Oh boy it really is getting close!!! Now I am starting to really notice some differences and it’s really exciting! The new saddle feels great… not sure if I should be worried that it does not hurt anymore and that I have numbed all nerves down there… or think that it’s because of the amazing ergonomic design! I am about to do my longest trainer ride ever (6 hours) this week and also my longest run! I have been slightly relaxed with my runs where my long runs are around 17 km each week. I should probably have some high 20s and also one above 30 but I will probably just have one long one this week (high 20s to maybe 30) before I start scaling down.

In terms of biking, I really need to make sure I get outside a little because I have been too attached to the trainer. I need to make sure that I still know how to handle my bike and also adjust to the different positions of riding outside. I also need to learn how to change my tire! I was really lucky in my first 70.3 and got my tired changed by helpful staff, but I can’t always expect that during a race. Another little victory was when I did a 2 hour program on the trainer that I had done previously… it was horrific when I did it the first time, and I really did not want to do it again. However, I saw that it was on the training plan and decided to man up and do it. To my huge surprise, I crushed it! It is so nice to get a concrete realization of how much you’ve improved!

The weather has been getting so brisk and pleasant for running here! Runs have become so enjoyable and I would also like to think it’s because I am getting fitter. Swims are getting a little chilly but I am also starting to feel that my stroke is smoother and I am able to get more of a pull as I reach further (instead of entering near my head). Open water swimming has also been good because I was able to swim to the Nipples (two large rock formations) by myself (I usually draft Jerry).

In my last month, I am really looking forward to some finishing touches and preparing my bike for the race! I love how I now feel confident in my ability to complete the full ironman, when months before I knew I was not ready. Training has been long and grueling, but it all leads to this one day and it’s going to be incredible.