a trial run (and bike and swim).

One month to the Big Day. This weekend Denten did the Soma Half-Ironman in preparation. It was held at the same location that the real deal will be held next month. It's nice to be familiar with the area and know where the best spots are to see our dad. We both learned a few things today that will be helpful as we prepare for next time.


The athlete:

• when swimming into the rising sun, find a landmark so you don't steer too far from the buoy.
• stay to the outside of the crowd to prevent getting whacked by fellow swimmers.
• be thankful there are far fewer u-turns on the next bike course. what a pain.
• take more endurolites during the bike.
• up the concentration of the perpetuem on the Big Day.
• don't overload on fluids at the beginning of the run.
• keep the fluids steady.
• do a little more research on salt pills, and get some.

The support crew:

• the double bob is a must. it is a godsend. it hauls any amount of children and stuff you can pile on.
• pack the bag the night before: snacks, water, sunscreen, cameras, games, towel, phone, etc. make sure the bag hooks onto to Bob so mom doesn't have to carry anything.
• put kids to bed at 6:30 the night before. they will be ready to roll at 6 a.m. to see dad's big race!
• allowing all children to run through the sprinklers while waiting for dad's run loop is a fine idea. they will get completely soaked, but they will dry. and they will completely enjoy themselves.
• take extra diapers. more than you think you need. and lots of wipes. and hand sanitizer.
• take extra water. I threw three extra bottles in the bottom of the stroller "just in case..." we downed them all.
• buy sidewalk chalk to write messages on the road for dent and wade. and get a cow bell. why don't I own a cow bell??
• if you face east for any significant amount of time, put sunscreen on your right arm.
• this little video camera is super. fits into a small pocket, easy to use and a great distraction for a 5-year-old.

Note to all athletes: my children, the oldest especially, thinks it's really cool when you give him "five" as you pass him when running. Thanks to those of you who humored him. and his sister. and did you see my little one clapping for you? he was, and cheering his little heart out.

All in all, we did pretty well today. Denten did great in the swim, killed it on the bike, cramped a little on the run, but finished with a good time. His fans cheered him and everyone else on. They were good sports. Everyone came home exhausted.

Bring on the Big Day... I think we're ready!