May 30 through September 5, 14 swims.
Thursdays: 6:15 p.m.-8:p.m. June 11 through September 3, 12 swims.
DO NOT ENTER WATER UNTIL LIFEGUARDS ARE PRESENT
YOU MUST ENTER AND EXIT THE LAKE THROUGH LIFEGUARD CONTROL
If for any reason you have to exit the lake at a different exit you must check in with lifeguard control to advise your safety.
Cost:
Swim fees are $95 for entire session (29 swims). Cash or Cheque payable to Milton Triathletes,
Payment and registration:
YOU MUST BE A MEMBER OF OAT TO REGISTER TO SWIM
OAT registration forms are available on line at www.triathlonontario.com
Registration: 2 Options
1. Bring your OAT card and this registration form to Kelso on Sunday May 24, Saturday May 30, June 6 or Thursday June 11.
2. Mail to J.J. Neely, 881 Trudeau Drive, Milton ON L9T5T6
Questions?
J.J. Neely - 905-875-4050 – jjneely@sympatico.ca

Water Quality 
The Kelso beach has been closed only twice - very briefly - due to unacceptable water test results since 1996. This is due primarily to improvements to area septic systems and also the installation of a bird screen in the beach area.

ATHLETE WAIVER AND RELEASE
In consideration of the acceptance of this application, I for myself, my executors, administrators and assigns, do hereby release and discharge the Milton Triathletes and the Mississauga Triathlon Club, from all claims and damages, demands and actions whatsoever in any manner arising or growing out of my participation in this activity. I attest and verify that I have full knowledge of the risks involved in this event and I am physically fit and sufficiently trained to participate.

Signature __________________________ Date ________________

Name: Phone:

OAT #: e-mail:

Address