Flint Hills

Well, I did it. I registered for an Olympic Distance race. I figure it is about time seeing as how this is my fourth season of triathlon. I just finished reading Iron Wil's post about registering for IM Wisconsin and although I can't imagine committing to something like that, this felt similar. Would I really be able to complete a 1500 m open water swim? What about that 10K at the end of the race? I know that I physically am capable of achieving those distances but for some reason, my brain is questioning my body's ability.

This is going to be my "A" race for the season. I have 3 or 4 other races on the schedule but this is "the one".

The Flint Hills Triathlon is in Manhattan, Kansas on June 3rd, 2007. The long course happens to be a qualifier for the Age Group National Championship race in Portland, OR at the end of June. According to the website... "Any athlete that finishes in the top 33% or is one of the top five finishers (whichever is greater) in each age group on the long course will qualify for the National Age Group Championship in Portland, Oregon on June 30, 2007." I am truly not planning on even being close to qualifying, although I think that I may be disappointed about that after it happens. I am excited to see where I come out in the end.

So, the training continues. I think for this race, the biggest difference will be nutrition and hydration. It really isn't that much longer than some I have done. I just know if I follow the same nutrition plan, or lack thereof, I will bonk during the run. So, I have been trying some things during workouts and am determined to some up with something that will work for me and my touchy stomach.

Until then, keep on keeping on.