There is no "Off Season"

Over the last couple of months, I have been training harder in the off season than when I was training for my Half Ironman and Olympic races... How is that?? Well, after my last race, I talked to my coach and I asked her to make me faster in my running... I want this next year to be the year I build a solid base... So, what do I end up doing?....I am running and running and running... I am swimming and swimming and swimming and I completed a Century Ride... Yes you read this correctly... One weekend I completed a metric century (64 miles) and then 100 miles.. Why, do you ask?? I wanted to be a good friend. I am a crazy person.. Anyway, I had a lot of fun on the 100 mile ride..

As a Speedy Turtle, my friend needed someone to ride with her as she trained for IM Florida. I didn't want to have her go by herself, so I went along. We met on Saturday and we took off. My husband wished me good luck and we took off.. It was a beautiful day when we took off..My coached stated that I didn't have to do this and that I needed to listen to my body... well, that is what I did. After 50 miles, we got back to my house, got fluids, nutrition and a bathroom break. This time, we completed loops around my house. I took each loop one at a time. As I completed each loop, I asked myself, could I go on... I answered Yes and away I went.. three loops later, we made it to 100 miles... What an accomplishment.. I don't think I will do that again for awhile, but I am glad I did it. While we were riding, Elaine and I got to become better friends and I am thankful for the time we spent together..The next day, I went to my running group and I trained with more of my friends. My other friends sent me messages throughout the day asking how I was doing... I am so thankful for these friends..

The friendships that I have made since starting my Journey has been so special and I know I will continue to have these special people on my journey during the Off Season and in Season. We will support each other and encourage each other as we conquer or accomplish our many goals and fears..

Friendships are a gift from God and I have been given a great gift over the years!! Thank you to all of my friends for helping me on my journey!!

Happy Training,

Eling